The President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has instructed his legal representatives to formally discontinue all ongoing court cases filed against Senator Natasha and several other individuals. The directive was made public by Akpabio during a New Year church service held at Sacred Heart Parish in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where he addressed members of the congregation. While speaking at the service, the Senate President disclosed that he had previously authorized the filing of close to nine separate legal suits against individuals he believed had made false and damaging statements about him. According to him, those cases were initiated in response to allegations he described as defamatory, misleading, and harmful to his reputation. Akpabio explained that his stance changed during the church service after listening attentively to the sermon delivered by the officiating priest. He stated that the message deeply resonated with him on a personal level. He recalled that as the sermon progressed, he felt a strong conviction that the message was directed specifically at him, prompting a moment of reflection. According to Akpabio, the sermon emphasized forgiveness and reconciliation, which led him to reassess his actions and intentions regarding the legal disputes. “I had instituted almost nine cases in court against people who defamed me, spread untrue statements about me, and damaged my name,” he said. “But while the priest was preaching, I suddenly realised that the message was meant for me.” He added that the spiritual experience influenced him to let go of the grievances and pursue peace instead of prolonged legal battles. Following this personal resolution, the Senate President announced that he had taken immediate steps to end all pending legal actions related to the matter. He stated clearly that his lawyers had been instructed to withdraw every lawsuit filed against Senator Natasha and the other individuals involved. By making this decision public during a religious gathering, Akpabio emphasized the role of faith and reflection in guiding his choice to forgive and move forward without further legal confrontation.
Party structures and leadership organs of the Labour Party across different states are set to align with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following the recent political move by the party’s 2023 presidential flagbearer, Peter Obi. This development was disclosed by Gogo Wellington, Chairman of the Nenadi Usman-led faction of the Labour Party in Rivers State, who stated that the expected realignment would involve party organs nationwide joining Obi on the ADC platform. Wellington made this known after Peter Obi formally exited the Labour Party on Wednesday and declared for the ADC, a move that occurred in Enugu State and involved several prominent Labour Party figures from the South-East region. In a conversation with correspondent Ifunanya Obeme-Ndukwe, Wellington revealed that the Labour Party had long been engaged in coalition negotiations with opposition stakeholders, explaining that these discussions had now reached a conclusion. According to him, the outcome of the coalition talks directly influenced Obi’s decision to move to the ADC, describing the shift as a strategic step rather than a sudden political action. He explained that the Labour Party, as an organization, actively participated in the coalition process, which ultimately produced a clear direction for its principal political figure. Wellington stated that the completion of those negotiations paved the way for Peter Obi’s formal transition into the ADC, adding that similar decisions are anticipated from Labour Party structures at state levels. While he did not specify an exact date for the full realignment of party organs, Wellington assured that the process would be finalized within a relatively short timeframe. Responding to concerns raised by party supporters and observers regarding Obi’s decision to move to a different political platform, Wellington attributed the defection to unresolved internal challenges within the Labour Party. He emphasized that both Obi and his supporters remain focused on securing a credible and functional political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Rivers State Labour Party faction chairman expressed confidence in Obi’s capacity to emerge as the ADC’s presidential candidate. However, he noted that even if that outcome does not materialize, the central objective of Obi’s political movement remains the broader goal of addressing Nigeria’s current challenges. Wellington further disclosed that following Obi’s departure, his supporters no longer consider themselves politically invested in the Labour Party. He highlighted the persistent issues that have affected Obi’s political aspirations within the party, pointing out that internal disruptions have continued to hinder progress for over a year. According to Wellington, the presence of destabilizing forces within the Labour Party has significantly contributed to its ongoing internal crisis. He noted that Obi’s engagement with coalition partners from different political parties was viewed as a positive and necessary step by his supporters, who were actively seeking a viable political structure capable of supporting a credible electoral contest in 2027. Wellington concluded by stating that the Obedient Movement remains calm and focused, expressing belief in their collective strength to secure political opportunities where available. He added that regardless of the outcome of the ADC ticket process, the overriding priority for Obi and his supporters is national recovery. As a result, he stated that Obi’s supporters see no justification for remaining within the Labour Party following their leader’s move to the ADC.
