The Federal Government has dismissed claims of a mass dismissal of civil servants holding degrees from universities in the Benin Republic and Togo. This follows public concern sparked by allegations from former Senator Shehu Sani, who criticized the purported action and called for alternative solutions. Senator Sani’s Allegations Senator Sani, in a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, alleged that thousands of workers with degrees from institutions in the Benin Republic and Togo had been sacked. He expressed concern for those affected, appealing to the government to create pathways for them to obtain recognized Nigerian qualifications through the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). “Thousands of guys who graduated from Benin Republic universities, got jobs, and married with kids are the ones hardest hit with this mass sacking by the FG. I appeal to the government to reconsider the sacking by creating an opening for them to make up with a Nigerian degree,” he said. Federal Civil Service Commission’s Response The Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) has denied these allegations. In a statement released through Taiwo Hassan, Head of Press and Media Relations, the Commission clarified that no mass sack of workers had been recommended or carried out. “The Commission holds the power to employ, transfer, dismiss, discipline, and promote. As of now, we have not dismissed anybody,” Hassan stated. He assured the public that any disengagement from the civil service would not be conducted secretly, emphasizing the transparent nature of the Commission’s operations. Concerns Over Fake Certificates The controversy aligns with earlier concerns about the prevalence of fraudulent degrees from unaccredited universities in neighboring countries. A panel established by the former Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, investigated this issue and reported that over 22,000 Nigerians obtained fake certificates from such institutions between 2019 and 2023. While this revelation has raised alarms, the FCSC clarified that no official action had yet been taken regarding the reported cases. Public Reaction and Next Steps The allegation has caused anxiety among civil servants with foreign degrees, as many fear for their job security. However, the FCSC’s denial has temporarily eased concerns, although the issue of degree mills remains unresolved. Observers have called on the government to establish clear guidelines for validating foreign qualifications and to provide support for affected individuals, such as the option to upgrade their credentials through recognized institutions. READ ALSO:
In a significant crackdown, Finnish authorities have detained pro-Biafra activist Simon Ekpa alongside four others for alleged terrorism-related offenses connected to violent activities in Nigeria. Ekpa, known as the self-proclaimed “Prime Minister” of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile, is accused of using social media to incite violence in Southeastern Nigeria. Simon Ekpa Arrested for Terrorism Incitement The Päijät-Häme District Court has remanded Ekpa in custody following an investigation by the Finnish Central Criminal Police. He faces charges of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent, while the other suspects are being investigated for financing terrorism-related crimes. In a statement, the Finnish police disclosed that the investigation involves a Finnish citizen of Nigerian origin, born in the 1980s, who allegedly incited criminal acts with terrorist objectives. Allegations of Incitement and Terrorism Financing Crime Commissioner Otto Hiltunen stated that Ekpa’s activities on social media have directly fueled violence in Nigeria, targeting civilians and government officials. Finnish authorities emphasized that the arrest reflects their commitment to combating terrorism and disrupting its funding networks. Global Cooperation Against Terrorism This arrest underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing terrorism and its associated crimes. Finnish law enforcement has assured the public that thorough investigations are ongoing to uncover the full scope of the activities. Ekpa, a controversial figure, has long been a vocal supporter of Biafra separatism. His detention may mark a turning point in efforts to curb violence in Nigeria’s Southeastern region, which has been plagued by unrest. READ ALSO:
Kindly Share:
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has introduced a groundbreaking initiative to bridge the climate finance gap in Africa. The Climate Action Window (CAW) Technical Assistance Facility, unveiled at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, aims to accelerate the development and implementation of climate adaptation and mitigation projects in 37 low-income African nations. Nationally Determined ContributionsWith an initial funding pool of $56 million, CAW is designed to support projects that align with global climate objectives, such as the Paris Agreement, Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs). The facility focuses on preparing, financing, and implementing transformative projects to enhance climate resilience and reduce vulnerabilities across the continent.High-Level Support for CAWCote