Renowned sustainability advocate, Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, has been awarded the “Peace and Development in Mining Host Communities” Award by the Northern Youth Peace Ambassadors (NYPA).
The award recognizes her tireless efforts in creating sustainable solutions and empowering mining host communities across Africa, placing her among a distinguished group of honorees, including Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General C.G. Musa, and other notable leaders.
Dr. Asokoro-Ogaji, Group Managing Director of Richflood Group, has led transformative projects that improve the livelihoods of mining communities while ensuring environmental sustainability.
With support from global development banks like the African Development Bank (AfDB) and International Finance Corporation (IFC), her initiatives have shaped over 350 investment projects in mining, agriculture, power, and manufacturing.
Her leadership of Women in Mining Africa (WiM-Africa) has also championed gender equality and better mining practices, including programs like “Voices of Children from the Pits”, which remove children from hazardous mines.
“This award is a testament to our collective commitment to empowering mining host communities across Africa,” Dr. Asokoro-Ogaji said.
As she continues her mission through WiM-Africa, the organization remains a beacon for responsible mining and inclusive leadership, advocating for sustainable development one mining community at a time.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari has disclosed that he now relies on rental income from one of his two properties in Kaduna State for his daily sustenance. This revelation was made during an All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus meeting held on January 25 at the Presidential Banquet Hall in Katsina State’s Government House.
Speaking in Hausa, Buhari detailed his financial situation, explaining that he owns three houses: one in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, and two in Kaduna State. He highlighted that one of the Kaduna properties has been rented out, providing him with the income necessary to meet his living expenses.
Buhari’s statement underscores the need for transparency in governance and has sparked discussions on the financial management of public officeholders after leaving power.
Nigeria remains one of the countries detecting over 1,000 new leprosy cases annually, according to recent data presented by the Focal Person, National Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme, Munirah Abdulahi.
She made this known during her presentation at a townhall meeting to commemorate 2025 World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTFS) Day on Monday in Abuja.
Statistics spanning 2011 to 2023 indicate fluctuating trends, with a noticeable decline in cases but persistent detections.
The data reveals that in 2011, Nigeria recorded 3,623 new cases of leprosy, which peaked in 2012 at 3,805 cases. Since then, there has been a gradual reduction, dropping to 1,541 cases in 2020. However, the figures show a slight resurgence, with 2,425 new cases detected in 2023.
The chart highlights the challenges in achieving complete eradication, despite global and national efforts to combat the disease. Experts warn that leprosy remains a public health concern, particularly in underserved communities where awareness, access to healthcare, and early detection remain limited.
As part of efforts to address the issue, health authorities continue to advocate for sustained funding, community outreach, and integration of leprosy control measures into primary healthcare systems.
The report serves as a call to action for stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and intensify interventions to prevent new infections and support affected individuals.
Speaking on some of the challenges facing the fight against leprosy and Buruli ulcer in Nigeria, Abdulahi hinted that persistent stock-outs of Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT) drugs, which are essential for treating leprosy. The non-supply and frequent shortages discourage field officers and adversely impact program performance, further complicating disease control efforts.
She also expressed waning interest in leprosy and Buruli ulcer interventions due to operational and funding challenges. The lack of motivation among field workers raises concerns about the sustainability of ongoing campaigns.
Additionally, the absence of a dedicated WHO National Program Officer (NPO) for NTDs, including leprosy and Buruli ulcer, has complicated program coordination. Experts believe that appointing a dedicated officer could significantly enhance strategic planning and execution.
A critical impediment to progress remains inadequate funding. Limited budget allocation for leprosy and Buruli ulcer activities continues to hinder efforts, leaving affected communities without essential support.
Abdulahi hinted that , the challenges call for urgent attention from stakeholders to ensure sustained progress in the fight against leprosy and other NTDs. Enhanced funding, supply chain management, and improved program coordination are necessary to overcome these hurdles and bring much-needed relief to affected individuals.