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Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has officially withdrawn his membership from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), marking a significant political development within the state’s leadership structure. The governor communicated his decision through a formal letter dated 29 December 2025, which was addressed to the PDP Ward Chairman of Ampang West Ward in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State. According to the letter, the resignation takes immediate effect. The ward leadership acknowledged receipt of the letter a day later, confirming the governor’s exit from the party under which he rose to political prominence. In the resignation letter, Governor Mutfwang expressed deep appreciation to the PDP for offering him the opportunity to actively participate in Nigeria’s democratic process. He recognized the role the party played in his political journey and acknowledged the collective support received from party officials and members across various levels. He further conveyed gratitude to PDP leaders, loyal members, and supporters who stood by him during his time in the party, stating that the confidence and trust reposed in him would always be remembered. Governor Mutfwang explained that his decision was influenced by the prevailing political realities of the moment. He emphasized that his commitment to purpose-driven leadership, clear political direction, and effective service delivery necessitated the pursuit of an alternative political platform. The letter concluded with assurances of respect and goodwill toward the party leadership, underscoring a formal and orderly disengagement from the PDP. Political observers have since indicated that Governor Mutfwang is expected to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This expectation follows a recent public disclosure by the National Chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, who announced at an event held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja that the Plateau State governor is set to join the ruling party. The development has continued to generate widespread attention, as it signals a notable shift within Plateau State’s political landscape
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ushered in the New Year with optimism, emphasizing that 2026 marks the beginning of a more robust phase of economic growth for Nigeria. In his heartfelt message to Nigerians, he expressed gratitude, highlighted key accomplishments from 2025, and outlined the nation’s roadmap for prosperity, security, and development in the year ahead. A New Beginning for Nigeria In his 2026 New Year address, President Tinubu extended warm greetings to all Nigerians: “Fellow compatriots, I welcome you all to 2026 with gratitude to God and confidence in our collective resolve. This new year will bring greater prosperity for our nation, our citizens, and everyone who calls Nigeria home.” Reflecting on 2025, Tinubu noted that the administration maintained momentum on key reforms, achieving a fiscal reset and steady economic progress. Despite persistent global economic challenges, Nigeria recorded measurable gains across various sectors, affirming that the reforms underway are positioning the country for long-term growth. Economic Highlights of 2025 President Tinubu highlighted the following achievements from 2025: These milestones demonstrate that the reforms initiated by the government are yielding tangible benefits, particularly for ordinary Nigerians. 2026 Economic Roadmap As Nigeria enters 2026, President Tinubu outlined priorities aimed at consolidating gains and driving inclusive growth: Security and Peace: Pillars of Progress President Tinubu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to national security, emphasizing that economic growth must go hand in hand with peace and stability. “Our nation remains committed to protecting lives, property, and the territorial integrity of Nigeria,” the President assured citizens. A Call for Unity and National Responsibility President Tinubu highlighted that nation-building is a collective effort, urging Nigerians to embrace unity, patriotism, and integrity in their roles as citizens. He emphasized that sustainable economic development and security require active participation from all Nigerians. “We must stand together in unity and purpose, uphold patriotism, and serve our country with honor and integrity in our respective roles. Let us resolve to be better citizens, neighbors, and stewards of our nation.” Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond President Tinubu’s vision for 2026 is clear: accelerate economic reforms, strengthen security, and enhance quality of life through strategic development programs. The year promises to: “May God continue to bless and protect our beloved country, safeguard our troops, and neutralize those threatening our national peace and security. Happy New Year to all Nigerians,” he concluded.
