Nation
THE STATES
Adamawa
A bill to legitimise the setting up of caretaker management committees for local governments in Adamawa has passed through the first reading in the state House of Assembly.
The motion was moved by the House Majority Leader, Alahaji Ishaq Bala (PDP-Yola North) on Monday in Yola at the plenary and it was seconded by Mr Aloysius Babadoke (PDP-Leko/Koma). The bill is seeking for a law to amend the Adamawa Local Government Establishment and Administration Law No. 4 of 2000.
Bala observed that for the past one year when the tenure of elected local government councils in the state expired, the state Independent Electoral Commission had not conducted elections.
The House also considered the report of its standing committee on Information on a bill for a law to establish the Adamawa Local Apprenticeship Scheme Agency. The scheme is aimed at training and empowering youths in the state to contribute more effectively to the economic development of the state.
Benue
The Benue Rent Tribunal on Monday ordered Krees Danyi to surrender the house keys belonging to Mr Iorver Tsegba and to refund N1,890 spent on litigation by the plaintiff.
The tribunal Judge, Priscilla Uche, who gave the order, said the defendant should also pay the rent arrears accruable for the period the keys were in his possession, faulted the plaintiff for not supplying the details of monetary transactions with the defendant.
Tsegba had dragged Danyi to the tribunal alleging that he defaulted in rent payment after vacating a one-bedroom apartment leased to him without surrendering the keys.
The plaintiff said that the defendant took possession of the apartment in June 2010 on an agreement to pay N50,000 per year, a charge that was later reviewed to N80,000 per year.
He explained that he served two quit notices to the tenant but he refused to vacate.
FCT
The Bwari Area Council has evacuated the refuse dump close to the Dutse Alhaji Market to create a favourable environment in the area, Mr Haruna Labaran, the Head of the Environment Department, of the council, has said
Labaran said that the evacuation of the refuse and relocation of the market would eliminate the traffic jam usually experienced in the area.
According to him, the traffic jam has been a thing of concern to residents of the council, adding that department was doing a lot to sanitise the environment.
He advised residents to desist from indiscriminate dumping of refuse and imbibe good hygiene practice to prevent disease outbreak in their area.
Labaran also said that the council was poised to partner with stakeholders to create approved refuse dump sites for the people.
Gombe
No fewer than 143 youths in Gombe State have been trained in the area of renewable energy devices, Alhaji Labaran Mijinyawa, the Commissioner for Youths and Poverty Alleviation, said.
Mijinyawa said in Gombe on Monday that the 10-day training was conducted by the state government and Energy Commission of Nigeria.
He said the trainees were expected to establish their own businesses and become employers of labour on graduation . They were also expected to serve as resource persons in subsequent trainings on renewable energy.
The commissioner said the trainees were taught how to construct solar panels, bio-digesters, solar dryers and stoves for cooking.
Mijinyawa said the trainees would access loans through the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) to enable them to establish their own businesses, while the state government would serve as guarantor of the loans.
Jigawa
The Dutse Municipal Council of Jigawa has recruited 63 environmental and sanitary workers to enhance sanitation services in the area. The Director, Primary Healthcare Agency in the council, Alhaji Tasi’u Muhammad, disclosed this in an interview in Dutse on Tuesday.
Muhammad said that the council engaged the workers to clear drains, evacuate solid waste and ensure effective refuse control. He said that teams of environmental cleaners had been deployed to government offices, departments, markets and strategic locations to keep the environment clean.
Kano
A total of 1,277 of the 2,150 corps members posted to Kano State for the 2012 ‘Batch B service year have so far sought for redeployment to other states.
The state NYSC Coordinator, Alhaji Bashir Yakasai, who disclosed this in Kano on Monday said that of those, who sought redeployment, 1,108 were posted to other states on health grounds and for security reasons, while the remaining 169 were re-deployed on marital ground. He, however, said that the state NYSC had also received more than 50 corps members re-deployed from other states to Kano.
On the issue of rejection, the coordinator said that the number so far rejected by employers was negligible considering the number of corps members, who relocated to other states. The coordinator, however, assured the corps members serving in the state of adequate security during their one year stay in the state.
Kebbi
The Kebbi Police Commissioner, Mr Adisa Bolanta, has ordered Police formations in the state to remain on alert, apparently to prevent attacks on sensitive locations similarly carried out in other states.