Abdulahi while speaking on the way forward notes that, the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme has unveiled a comprehensive roadmap to tackle leprosy and Buruli ulcer in Nigeria. The strategy, presented during a recent stakeholders’ meeting, emphasizes strengthening program implementation, advocacy, resource mobilization, and capacity building.
According to her, Program Implementation: The plan prioritizes expanding active case-finding efforts through community-based interventions. It also emphasizes enhancing community awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and improve case detection; Advocacy and Engagement: The program aims to organize a National Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Partners Engagement Meeting. This meeting will foster alignment between stakeholders and resource mobilization efforts; Resource Mobilization: Strategies to ensure sustainable funding for the program were underscored as critical for long-term success; MDT and Logistics Management: Ensuring continuous availability of multi-drug therapy (MDT) remains a priority. The roadmap calls for improvements in the procurement and supply chain processes to ensure timely delivery of essential medications; Capacity Strengthening: Training healthcare workers and building the technical capacity of relevant stakeholders are central to the initiative; and Monitoring and Evaluation: The program will focus on rigorous monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track progress and make necessary adjustments.
This initiative aligns with the global fight against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to eliminating leprosy and Buruli ulcer as public health challenges. Stakeholders, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and other partners, were commended for their unwavering support in addressing these diseases.
She concluded with a call for collective efforts to sustain the momentum and ensure the implementation of the outlined strategies for better health outcomes across the country.
The School for the Gifted, Gwagwalada, Abuja, has undergone a remarkable transformation following the intervention of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike.
Previously grappling with dilapidated facilities and crumbling infrastructure, the institution now boasts freshly painted walls, upgraded classrooms, new fans, and improved amenities.
The changes have rejuvenated the school environment, making it conducive for learning and inspiring both students and staff.
Principal Bello Adamu Audu described the intervention as a lifeline for the school, which was on the verge of collapse. “Before the Minister’s intervention, the school was in a state of sorrow. The walls were cracked, the roof was failing, and learning was almost impossible. Today, we have a conducive environment that has renewed hope for our staff and students,” he said.
Audu added that while the renovation was transformative, lingering challenges like the need for more furniture, modern books, and updated technology persist.
Students and staff echoed their gratitude while emphasizing the need for sustained support. Head Girl Abdulraheem Taofeeqiyah praised the improved learning environment, noting, “Before, broken boards and dilapidated walls distracted us. Now, it’s much easier to focus.” However, she called for better library facilities, updated books, and reliable power supply to ensure uninterrupted learning.
Similarly, Head Boy Binuyo Dabira Goodnews applauded the new dining hall, which resolved the issue of overcrowding. “We’re grateful, but we need more resources like modern computers and a school bus to enhance our learning and representation,” he said.
Teachers also highlighted the impact of the improvements on teaching effectiveness. Mr. Ezeigbo Chidozie, Head of the Mathematics Department, commended the Minister for the renovations but appealed for digital upgrades to match the students’ high potential. “Our students are inquisitive and demand modern teaching tools like smart boards and updated materials. The changes so far are commendable, but we need more to unlock their full potential,” he stated.
As the school basks in its new glory, the community remains united in its call for sustained investments to elevate the institution to global standards, making it a beacon of excellence in Nigeria.
The Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, has invested over N100 billion in road, education, and security projects in Bwari Area Council, according to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike.
Speaking at the commissioning of the Gaba-Tokulo road project, Wike emphasized the administration’s focus on delivering tangible development to area councils.
“This Gaba-Tokulo road project alone cost no less than N7 billion. We ensured prompt payments to avoid delays or abandoned contracts,” Wike stated, adding that other rehabilitated roads, including those in Ushafa and War College communities, have collectively cost N28 billion. In addition, he revealed that N27 billion has been spent on new and rehabilitated schools, bringing the total infrastructure investment in Bwari to nearly N90 billion.
Wike also announced the construction of two police divisions in Igu and Ushafa to enhance security in the region, with completion expected by May 2025. Looking ahead, the Minister confirmed plans to extend the Gaba-Tokulo road to Kawu in the 2025 budget, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to meeting the needs of residents.
