Naija News Online (2025)

26/05/2025

Great Ife Alumni elects new Global Officers

The Great Ife Alumni Association ( Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife Alumni Association) has elected new set of Global Officers that will steer the ship of the association for another two years with Barrister Leye Bunmi Falode emerging as the Global President.

Falode, alongside other officers were elected during the 26th Biennial Convention of the Association held at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State.

The three-day convention brought together delegates from various branches across Nigeria and in the diaspora.

Other officers who were elected unopposed were Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Director of Media and Public Relations of Nigerians in Diaspora Commision (NIDCOM) as Global Publicity Secretary, Vice President, North, Mr. Alabi Adeyemi Joshua, Vice President South West, Dr Olumuyiwa Kayode Ojo and Vice President South South/South East, Dr Johnson Bankole Olumola.

Others were Vice President Africa, Chief Omole Joseph Adewale, Global General Secretary Mrs Christianah Busayo Omisakin, Global Social Welfare Secretary,Pharm. Femi Ogunmade, Global Treasurer, Mr. Fatai Moshood , Global Financial Secretary, Dr Collins Ailoje Igaga and Global Legal Adviser, Festus Madu Esq

Other elected officers were Global Deputy Legal, Awodeji Adeniyi Esq Olanrewaju, Global Editor In Chief, Dr Fatoke Babatunde Abiodun and Global first Assistant Secretary, Mrs Adetutu Febisola Victoria.

Others include Global Internal Auditor Mrs Bosede Oyesanmi, Second Assistant Secretary, Engr. Nureni Kayode Alaaya, Global Ex- Officio for South West, North and South East/South South, Dr Akinjogbin Israel, Esv. Jamiu Saibu and Mrs Okhirueh Abosede Onosen-Iguan respectively.

The new Global President, Leye Falode is a distinguished alumnus with an impressive academic background with all his degrees from Obafemi Awolowo University where he had Bachelor of Education (History), (1989), Master of Public Administration (MPA), LL.B, (2002)

He was called to the Nigerian Bar in year 2008, LL.M (2012) , and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Law. Falode has extensive experience in public service, law practice and in hospitality business. He served as Senior Special Assistant to former Osun State Governors and as a former Chairman, Osun State Rent Tribunal.

He is currently the Principal Partner, L.B. Falode & Co. (Law Firm) and the CEO, El Bee Grandeur Hotel and Lounge, Osogbo.

Before his election as Global President, Falode served in various capacities such as the Chairman, Great Ife Alumni Association, Osogbo Branch (2016-2020) Vice-President (South West), Great Ife Alumni Association, Chairman, Convention Organising Committee and Member, Alumni Centre Management Committee.

Credit: theshieldonlineng

26/05/2025

FIRS Fires Back at Wike’s FCTA Over Office Closure: “We’re Not Owing You”

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has strongly condemned the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) over the closure of one of its offices in Abuja, calling the action "malicious" and "unprofessional."

In a statement released via X (formerly Twitter), Arabirin Aderonke Atoyebi, Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media to the FIRS Executive Chairman, accused the FCTA, led by Minister Nyesom Wike, of targeting the agency unfairly.

"It's so unprofessional of the Wike-led FCTA to close our office, distracting staff going about their duties when we did nothing wrong," Atoyebi stated. "Especially in a crucial week like this when we are looking forward to signing the Tax Reform Bills. FCTA, you goofed big time, FIRS isn't owing you."

She further accused the FCTA of attempting to use the FIRS as a scapegoat. “If you are looking for a fall guy, please move further,” she added. “We shouldn’t be your scapegoat when you know well that the lies you spread in the media and your malicious/illegal action will hurt our operations.”

The FIRS maintains that it has no outstanding rent payments to the FCTA for the past 25 years and insists that its obligations have been settled up to 2023.

"We have the evidence," Atoyebi emphasized, pushing back against claims of indebtedness.

The incident comes at a critical moment for Nigeria’s tax system, with major reform legislation expected to be finalized soon. The FIRS fears that such disruptions could undermine public confidence and delay implementation of key fiscal policies.

Analysts warn that escalating tensions between federal agencies could impact service delivery and create institutional instability.

