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.
Iran entered a virtual standstill this week as widespread demonstrations escalated into violent confrontations, prompting a government-ordered closure of businesses, universities, and official offices across much of the country. The disruption occurred amid a growing wave of public anger over worsening political instability and economic hardship. Footage circulating on social media and shared by opposition groups shows intense clashes in major cities including Tehran, Shiraz, Isfahan, Kermanshah, and Fasa. Protesters and security personnel engaged in heated street battles with demonstrators chanting anti‑government slogans and openly criticizing the regime’s leadership. Many of the scenes show crowds chanting fiery slogans like “Death to Khamenei!”—a phrase historically used to express deep resentment toward Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his grip on power. Amid the unrest, demonstrators hurled objects at security forces, and chaotic sounds of confrontation and possible gunfire were reported from several locations. In the city of Fasa, protesters reportedly forced their way into the governor’s compound, leading to a serious escalation. According to armed groups opposing the government, members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) opened fire in response to the breach of the building. Protests Fueled by Economic Strain The protests did not arise in isolation. They come amid mounting economic difficulties, including sharp inflation, currency instability, and declining living standards that have sparked frustration among traders, students, and ordinary citizens alike. Many businesses closed in protest after the Iranian rial hit record lows, causing import costs to surge and deepening financial strain for households nationwide. Shopkeepers in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, traditionally a powerful economic bloc with deep historical influence, were among the first to shut their doors, triggering a broader movement of bazaar strikes and public demonstrations that quickly spread to other sectors of society. Government Reaction and Leadership Changes In a bid to steady the situation, President Masoud Pezeshkian ordered an official shutdown affecting 21 of Iran’s 31 provinces. The regime also replaced the governor of the Central Bank, appointing former economy minister Abdolnaser Hemmati amid intense scrutiny and ongoing economic turmoil. State media acknowledged that this new role would be “extremely difficult and complex” given current conditions. At the same time, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made key leadership appointments within the IRGC, signaling efforts to strengthen the government’s security response as protests continued. Widespread National Impact The unrest continued into its fourth consecutive day, with nationwide demonstrations, strikes, and clashes with security forces showing no clear sign of slowing. Protesters from different backgrounds—including market merchants, students, retirees, and other citizens—have united under shared economic and political grievances, making the current uprisings among the broadest seen in recent years. Military helicopters were spotted flying low over cities, a move that many analysts interpret as an attempt by the authorities to intimidate local populations and contain the spread of unrest.
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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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Lagos, Nigeria – A tragic boat accident along the Igbologun water channel in Lagos has claimed the lives of six passengers while four others were rescued in a timely operation. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening at approximately 8:35 pm, involving a Savvy Marine passenger boat heading towards Ilashe Beach House. The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) confirmed the accident in a joint statement, signed by NIWA’s Head of Public Affairs, Wuraola Alake, and LASWA’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Omowunmi Yussuff. Rescue Operations and Emergency Response Immediately after receiving a distress alert, both agencies deployed their Search and Rescue (SAR) teams, collaborating closely with the Marine Police and other first responders. The rescue teams successfully evacuated four passengers, who were immediately transferred to a nearby hospital for medical attention. Sadly, six other passengers were pronounced dead at the scene. The authorities confirmed that rescue operations are ongoing to ensure all individuals involved are accounted for. Cause of the Mishap Early reports indicate that the accident may have been caused by a collision with a submerged object, though authorities emphasized that a full investigation is underway to determine the exact cause. Both LASWA and NIWA have reassured the public that a thorough inquiry will be conducted, and updates will be released as new information emerges. Safety Measures and Public Advisory In their statement, the agencies reiterated their commitment to safety on Lagos Inland Waterways, urging strict adherence to navigation rules and safety regulations. Specifically, they highlighted the “No Night Travel” rule for passenger boats, stressing the importance of relying solely on verified information from official sources. LASWA and NIWA also expressed their deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and reassured Lagos residents of their ongoing efforts to enhance safety measures across the waterways. Authorities continue to advise passengers and boat operators to prioritize safety by ensuring proper maintenance, adherence to passenger limits, and compliance with all official guidelines while traveling across Lagos waterways.