Two Police stations were attacked in neighbouring Sokoto State on Monday during which lives were lost.
Bolanta, while addressing newsmen dispelled the rumours that bomb attacks had been carried out in some parts of Birnin Kebbi, and advised people to shun spreading of rumours.
“The decision to place Police formations on alert is the result of the bomb attacks on some Police stations in neighbouring Sokoto State.’’
Bolanta said that the command, in conjunction with other security agencies, would remain alert to ensure that crime level remained at the lowest level nationwide.
He called on members of the public to assist the command with relevant information on suspicious people and their activities, stressing that efforts would not be spared to protect lives and property.
Kogi
The newly appointed Commissioner for Education in Kogi, Mrs Grace Elebiyo, has promised to promote qualitative leadership in the ministry.
Elebiyo’s pledge is contained in a press statement issued on Tuesday in Lokoja by the Public Relation Officer of the ministry, Mrs Janet Ekundayo.
The statement said that Elebiyo promised to lead the ministry by example and would not tolerate laziness and lateness to work during her tenure as commissioner.
“I will not tolerate absenteeism, laziness and late coming; everybody must work,” the statement quotes the commissioners as saying when she addressed the workers on assumption of duty.
She commended Governor Idris Wada for having confidence in her ability to contribute her quota in such capacity, and She urged every member of staff of the ministry to work very hard in other not to betray the opportunity given to them.
Kwara
A father of three, Abdulrazaq Haruna, whose wife wants a divorce over his drinking habit, on Monday told an Ilorin Area Court that he was not a drunk.
Haruna admitted that he drank beer but pleaded with the court to persuade his wife, Rashidat Olayinka, to change her mind.
Olayinka, a resident of Adabata Area in Ilorin, had told the court that she wanted their union dissolved on the ground that her husband was a heavy drinker. She said Haruna was addicted to alcohol and never cared about the welfare of the children.
However, Haruna urged the court not to grant Olayinka’s prayer but to give him a second chance to make amends.
Lagos
The South-West Zonal Office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) received 1,611 young Nigerian returnees in Lagos between March 2011 and July 2012.
Zonal coordinator, Mr Iyiola Akande, said on Monday in Lagos that the returnees came in from Egypt, Tunisia and Libya.
Akande said that NEMA, within the period, received, fed and clothed the returnees, while also giving them financial support to enable them to re-join their family members in other parts of the country.
“Most of them came dejected, with children who had no food and clothes, but as soon as we received them, we always ensured that they were well fed and the children were given clothes.
“We have tried to make them to realise that it was needless leaving Nigeria and that there is a better Nigeria,’’ he said.
Nasarawa
A Mararaba Senior Magistrate Court in Nasarawa State on Monday sentenced a 35-year-old man, Michael Sunday, of Ado Karu in Nasarawa State, to six months in jail for insulting a police officer.
The convict was charged with using abusive word on police officer, who was performing his lawful duty. The convict pleaded guilty to the charge, and was sentenced by Chief Magistrate V. D. Ishaku to six months in jail for the offence. Ishaku, however, gave him an option of N1,000 fine.
The Police Prosecutor, Mr Jospeh Ahuwa, had told the court that on July 28, the Divisional Motor Traffic Officer ASP Musa Abubakar attached to ‘A’ Division Mararaba reported the case to the police.
Ahuwa said the officer was posted to control traffic along the high way popularly known as Mararaba Junction.
He further explains that the convict packed his Wagon Golf marked AR 881 LKJ, under the bridge obstructing the flow of other vehicles.
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.
-
News4 days agoAmend Constitution To Accommodate State Police, Tinubu Tells Senators
-
Politics4 days agoSenate Urges Tinubu To Sack CAC Boss
-
Business4 days ago
Crisis Response: EU-project Delivers New Vet. Clinic To Katsina Govt.
-
Business4 days ago
President Tinubu Approves Extension Ban On Raw Shea Nut Export
-
News4 days agoDisu Takes Over As New IGP …Declares Total War On Corruption, Impunity
-
Business4 days ago
Fidelity Bank To Empower Women With Sustainable Entrepreneurship Skills, HAP2.0
-
Business5 days ago
President Tinubu Extends Raw Shea Nuts Export Ban To 2027
-
Sports4 days ago
NDG: Rivers Coach Appeal To NDDC In Talent Discovery