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The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has shed light on the recent wave of schoolchildren abductions in Nigeria, attributing the incidents to underlying political motives. Speaking during the “2025 in Retrospect: Charting a Pathway into 2026” programme on Channels Television, Alausa emphasized that these attacks were carefully orchestrated to destabilize the nation and embarrass the government. According to the Minister, “For more than 20 months, there were no reported abductions in any schools across the country. However, in the past few weeks, we’ve observed coordinated attacks with political undertones. These actions aim to undermine the government, but it is important to know that President Bola Tinubu strongly opposes politicizing such sensitive matters.” Recent reports from LMSINT MEDIA confirm a troubling increase in abductions targeting schoolchildren in several states. Notably, at least 24 female students were kidnapped from a Government Secondary School in Kebbi State, though authorities later reported their safe release. In a separate incident, more than 200 students were abducted from a Catholic private school in Niger State. Fortunately, about 50 of the children escaped, while the federal government announced that all remaining students have since been reunited with their families. Minister Alausa’s statement highlights the ongoing challenges Nigeria faces in ensuring the safety of its schoolchildren. The government continues to strengthen security measures, working closely with law enforcement agencies to prevent future abductions and reassure parents of the safety of educational institutions nationwide. These incidents underscore the urgent need for continued vigilance, community cooperation, and proactive strategies to protect the country’s most vulnerable citizens—its children.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed that a peace agreement intended to end the ongoing conflict with Russia is “90% ready,” during his New Year address, which largely highlighted Ukraine’s resilience in the face of Moscow’s full-scale invasion. Zelensky emphasized that the remaining 10% of negotiations will be decisive in shaping the future of Ukraine, peace in Europe, and regional stability. In contrast, Russian President Vladimir Putin, addressing his troops in his own New Year message, reaffirmed confidence in his forces, stating, “We believe in you and our victory.” The diverging messages from both leaders underline the continued uncertainty surrounding the conflict and the fragile nature of diplomatic negotiations. Earlier the same day, Moscow released what it described as evidence of Ukraine allegedly using drones to target Putin’s private residence on Lake Valdai, located in north-west Russia. The footage included a map reportedly marking drone launch points in Ukraine’s Sumy and Chernihiv regions, along with a video showing a downed drone in a snow-covered woodland. A Russian serviceman claims the drone is a Ukrainian Chaklun model, though Kyiv has categorically denied any involvement in such operations. Independent verification of the footage has not been possible, and the exact location of the alleged drone incident remains unconfirmed. Following this, the Kremlin indicated that Russia might reassess its stance on the ongoing peace negotiations. Meanwhile, European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas criticized Moscow’s claims, describing them as a “deliberate distraction” intended to undermine the peace process. Kallas emphasized that efforts must remain focused on diplomatic solutions rather than escalating misinformation campaigns. This development highlights the delicate balance between military actions, diplomatic negotiations, and media narratives as Ukraine and Russia continue to navigate a conflict that has spanned nearly four years. Analysts stress that even minor setbacks or provocations could influence the final stages of the peace talks and shape the geopolitical future of Eastern Europe.
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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has announced impressive financial results for November 2025, recording total revenue of N4.36 trillion (₦4,358 billion) alongside a profit after tax of N502 billion. This growth is largely driven by a steady crude oil and condensate production of 1.60 million barrels per day (mmbopd), slightly surpassing October’s output of 1.58 mmbopd, despite ongoing maintenance activities at key production sites. According to the NNPC Monthly Report for November 2025, natural gas production averaged 6,968 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscf/d), maintaining a consistent performance relative to previous months. This stable output reflects NNPC’s strategic approach to balancing production with essential infrastructure maintenance, ensuring operational efficiency while preparing for future expansion. Crude Oil, Condensate, and Gas Sales Performance In November, crude oil and condensate production maintained an average of 1.60 mmbopd, while natural gas production stood at 6,968 mmscf/d. The statutory contributions to the Federation Account from January to October 2025 totaled N12.117 trillion, showcasing the company’s significant fiscal impact on the Nigerian economy. Sales figures for November indicate that crude oil and condensate volumes reached 19.98 million barrels, comprising 18.98 million barrels of crude oil and 1.00 million barrels of condensate. Meanwhile, gas sales averaged 4,650 mmscf/d, slightly lower than October’s 4,713 mmscf/d, reflecting seasonal demand fluctuations and scheduled maintenance across select facilities. Despite these achievements, premium motor spirit (PMS) availability at NNPC retail stations stood at 61%, highlighting that nearly four in ten outlets may have experienced limited petrol supply during the month. This shortfall underscores the continuing downstream supply challenges, even as the company advances infrastructure improvements and operational planning. Maintenance Activities Impact Production The report noted that November’s production performance was significantly influenced by planned maintenance activities across major upstream assets, including Esso-Erha, Stardeep-Agbami, and the Renaissance-Estuary Area. NNPC emphasized that production recovery is expected by the end of December 2025, with ongoing delays in the West African Gas Pipeline (WAEP) first oil schedule. The company is also finalizing the 2025 facilities turnaround maintenance (TAM) and implementing production initiatives across Joint Venture (JV), Production Sharing Contract (PSC), and Nigerian Petroleum Limited (NEPL) assets to meet the 2026 production target. In a statement, NNPC highlighted: “We are intensifying collaboration with our partners through year-end and into 2026 to ensure improved production performance, maximize infrastructure uptime, and maintain high facility maintenance standards across all our assets.” The report attributed the temporary moderation in output to scheduled maintenance at the Esso-Erha, Stardeep-Agbami, and Renaissance-Estuary Area fields, which is expected to result in a substantial boost in December 2025, paving the way for a robust production outlook in 2026. Strategic Infrastructure Projects Driving Growth NNPC is making significant progress on strategic infrastructure projects, including the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline and the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) River Niger crossing. These initiatives are critical to supporting future production growth, ensuring consistent gas supply, and enhancing the national energy grid. The company’s ongoing projects reflect a deliberate effort to improve operational efficiency, optimize resource management, and strengthen Nigeria’s energy infrastructure for long-term sustainability. NNPC Foundation Earns Prestigious Recognition In addition to operational achievements, the NNPC Foundation received remarkable accolades at the 19th Edition of the SERAS Sustainability Africa Awards 2025. The foundation secured five prestigious awards, including: These awards reinforce NNPC’s commitment to corporate social responsibility, sustainable development, and community engagement across Nigeria and Africa.
