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Federal Government Bans Open Grazing Nationwide, Mandates Transition to Ranching

By
Toyin Adebayo
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YOLA, Adamawa State – The Federal Government has officially abolished open grazing of cattle across Nigeria, declaring the centuries-old practice illegal and mandating a full transition to modern ranching systems.

The landmark announcement was made by the Minister of Livestock Development, Mallam Idi Muktar Maiha, during the inaugural National Council on Livestock Development in Yola on Tuesday.

“Open grazing has caused unnecessary hiccups in the past years, creating crisis and loss of needless lives across the country,” Minister Maiha stated, emphasizing that “it is an offence to be caught grazing openly.”

The policy shift represents the most significant reform in Nigeria’s livestock sector in decades and aims to resolve persistent conflicts between herders and farmers that have claimed thousands of lives and displaced communities across the country.

Minister Maiha positioned the livestock sector as Nigeria’s next major economic engine, revealing ambitious revenue projections. “The ministry is projected to earn $74 billion in the next five years,” he announced, noting that “so far more than $14 billion have been earned” since the presidential initiative to revamp livestock production began.

The policy received broad political support during the council meeting. Senate Committee Chairman on Livestock, Senator Musa Mustapha, predicted that “soon livestock would overtake oil in revenue earning,” while House of Representatives Committee Chairman Hon. Tasir Olawale Raji commended the ministry for abolishing “needless confusion” between farmers and herders.

Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umar Fintiri, represented by Deputy Governor Professor Farauta George, welcomed the council to what he described as “the home of livestock,” endorsing the federal government’s reform agenda.

The Permanent Secretary of the Livestock Ministry, Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, acknowledged investors who have already embraced ranching, specifically commending Dan Lawan Adamawa and Alh. Sadik Daware for their pioneering efforts.

The mandatory transition to ranching represents the Tinubu administration’s most decisive intervention in the farmer-herder crisis, signaling a fundamental restructuring of Nigeria’s agricultural economy.

Anxiety Grips VIPs as Police Begin Withdrawal of Security Escorts

By
Ola Akinola
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0

ABUJA – A wave of apprehension has swept through Nigeria’s political and business elite following President Bola Tinubu’s directive to withdraw police escorts from Very Important Persons (VIPs), a move that has sparked both public debate and private panic among the affected class.

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed on Sunday that police personnel would be reassigned to core law enforcement duties, with VIPs now expected to seek armed protection from the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) if needed.

According to security sources, the police headquarters has been inundated with calls from anxious VIPs seeking clarification and expressing deep concerns about their safety amid the country’s worsening security situation.

“The practice of providing police escorts to high ranking officers and VIPs has become a major feature of the security landscape in Nigeria,” one VIP told NewsFocus, acknowledging the need for reform while warning that a blanket withdrawal could “increase the prevailing fears of insecurity in the society.”

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) swiftly criticized the move as “political theatre,” with party spokesperson Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi describing it as a recurring announcement that “demonstrates the government’s lack of understanding of the true nature and complexity of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis.”

A serving police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, highlighted the operational implications, noting that VIP protection duties have historically diverted crucial resources from community policing. “Police patrol teams in certain areas are often understaffed, and response times to distress calls are prolonged as a result of the overwhelming number of officers assigned to VIP duties,” the officer revealed.

Human rights activist Tony Udemmadu welcomed the policy shift, stating that VIP escorts had become “a symbol of inequality” that undermined public trust in law enforcement.

As the police force works to establish modalities for the withdrawal, Force Public Relations Officer Benjamin Hundeyin had not provided specific details on implementation timelines or the number of officers affected by press time.

Southwest Governors in Emergency Security Session as Regional Threats Escalate

By
Ola Akinola
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0

IBADAN – Governors from Nigeria’s six Southwest states are currently locked in an emergency security meeting at the Oyo State Government House in Agodi, Ibadan, following credible intelligence about planned terrorist incursions into the region.

The closed-door session, which began Monday morning, is focused on strengthening regional security coordination and enhancing the operational capacity of the Amotekun security network amid what sources describe as “increasingly sophisticated security challenges.”

While official statements remain pending, NewsFocus has learned that the agenda includes critical reviews of:

· Joint border surveillance operations
· Intelligence sharing mechanisms across state lines
· Logistics and equipment requirements for Amotekun corps
· Community alert systems in border communities

The meeting comes just days after prominent Yoruba leader Iba Gani Adams issued a stark warning about terrorist elements establishing bases in forests bordering the Southwest region. Security analysts have also noted concerning movements of bandit groups from the Northwest toward Southwest boundaries.

