The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr as a turning point for national unity and renewal, urging citizens to rise above divisions amid prevailing economic and security challenges.
In a statement issued on March 20, 2026, and signed by its President, Daniel Okoh, the association congratulated Muslim faithful across the country on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.
CAN described Eid-el-Fitr as a significant period that symbolizes not only the end of fasting, but also the strengthening of faith, family bonds and hope for a better society.
“At a time like this, our nation needs unity more than ever. From insecurity to economic hardship, the challenges before us are real, but so too is our shared strength,” the statement read.
The Christian body stressed that Nigeria’s progress depends on collective resolve, urging citizens to embrace unity beyond religious and ethnic differences in pursuit of a common national goal.
Highlighting the values of Ramadan, CAN noted that the spirit of kindness, sacrifice and compassion should guide Nigerians toward building a more inclusive and peaceful society.
“It calls us to reject division, choose dialogue over distrust, and act in ways that heal rather than harm,” the association stated.
CAN also joined Muslims in prayers for Nigeria, seeking lasting peace, improved security, economic recovery and leadership driven by wisdom and compassion.
The association urged that the virtues cultivated during Ramadan particularly care for the poor and protection of the vulnerable should be sustained beyond the festive season.
“Let this Eid be more than a celebration; let it be a reset for our national conscience,” the statement added.
CAN concluded by wishing Muslims a joyful Eid-el-Fitr celebration, praying for peace, good health and unity across the country.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised fresh concern over the deadly impact of tuberculosis (TB) in Africa, revealing that the disease claims a life every 83 seconds across the region.
In a message to mark World Tuberculosis Day 2026, WHO Regional Director for Africa, Mohamed Janabi, disclosed that TB killed 378,000 people in 2024 and infected 2.7 million others, representing about a quarter of the global burden.
Despite the alarming figures, the global health body expressed optimism that TB can be eliminated as a public health threat, stressing that progress recorded in recent years provides a strong foundation for intensified action.
The 2026 theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Led by Countries, Powered by Communities,” highlights the need for stronger national leadership, sustained investment and active community involvement in tackling the disease.
According to WHO, Africa has made notable gains, with TB-related deaths declining by 46 per cent and incidence dropping by 28 per cent between 2015 and 2024.
Several countries, including South Africa, Mozambique, Tanzania, Togo and Zambia, have met key global targets in reducing TB cases and deaths, demonstrating that progress is achievable with the right interventions.
Advancements in diagnosis and treatment are also improving outcomes. Rapid diagnostic tools are being scaled up, while shorter, all-oral treatment regimens—particularly for drug-resistant TB—are boosting recovery rates. The BPaLM regimen, now widely used in Africa, has recorded success rates of over 85 per cent.
However, WHO warned that significant challenges remain. An estimated 600,000 people with TB in Africa are either undiagnosed or untreated each year, while access to modern diagnostic tools remains limited, with just over half of patients benefiting from WHO-recommended testing.
The burden of drug-resistant TB is also rising, with about 62,000 people developing rifampicin-resistant TB annually in the region.
Beyond the health impact, the economic toll is severe, as nearly 70 per cent of affected households face catastrophic treatment costs—the highest rate globally.
Funding gaps continue to threaten progress. WHO estimates that Africa requires about $4.5 billion annually for an effective TB response but currently faces a shortfall of $3.6 billion.
The organisation stressed that meeting global targets set at the 2023 United Nations High-Level Meeting on TB will depend on stronger political commitment, increased domestic funding and more integrated health systems.
WHO also underscored the vital role of communities, noting that health workers, civil society groups and TB survivors are key to identifying cases, supporting treatment, reducing stigma and ensuring accountability.
Reaffirming its commitment, WHO pledged continued support to African countries through technical assistance, improved diagnostics and stronger health systems.
Janabi called on governments, donors and communities to step up efforts, close funding gaps and accelerate implementation of national TB programmes.
“Ending TB is within our reach,” he said, adding that with sustained leadership and collective action, Africa can overcome the disease.
He concluded on a hopeful note: “Yes, we can end TB.”
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Batt. Nyesom Wike, has called on residents of the Federal Capital Territory to embrace unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence as Muslims celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, while urging restraint ahead of political activities leading to the 2027 general elections.
In his 2026 Eid-el-Fitr message, Wike congratulated Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast, describing the period as one of deep spiritual renewal, sacrifice and reflection.
He urged residents to sustain the values of compassion, forgiveness and generosity imbibed during the holy month, stressing that such virtues are critical to fostering peace and stability in the nation.
