Nation
THE STATES
Abuja
Nigeria spends about 120 billion Naira to print security documents and other sensitive materials outside the country.
This was made known by the CEO of International Institute for Training Research and Economic Development, Sani Dawop in Abuja Monday.
He observed that, “Nigeria spends N120 billion to print security documents abroad due to insecure local environment. Fraud related to cash and non-cash financial papers in the region of N300 billion occurs annually in both the public and private sectors of the economy through local and foreign collaborators.”
To this end, the body in conjunction with the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Plc is organising a two day conference to underscore the importance of document protection in order to prevent cash and non-cash paper related fraud. Due to the poor level of printing and insecurity in important document corporations and even individuals.
Dawop also maintained that, the continuous printing of security documents abroad also put the country at risk and in national insecurity, stressing that, the ‘activities of fraudster involved in these nefarious activities have impacted negatively on the image of the country and the economy. We believe therefore, there is need for concerted efforts to put a stop to the menace.’
Adamawa
Former Director-General of Strategy and Research for Dr. Peter Odili Presidential Campaign organisation and a governorship aspirant in Adamawa State, Dr. Umaru Ardo has said hat he does not recognise PDP leadership under Kugama because he is a product of illegality.
On his purported suspension from the PDP, he told journalists in Yola Tuesday that both the state and national secretariats lacked the constitutional powers to suspend or remove him from the party.
The governorship aspirant (Ardo) pointed out that he did not recognise the PDP leadership under Kugama, because he is a product of illegality.
Ardo disclosed that after exhausting all the procedures to address the unconstitutionalities in Adamawa PDP failed, he maintained that article 14 sub-section 5 of the PDP constitution stated that when a vacancy exists as a result of resignation or death, another member of the party from the same area with the former officer should be appointed to take over the vacant office, citing the case of the former National Chairman of PDP, Solomon Lar, he said.
Barnabas Gemade, replaced him because the office was for North Central and that Dr. Ahmadu Ali, also took over from Gemade and because of the party’s constitution the position remained in the North Central throughout President Olusegun Obasanjo’s government.
ONDO
The Oluwarotimi Akeredolu-led national executive of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has received a vote of confidence from Akure branch of the association, which described it as toeing the path of honour in handling Nigeria’s legal matters.
At the commencement of the association’s law week in Akure Tueday, the NBA chairman, Kayode Ogundana, said lawyers in Akure shared the view of Akeredolu on matters involving the association at the national level.
According to him, “we encourage him to continue in the spirit with which he has so far conducted the affairs of the NBA realising the fact that being constructively critical of government policies, actions and individuals in authority does not automatically translate to partisanship.
“We have the privilege of knowing Akeredolu’s disposition to oppression, disobedience to the rule of law, arbitrariness and high-handedness way back when he was the Attorney-General of Ondo State under a government headed by a military man.
“We, on this note, pass a vote of confidence on him and appeal to those on the other side to cooperate with him bearing in mind that in unity, we stand and divided we fall. It is potentially perilous and portentous for anybody to attempt to derail the NBA at this critical stage of our democratic experience,” he said.
Ogundana however stressed the need to end the strike embarked upon by the judiciary workers in the interest of justice in the country.
The association, which also endorsed the overhauling of the judiciary, however cautioned stakeholders that the prolonged strike was not the solution to the problem.
He said the situation in the various police stations was appalling with a lot of detainees languishing in police custody because they could not be taken to court because of the strike.
Borno
The re-branding of Nigeria can only be achieved and sustained when there is an attitudinal change, re-orientation, imbibing positive cultural values and instilling the virtues of pride and patriotism among citizens, minister of information and communication, Prof. Dora Akunyili has declared
The minister made the observation Tuesday in Maiduguri, while presenting a keynote address at a three-day National Conference at the Elkanemi hall of University of Maiduguri.
She said that the re-branding project uses both the print and electronic media to effectively and efficiently communicate the positive aspects of influencing Nigeria’s image within and outside the country for the better.