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In a significant move to tackle rising insecurity nationwide, the Nigerian Senate has endorsed the creation of state police, the establishment of a National Youth Stabilisation Fund, and the implementation of a technology-driven intelligence system. These measures aim to address the multifaceted security challenges facing the country today. The Senate highlighted that Nigeria’s current security agencies are contending with modern, sophisticated threats using outdated structures, inadequate coordination, and limited operational resources. This has left the nation vulnerable to crimes ranging from banditry and kidnapping to drug trafficking and illegal mining operations. The leadership of the House of Representatives, under Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, faced one of its most significant challenges in 2025 when controversy arose over discrepancies in newly gazetted tax laws. According to Philip Agbese, Deputy Spokesperson of the House, the issue tested the legislative framework, but Tajudeen successfully navigated the matter, urging Nigerians to embrace resilience and optimism as they enter the year 2026. Findings from the Senate Ad Hoc Committee on National Security The Senate’s recommendations are detailed in the interim report of the Ad Hoc Committee on National Security, which conducted extensive zonal public hearings across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The committee identified several critical drivers of insecurity, including: The public hearings took place between November 16 and 30, 2025, in key cities such as Maiduguri, Enugu, Port Harcourt, Lagos, Jos, and Kaduna. The sessions gathered input from security agencies, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, and community leaders, forming a comprehensive picture of the nation’s security needs. The findings from these hearings are set to inform discussions at the National Security Summit, scheduled for early 2026. Push for State Police Central to the Senate’s report is a recommendation for a constitutional amendment to permit state policing. The committee argued that Nigeria’s centralized policing system has become overstretched and inefficient. Governors and local government chairmen—officially recognized as chief security officers in their jurisdictions—currently lack operational control over key security assets. This gap leaves local communities highly vulnerable to criminal activities. As the report emphasizes: “The safety, dignity, and protection of all Nigerians should not be privileges reserved solely for the elite.” Senate Leader and Committee Chairman Michael Opeyemi Bamidele stressed that the hearings revealed a nationwide consensus on the urgent need for security reform. He noted that Nigerians from all walks of life agreed on the importance of decentralizing security responsibilities to improve responsiveness and effectiveness. Tax Law Controversy and Legislative Leadership In a related development, the 10th House of Representatives came under scrutiny due to claims that the newly gazetted tax laws differed from the versions approved by the National Assembly. Deputy Spokesperson Philip Agbese explained that the dispute sparked public debate and placed significant pressure on the House leadership. Agbese emphasized that Speaker Abbas Tajudeen and his team managed the situation meticulously, adhering strictly to parliamentary procedures to prevent the issue from escalating into a wider institutional crisis. “The tax law issue was a critical test for the House, attracting nationwide attention and scrutiny. The leadership’s careful handling ensured stability and preserved the integrity of legislative processes,” Agbese said. The matter was formally raised on the House floor by Abdulsammad Dasuki, triggering lively discussions among lawmakers and concern among citizens outside the legislature. Despite the controversy, the House successfully maintained public confidence in its capacity to handle sensitive issues responsibly.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that 2026 will mark the onset of a stronger economic phase, emphasizing that ongoing reforms are producing measurable outcomes despite global financial uncertainties. In his New Year message, the President highlighted that Nigeria concluded 2025 with robust economic performance, including steady growth, declining inflation, improved currency stability, and growing investor confidence. According to Tinubu, Nigeria’s GDP expanded consistently in each quarter of 2025, with projected annual growth expected to surpass 4 percent. Inflation gradually declined below 15 percent, aligning with government targets, while trade surpluses remained intact. The President also highlighted that the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) outperformed its peers globally, achieving a 48.12 percent gain in 2025, continuing a bullish trajectory that began in the latter half of 2023. Strengthened