22/05/2025

NAHCON Successfully Airlifts Over 79.1% of Nigerian Pilgrims for 2025 Hajj

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has successful airlifted 32,549 pilgrims, representing 79.1% of the total intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj exercise. This development was achieved through 79 flights operated since the commencement of the airlift operations on May 9th, 2025.

Many states have concluded their airlift operations including Adamawa and Plateau, those with one flights only to complete their operations today include Bauchi and Gombe States, with 30 pilgrims each left to be airlifted. Jigawa State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are also expected to complete their pilgrim airlift today. Kwara State, with 137 pilgrims remaining, will conclude by joining a Kano Max Air flight this afternoon.

Meanwhile, Benue pilgrims will join intending pilgrims from the South-South section to undertake a combined and only flight from the region on May 23rd, marking the last phase of the airlift for the area.

Importantly, no flight cancellations have been recorded since the airlift began. However, deliberate minor delays were arranged to allow for the proper clean-up and decongestion of hotels in Madinah especially with the surge in arrivals. Such cleanup procedures are standard operational routines following vacation of rooms during the Hajj season. This goes unnoticed during initial airlift periods but cause misinterpretations at peak periods when a higher number of pilgrims are on the ground, requiring immediate turnover.

NAHCON thanks the Nigerian intending pilgrims and entire communities for their goodwill, patience and prayers, and reaffirm the Commission’s resolve to ensure a smooth Hajj for every pilgrim

Fatima Sanda Usara
Assistant Director, Information and Publication For Chairman
NAHCON

22/05/2025

2025 budget: Wike to complete 14 ongoing road projects in FCT

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has earmarked part of the N1.78 trillion proposed 2025 FCT statutory budget for the completion of 14 ongoing roads projects across the territory.

Wike disclosed this in Abuja on Wednesday, when he appeared before the Senate and House of Representative Committees on FCT, to defend the 2025 FCT proposed budget.

He explained that out of the N1.78 trillion, N1.28 trillion was earmarked for capital projects, representing 72.3 per cent, while N494.1 billion was set aside as recurrent expenditure, representing 27.7 per cent.

He explained that road projects, sited both in the city centre and satellite towns would be handled by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and the Satellite Towns Development Department (STDD).

The minister explained a total of N801.5 billion was allocated to the FCDA while N137 billion was allocated to the STDD for ex*****on of capital projects.

He identified some of the projects as the completion of roads B6 and B12 and full scope development of Arterial Road N20 from Northern Parkway to Outer Northern Expressway (ONEX).

Also pencilled for competition is the provision of engineering infrastructure to Guzape Districts, provision of engineering infrastructure to Wuye District and provision of engineering infrastructure to Maitama II District.

“Others are the extension of Inner Southern Expressway (ISEX) from Southern Parkway (S8/S9) to Ring Road II, and full scope development of FCT Highway 105 (Kuje Road) from Airport Expressway to Outer Southern Expressway OSEX with Spur at Kyami District.

“Also for completion are the construction of Northern Parkway from Ring Road II to Ring Road III (6.2Km), full scope development of Arterial Road N20 from Arterial Road N5, and Rehabilitation of Old Keffi Road.

“The full scope development of Arterial Road N1 from Wuye District to Ring Road II, and the provision of access road to Bus Terminals in FCT would also be completed.

“Other ongoing road projects include the dualisation and upgrading of Ushafa War College/Army Check Point Road and other Ancillary Roads, and construction of Pai to Gomani Road in Kwali Area Council and dualization of Kuje to Gwagwalada Road,” he said.

The minister explained that the 14 ongoing projects would be sped up and completed before the end of 2025 fiscal year.

According to him the expansion and rehabilitation of the roads would eventually reduce the travel time and traffic gridlock on roads within and outside the capital city.

Lere Olayinka
Senior Special Assistant
Public Communications and Social Media
May 22, 2025

22/05/2025

Those waiting for Wike's political downfall will wait forever - Aide

Former governor of Ebonyi State, Dr. Sam Egwu, has been told that people like him, who are expecting the political downfall of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, will wait forever.