“The season offers a unique opportunity for collective prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity and progress,” the minister said, calling on citizens to remain committed to national development.
Wike commended the spirit of harmony displayed across Abuja during Ramadan, noting that acts of kindness and support extended across religious and social lines have continued to reinforce the FCT’s reputation as a centre of unity.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, the minister assured residents that the FCT Administration would provide a conducive environment for peaceful and orderly political activities.
He, however, cautioned political actors and supporters to avoid violence, irrespective of party, ethnic or religious affiliations.
“We must ensure that our political engagements remain peaceful. No ambition is worth the loss of lives or breakdown of law and order,” he warned.
Wike also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said has contributed to improved security and socio-economic development in the FCT.
Reassuring residents of their safety during the festivities, the minister disclosed that security agencies have been placed on high alert to ensure a hitch-free celebration.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, as well as transforming Abuja into a modern, world-class capital city.
Wike prayed for the acceptance of the fast, prayers and good deeds of the Muslim faithful, wishing all residents a peaceful and joyous Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
A political activist and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has condemned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing state visit to the United Kingdom, describing it as “insensitive” and “an embarrassment” in the wake of deadly attacks in Maiduguri.
In a strongly worded statement issued Thursday in Abuja, Frank faulted the timing of the trip, noting that it came barely 24 hours after reported killings, a development he said showed a lack of empathy for grieving Nigerians.
“I wonder how the President could travel barely 24 hours after people were killed. At a time the world is expressing concern, government officials are engaged in ceremonial activities abroad,” he said.
Frank argued that the visit has brought “huge embarrassment” to Nigeria, stressing that many citizens are still mourning victims of violence while the nation’s leadership is away.
He further accused the President of failing to prioritise the safety and welfare of Nigerians, particularly those affected by insecurity in the North.
The activist also criticised the United Kingdom for hosting the visit, alleging that the British government demonstrated insensitivity to Nigeria’s situation by proceeding with the engagement.
According to him, the reported issuance of hundreds of visas to members of the Nigerian delegation reflects disregard for the country’s current challenges.
Frank expressed disappointment that Charles III had not publicly raised concerns about insecurity and governance issues in Nigeria during the visit.
He warned that such high-profile international engagements risk being interpreted as endorsement of the current administration despite ongoing security concerns.
The activist also faulted the composition of the delegation, particularly the presence of top security officials, describing their absence from the country at a critical time as unacceptable.
“It is wrong for key security officials to be out of the country while citizens are being killed,” he said.
Frank urged Nigerians to remain vigilant ahead of the 2027 general elections, calling for credible polls and accountability in governance.
He also questioned what he described as the silence of the international community over Nigeria’s security situation, warning that history would judge all parties involved.
The presidency and relevant authorities are yet to officially respond to the criticisms as of the time of filing this report.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over N3.9 billion in recovered funds to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, describing the sum as proceeds of fraudulent activities traced to some officials of the national oil company.
The handover, which took place on Thursday at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, saw the Commission’s Secretary, Mohammed Hammajoda, present the recovered funds on behalf of the Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede.
Hammajoda disclosed that the recovery followed painstaking investigations by the anti-graft agency, which uncovered financial misconduct linked to certain actors within the NNPCL.
He reaffirmed the Commission’s resolve to tackle corruption and safeguard public resources, stressing that the EFCC remains committed to its mandate despite the risks involved.
“On behalf of the Executive Chairman, we will continue to put ourselves on the line to serve over 220 million Nigerians. Some of our colleagues have paid the price, and others will still do so as we carry out our duties with courage and integrity,” he said.
Receiving the funds on behalf of the oil company, Executive Vice President, Downstream, Mumuni Dagazau, commended the EFCC for the recovery, describing it as a clear demonstration of effective institutional collaboration.
Dagazau noted that while the NNPCL has faced operational challenges over the years, it remains committed to strengthening transparency and accountability within its system.
He expressed optimism for sustained partnership with the EFCC, adding that the recovery underscores the company’s determination to ensure prudent management of public funds.
The development is seen as part of ongoing efforts by anti-corruption agencies to clean up Nigeria’s oil sector and restore public confidence in key national institutions.
Global oil markets surged in a strong rally, with Brent crude climbing sharply by 8.47 per cent to $116.48 per barrel, reinforcing bullish momentum across the energy sector and raising fresh hopes for oil-dependent economies like Nigeria.
Data from Oilprice.com shows the international benchmark gained $9.10 in a single trading session—one of the most significant daily increases recorded among major crude grades in recent times.