Foreign Reserves and Investment Inflows On Nigeria’s external economic buffers, Tinubu stated that foreign reserves reached $45.4 billion as of December 29, 2025, providing a strong cushion against global economic shocks and supporting the naira. He expressed optimism that the reserves would continue to grow in 2026. Furthermore, foreign direct investment (FDI) surged to $720 million in Q3 2025, up from $90 million in the previous quarter. The President attributed this to renewed investor confidence and favorable evaluations from global credit rating agencies. To consolidate these economic gains, Tinubu pledged to strengthen fiscal discipline, deepen tax reforms, and build a sustainable revenue base, emphasizing the need for patience, unity, and discipline to achieve long-term stability and prosperity. Tax Harmonization and Fiscal Discipline The President underlined that the 2026 Appropriation Bill, recently presented to the National Assembly, would allow greater fiscal space for strategic investments in infrastructure and human capital development. He also addressed multiple taxation, commending states that adopted harmonized tax laws to reduce excessive levies on citizens and businesses. “2026 marks a decisive phase for tax reforms, aimed at sustainable revenue generation, correcting fiscal imbalances, and financing infrastructure and social programs,” he said. Security Initiatives and Decentralized Policing President Tinubu stressed that economic progress must coincide with peace and security, acknowledging ongoing threats from terrorist groups and criminal networks. On December 24, decisive operations were conducted against terrorist strongholds in the North-West in collaboration with international partners, including the United States. Security agencies are expected to strengthen collaboration with regional and global partners in 2026, while the government plans to implement decentralized policing, supported by regulated forest guards, as part of a comprehensive strategy to combat terrorism and banditry. Internal Link Suggestion: Read about Nigeria’s national security framework here. Inclusive Growth and Social Development Programs President Tinubu announced the acceleration of the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, targeting 10 million Nigerians across 8,809 wards through empowerment initiatives. The focus will be on agriculture, trade, food processing, and mining, designed to boost local economies and create grassroots opportunities. Infrastructure investment will continue across roads, power, ports, railways, airports, pipelines, healthcare, education, and agriculture, reinforcing food security and improving quality of life nationwide. The President urged citizens to embrace unity, patriotism, and collective responsibility, calling on Nigerians to be better citizens, neighbours, and stewards of the nation. He also prayed for the safety of Nigeria’s military personnel and the defeat of forces threatening national peace. National Assembly Endorses 2025 Reforms as Foundation for Recovery The National Assembly hailed 2025 as a defining year for Nigeria, citing reforms in taxation, governance, electoral processes, and national security as a foundation for economic recovery in 2026. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said the legislature worked closely with other government arms to implement reforms while preserving constitutional independence. “From tax reforms to constitutional adjustments, 2025 set the stage for a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria,” Bamidele stated. Landmark Tax Reform Act Bamidele identified the 2025 Tax Reforms Act as the most significant legislation, effective January 1, 2026, aimed at harmonizing Nigeria’s tax system, eliminating multiple taxation, and improving resource flow to citizens, particularly at the lower economic strata. He encouraged Nigerians to familiarize themselves with the new tax provisions, designed to resolve long-standing fiscal challenges and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness globally through modernized tax administration. Constitutional and Electoral Reforms On constitutional matters, the 1999 Constitution review has advanced, with proposed amendments ready for transmission to State Houses of Assembly, aimed at devolving powers to sub-national governments for better governance. Electoral reforms, including the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025, are nearing completion. The bill is intended to enhance the credibility and transparency of elections and will be fast-tracked for presidential assent in early 2026. National Security Initiatives The Senate Leader confirmed the conclusion of public hearings for the National Security Summit across six geopolitical zones. Scheduled for the first quarter of 2026 in Abuja, the summit will consolidate recommendations to strengthen internal security, combat violent extremism, and enhance collaboration with international partners.