She added: – Enhancing Nigeria’s image will encourage foreign investors to come and join other local investors in building the country, while the re-branding processes could be translated into the establishment and development of the critical infrastructures required for rapid growth and development of the country.
Kogi
Governor Ibrahim Idris of Kogi has called on the federal government to establish a federal university of technology and an ICT centre in the state.
Idris made the call on Monday at the inauguration of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) Prime FM 101.5 station at Jimgbe, Lokoja.
He said that the call became necessary in view of the state’s technological advancement and the need to fast-track effective information management.
Idris also urged the federal government to either reconstruct or rehabilitate federal roads in the state in view of their bad condition.
He said his administration would provide conducive environment for federal establishments in the state to operate without hitches.
Idris acknowledged the role of the road as an effective channel of information dissemination due to its reach and in moulding and shaping of public opinion for socio-economic and political development.
As part of efforts to enhance information dissemination, he said that more than N2 million had been expended on the digitalisation of the state radio corporation while local stations were being serviced to enable optimal performance.
Speaking at the occasion, information and communications minister, Prof. Dora Akunyili reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to providing infrastructural facilities for Nigerians.
She said that information was crucial and critical to national development and attainment of the seven point agenda of the present administration.
Akunyili added that the station brought to 27, the number of such stations across the country.
She commended Kogi State government for its moral and financial support to federal establishments in the state and pleaded for the sustenance of such support.
The Director-General of FRCN, Mr. Yusuf Nuhu in his address, urged the management of the station to encourage the practice of responsible journalism by ensuring balanced and objective reporting.
Jigawa
The Jigawa State Universal Basic Education Board (JSUBEB) has released N200 million for disbursement as revolving loans to 3,853 teaching and non-teaching staff across the state.
This gesture was in fulilment of the pledge by the board to ensure that teachers are well catered for to boost their moral and get the best of them.
The chairman of the board, Alhaji Sani Abdullahib stated this in a statement signed by the public relations officer of the Board, Mallam Mati Ali, copies of which were made available to journalists in Dutse on Monday, while briefing Education Secretaries and officials of the Nigeria Union of teachers (NUT) about the criteria of the loan disbursement in his office.
He said permanent and pensionable staff of junior and primary school teachers would benefit from the loan. Abdullahi explained that officers with less than 12 months to retire and those with queries would not benefit from the facility, adding that the process of disbursing the loan is tossing.
According to him, officers on grade level 13 would receive N100,000 each, while those from seven to 12 and grade level 01-07 would receive motorcycle loan of N80,000 and N20,000 respectively.
The chairman said the fund disbursement would commence next week, warning education secretaries to adhere strictly to the guideline. The state chairman of NUT, Comrade, Usman Ya’u Dutse canvassed the formation of a committee to handle the disbursement of the fund to ensure transparency.
Taraba
The police in Taraba State are disturbed by the deplorable condition of detention camps at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
The Tide learnt that several detainees in the two-room detention camp had been there for several months without trial in the law court.
Each of the rooms, which ought to accommodate eight to 10 suspects now hosts over 25 suspects.
Some of the suspects languishing in the cells, according to police sources are yet to be located by their families or relatives, who do not know their whereabouts.
A suspect, who recently regained his freedom, wondered why the federal government had not deemed it relevant to improve on the dilapidating condition of the detention camps and prison custody in the state.
The suspect, who sought anonymity for fear of being re-arrested, said: “Over 25 of us were kept in each of the two rooms without any form of respect to human dignity.
More heart-rending according to him, is that detainees are not allowed to take their bath until after one month in the camp. The food there, he adds, “is an eyesore.”
Detainees at the camp, as further learnt, have no access to any form of medication. The vicinity as observed by The Tide is unsuitable for habitation.
An Investigation Police Officer (IPO) who spoke on the bad condition of living in the camp, accused government of indifference to the conditions of detention camps.
He said it was sad that no steps had been taken by the government to improve the living conditions of detainees.
Ondo
About 3,000 policemen, consisting of four officers per each of the 244 polling units and several patrol teams would be deployed by the Ondo State Police Command for next Saturday’s by-election to fill the vacant seat of Akoko South West/Akoko South East Federal Constituency.
