Nation
THE STATES
Adamawa
Hawkers of various commodities, including food and hard currency are now making brisk business at the Yola International Airport due to ongoing airlift of pilgrims.
An intending pilgrim, Mr Usman Ibrahim, told our correspondent on Thursday in Yola, that the pilgrims were happy about the activities of the hawkers.
Ibrahim said that the hawkers of assorted goods were able to meet the needs of the pilgrims, as well as the needs of their friends and relations that came to see them off.
“However, one has to be vigilant, as some hawkers can give someone fake currency and that is why you need a guide, who can distinguish between fake and genuine currency,” Fatima added.
Bauchi
Senator Iliya Audu, INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner for Bauchi State, on Wednesday, urged journalists to expose underage persons wanting to register as voters during the voter registration.
Audu made the call at the opening of a two-day sensitisation workshop for journalists, organised by Bauchi State Television Corporation in Bauchi.
The REC, who appealed to the media to be positive in reporting election issues, called on all stakeholders to assist in ensuring credible elections in 2011.
Borno
The Police in Maiduguri on Wednesday, confirmed the killing of a Police Inspector by hoodlums suspected to be Boko Haram Sect members.
“We witnessed another ugly incident yesterday, when a police inspector, Mr Kashim Bukar, was shot dead by hoodlums suspected to be members of the Boko Haram sect”.
“Bukar, an officer with the CID was trailed by the killers to his house at the Jajeri Ward, Maiduguri, shortly after closing from work before he was shot on the head severally,” Mr Lawal Abdullahi, Police Public Relations Officer, said.
Abdullahi said that the officer was in mufti when he was shot by the killers in front of his house.
Ekiti
The U.S. Consul-General in Nigeria, Mr Joseph Stafford, has promised to collaborate with the Ekiti State Government to provide development projects for the people.
Stafford told newsmen in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday, at the end of his tour of Ondo, Osun and Ekiti states, that the assistance would span through political and economic sphere.
“The consulate, in conjunction with the American Embassy, is ready to provide assistance to Ekiti State in the areas of political and economic developments through the U.S. intervention agencies,” he said.
FCT
The FCT Chief Judge, Justice Lawal Gummi, on Wednesday, inaugurated the FCT Family Court to entertain both civil and criminal matters involving children.
Gummi said the court, which is located in Apo District of Abuja, was a specialised court dealing with all matters relating to the enforcement of the rights of the child.
In addition, he said, the court would deal with other matters relating to a child, including monetary claims of N50,000 and above.
According to Gumi, the court will deal with the divorce and custody of the child and entertain appeals from the Family Court at the Magistrate’s Court level.
Jigawa
The Jigawa Government has set aside N624 million for the electrification of 28 towns and villages in the state.
The Commissioner for Rural Infrastructure and Community Development, Alhaji Abdulkadir Jinjiri, said in Dutse on Thursday, that contract for the electrification of the town had been awarded.
Jinjiri told newsmen that 17 contractors would be involved in the execution of the projects, adding that the projects were captured in the 2010 budget.
Kaduna
The Kaduna State Government is to procure drugs and consumables worth N530 million for the treatment of pregnant women and children under five years.
The Commissioner for Information, Alhaji Saidu Adamu, made the announcement while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the State’s Executive Council Meeting on Wednesday in Kaduna.
Adamu said that over N400 million would be spent to purchase injectables and consumables for women and children.
Katsina
Alhaji Muntari Dandutse, the Chairman of Funtua Local Government Council of Katsina State, has emphasised the need for politicians to work for the interest of the people.
Dandutse made the call in Funtua at the swearing-in of Alhaji Haruna Suleiman, the new Supervisory Councillor in charge of Water and Sanitation Department of the council.
He enjoined public office holders to work for the people, saying that the people should in turn pray for their leaders and shun negative comments.
Dandutse also urged the people to register and obtain their voters’ cards, saying that they needed them to vote in the right candidates during elections.
Kogi
The Chief Judge of Kogi State, Justice Nasir Ajanah, has condemned the practice of giving judgement to the highest bidder by the lower courts
“I discovered that some of our judges, particularly at the lower courts, were giving judgment to the highest bidder.’’
He said this at a special court session to mark the beginning of the 2010/2011 Legal Year in Lokoja, on Wednesday.
The chief judge said 33,750 of the cases recorded from the 208 courts across the state were disposed of, leaving 17,125.
He said 2,337 cases were registered at the state High Courts, out of which 1,867 were disposed of, with 470 outstanding.
Lagos
President, Nigerian Institute of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Mr Bode Adediji, wants the Federal Government to set up a body that would oversee land matters.
Adediji told newsmen on Thursday, in Lagos, that the body was necessary in view of the National Assembly’s delay in the review of Land Use Act 1978.
According to him, several bills on housing had been sent to the National Assembly and none had received attention in the last 12 years.