The sharp rise in Brent, which serves as the primary pricing benchmark for Nigeria’s crude exports, signals tightening global supply and renewed investor confidence in the oil market.
Other crude benchmarks also posted gains. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) rose by 1.46 per cent to $97.73 per barrel, while Murban crude recorded an even stronger jump of 9.48 per cent to settle at $127.84 per barrel. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries basket price also climbed by 3.01 per cent to $132.87 per barrel, underscoring a broader upward trend in global oil prices.
Analysts say Brent’s surge above the $116 mark is particularly significant for Nigeria, as it directly impacts export earnings, foreign exchange inflows and government revenue projections.
At current levels, the rally offers a potential fiscal boost, especially as the country grapples with revenue constraints and foreign exchange pressures.
The bullish sentiment extended beyond crude oil, with natural gas prices rising by 4.86 per cent, gasoline up by 4.62 per cent, and heating oil gaining 7.25 per cent—an indication of sustained global demand for energy products.
Market watchers attribute the surge to a combination of supply disruptions, geopolitical uncertainties and limited spare production capacity among major oil producers, factors that continue to support elevated prices.
For Nigeria, the development presents a double-edged sword. While higher crude prices could strengthen government revenues and support budget implementation, experts warn that it may also trigger higher domestic fuel costs and inflationary pressures if not carefully managed.
With Brent maintaining its upward trajectory, attention is now focused on global supply dynamics and policy signals from OPEC, which will play a crucial role in determining whether the rally can be sustained in the weeks ahead.
A brewing tax showdown between private school owners and authorities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) took a dramatic turn on Wednesday as a Magistrates’ Court in Wuse Zone 2 stepped in, urging all sides to embrace dialogue.
The court adjourned the high-stakes case to April 16, 2026, after the National Association of Private School Owners (NAPS) dragged the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) to court over what they describe as crushing multiple taxation.
In a no-nonsense stance, the court warned parties to tread carefully and explore peaceful resolution instead of dragging the matter into a prolonged legal battle.
But behind the calm courtroom proceedings lies growing anger among school owners, who say they are being “taxed from all directions.”
Speaking after the session, counsel to NAPS, Alexander N. Ogbo, said schools are now trapped in a web of overlapping demands from different authorities.
“This is becoming a serious problem. Schools are receiving the same demands from AMAC, other area councils and even departments of the FCTA,” he said.
He did not hold back in describing the situation: “When two elephants fight, the grass suffers and in this case, the schools are the grass.”
According to him, what should have been a straightforward policy handled by area councils has snowballed into a full-blown institutional clash, with multiple agencies laying claim to the same regulatory space.
The result, he said, is confusion, disruption of academic activities, and growing financial pressure on school operators.
“Schools are not running away from regulation, but there must be clarity. Right now, they don’t even know who to obey AMAC or the FCTA Health Department,” Ogbo added.
He called for urgent harmonisation of roles to end what many now see as a “tax crisis” in the education sector.
Also speaking, NAPS President, Rukayat Agboola, insisted that private schools are not against oversight but want a single, clear line of authority preferably through the Education Secretariat.
“We cannot continue like this. There must be one channel to avoid confusion and duplication,” she said.
Some aggrieved school owners raised the alarm over what they described as excessive levies, including a controversial charge reportedly pegged at five per cent of tuition fees per term.
They warned that such policies could cripple schools or force them to pass the burden onto parents.
“These schools are partners in development, not revenue targets,” one of them fumed.
Despite the tension, NAPS signaled readiness for settlement, saying dialogue remains the best way forward if authorities are willing to come to the table.
For now, all eyes are on April 16, as the courtroom battle and the fight against multiple taxation continues.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has assured residents of Abuja that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to improving their standard of living through the completion of ongoing road projects, particularly in satellite communities.
Wike gave the assurance on Wednesday while addressing residents of villages along the Bwari–Kubwa road corridor, who turned out in large numbers to welcome him during an inspection of the project.
He said the Tinubu administration’s priority remains the welfare and happiness of Nigerians, noting that the ongoing infrastructure drive is aimed at transforming lives and boosting economic activities across the Federal Capital Territory.
“The President’s main interest is for the people to be happy. That is why these projects are being executed to ensure better living conditions,” Wike said.
The minister urged residents to continue supporting the administration and to keep the President in their prayers, stressing that sustained backing from citizens is crucial to achieving meaningful development.
He expressed confidence that the completion of key road networks linking satellite towns to the city centre would ease movement, reduce travel time and open up more communities for growth.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will continue to improve the living conditions of Abuja residents, particularly through massive infrastructure development in satellite towns, while urging citizens to support and pray for the President.