Commissioner of Police, Donald Iroham, who disclosed this Tuesday at a meeting with representatives of participating political parties, said Force Headquarters in Abuja had also put commands of neighbouring states on alert in case of any need for reinforcement.
The constituency seat became vacant following the death of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) legislator at the House of Representatives, Col. Joe Ariota barely six months after the April 21, 2007 election that produced him.
At yesterday’s parley, Iroham, who expressed the readiness of his command to deal with trouble-makers, called on politicians to play the game according to the rule and avoid anything that may cause breakdown of law and order.
Ogun
Crisis rocking Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) echoed last weekend in Ago Iwoye, when speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole, declared that the control of the party by the state governor, Gbenga Daniel, would soon come to an end.
Bankole, who led other top PDP chieftains in the state to the country home of former minister of state for finance, Senator Jubril Martins-Kuye, accused the state governor of acting God in the control of PDP in the state and cautioned him to stop playing God with the politics of the state, saying “Only Almighty God is in control of power and will decide who becomes what today or in 2011.”
He lamented that it has become the norm in the state for an individual and others to say that they are behind those who occupy elective offices, noting that only the Almighty has the exclusive right to make such claims.
Also, Sen. Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, who in August this year, was allegedly harassed by Daniel’s top cabinet member, said she was wondering why the Governor loves” to bring somebody up and ensure that such person is again brought down.”
She said the intolerable attitude of the governor was a great disappointment to the party in the state, accusing him of always carrying the toga of “it’s me.”
In his speech, top PDP stalwart in the state and chairman of Omo Ilu Group, Prince Buruji Kashamu said his new political group “is open for all positive advice and support from our cherished elders and loyal members, in order for us to achieve peace, which is necessary for the development of our state,” alleging that some people have deliberately chosen to disorganise the mechanism that drives progress in our state.
Lagos
Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Information and Strategy, Mr. Segun Ayobolu, has announced his intention to quit the State Executive Council, following his health problems which he has been battling with since 1974, when he was a student in the University of Ibadan.
Ayobolu disclosed his plan to quit the Fashola cabinet during a state valedictory session of the State Executive Council meeting held in the Governor’s Office yesterday, adding that he has to resign because his state of health has been impacting negatively on his productivity, which he said had become a clog in the state’s development process.
During the session, secretary to the state government, Princess Aderenle Adeniran – Ogusanya, Commissioner for tourism and Inter-government Relations, Senator Tokunbo Afikoyomi and his counterpart in the Ministry of Environment, Dr. Muiz Banire were absent.
Speaking at the session Ayobolu, who said his resignation took effect from today, said he could no longer stand the pressure of the office due to chronic ulcers and high blood pressure he has been battling with for more than two decades.
Nigeria’s quest for national greatness may remain elusive if educational policies continue to suffer poor implementation, Prof Nathaniel Abraham has warned, declaring that education remains the strategic compass capable of steering the country toward sustainable growth and global competitiveness.
The respected scholar made this assertion while delivering the 206th Inaugural Lecture of the University of Port Harcourt at its Abuja Centre of Excellence. His lecture, titled, “The Rudderless Ship and Its Major Rescuer,” employed a striking maritime metaphor to illustrate the state of the nation’s educational system and, by extension, its development trajectory.
According to Prof. Abraham, the rudder, though a small and seemingly insignificant component located at the rear of a ship, determines the direction, stability, and safety of the entire vessel. Without it, even the most magnificent ship with powerful engines and sophisticated equipment will drift aimlessly and is at risk of wreckage. He likened this crucial component to educational policies in a nation’s governance structure, arguing that policies serve as the guiding mechanism that determines whether a country reaches its intended destination or wanders endlessly without direction.
In his analysis, he noted that Nigeria possesses abundant human and natural resources and is not! lacking in intellectual capacity or policy formulation. However, he emphasised that the country’s recurring challenge lies in weak implementation, inconsistency, and a culture of cutting corners.