A source close to the deliberations, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that “the governors are treating this with utmost urgency. The recent attacks in neighboring states have shown that these threats respect no borders.”

The Southwest has increasingly relied on the Amotekun network as a regional security backbone, though commanders have repeatedly highlighted needs for better equipment and coordinated operational protocols across state lines.

As the meeting continues, security has been tightened around the Government House, with increased Amotekun and police presence noted throughout the Agodi area.

Dangote Group Champions Agricultural Revival as Key Sponsor of 2025 National Agric Show

By
Ola Akinola
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0

KEFFI, Nasarawa State – The Dangote Group has reinforced its commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s agricultural sector through its sponsorship of the 17th National Agricultural Show, which opens today in Keffi, Nasarawa State.

The conglomerate’s backing of this year’s event, themed “Employing Smallholder Farmers: Restoring Value, Ensuring Productivity Will Ensure Attainment of Food Security in Nigeria,” underscores its strategic push to position agriculture as a cornerstone of national economic growth and youth employment.

Company spokesman Anthony Chiejina emphasized the sector’s transformative potential, stating: “Restoring the value of agriculture offers Nigeria more than nostalgic appeal; it provides a pragmatic route to economic renewal. With the right incentives and modern practices, agriculture can once again serve as a reliable engine of growth.”

The Agricultural Show, a flagship event in Nigeria’s farming calendar, serves as a critical platform for showcasing innovations across the agricultural value chain and promoting commercial farming participation.

Significant investments detailed by the group include the development of rice mills across Kano, Jigawa, Niger, Kebbi, and Sokoto States with a combined milling capacity of 1.5 million tonnes annually. These projects align with federal government initiatives to achieve food security through enhanced local production.

Senior Adviser to the President of Dangote Group, Mrs. Fatima Wali-Abdurrahman, highlighted the company’s comprehensive approach to agricultural development, noting substantial investments in backward-integration projects within the sugar sub-sector in Nasarawa and Adamawa States, alongside the operational 3 million metric tonnes per annum fertilizer complex in Lagos.

Arc Kabiru Adamu, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Agricultural Foundation of Nigeria, acknowledged Dangote’s sustained partnership, describing the conglomerate as “our greatest ally from inception” whose support has been instrumental to the show’s continued success.

The event is expected to draw unprecedented participation from farm machinery manufacturers, processors, researchers, and youth and women farmers, all responding to the urgent call to strengthen Nigeria’s food systems amid ongoing economic challenges.

Japan, WHO Deliver Critical Aid as Nigeria’s Cholera Cases Surpass 22,000

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

ABUJA – The Federal Government has received a final shipment of cholera response kits from Japan, channeled through the World Health Organization (WHO), as the country continues to combat a severe outbreak that has affected 22,196 people and claimed 505 lives as of November 2, 2025.

The donation, funded by a US$500,000 grant from the Japanese government, was formally handed over to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) on Monday. The supplies are being deployed to high-risk states, particularly in the heavily affected North-East and North-West regions, to bolster early detection, treatment, and containment efforts.

NCDC Director-General, Dr. Olajide Idris, described the support as timely. “This support from the Government of Japan through WHO came at a critical time. It has enabled us to strengthen surveillance, improve laboratory diagnosis, and support states in responding more effectively to outbreaks,” he stated.

The assistance has been distributed across three key areas since the grant was received on March 1, 2025:

· Emergency Supplies: US$104,951 worth of cholera kits—each capable of treating 100 patients—have been prepositioned in high-risk areas to prevent treatment disruptions during peak transmission periods.
· Capacity Building: A national training program has equipped 176 health experts across all six geopolitical zones, with knowledge cascaded to workers in 134 priority intervention areas.
· Surveillance Enhancement: Community-based surveillance has been strengthened in local government areas across seven high-risk states, improving coordination between national and sub-national health authorities.

Japan’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Suzuki Hideo, reaffirmed his country’s commitment: “Japan is proud to support Nigeria’s efforts to combat cholera and other infectious diseases. Through our partnership with WHO, we are contributing to stronger health systems.”

WHO Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Pavel Ursu, emphasized that the partnership is already yielding results, enhancing Nigeria’s capacity to respond to outbreaks and reduce cholera-related fatalities to below one percent.

With cholera cases continuing to rise, health authorities have urged states and communities to intensify preventive measures, including promoting hand hygiene, ensuring safe water use, and improving sanitation.

No More Extensions on Ground Rent as Wike Confirms January, June Delivery Dates for Major FCT Roads

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

ABUJA – The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has issued a final warning to property owners regarding ground rent payments, declaring an end to all extensions while confirming major progress on key infrastructure projects across the capital.