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The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has approved the appointment of nine newly designated Permanent Secretaries into the Ogun State Public Service. This strategic decision is aimed at enhancing institutional efficiency, reinforcing administrative continuity, and ensuring effective execution of government programmes across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in the state. The approval forms part of the governor’s ongoing efforts to strengthen governance structures and improve service delivery through capable leadership within the civil service system. This development was officially disclosed in a statement issued and signed by the Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, on Wednesday. According to the statement, the appointments were carried out in strict compliance with Section 208 (c) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). The selection process took into account key considerations such as merit, professionalism, inclusiveness, leadership competence, and relevant experience within the state’s civil and public service. Mr. Onasanya further explained that the newly appointed Permanent Secretaries were carefully drawn from a pool of directors who successfully completed the Ogun State Executive Leadership Development Pipeline Programme, a capacity-building initiative designed to prepare senior officers for higher responsibilities. The individuals appointed as Permanent Secretaries include: In addition to the permanent secretary appointments, Governor Abiodun also sanctioned the appointment of two Principals-General and four Headteachers-General to occupy vacant leadership positions within the Teaching Service Commission and the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB). This move is intended to further reinforce administrative effectiveness and leadership capacity within the state’s education sector. The newly appointed Principals-General are: Meanwhile, the Headteachers-General include: The Head of Service noted that all education sector appointees emerged from an earlier shortlist following a rigorous and transparent selection exercise. He emphasized that the individuals were chosen based on competence, experience, and leadership capacity. Mr. Onasanya charged the newly appointed officials to uphold the highest standards of dedication, commitment, integrity, and selfless service in the discharge of their responsibilities, stressing that their roles are critical to the continued progress and stability of Ogun State’s public administration.
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Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has issued a firm directive instructing the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) and the Abia State Civil Service Commission to reinstate the 60 percent benchmark initially announced for teachers’ promotion examinations. The governor made it clear that education authorities in the state do not have the authority to alter promotion criteria after officially publishing them, stressing that the originally advertised 60 percent pass mark must stand. The intervention followed a public appeal by an Abia resident, Chukwu Emeka Kalu, who raised concerns that ASUBEB had allegedly increased the promotion pass score from 60 percent to 75 percent after the examinations were conducted. According to the complaint, the sudden change negatively affected many teachers who had already met the earlier requirement, leaving them discouraged and uncertain about their career progression. Governor Otti addressed the matter during his monthly media briefing on Tuesday, where he confirmed that the issue had been resolved. He disclosed that he had instructed both ASUBEB and the Civil Service Commission to reverse the decision and comply strictly with the initially announced pass mark. The governor revealed that the directive was issued a few days before Christmas, reassuring affected teachers that the necessary corrections to their promotion status would be finalized shortly. He added that once the promotions are adjusted, salary corrections will follow accordingly, ensuring that no eligible teacher is disadvantaged. Governor Otti also expressed concern over the practice of fixing a pass mark ahead of conducting examinations, describing it as inappropriate and unfair. “I have resolved the issue by engaging the Civil Service Commission and ASUBEB. You do not determine a pass mark before an examination is conducted. Since sixty percent was earlier advertised, I approved that they should revert to it, and that decision was taken before Christmas,” he stated. Beyond education matters, Governor Otti highlighted recent infrastructural achievements by his administration. He announced that electricity supply has been restored to 33 communities in Ukwa West Local Government Area, ending a blackout that lasted nearly nine years. He further disclosed that efforts are actively ongoing to reconnect power supply to Ohafia and Bende communities, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to improving living conditions across the state.