He recalled that at independence in 1960, Nigeria stood shoulder to shoulder with several nations that are now classified among the world’s leading economies. The difference, he maintained, is not destiny or potential, but discipline and adherence to policy execution.
“What made them move forward was discipline and the will to implement policies the way they were designed. For as long as we trivialise our educational policies, we will continue to drift. But the moment we commit to proper implementation, Nigeria is destined for greatness,” he stated.
Prof. Abraham stressed that education remains the foundation upon which every other sector stands. He argued that a properly structured and effectively managed educational system produces competent manpower, ethical leadership, innovation, and national cohesion. Conversely, a poorly managed system weakens governance, slows economic growth, and undermines social stability.
Delving into higher education administration, the Professor identified funding as a critical coordinate of effective university management. Drawing from his scholarly publications in international journals, he explained that adequate and well-managed funding directly impacts teaching quality, research output, infrastructure development, staff motivation, and global competitiveness of universities.
He described the current funding situation in Nigerian universities as grossly inadequate, noting that without intentional and strategic financial investment, reforms may remain theoretical.
“Funding is very poor. If we address it deliberately and commit to doing it right, the transformation will be evident,” he affirmed.
Beyond funding, he called for collective responsibility in rebuilding the education sector, urging policymakers, administrators, lecturers, parents, and students to play active roles in restoring value and credibility to the system.
He emphasised that education should not be seen as the exclusive concern of those currently within school walls, but as a national asset that shapes future generations and determines the country’s long-term prosperity.
Respondents at the well-attended lecture described it as both diagnostic and prescriptive, noting that Prof. Abraham not only identified systemic weaknesses but also offered a roadmap for reform. Some participants expressed optimism that the insights presented could serve as a blueprint for policymakers if carefully studied and adopted.
The event drew members of the academia, deans, the clergy, stakeholders, and guests from various sectors who commended the inaugural lecturer for what many described as a courageous and timely intervention in the national conversation on education.
At the conclusion of the lecture, Prof. Abraham was flanked by deans and colleagues in recognition of his contribution to scholarship and public discourse.
The 206th Inaugural Lecture once again highlighted the role of the University of Port Harcourt as a centre for intellectual engagement and policy advocacy. More importantly, it amplified a central message: without a functional “rudder” in the form of faithfully implemented educational policies, Nigeria’s journey toward development may remain uncertain. But with discipline, adequate funding, and unwavering commitment to policy execution, the nation can chart a new course toward enduring greatness.
Former Students’ Union Government (SUG) leaders of the University of Port Harcourt, have organised a one-day symposium in honour of the institution’s outgoing Vice Chancellor, Prof Owunari Abraham Georgewill, as his tenure draws to a close.
The maiden symposium, with the theme, “Resolution: From Agitations to Negotiations,” was convened by five past presidents of the university’s SUG as a mark of appreciation for what they described as a student-friendly and peaceful administration under the 9th Vice Chancellor of the university.
The event, held recently at the University of Port Harcourt Centre of Excellence, Abuja Campus, attracted past and present student leaders, members of the academic community, and invited guests.
In his remarks, the current SUG President, Sen. Amaechi Walson Tonye, said the cordial relationship between the Vice Chancellor and the student body informed the decision to organise the symposium, noting that students were proud to associate with a Vice Chancellor who consistently listened to their concerns and prioritised dialogue in resolving issues.
He commended the past SUG leaders for taking the bold initiative to honour the Vice Chancellor, describing the gesture as a reflection of the mutual respect and understanding that characterised the administration.
Speaking in an interview, Prof. Georgewill expressed gratitude to God and the students for the recognition accorded him. He described the honour as deeply significant, recalling that from his first day in office, he pledged to work closely with students to foster peace and ensure uninterrupted academic activities.
According to him, the peaceful atmosphere enjoyed on campus over the past five years was a result of deliberate engagement and a shared commitment to negotiation rather than confrontation.
“For the five years of my administration, we did not experience student-related demonstrations, closure of the school, or management-student crises, which are common in many institutions.We are celebrating because we chose negotiation over agitation. That is the essence of today’s honour,” he said.