The Minister's Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, who responded to Egwu's comment that "Wike was living on borrowed time as his influence will soon burn out," said "unlike Egwu who is more like a spoon-fed politician, Wike's political progress has been owing to personal hardwork, dedication, commitment and most importantly, grace of God."

He described Dr Egwu's comment as one laced with the highest dose of envy and bad belle, saying "someone who mismanaged his political life will always live with the mindset that others will mismanage theirs too."

Olayinka who reiterated Wike's position on the threat by a faction of the South East leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), added that it was illogical for people who could not deliver anything substantial in terms of votes to the PDP in the 2023 elections to be threatening to withdraw their support for the party.

He said; "the PDP constitution is clear as to who is the National Secretary of the party. His name is Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and anyone saying or doing anything contrary is only interested in the collapse of the party.

"Therefore, it is funny that Dr Sam Egwu, a former Commissioner, two term governor, former minister and Senator that could not deliver anything to the PDP in the 2023 elections is among those threatening the party to either engage in illegalities by appointing someone else to fill a non-vacant position or lose their support."

On Dr Egwu's challenge to Wike to make it possible for the suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, to return to office, Olayinka said; "This type of statement, coming from a former federal lawmaker is to say the least, preposterous. Or how can a former Senator be engaged in such beer parlor talks suggesting that the FCT Minister now exercises the powers of the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the National Assembly?

"However, such comment has further exposed Dr Egwu's mindset as someone living in total regret over the political progress of Wike. But can we stop him from regretting? No, we can't."

Lere Olayinka
Senior Special Assistant
Public Communications and Social Media
May 21, 2025

20/05/2025

Tinubu's 2nd Year Anniversary: Wike Fixes 19 Days For Projects Commissioning

As part of activities marking the second year anniversary of the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) under the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has earmarked 19 days for projects commissioning.

This was part of the decisions taken today, at the 14th Executive Committee meeting of the FCTA, which was chaired by the Minister.

According to a statement by the Minister's Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, "the commissioning of projects will commence on June 10, 2025 and will go on for 19 days."

Some of the projects scheduled for commissioning are; the newly renovated Abuja International Conference Centre, Bus Terminals in Kugbo and Mabushi as well as Apo - Wassa road.

Others are N16 interchange and roads to connect Maitama through Katampe to Jahi, Inner Nothern Expressway from Ring Road 3 (Idu to Kubwa Road), CN8 from N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) to Court of Appeal, N20 Flyover Onnex Kubwa Road and Life Junction to Ring Road III.

Also to be commissioned are Kabulsa-Takushara Access Road, Kabusa-Ketti Access Road, access road in Giri District,15km Road from A2 Junction Abuja-Lokoja Road to Pai in Kwali Area Council, as well as the Ushafa, War College, and Army Checkpoint roads in Bwari Area Council.

Also, the FCT Executive Committee has approved the award of contract for the upgrade of streetlights on Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway (Ring Road I).

Mr Richard Dauda, Acting Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), said that the project was among the seven approved memos submitted by the FCDA for consideration.

He explained that the project involves the upgrade of the obsolete streetlights on the Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway, a 14-kilometer 10-lane expressway from Maitama to Gudu.

“If you pass there in the night, you will realise that most parts of the road are in darkness. Because the streetlights have been there for close to 15 years now.

“The project was completed between 2005 and 2006, and the lights have become obsolete and no longer bright enough to lighten the road,” he said.

He said that the upgrade became necessary following available new technology in street lightning.

He added that a hybrid street lighting system would be deployed to brighten the road and make it more secure and more motorable in the night.

Lere Olayinka
Senior Special Assistant
Public Communications and Social Media
May 20, 2025

20/05/2025

Capital City University, Kano secures full NUC accreditation for seven programmes

The management of Capital City University, Kano (CCUK) is delighted to announce that the National Universities Commission (NUC), following its October/November 2024 accreditation exercise, has granted full accreditation to seven of the university’s academic programmes while one programme received interim accreditation.

This significant achievement reflects the University’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, robust infrastructure, and a clear institutional vision.

The official confirmation is contained in letter NUC/ES/412/VOL.14/387, dated April 30, 2025, and signed by Engr. Abraham Chundusu, Acting Director of Accreditation, on behalf of the Executive Secretary, Professor Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu.