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The President of the Senate, Godswill Obot Akpabio, has assured Nigerians that the year 2026 holds strong prospects for renewed optimism, institutional balance, and steady national advancement across the country. In a New Year goodwill message released on Wednesday and endorsed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, the Senate President stated that the expectations for 2026 are firmly rooted in responsible leadership, strengthened democratic institutions, and a shared commitment to national unity. Akpabio praised Nigerians for demonstrating remarkable endurance, patience, and civic responsibility, especially amid persistent economic difficulties and security-related concerns. He reiterated that the National Assembly remains fully dedicated to preserving democratic order and ensuring transparent, accountable governance in line with constitutional mandates. As Nigeria transitions into the new year, the Senate President conveyed his heartfelt wishes for peace and prosperity, acknowledging the sacrifices and discipline shown by citizens during challenging periods. According to him, such resilience reflects the strength of the nation’s democratic spirit. He emphasized that while the Executive arm of government continues to implement national policies and reforms, the legislature will remain steadfast in performing its constitutional roles of lawmaking, representation, and oversight, ensuring that governance outcomes genuinely reflect the interests and aspirations of Nigerians. Akpabio further explained that the Senate would continue to provide legislative backing where necessary, exercise oversight when required, and always act in ways that promote national cohesion, economic resilience, and social equity. Expressing measured confidence, the Senate President noted that ongoing initiatives aimed at tackling insecurity, economic strain, infrastructure shortfalls, and youth unemployment are expected to yield more visible results in 2026. He stressed that long-term national development can only be achieved through strong institutions, not individual influence. He reaffirmed that democracy becomes more effective when institutions function efficiently and leaders are held accountable. According to him, the National Assembly will persist in reinforcing these institutions while ensuring that public policies remain people-focused, inclusive, and future-oriented. As political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, Akpabio cautioned political stakeholders against engaging in divisive rhetoric or promoting what he described as false saviour narratives that could threaten national harmony. He warned that individuals who present themselves as the sole solution to national challenges often worsen divisions rather than foster unity. In his view, democracy flourishes through ideas, responsibility, accountability, and respect for collective national interests. The Senate President urged political actors to conduct themselves with moderation, maturity, and a strong sense of national responsibility, assuring Nigerians that the Senate will continue to uphold democratic values, parliamentary order, and the rule of law. He also reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to maintaining constructive collaboration with the Executive, Judiciary, and other critical stakeholders in the pursuit of a more united, fair, and prosperous Nigeria. In conclusion, Akpabio called on Nigerians to remain hopeful, vigilant, and actively involved in democratic processes, while extending his wishes for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous 2026 to citizens across the country.
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The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially confirmed that all federal ministries have completely transitioned to a paperless mode of operation, marking a major milestone in the country’s civil service digital transformation agenda. This declaration was made by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, who disclosed that paper documents are no longer required for carrying out government business across federal ministries. Speaking during a press briefing on Wednesday, Mrs. Walson-Jack explained that every federal ministry has now been fully digitalised, eliminating the need for physical paperwork in official processes. According to her, this shift is designed to modernise government communication, improve efficiency, and strengthen accountability within public institutions. She revealed that more than 100,000 official email accounts have already been created for civil servants using the GovMail platform. This initiative ensures that every civil servant now operates with an official government-issued email address, enabling secure, professional, and traceable communication across government offices. The HCSF further clarified that no federal ministry will accept physical paper correspondence going forward. Instead, all official letters must be scanned and transmitted electronically through designated government email channels. This policy applies uniformly across ministries and departments, effectively ending the long-standing culture of paper-based documentation. Expanding on the scope of the initiative, Mrs. Walson-Jack noted that the Federal Civil Service has extended its digital operations to 38 Ministries and Extra-Ministerial Departments (MEMDs). These include 33 ministries and five extra-ministerial bodies, such as the State House, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the Federal Civil Service Commission, and the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation. According to her, this development significantly enhances government control over official correspondence, improves response time among Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), and reduces reliance on unofficial communication platforms that may compromise data integrity. Mrs. Walson-Jack also highlighted the financial benefits of the GovMail initiative, stating that it is saving the Federal Government billions of naira annually. These savings result from reduced dependence on fragmented, agency-specific external email subscriptions and licensing costs, thereby offering improved value for public funds. She disclosed that discussions are ongoing with telecommunications service providers to ensure that internet access becomes more affordable for ministries and extra-ministerial departments. The goal, she explained, is to strengthen network reliability, which is critical for sustaining digital workflows across government offices. In addition, the Federal Civil Service is developing a long-term, sustainable pricing structure to keep digital platforms affordable, scalable, and easy to maintain. This approach is intended to guarantee continuity of digital services while ensuring cost-effectiveness for the government. To fully entrench this reform and eliminate manual bureaucracy, Mrs. Walson-Jack announced that physical registry submissions have been discontinued across all 38 ministries and extra-ministerial departments. All official communications must now be sent exclusively to the designated registry email addresses, which are publicly available on the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation’s official website. She also revealed that members of the public can now track their submitted correspondence with specific ministries through the Federal Civil Service Paperless Portal, making the process more transparent and user-friendly. In practical terms, the transition to a paperless civil service means that citizens, organisations, and international partners no longer need to send physical letters or envelopes when communicating with federal government offices. A scanned document sent via email—along with any required attachments—will now be sufficient for official engagement with any ministry or extra-ministerial department. This move represents a significant shift toward a more efficient, accountable, and digitally driven public service system in Nigeria.