d’Ivoire’s Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, Assahoré Konan Jacques, praised the initiative, stating, “These funds will help build the resilience of our people. I urge the African Development Bank to learn from past challenges and ensure CAW achieves its goals effectively. ”Chad’s Minister for Economy and Planning, Mrs. Fatima Haram Acyl, highlighted the urgency of addressing climate vulnerability in her country. “ For Chad, climate challenges like floods and droughts demand immediate and impactful solutions. The CAW is a vital step toward empowering our communities and fostering resilience,” she emphasized.Madagascar’s Minister of Environment, Max Andonirina Fontaine, expressed optimism about CAW’s potential. “This facility enables us to fund critical initiatives such as ecotourism projects that protect forests and create sustainable jobs. It’s a flexible tool Africa urgently needs,” he noted.Global Collaboration and Support The United Kingdom also reaffirmed its commitment to the initiative. Louise Walker, Head of the Private Sector and Capital Markets Department at the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), said, “The CAW is unparalleled in Africa. We encourage other partners to join us in setting new standards for climate finance.” A Pathway to Transformative ChangeThe Climate Action Window is expected to drive significant progress in addressing climate challenges in vulnerable regions. By funding locally tailored projects, the initiative aims to empower communities, protect ecosystems, and support sustainable development. READ ALSO:
Kindly Share:
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Niger State Command, has apprehended four suspects involved in vandalizing critical national assets, including streetlight poles, at Diko Junction in Tafa Local Government Area of Niger State. The arrests were made by the anti-vandal unit during a routine patrol on November 13, 2024. According to a statement released by the NSCDC’s spokesperson and signed by the State Commandant, Commandant A.A. Kambra, the suspects were caught in possession of tools used for vandalism. How the Arrests Happened During a patrol of the Tafa-Diko Junction area, the anti-vandal team discovered several streetlight poles that had been vandalized. Acting swiftly, the team launched a surveillance operation, which led to the arrest of four suspects: The statement noted that this decisive action underscores the NSCDC’s dedication to protecting public infrastructure and ensuring the safety of communities. Commitment to Public Safety Commandant A.A. Kambra emphasized the severe consequences of vandalism on communities, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. He assured the public that the NSCDC will continue working in collaboration with other security agencies to apprehend individuals who commit such crimes. “This swift response reflects our commitment to safeguarding critical national assets and maintaining public safety,” Kambra said. Support from Leadership and Government Commandant Kambra expressed gratitude to the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for his steadfast leadership and unwavering support. He also acknowledged Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State for his continued backing of the NSCDC’s operations. The NSCDC reaffirmed its dedication to protecting public infrastructure and maintaining law and order across the state, ensuring that those involved in vandalism are brought to justice. READ ALSO:
Kindly Share:
According to a press release from the state house, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff of Nigeria, passed away at the age of 56. Bayo Onanuga, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, revealed that Lt. General Lagbaja died Tuesday night in Lagos after a prolonged illness. President Tinubu conveyed his deep sorrow on the passing of a “dedicated servant of the nation” who served in the military for more than thirty years. On June 19, 2023, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, who was born on February 28, 1968, was named Chief of Army Staff. Throughout his military career, he has held multiple command positions in vital security missions, including Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States, Lafiya Dole in Borno, and Operation ZAKI in Benue. READ ALSO: A notable graduate of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, who earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College, was honored for his strategic thinking and dedication to enhancing Nigeria’s security. His wife, Mariya, and their two kids survive him. In keeping with Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s record of service and integrity, President Tinubu expressed his condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Kindly Share:
Mrs. Mary Jonathan and her son, Mr. Mark Jonathan, were killed by gunmen who are thought to be bandits in the Mista Ali neighborhood of the Jos North Local Government Area in Plateau State.His mother-in-law and brother-in-law were the victims, according to Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, a member of the Plateau State House of Representatives who verified the occurrence. THISDAY learned that the deceased, who had been buried at their family home on Zaria Road in Jos, were killed in the Mista Ali neighborhood of Jos, where the shooters had been active, despite the fact that the incident’s specifics were still unclear.Gagdi, the federal representative for the Pankshin/Kanm/Kanke constituency, posted pictures from the funeral and called the murder a senseless and terrible act. Together with my wife Jemimah, we buried her mother today. Sadly, we lost Mrs. Mary Jonathan and her brother, Mr. Mark Jonathan, to violent and senseless acts.We pray, pay tribute to their memory, and pursue justice. Rest well, Brother Mark and Mama. May the Almighty God bring this horrible crime’s perpetrators to justice. Every soul is meant to experience death, but unfortunately, yours did so through the hands of some trigger-happy underworlders. Your stupid murder of your son and my brother, Mr. Mark Jonathan, would have perfectly encapsulated the conceit of human existence. READ ALSO: What Happened in Valencia: Recent Events and Key Updates We shall miss your maternal love and care, and your awful murder has left a void in our lives. May God Almighty bring those responsible for this horrible act to justice, and rest in peace, Mama. Goodbye,
Kindly Share:
According to information released by Dangote Refinery, the price of its fuel is N960 per liter for ships and N990 per liter for trucks. The declaration comes after the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) and the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) asserted that they could import petroleum at lower prices than Dangote. The marketers said in a previous interview that they were purchasing fuel from overseas at a lower cost and urged Dangote Refinery to work with stakeholders. The refinery countered that the only products that could be purchased at a cheaper cost than its own were inferior ones. Dangote Refinery said in a statement released Sunday evening by Anthony Chiejina, the Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, that it lowered its prices for selling onto ships while adhering to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s (NNPCL) pricing benchmark. According to the text, “Both organizations assert that they are able to import PMS at a lower cost than what the Dangote Refinery is selling.” We compare our prices to those of other countries, and we think our rates are reasonable when compared to import costs. “Anyone who says they can get PMS for less than what we are selling is bringing in inferior goods and working with foreign dealers to bring in subpar goods without thinking about the health of Nigerians or the durability of their cars. Regulator NMDPRA regrettably lacks even laboratory facilities, which can be used to identify inferior goods that are brought into the nation. By offering PMS to domestic marketers at N971 per litre for sale into ships and N990 for sale into trucks, NNPC set the standard after deregulation. Our pricing was established by this, and we have since lowered it to N960 per litre for sale to ships and N990 per litre for sale to trucks. “We started selling at these rates in good faith and for the sake of the nation, even though we weren’t sure what exchange rate we would use to pay for the oil we bought. Simultaneously, a foreign trading company recently rented a depot facility adjacent to the Dangote Refinery for its purpose. to combine inferior goods that would be sold in order to compete with the superior output of Dangote Refinery. “This is harmful to Nigeria’s local refining industry’s expansion. We should note that nations frequently defend their home sectors in order to create jobs and boost their economies. For instance, in order to safeguard their home sectors, the US and Europe have been forced to slap high tariffs on microchips and EVs. READ ALSO: Atiku outlines the policies he would have implemented differently if he had been president: $10 billion for MSMEs and the progressive elimination of subsidies. We urge the public to ignore the purposeful misinformation being spread by those who would rather that we keep exporting jobs and importing poverty, even as we remain committed to offering reasonably priced, high-quality, domestically processed petroleum products in Nigeria.
Kindly Share:
Jisos was given the choice to pay a N100,000 fine or serve a six-month prison sentence after his conviction. Jisos was found guilty on a single count by Justice Folashade Oyekan of an Abuja magistrate court, who then imposed the punishment. Jide Josiah Jisos received a six-month prison sentence for impersonation after being detained for it at the 2019 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Jisos was found guilty on a single count by Justice Folashade Oyekan of an Abuja magistrate court, who then imposed the punishment. Authorities from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) caught Jisos at Brix Academy in Abuja, where he pretended to be a representative of an NGO that was in charge of the test. He was arrested when he was unable to support his statements when questioned. READ ALSO: People who claim to receive credit alerts from prayer should be arrested — Peter Obi Jisos acknowledged during questioning that “I am not affiliated with any NGO,” exposing We love to have you back again. Kindly Subscribe to our Newsletter.