The following programmes received full accreditation:

Computer Science
Cyber Security
Software Engineering
Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm D)
Biotechnology
Forensic Science
Digital Entrepreneurship
Mathematics received interim accreditation.

This milestone not only validates the academic quality of these programmes but also highlights the dedication and hard work of the university’s faculty, staff, and students. It reinforces Capital City University’s emerging reputation as a hub for innovation and forward-looking education.

The Governing Council has reaffirmed its commitment to building on this success by enhancing academic standards across all faculties. In alignment with this goal, the Council has approved the development of frameworks to introduce postgraduate programmes in the newly accredited disciplines.

The Council emphasized that postgraduate education is central to the university’s long-term vision of becoming a centre of excellence in research, innovation, and advanced scholarship.

Reacting to the development, the Vice Chancellor (CCUK) Professor Yusuf Bala Daraja, expressed deep appreciation for the commitment and hard work of all staff and students.

“This is a proud moment for our university. The Governing Council, Management, staff, and students received the news with great joy and fulfilment. I particularly salute the dedication, resilience, and collective effort of our academic and non-academic staff, as well as our students, whose contributions were central to this success. These accredited programmes are skills-driven, and this recognition by the NUC affirms our commitment to delivering quality, relevant education.”

The accreditation success, along with the university’s strategic expansion plans, marks a new and promising chapter in its journey. As Capital City University, Kano, strengthens its focus on excellence, innovation, and global competitiveness, it calls on all stakeholders to continue supporting this positive trajectory.

Hajiya Rakiya Bello Dandago
Registrar
May 16, 2025.

15/05/2025

2025 UTME: PROF OLOYEDE DEMONSTRATED LEADERSHIP AND RESPONSIBILITY- UNILORIN ALUMNI

Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, JAMB Registrar has demonstrated leadership and responsibility by admitting the errors made by others. This is a commendable feat needed in public service.

Prof. Oloyede mobilised the right resources to identify the causes of the glitches in the JAMB system. His actions have shown honesty and integrity and have affirmed Oloyede as a man of honour.

The glitches could have been swept under the carpet, but Prof. Oloyede took the part of honour by accepting responsibility. Oloyede's style of leadership is needed for growth and national development.

We strongly suggest identifying and sanctioning those Service Providers responsible for this reputational challenge for JAMB.

E-SIGNED.
Prof. AbdulRasak Kilani,
National President,
UNILORIN ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

14/04/2025

NIGERIA IS INVESTOR-FRIENDLY, NIDCOM ASSURES DIASPORANS

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has assured Nigerians living abroad that the country is blessed with an investor-friendly environment, and urged them to continue to invest in the country.

She gave the reassurance in a statement while reacting to the protest and petition of a group called " The Foreign Investors Network (FIN) by its President Ifeoma Nkengwu, as well as its Country Representative Rev. Emmanuel Olorunmagba, who both claimed that the environment in Nigeria was not enabling enough for intending investors,citing the issue of Winhomes Global Services Limited who claimed to have invested over $250 million in real estate in Okun Ajah, Lagos and had it demolished by the Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi.

Reacting to the petition, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa said "We acknowledge their reach out to NIDCOM, months after the whole issue had become a sensational media affair. We had begun an investigation into the matter and had some officials visit the site.
However, unfortunately we discovered that the matter is currently in court and we can only wait for the court ruling"

"Nigeria remains open to investors and we commend our brothers and sisters in the diaspora who have been investing in Nigeria particularly in the areas of health, ICT, Agriculture, Real Estate, Education etc", she added.

The NIDCOM boss stressed that Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS) remains a veritable channel for diasporas wishing to invest and Federal Ministry of Industries and Trade and Investment will soon announce some initiatives in partnership with the Commission. She also assured them that as their embassy in Nigeria , they should always contact NiDCOM to assist in areas they may wish to navigate and clarify.

Dabiri-Erewa commended Nigerians living abroad for improved remittances and investments recorded under the. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, She said policies and Programmes that will continue to encourage them will be sustained as they remain a cornerstone of Nigerias economy and cannot be ignored.