He urged Vice Chancellors and student union leaders across the country to prioritise dialogue in addressing grievances, stressing that negotiation remains the best pathway to stability and academic progress.
Prof. Georgewill added that he would like to be remembered for humble and humane leadership anchored on inclusiveness and constructive engagement. He attributed the stability and infrastructural development recorded during his tenure to the grace of God and the cooperation of stakeholders.
The symposium featured a keynote lecture delivered by Prof. Obari Gomba, presentation of awards to the Vice Chancellor and the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Wokoma Chima, as well as a drama performance and goodwill messages from former SUG presidents.
Among those who spoke were Comrade Ubabuike Gift; Comrade Dickson Senibo; Comrade Okpara Martins; and Comrade Harmony Lawrence, who initiated and coordinated the event alongside other past student leaders.
The event concluded with renewed calls for sustained collaboration between university management and students to preserve the culture of peace and dialogue at the institution.
The Nigeria Civil Service Union (NCSU) has congratulated Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on his emergence as the 2025 Man of the Year for the New Telegraph newspaper, describing the honour as well deserved and a testament to a leadership style anchored on peace, development and the welfare of the people.
The award, which was presented in Lagos, recognises Governor Fubara’s stewardship amid political and economic challenges in the State.
In a statement personally signed by the Rivers State Chairman of the union, Comrade Chukwuka Richman Osumah, the NCSU said the recognition is a befitting reward for a focused and committed administration that consistently places the interests of the people and the State first.
Osumah noted that Governor Fubara has demonstrated in both words and actions that he is committed to peace, stability and measurable governance outcomes.
According to him, the administration has pursued people-centred policies aimed at improving public service delivery, strengthening institutions and promoting inclusive development across Rivers State.
He stated that the Man of the Year award represents a celebration of purposeful leadership, resilience, dedication and unwavering commitment to service.
The union leader further observed that the governor’s efforts to sustain governance in the face of political tensions have distinguished him as a calm and conciliatory figure in the national political landscape.
The NCSU pointed to ongoing investments in infrastructure, healthcare and education, as well as initiatives targeted at improving workers’ welfare and supporting vulnerable groups, as practical demonstrations of the administration’s priorities.
It said such interventions have contributed to stabilising the polity and reinforcing public confidence in governance.
Describing the award as a defining moment in Governor Fubara’s political career, Osumah said it marks an important milestone in the development trajectory of Rivers State and would serve as motivation for the governor to intensify efforts toward peace, good governance, economic growth and sustainable development.
“The award simply tells Governor Fubara to continue the good works of his administration, anchored on prioritising development of the state and the welfare of the people, particularly civil servants,” Osumah said.
The union also commended the Governor for dedicating the award to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, describing the gesture as a bold move aimed at consolidating the gains of reconciliation and political stability in the State.
While expressing appreciation to the New Telegraph for recognising what it described as the governor’s leadership qualities, the NCSU urged Governor Fubara to view the honour as both recognition and renewed responsibility.
The union called on him to continue championing policies that promote peace and development, and to consider incorporating the interests of organised labour in the process of reconstituting his cabinet, noting that labour unions have played a significant role in maintaining stability within the State.
-
Maritime3 days ago
Nigeria To Pilot Regional Fishing Vessels Register In Gulf Of Guinea —Oyetola
-
Maritime3 days ago
Customs Declares War Against Narcotics Baron At Idiroko Border
-
Sports3 days agoGombe-Gara Rejects Chelle $130,000 monthly salary
-
Maritime3 days ago
NIMASA,NAF Boost Unmanned Aerial Surveillance For Maritime Security
-
Sports3 days agoTEAM RIVERS SET TO WIN 4×400 ” MORROW” …Wins Triple jump Silver
-
Maritime3 days ago
NIWA Collaborates ICPC TO Strengthen Integrity, Revenue
-
Sports3 days agoNPFL Drops To 91st In Global League Rankings
-
Sports3 days agoNPFL Impose Fines On Kwara United Over Fans Misconduct