Echoing his sentiments, the Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, praised the Tinubu administration for its commitment to rural infrastructure development, which she described as a catalyst for connectivity and economic growth. She emphasized the transformative impact of the new road and bridges on trade, healthcare, and mobility, urging residents to maintain the projects and support the government’s efforts.
“This is more than just infrastructure; it is a pathway to progress and prosperity,” Mahmoud stated, commending community members, contractors, and stakeholders for their cooperation and dedication to the project’s success.
The Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Lere Olayinka, has called out Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, over his alleged failure to provide effective leadership as Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum. Olayinka accused Mohammed of using Chief Ezenwo Nyesom Wike’s ministerial appointment under President Bola Tinubu as an excuse for his lack of leadership capacity.
In a statement issued on Friday, Olayinka described Mohammed’s remarks against Wike as “ridiculous and preposterous,” alleging that the Bauchi governor has a history of political opportunism. He criticized Mohammed’s tenure as PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman, claiming he has divided the party’s National Working Committee and failed to unite the party. “Rather than take responsibility for his inefficiency, Bala Mohammed blames Wike’s service in Tinubu’s administration for his own shortcomings,” Olayinka said. He also highlighted Mohammed’s political history, including his defection from the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) to the PDP after securing a ministerial appointment in 2010, branding him a “fairweather politician.”
The statement also praised Wike’s record as FCT Minister, contrasting it with Mohammed’s tenure in the same role, asserting that Wike’s achievements in just one year surpass Mohammed’s during his five-year term. Olayinka concluded by urging Mohammed to focus on his leadership failures and stop using Wike as a scapegoat for PDP’s challenges.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni, one of his predecessors, describing the loss as “the fall of one of the biggest trees in Nigeria’s forest.”
In a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Wike extolled the late Army General’s outstanding contributions to the development of the FCT during his tenure as Minister from 1993 to 1998.
Wike said “From joining the Army at the age of 14, to becoming the Military Governor of the defunct Bendel State, Minister of Transport, Quarter-Master General of the Nigeria Army, FCT Minister and Senator for the Plateau South of Plateau State, Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni, can be said to be among those Nigerians who saw it all and lived a life of service to the country.
“He was a jolly good fellow, fondly called ‘Jerry Boy,’ who took service to the people as his number one priority.
“Nigerians, especially the Tarok people of Plateau State will never forget the late General for epitomising great virtues.
“He will be sorely missed by the entire people of Plateau State, Nigerian Armed Forces and Nigerians in general.
“On behalf of myself and residents of the FCT, I mourn the departure of General Jeremiah Timbut Oseni, a great man, a Patriot, a fine military officer, a Politician, a Peacemaker and a man of faith in the Almighty God.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has disclosed that it disbursed N116.18 billion in education loans to 176,252 beneficiaries, including 108,484 students who received N8.5 billion for upkeep.
Speaking to the National Assembly Joint Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND, NELFUND Managing Director, Mr. Akintunde Sawyer, highlighted the growing demand for educational loans, with 457,621 new students already registered, and 352,796 actively applying.
“The total loans given, both institutional and upkeep, amount to 680,658, with a committed sum of N116,184,265,261. Of this, over N37 billion went to institutional loans, while N78 billion was disbursed for upkeep,” Sawyer revealed.
Projections for 2025
Sawyer projected a sharp rise in loan applications in 2025, estimating that 1.8 million students—75% of the 2.5 million in NELFUND’s database—will apply for loans totaling over N1 trillion. The overall expenditure for 2025, including loans and training programs, is expected to approach N2.5 trillion.
Empowering Youths Through Skills Training
In addition to loans, NELFUND plans to implement skills acquisition programs, taking training directly to communities to ensure broader participation. “We aim to train over 25,000 youths in 2025, growing that number annually. Each trainee will receive a loan of N1.5 million, covering four batches of 6,250 trainees each,” Sawyer explained.