Kindly Share:
The Nigerian government is under mounting pressure to dismiss charges against numerous minors amid growing concerns over the conditions of their detention. These minors were arrested due to their alleged involvement in protests against the rising cost of living. On Friday, a total of 76 individuals, including 30 minors aged between 14 and 17, were arraigned on multiple felony charges, such as treason, property destruction, public disturbance, and mutiny, according to the Associated Press. The sight of these young individuals fainting in court in Abuja has sparked significant outrage among politicians and civil society. Many of them have been held in detention for three months since their arrests in August. Footage from the court showed minors so weakened that they struggled to remain standing, with some collapsing from exhaustion and malnutrition. Former presidential candidate Peter Obi commented on the situation, highlighting the alarming conditions the minors are facing. Amnesty International condemned the detainment of these minors, describing it as “horrifying” and an aggressive attempt to stifle freedom of assembly in response to protests against hunger and corruption. In contrast, the Nigerian Inspector General of Police’s office denied any mistreatment of the detainees, asserting that medical assistance was provided. They emphasized that being underage does not exempt individuals from legal accountability, with police spokesperson Muyiwa Ogunjobi stating that anyone over the age of seven could face charges. The minors have been granted bail, and their attorneys indicated that the case is set to go to trial in January. On Sunday, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), a human rights organization in Nigeria, urged President Bola Tinubu to take action and release the minors within 48 hours. They argued that these children, along with other protesters, are being held solely for exercising their rights peacefully. SERAP also called for an investigation into the severe human rights violations affecting the minors and other protesters. Reports from Nigeria’s Punch news website indicated that the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Lateef Fagbemi, has initiated steps to withdraw the charges against the minors. READ ALSO: Cardi B denies getting paid to endorse Kamala Harris for president Frustration over the ongoing cost-of-living crisis has triggered widespread protests in Nigeria in recent months. In August, at least 20 individuals were killed, and hundreds were arrested during a demonstration advocating for better job opportunities and living conditions for young people. We love to have you back, Kindly Subscribe to our Newsletter.
Kindly Share:
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) recently intercepted cocaine worth over N4 billion at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos. NDLEA operatives seized 845 wraps of cocaine, weighing 18.72 kg, which were allegedly smuggled by an international drug syndicate operating between Brazil, Ethiopia, and Nigeria. The contraband, valued at N4.49 billion, was hidden in the waste compartments of two rear lavatories on an Ethiopian Airlines flight from Addis Ababa to Lagos on October 29, 2024. The NDLEA, alerted to the suspicious packages, retrieved the drugs, wrapped in nine polythene bags. Around 30 suspects have been interrogated in connection with the case. Reports indicate that couriers transported the drugs from Brazil to Ethiopia through ingestion and later excreted them in Addis Ababa, where they were collected by other traffickers. These traffickers attempted to smuggle the drugs into Nigeria but were foiled with help from the airline and other airport partners.In related news, NDLEA also intercepted other illicit drugs, including 2.928 kg of cocaine, cannabis, and tramadol 225 mg, concealed in body cream containers and art pieces intended for export to Australia, UAE, and the UK via courier companies in Lagos. At Lagos’s Apapa seaport, NDLEA officers seized 754,000 tablets of tapentadol and acetaminophen 225 mg, valued at N525 million, from an incoming container from India. In the Federal Capital Territory, a 24-year-old man was caught with 147,000 tramadol pills, while another was apprehended with 512 grams of methamphetamine. READ ALSO: Obi’s remark on turning church vigils into night shifts sparks mixed reactions Further arrests included suspects in Kogi, Katsina, Adamawa, Taraba, Ondo, Kaduna, and Edo, with large amounts of drugs and fake currency discovered in vehicles, hotels, and rural areas. The NDLEA also advanced its anti-drug campaign through educational outreach under the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) program, providing lectures at schools, workplaces, and community centers nationwide.NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa commended officers for their efforts in both enforcement and education, acknowledging their dedication to combatting drug abuse and trafficking across Nigeria. we love to have you back again, Kindly Subscribe to our Newsletter