During an inspection tour of ongoing construction by Julius Berger and Leventis on Monday, the Minister revealed that the N5 corridor project is scheduled for completion by the end of January, while the Central Area–Wuse link road is expected to be finished by early June.

“We have been here several years ago when this bridge was ongoing. But today we are on top of the bridge,” Wike stated at the N5 site. “Julius Berger has assured us that by the end of January, N5 will be delivered. We are very happy with the quality of the job done.”

At the Leventis-handled Central Area–Wuse link road project, the Minister confirmed: “The head works are ongoing, and they assured us that by the end of May, first week of June the work will be completed. This road is very key as it connects the central area to Wuse.”

The Minister delivered a firm message on ground rent enforcement, stating: “Certainly, it has to be the last time. We extended by two or three weeks, but it is now more than four months. This is the last time; we are not going to extend further.”

He warned that non-compliant properties risk being sealed, emphasizing that the FCT’s development drive is funded entirely through internal revenues. “We cannot carry out these projects without people paying their taxes,” Wike stressed. “You cannot enjoy these projects without fulfilling your obligations.”

Addressing funding concerns, the Minister clarified that current construction projects are being executed under the FCT’s 2025 budget, not the national budget. “We have not received a dime from this year’s national budget, though we believe those funds will be released before year-end,” he noted.

On the newly commissioned but underutilized bus terminals, Wike attributed the low activity to ongoing procurement processes, assuring that the issue would be resolved by year-end. “It’s a contract. Procurement is ongoing. We must see the number of fleets they have,” he explained.

The Minister maintained that his administration remains committed to its development timeline, stating: “We don’t have any problem implementing the budget. The work is moving as planned.”

Atiku Abubakar Formally Joins ADC, Injects New Momentum into Opposition Ahead of 2027 Battle

By
Ola Akinola
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0

YOLA, Adamawa State – Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar marked a seismic shift in Nigeria’s opposition politics on Monday by officially registering as a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), his sixth party affiliation in a storied career spanning over two decades.

The 78-year-old political heavyweight, who resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in July amid deep internal fractures, collected his membership card at a polling unit in his hometown of Jada, Ward 1, Local Government Area. The event unfolded to the rhythmic beat of drums, jubilant chants, and waving placards from hundreds of supporters who lined the streets, transforming the routine procedure into a mini-rally.

Atiku, clad in a crisp white traditional attire, flashed a broad smile as he held up his ADC card for cameras, later posting a photo on X with the succinct caption: “It’s official. -AA.”

Videos circulating online captured his convoy’s arrival amid cheers, with party faithful hailing him as the “incoming president” for 2027.

The move, confirmed by Atiku’s aide Abdul Rasheeth and ADC officials, formalizes his endorsement of the party as the platform for a nascent opposition coalition.

Formed in July by disaffected PDP and Labour Party elements—including whispers of alliances with Peter Obi and Babachir Lawal—the ADC positions itself as a unified front against President Bola Tinubu’s All Progressives Congress (APC). Atiku’s entry, delayed for months despite his pivotal role in its adoption, is expected to galvanize the party’s infrastructure and draw in high-profile defectors.

Addressing supporters at the Jada Local Government Secretariat post-registration, Atiku quipped: “Before now, I was not in; you were here before me,” acknowledging the ADC’s grassroots roots while underscoring his commitment.

Adamawa ADC Chairman Shehu Yohanna described the development as a “major boost,” praising Atiku’s “national influence and experience” for elevating the party’s visibility.

This is Atiku’s latest pivot: PDP (1999–2006), Action Congress (2006–2009), PDP redux (2009–2014), APC (2014–2017), PDP again (2017–2025), and now ADC. His 2023 PDP presidential bid ended in a narrow defeat to Tinubu, but the fallout—exacerbated by expulsions of allies like Nyesom Wike and Ayo Fayose—paved the way for this realignment.

Political analysts see it as a calculated gambit to consolidate fragmented anti-APC forces. “Atiku’s resources and appeal could catapult ADC from fringe status to contender,” said Dr. Fatima Yusuf, a lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University. Yet, PDP spokespeople decried it as “opportunism,” warning of further erosion in the main opposition’s ranks.

Social media erupted with a mix of euphoria and memes lampooning Atiku’s “party-hopping” saga—one viral post quipped, “Atiku’s loyalty: As changeable as the weather.”

As eyes turn to potential flagbearer primaries—ADC vows a “democratic process”—the question lingers: Will Obi follow suit? For now, Atiku’s bold step signals the opposition’s scramble to regroup, with 2027’s stakes higher than ever.