Nasarawa
The Guards Brigade of the Nigeria Army in Keffi on Wednesday, began a three-day field training with other security agencies tagged“exercise sting ray“.
The exercise, which started at the Shittu Alao Barracks, Keffi, was a routine training to test the responsiveness of the brigade to civil strife.
Our correspondent also reports that the exercise was in collaboration with the Nigerian Police and other para-military agencies like the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Nigerian Immigration Service and the State Security Services (SSS).
Ogun
The Ogun State Government has approved free distribution of 830,000 cocoa seedlings to cocoa farmers in the state.
Chief Moyo Owotomo, Director, Extension Services, Ogun Agricultural Development Programme (OGADEP), made the announcement on Thursday in Ijebu-Ode in an interview with newsmen.
He said the distribution of the seedlings was part of government’s effort to assist cocoa farmers to boost cocoa production in the state.
Owotomo urged farmers who had yet to receive the seedlings to contact the state ministry of agriculture for collection.
Sokoto
Governor Aliyu Wamakko of Sokoto State has advised intending Muslim pilgrims to pray for peace and stability of the country during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
Wamakko gave the advice in Sokoto, on Wednesday, at Sir Abubakar International Airport while addressing those from Shagari and Kebbe local government areas before their departure.
The governor emphasised that the nation was in need of prayers for God’s intervention in all the activities going on in the country.
“You should embark on special prayers for God’s guidance, so that the desire of Nigerians to conduct a credible election will be a reality.
Taraba
The National Association of Fulani Fulaku, has urged nomads in Taraba State to come out en-masse to register in the forthcoming voter registration exercise.
The Representative of the association, Ahmed Liman, gave the advice on Wednesday in Iware Town in Taraba while addressing thousands of Fulanis.
The Fulanis converged on the town for the sensitisation exercise on the oncoming voters’ register.
He said that failure of the nomads to obtain voters’ registration cards would prevent them from voting for positive change in the 2011 general elections.
Liman urged nomads who attended 18 years and above to go and exercise their civic responsibility, stressing that any eligible voter who refused to vote had relinquished his rights.
Yobe
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3rd Armoured Division, Maj.-Gen. Sunday Idoko, says the military is ready to deal decisively with any threat to the nation’s internal security.
He gave the assurance on Wednesday in Damaturu when he paid a courtesy visit to Gov. Ibrahim Gaidam of Yobe.
Idoko said the military was ever ready to deal with the challenges posed by the rising cases of banditry, kidnapping and other civil unrests, promising that the army would maintain a high sense of professionalism in the discharge of its duties.
Responding, Gaidam said that the combined efforts of the army, police and vigilante groups “have changed the status of Yobe from a state reputed for high incidence of highway banditry to one that is most peaceful and secured in the federation”.
The Head of the Department of Anatomy at the University of Port Harcourt’s College of Health Sciences, Prof Gabriel Sunday Oladipo, has underscored the urgent need for Nigeria to develop a comprehensive forensic science infrastructure, warning that the nation’s ability to investigate and solve crime is being hampered by lack of scientific data and systems.
In his inaugural lecture titled, “Man: Fearfully Different, Wonderfully Made,” delivered as part of the 207th Inaugural Lecture Series of the university, Prof Oladipo highlighted that while no two individuals are exactly the same, the country currently lacks the robust systems needed to collect and manage biological and anthropometric data that could support criminal investigations.
He explained that the natural variations among humans — from fingerprints to physical measurements — form the foundation of personal identification in forensic work. These biological differences, he said, are essential for distinguishing one person from another, especially in the context of criminal investigations where clarity of identity can mean the difference between justice and impunity. Without this scientific foundation, he argued, law enforcement agencies lack a critical tool in the fight against crime.
Experts have noted that Nigeria’s forensic science capacity has historically lagged behind needs, with only a few forensic facilities available and many law enforcement agencies struggling to access or use scientific evidence effectively. One review of the state of forensic investigation in Nigeria found that outdated facilities and limited adoption of modern forensic methods have left many cases unsolved or poorly investigated, even as crime rates rise across the country.
In Lagos, efforts to improve forensic capabilities have focused on DNA analysis, with the Lagos State DNA Forensic Centre — the first of its kind in West Africa — providing critical support for criminal investigations and helping to identify human remains, link related cases, and assist with paternity testing. However, such initiatives are yet to be replicated at a national scale, leaving many regions without access to these vital scientific tools.
Prof Oladipo’s lecture went beyond academic theory to propose concrete actions. He called for the establishment of a National Institute of Forensic Science responsible for creating and managing a nationwide anthropometric and forensic data bank. This repository, he stressed, would significantly enhance Nigeria’s capacity to track crime, assist law enforcement agencies, and improve the administration of justice by providing reliable scientific evidence for investigative and legal processes.