Wike gave the assurance on Wednesday while addressing residents of communities along the Bwari–Kubwa road corridor, who trooped out to him during an inspection of ongoing projects.
According to the Minister, the Tinubu administration remains committed to completing critical road projects and expanding development beyond the city centre to underserved communities.
“The President’s main interest is for the people to be happy. That is why these projects are ongoing, to ensure better living conditions for residents,” Wike said, as he called on the people to continue praying for and supporting the administration.
He expressed confidence that the scale of development across the Federal Capital Territory has significantly strengthened public support for the President, declaring that it would be difficult for any opposition party to defeat Tinubu in the FCT in the 2027 elections.
“It is very difficult for anybody to win an election in the FCT against Mr. President because of what people are seeing on the ground. For many, it is surprising what they have witnessed in their lifetime,” he stated.
Speaking further with journalists after inspecting projects across Karu, Apo–Karshi and the Bwari–Kubwa axis, Wike attributed the growing support for the administration to its deliberate policy of taking development to satellite towns and rural communities.
“We were told there was over-concentration of development in the city. We have changed that narrative. These communities are part of Abuja, and their lives must also improve,” he said.
The Minister noted that several of the road projects inspected span over 30 kilometres, adding that many of the benefiting communities are experiencing such infrastructure for the first time.
“When you visit these areas, you can see the joy of the people. This kind of development has never happened there before. It will boost economic activities and transform their lives,” he added.
Wike explained that the ongoing road constructions would significantly reduce travel time and ease movement between satellite towns and the city centre.
“Today, people can live in places like Kuje and get to the city within 25 minutes. That is the kind of impact we are delivering,” he said.
He further disclosed that some of the projects would be ready for commissioning as part of activities marking the President’s upcoming anniversary in office.
On concerns over the activities of real estate developers, the Minister ruled out the creation of new regulatory agencies, warning against unnecessary bureaucracy.
“Nigeria already has too many agencies. Creating more will not solve the problem,” he said.
He maintained that existing structures within the FCTA, particularly the Development Control Department, are adequately empowered to regulate physical development and enforce compliance with the Abuja Master Plan.
Wike assured residents that the administration would not tolerate exploitation by developers and would act decisively on complaints, including ensuring justice and possible refunds where necessary.
“If there are complaints, we will address them and ensure that the right thing is done,” he said.
The Minister also called for unity and collective responsibility, stressing that national development requires the support and cooperation of all citizens.
“This is a time for everyone to work together and support the government. Our focus is to improve Nigeria, especially in security and infrastructure,” he added.
He expressed optimism that ongoing interventions would continue to drive economic growth and improve the overall standard of living in the FCT, while wishing residents a peaceful Ramadan season.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Nyesom Wike, has assured the diplomatic community that Abuja will remain secure and investment-friendly, as the Federal Government steps up efforts to transform the capital into a world-class city.
Wike gave the assurance on Wednesday at the European Union Complex, Abuja, during the Saint Patrick’s Day reception and official opening of the Embassy of Ireland, declaring that security and infrastructure development remain top priorities of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“We owe you a duty to create the right environment. We will continue to provide an enabling atmosphere for you to carry out your duties, especially in terms of security,” Wike said.
In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the minister noted that Abuja has witnessed noticeable improvements in security and infrastructure, assuring that the gains will be sustained.
“We want Abuja to look like other capital cities in the world, and we will keep improving every day,” he added.
Wike also pledged stronger collaboration with foreign missions, saying the FCT Administration is open to partnerships that will deepen bilateral relations and support Nigeria’s development drive.
The high-profile event attracted Ireland’s Minister of Public Expenditure and Infrastructure, Jack Chambers, Irish Ambassador to Nigeria, Peter Ryan, and other members of the diplomatic corps.
Congratulating Ireland on its national day and the opening of its new embassy, Wike—who described himself as “landlord” of Abuja—hailed the development as a boost to Nigeria-Ireland relations.
“I am here as your landlord to congratulate you on Saint Patrick’s Day and the commissioning of this beautiful edifice,” he said, while hinting at a possible visit to Ireland.
On land matters, the minister warned embassies against leaving allocated plots undeveloped, stressing that such lands could be taken over by land grabbers.
Recalling a recent incident of encroachment, Wike vowed that the administration would not hesitate to enforce the law.
“The law must take its course. We have asked embassies to reclaim their lands and develop them. We will continue to do what is right,” he stated.
He reaffirmed the FCTA’s commitment to protecting diplomatic interests while keeping Abuja safe, orderly and attractive for international partners.