Europe Leads Historic €15.5 Billion Clean Energy Investment for Africa

By
Ola Akinola
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0

ABUJA – A major international campaign co-chaired by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has successfully mobilized €15.5 billion to accelerate Africa’s transition to clean energy, officials announced on Sunday.

The initiative, organized in partnership with advocacy group Global Citizen and supported by policy guidance from the International Energy Agency, aims to drive both public and private investment in renewable energy across the continent. The funding will expand electricity access to millions of households and support sustainable economic growth through decarbonized industrialization.

The European Union spearheaded the financing effort, contributing over €15.1 billion of the total amount. President von der Leyen announced a Team Europe pledge exceeding €10 billion, complemented by substantial bilateral contributions from European financial institutions, member states, and their development finance institutions, along with estimated private investment.

“Today, the world has stepped up for Africa,” declared President von der Leyen. “With €15.5 billion, we are turbocharging Africa’s clean-energy transition. Millions more people could gain access to electricity; real, life-changing power for families, for businesses, for entire communities.”

The comprehensive funding package includes significant bilateral commitments from Italy (€2.4 billion), Germany (over €2 billion), and the Netherlands (€250 million), among other European nations. Major European financial institutions are also contributing substantially, with the European Investment Bank pledging €2.1 billion and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development committing €740 million.

Beyond the direct financial pledges, the campaign secured additional commitments expected to generate 26.8 gigawatts of renewable energy and provide renewable electricity to 17.5 million households currently lacking reliable access.

The African Development Bank has pledged to allocate at least 20% of its African Development Fund’s 17th replenishment to renewable energy projects, while Norway committed approximately €53 million through its contribution to the same fund for 2026-2028.

President von der Leyen emphasized the broader significance of the investment, describing it as “a surge of opportunity: thriving markets, new jobs, and reliable, clean energy that meets the needs of partners across the globe.”

The announcement represents a significant step in global efforts to transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources while addressing Africa’s critical energy access challenges.

Follow NewsFocus for continuing coverage of global energy initiatives and development projects.

Bauchi Orders Statewide School Closure Amid Rising Security Fears

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

BAUCHI – The Bauchi State Government has ordered the immediate closure of all schools across the state, including federal and private institutions, in a decisive move to protect students and staff from escalating security threats.

The directive, announced late Sunday, affects primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions and follows a wave of recent school abductions in neighbouring Niger and Kebbi states.

In a statement issued by Jalaludeen Usman, Public Relations Officer of the State Ministry of Education, the government described the decision as “difficult but necessary,” citing “overwhelming security concerns” and the need to prevent “any unforeseen circumstances.”

“The protection of our children remains our highest moral responsibility,” the statement read. “Every student in Bauchi State deserves to learn in an environment that is safe, stable, and free of fear.”

The closure comes amid a sharp rise in kidnappings targeting educational institutions in northern Nigeria. Last week, more than 300 students and staff were abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State, one of the largest such incidents in recent years.

Authorities have urged parents and school proprietors to remain calm and assured the public that the state is working closely with security agencies to monitor the situation. Normal academic activities will resume “as soon as it is safe to do so,” the statement added.

Residents have also been encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, with the government emphasising: “If you see something, say something.”

The shutdown reflects growing regional anxiety over school safety as armed groups continue to target vulnerable communities. Several northern states, including Katsina and Zamfara, have taken similar measures in recent months.

DSS Nabs Notorious Bandit in Bauchi Village Raid, Seizes Cash and Ammunition

By
Ola Akinola
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0

BAUCHI – Operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested a high-profile bandit during a surprise raid in Bojinji Village on the outskirts of Bauchi, seizing millions of naira in cash and a significant cache of ammunition.

Intelligence sources confirmed to NewsFocus that the suspect had relocated to Bauchi from Zamfara State, presenting himself as a victim fleeing conflict—a pattern authorities say is increasingly exploited by criminal elements to conceal their activities in the state.

The operation, conducted without prior warning, led to the apprehension of the individual, who had integrated into the local community with his family. According to security sources, the DSS had been monitoring the suspect’s financial transactions and movements before carrying out the raid.

Investigations revealed that the suspect maintained a conspicuously lavish lifestyle, frequently spending his days drinking at Unguwar Yelwan Angas and purchasing alcohol for others, which raised no initial suspicion among residents.

Security officials are urging increased public vigilance, emphasizing the importance of reporting individuals whose lifestyles appear inconsistent with their known sources of income. Such cooperation, they note, is essential in disrupting criminal networks and preventing further infiltration.

Authorities have confirmed that investigations are ongoing to uncover the full scope of the suspect’s operations and identify any potential accomplices within Bauchi State.

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