Kindly Share:
Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has stirred debate among Nigerians with his suggestion to turn church vigils into night shifts to boost productivity. While some see his idea as a push toward increased productivity, others view it as disrespectful to religious traditions.Among those criticizing Obi’s remarks is Joshua Mike-Bamiloye, son of Mount Zion Faith Drama Ministry founder Mike Bamiloye. In an Honest Bunch podcast clip, Obi stated that Nigeria’s poverty and unproductivity stem from excessive focus on politics and religion. He argued that church attendance from Monday to Friday should be reduced in favor of work shifts. READ ALSO: Polaris Bank retains best digital bank award for the fourth year In response, Joshua took to X.com, calling Obi’s comments “misguided” and “insulting,” arguing that other social activities like concerts and comedy shows would also need banning if productivity were the true goal. He added that blaming vigils for Nigeria’s issues misses the real problems. We love to have you back, Kindly Subscribe to our Newsletter
Kindly Share:
According to the October Cadre Harmonisé (CH) Report, between June and August 2025, at least 33.1 million people in 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory would experience a food and nutrition crisis. The CH Analysis Report, which was made public in Abuja on Friday, made the prediction. The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the World Food Programme (WFP), the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and other partners carried out the analysis. Sokoto, Zamfara, Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, Gombe, Taraba, Katsina, Jigawa, Kano, Bauchi, Plateau, Kaduna, Kebbi, Niger, and Benue are among the states that are impacted. Cross River, Enugu, Edo, Abia, Kogi, Nasarawa, Kwara, Ogun, Lagos, Rivers, and the Federal Capital Territory are more. According to the study, 514,474 internally displaced people (IDPs) from Borno, Sokoto, and Zamfara are included in this number. It showed that there are currently food problems affecting almost 25 million people in the 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The FAO’s Country Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Kouacou Koffy, urged immediate action and a coordinated strategy to address the nation’s food and nutrition security. He said: “We can get closer to eradicating hunger and easing suffering for Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations with the combined efforts of the government, CH stakeholders, and the international community.” “We are dealing with hitherto unseen issues that impact livelihoods and the security of food and nutrition on a national, regional, and worldwide scale.” According to Koffy, Nigeria is dealing with a number of shocks, such as insecurity, climate-related disasters like floods and droughts, and economic variables that impact the prices of agricultural commodities and staple crops. These sessions, he said, also seek to suggest suitable ways to stop or lessen ongoing food shortages. “The most dependable and commonly used early warning tool for livelihood response targeting, food security, and humanitarian programming, as well as for prioritizing development programs,” he said. The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Temitope Fashedemi, promised that the government will use the report’s conclusions to direct food and nutrition security initiatives in all states. READ ALSO: Breaking: FG releases funding for retiree benefits and NASU salary Flooding, insecurity, and high food and non-food prices are the main causes of the food crisis, according to Balama Dauda, CH Focal Person for the National Programme on Food Security. (NAN) We love having you back, Kindly Subscribe to our Newsletter,
Kindly Share:
As part of a crackdown on criminal groups in the state’s Ningi Local Government Area, the Bauchi State Police Command claims to have neutralized six thugs. During the operations, the police officers also found weapons and ammo. This was said at a press conference in Bauchi on Friday by Awwal Musa, the state’s police commissioner. “The Command recovered firearms and ammunition in the Ningi axis and neutralized six thugs.” In Alkaleri, Ningi, and Toro LGAs, he reaffirmed his commitment to curbing criminal activity in border areas. READ ALSO: NIS elevates 13,977 officers and promises to address border security. Musa claims that the command is strengthening community policing and partnerships with local stakeholders by working with sister security agencies and quasi-security groups.“We encourage all citizens to assist us by promptly reporting any suspicious activity,” he stated. We love to have you back, Kindly Subscribe to our NewsLetter.