The training will span six months per batch, followed by a six-month moratorium before loan repayments commence. This initiative will cost N9 billion per batch, totaling N36 billion annually.
Budget Allocation and Support Request
For 2025, NELFUND’s budget includes N12 billion for personnel costs (21%), N24 billion for overhead (42%), and N21 billion for capital expenses (37%). Sawyer called on lawmakers to support the agency in conducting roadshows and community engagement to promote the loan program and skills training opportunities.
“We need to take this initiative to the nooks and crannies of Nigeria. Lawmakers are closest to the people, and we seek their collaboration to help spread the word and gather communities for awareness programs,” he said.
Driving Accessibility and Economic Growth
Sawyer emphasized that the agency’s efforts aim to bridge education funding gaps, empower Nigerian youths with skills, and stimulate economic development. “This program is more than loans; it’s about creating opportunities and ensuring the next generation is equipped for the future,” he concluded.
NELFUND’s ambitious plans signal a commitment to addressing education and skills development challenges in Nigeria, with significant implications for the country’s socioeconomic growth.
The Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, has pledged his ministry’s full support to the newly appointed Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, in advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
This assurance was given on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, when Dr. Opeifa officially assumed office at the Ministry of Transportation. In a statement by Umar Alkali Jibril, Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Minister, Alkali lauded President Tinubu’s choice of Opeifa, describing him as a seasoned administrator with a proven track record.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made a right choice by appointing Dr. Kayode Opeifa, whose wealth of experience as a former Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation and former Transport Secretary for the Federal Capital Territory will be invaluable to the rail sector,” Alkali said.
Vision for Railway Modernization
The Minister urged Opeifa to leverage his expertise to drive the Federal Government’s railway modernization projects, a cornerstone of the Renewed Hope Agenda. “Your leadership will be instrumental in transforming Nigeria’s rail transport system and delivering on our transportation goals,” Alkali added.
Dr. Opeifa, who succeeds Mr. Ben Iloanusi as NRC Managing Director, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s transportation development. “I see my appointment as a rare privilege to work with Mr. President in transforming the rail transport system, which is listed as one of the eight priorities of this administration,” he said.
Commitment to Excellence
Opeifa assured that his tenure would focus on actualizing the government’s vision for a modern and efficient railway network across the country. “I am committed to delivering sound policies and programs in collaboration with the Ministry of Transportation to improve the sector and make rail transportation a reliable option for Nigerians,” he stated.
Leadership Transition at the NRC
Dr. Opeifa’s appointment follows the retirement of Engineer Fidet Okhiria, who served two consecutive terms as NRC Managing Director until October 18, 2024. Opeifa steps into the role with the mandate to further strengthen the railway sector, ensuring it contributes significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth and mobility.
The appointment underscores the Tinubu administration’s focus on infrastructure development as a driver of national progress, with rail transportation playing a pivotal role in achieving sustainable economic transformation.
The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has debunked claims that the N8 billion allocated to the Ministry in the 2025 budget is for sensitizing Nigerians on electricity bill payments. Instead, he clarified that the funds are designated for advocacy, education, and technological initiatives to safeguard power infrastructure nationwide.
Speaking through a statement by his Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, Bolaji Tunji, the Minister emphasized that the advocacy campaign aims to address vandalism, sabotage, and community engagement to protect critical power assets.
“Far from the claims, the Ministry does not need to advocate for electricity payment; that is the responsibility of the DISCOs. This budget is for sensitizing Nigerians on protecting and taking ownership of power infrastructure and addressing the alarming rate of vandalism,” Adelabu stated.
Rising Acts of Vandalism
The Minister highlighted the destructive impact of sabotage on the power sector, citing recent incidents where vandals used dynamites to destroy transmission towers on the Shiroro-Mando-Kaduna line, plunging parts of northern Nigeria into darkness.
“It costs the Transmission Company of Nigeria over N9 billion to repair the damage caused by these vandals. Just last weekend, half of Abuja was thrown into darkness due to underground cable vandalism. This advocacy is crucial to