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Damaturu, Yobe State Authorities in Yobe State have successfully apprehended a suspect believed to be connected to the December 24, 2025, bombing incident at a mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State. The suspect, identified as Ibrahim Mohammed, was arrested by a vigilant local security group in Damaturu. Following his arrest, Mohammed was immediately handed over to the troops of Sector 2, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), part of the Joint Task Force (JTF) North-East, for further investigation and security processing. Brigadier-General (retd.) Abdulsalam Abubakar, Special Adviser on Security Matters to Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, confirmed the arrest in Damaturu yesterday. According to Nigerian news agency reports (NAN), the vigilante group that carried out the arrest is officially recognized as part of the state’s security architecture. The group receives funding from the Yobe State Government and operates under the coordination of the Nigerian military to support regional security efforts. Brig.-Gen. Abubakar revealed that Ibrahim Mohammed was apprehended on December 29, 2025, after being allegedly tasked by insurgents to conduct surveillance on military troop movements and vigilante operations within Yobe State. The suspect’s profile was carefully analyzed by military personnel and sister security agencies before being transferred to the Theatre Command headquarters, OPHK, in Maiduguri, Borno State, for thorough investigation. The security official expressed confidence that detailed interrogation of Mohammed would provide critical intelligence, potentially leading to the arrest of his accomplices and leaders of the insurgent cell involved. Additionally, Abubakar disclosed that Mohammed confessed to planting another explosive device in a Maiduguri market and has urged security operatives to locate and safely defuse the device to prevent further casualties. In conclusion, Brig.-Gen. Abubakar called on residents of Yobe and neighboring states to collaborate with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid in the fight against terrorism and criminal activities. He emphasized that community vigilance remains a key element in maintaining peace and security across the region.
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An atmosphere of fear swept through Ibiade community in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area following the abduction of a former member of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Maruf Musa. The incident reportedly occurred late on Tuesday night when unidentified gunmen stormed his residence. Maruf Musa, who previously represented the Ogun Waterside constituency during the sixth legislative assembly between 2007 and 2011, was said to be observing prayers at a mosque located within his residential compound when the attack took place. According to accounts from residents, the attackers arrived heavily armed and fired multiple gunshots into the air. This action was allegedly intended to scare people within the vicinity and prevent any form of resistance or intervention. Moments later, the gunmen forcefully took the former lawmaker away, leaving the community in shock and distress. The incident has heightened concerns over security in the area, especially as it occurred within a private compound and during a religious activity. Locals described the operation as swift, suggesting that the assailants may have carefully monitored the environment before striking. Confirming the development, the spokesperson of the Ogun State Police Command, Babaseyi Boluwatife, disclosed that the abduction had been officially reported. Speaking on Wednesday evening, he assured the public that the police and other security agencies have commenced coordinated efforts to rescue the victim. He stated that several security strategies have already been set in motion, including the mobilization of the anti-kidnapping unit and other tactical teams. According to him, these measures are aimed at tracking the perpetrators and ensuring the safe release of Maruf Musa. The police further urged residents of Ogun Waterside and surrounding communities to remain calm and vigilant, while avoiding the spread of unverified information. Authorities emphasized that updates would be communicated through official channels as investigations and rescue operations continue. This latest abduction adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Ogun State and underscores renewed calls for stronger community policing and intelligence-driven security responses.
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The Lagos State Government and the Ogun State Government have officially confirmed that British heavyweight boxing star, Anthony Joshua, has been released from medical care following the tragic road accident that occurred on December 29, 2025. The unfortunate incident resulted in the death of two young men identified as Lateef Ayodele and Cina Gami. In a joint press release made public on Tuesday, both state governments conveyed their profound sorrow over the painful event. The statement described the accident as devastating and expressed heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved families. Officials noted that the loss has deeply affected not only the immediate relatives of the victims but also the wider community. The governments offered prayers for the eternal rest of the deceased and asked that God grant the families the strength and comfort needed to cope with the irreparable loss. The official statement was jointly endorsed by Gbenga Omotoso, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, and Kayode Akinmade, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the Ogun State Government, emphasizing the unified position of both administrations on the matter. According to the details provided, Anthony Joshua was discharged from Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi, later in the afternoon after medical professionals certified him fit enough to continue recuperation outside the hospital environment. Doctors reportedly confirmed that his condition had stabilized and no further in-patient care was required. The statement further revealed that the boxer has been emotionally distressed since the incident. He was described as being deeply burdened by grief and sorrow over the sudden death of the two individuals, who were said to be close to him. Earlier in the day, Joshua, alongside his mother, visited a funeral facility in Lagos where the remains of the deceased were being prepared. The visit was said to be a moment of quiet reflection and respect ahead of the planned repatriation of the bodies later that evening. Governors Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State also took time to acknowledge the overwhelming display of concern and compassion from members of the public following news of the accident. They appreciated Nigerians and well-wishers for their messages of sympathy and solidarity during the difficult period. The governors equally expressed sincere gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whom they praised for providing what they described as strong and fatherly support from the moment the tragedy occurred. Additionally, the state governments commended the medical personnel at Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi, highlighting their professionalism, dedication, and high standard of medical care administered to Anthony Joshua and other individuals who sustained injuries during the accident. The joint statement concluded by reaffirming the commitment of both state governments to ensuring that all necessary support is provided to those affected while urging the public to remain calm and respectful as the families mourn their loved ones.
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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.