He also highlighted the importance of strengthening research and training in forensic science. Many Nigerian universities currently lack the funding and infrastructure to offer complete undergraduate or postgraduate programs in areas such as forensic anthropology, DNA analysis, and crime scene investigation, a gap that forces aspiring experts to rely on collaborations with institutions abroad. By fostering a research-friendly environment and securing greater support from both government and private sectors, Nigerian institutions could produce homegrown experts capable of advancing forensic science in the country.
Awareness of forensic science’s role in criminal justice remains low among the general public and even among some security professionals. Studies have shown that a significant portion of Nigerians are unfamiliar with basic forensic concepts or the existence of tools such as DNA profiling and national forensic databases — tools that are common features of criminal justice systems in countries like South Africa and the United Kingdom.
Prof Oladipo also urged regular training and retraining programs to keep forensic practitioners updated with evolving scientific methods. According to him, continuous professional development is critical in a field where technological advances — from biometric databases to digital forensic tools — are transforming how crimes are investigated and solved.
The lecture was attended by academics, students, and professionals drawn to the intersection of science, identity, and justice, all of whom heard the professor make a compelling case for scientific innovation and institutional reform as central to Nigeria’s effort to contain crime and strengthen its justice system.
The event not only showcased Prof Oladipo’s expertise in human anatomy and forensic psychology but also positioned forensic science as a strategic national priority — one that could bring clarity to investigations, support victims and their families, and ultimately enhance public safety across Nigeria.
The University of Port Harcourt Women Association (UPWA) on Thursday staged a vibrant and memorable edition of its Annual Inter-House Sports Competition at the University of Port Harcourt Sports Village, drawing an impressive turnout of pupils, parents, staff and invited guests.
The event, organised by the UPWA International Group of Schools, brought together children from the pre-nursery, nursery and secondary sections in a colourful celebration of youth athleticism, discipline and teamwork. The arena came alive with cheers and excitement as pupils, clad in their various house colours, marched in a ceremonial parade before proceeding to compete in a wide range of track and field events, relays, novelty races and other team-based activities designed to promote physical fitness and healthy competition.
Declaring the competition open, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Owunari Georgewill, commended UPWA for sustaining a tradition that continues to nurture young talents beyond the classroom. He noted that sports remain a critical component of holistic education, helping to build resilience, confidence, leadership skills and social interaction among children.
In her remarks, the President of UPWA, Professor Udeme Georgewill, expressed appreciation to parents, teachers and members of the organising committee for their dedication and sacrifice in ensuring the success of the programme despite prevailing economic challenges. She described the event as a reflection of unity and collective effort within the school community.
“This is the first time White House is emerging overall winner, and that shows remarkable improvement and great sportsmanship,” she said. “We all had fun. It is not easy putting an event like this together considering the economic situation, but we are grateful to the parents for being part of this journey. The excitement everywhere is truly heartwarming.”
The competition featured spirited participation from the various houses, including Purple House, San Chicago Red House and White House, with pupils demonstrating strength, speed, coordination and teamwork. Parents and supporters filled the stands, cheering enthusiastically and adding colour to the spectacle, while teachers ensured orderliness and safety throughout the proceedings.
Professor Georgewill emphasized that the true essence of sports lies not merely in winning trophies but in participation and personal growth. “Sports is not just about winning. It is an avenue for growth, discipline and opportunity. The fact that a child is able to participate is already a win. Losing this year does not mean you cannot win next year. Keep trying,” she encouraged, urging pupils to see both victory and defeat as stepping stones to greater achievements.
She further observed that while there are many competing interests in the Nigerian sports sector, consistent grassroots investment remains essential for discovering and nurturing future champions.
The colourful ceremony culminated in medal presentations, trophy awards and group photographs, with UPWA executives, including Vice President I, Professor Adedamola Onyeaso, joining the participating teams to celebrate the day’s achievements.
The annual inter-house sports competition continues to stand as one of UPWA’s flagship events, reinforcing its commitment to balanced education, character formation and the promotion of healthy lifestyles among its pupils.
-
News5 days agoAmend Constitution To Accommodate State Police, Tinubu Tells Senators
-
Politics5 days agoSenate Urges Tinubu To Sack CAC Boss
-
Business5 days ago
Crisis Response: EU-project Delivers New Vet. Clinic To Katsina Govt.
-
Business5 days ago
President Tinubu Approves Extension Ban On Raw Shea Nut Export
-
News5 days agoDisu Takes Over As New IGP …Declares Total War On Corruption, Impunity
-
Business5 days ago
President Tinubu Extends Raw Shea Nuts Export Ban To 2027
-
Business5 days ago
Fidelity Bank To Empower Women With Sustainable Entrepreneurship Skills, HAP2.0
-
Sports5 days ago
NDG: Rivers Coach Appeal To NDDC In Talent Discovery