E-signed.
Abdur-Rahman Balogun
Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit NiDCOM, Abuja

25/02/2025

FG demands full investigation into death of Nigerian footballer in Uganda

Disturbed by the reported death of a Nigerian footballer in Uganda, Abubakar Lawal, under highly unclear circumstances, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) said the Acting Nigerian high Commissioner in Uganda , Ambassador Shama Shanga has demanded full autopsy and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate incident.

In a statement, Dabiri-Erewa stated that "This is pathetic and appears suspicious. We demand a thorough investigation. No cover up at all . This is so sad!

"The Nigerian government will ensure and demand a thorough and transparent investigation. May his soul Rest in Peace and God give the family the fortitude to bear this loss.", she said.

Already, the "Kajjansi Police Division say they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Nigerian national Abubakar Lawal, a professional footballer at Vipers Sports Club, who was claimed to have fallen from the third floor of Voicemall Shopping Arcade on the morning of February 24, 2025.

Preliminary reports indicate that Lawal arrived at the shopping mall in his vehicle, registration number UBQ 695G, to meet his friend, Omary Naima, a Tanzanian national residing in room 416 since February 20, 2025.

According to Naima, she left Lawal , who is also a final year student at Cavendish University,in the room preparing tea and proceeded to a game center within the mall. Shortly after, at approximately 8:00 am, Lawal reportedly fell from the balcony.

He was rushed to Entebbe Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Items belonging to the deceased, including two smartphones, a pair of open shoes, headsets, a training kit, and chargers, were recovered from his black backpack.

As part of the ongoing investigation, authorities are retrieving CCTV footage and conducting thorough interrogations to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.

E-signed.
Abdur-Rahman Balogun
Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit NiDCOM,
Abuja.

27/01/2025

BREAKING

2025 AFCON DRAW

Group A - Morocco, Mali, Zambia, Comoros

Group B - Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe

Group C - Nigeria, Tunisia, Uganda, Tanzania

Group D - Senegal, DR Congo, Benin, Botswana

Group E - Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Sudan

Group F - Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Gabon, Mozbique

21/01/2025

See Lagos as your home ,Sanwo-Olu assures African Ancestry delegates visiting Nigeria

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has encouraged the Historic African Diaspora tracing their roots to Nigeria to see Lagos as their home.

The governor gave this cheering news in Lagos while receiving the 14- Member African Ancestry delegation in Lagos, saying the group is vital in fostering a deeper understanding of the common shared heritage.

The Governor commended Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) who led the delegation on the courtesy visit ,for her enormous contributions to Diaspora engagement.

Sanwo-Olu also commended Dr. Gina Paige, the leader of African Ancestry Delegation for her pioneering efforts in connecting people of African descent with their roots, through DNA testing.

" I must say here that our rich and diverse history is crucial to our identity as Nigerians and Africans" he said.

The Governor used the opportunity to also discuss potential initiatives and vision for Lagos as a hub for cultural exchange and a beacon for the African diaspora.

Earlier, Hon Abike Dabiri Erewa welcomed all delegates and congratulated the Governor for his tremendous work in making Lagos attractive to all, noting the enormous success of Detty December.

She commended Governor Sanwoolu for his approval to build the permanent Door of Return in Badagry, describing it as a project that will further positively transform tourism in the state.

Dabiri-Erewa also encouraged the delegation to tour other parts of the country and see the potential and rich cultural heritage in Nigeria.

The leader of the delegation, Mrs Gina Paige, accompanied by 14 delegates, appealed to the Nigerian Government to consider giving those whose DNA has been traced to Nigeria their Nigerian passports and citizenship.

She also made known her desire to live and settle in Nigeria and also wish to bring many more Diaspora back home In her words” We are victims of identity theft “ .

Paige noted that despite the bad image and propaganda towards Nigeria, it has never discouraged them from coming back home.

Gina Paige is a co- founder African Ancestry who 22 years ago began encouraging the Historic African Diaspora to trace their roots through DNA.

The 14-Member delegation consisted of descendants who have traced their roots to various tribes in Nigeria.

E-SIGNED.
Abdur-Rahman Balogun
Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, NIDCOM.

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