Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Home Blog Page 14

PDP Convention Off Despite Official Insistence, Says Party Chieftain Hashim Amid Reconciliation Push

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

A prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and 2023 presidential contender, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, asserted Thursday that the party’s long-plagued national convention will not proceed this weekend, as factional rifts demand urgent reconciliation to avert deeper divisions.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Hashim warned that forging ahead without resolving the leadership turmoil—exacerbated by court injunctions and internal sabotage—would spell disaster for the opposition giant. “There will be no convention this weekend because reconciliation among the parties is essential,” he said. “Proceeding now would only entrench factionalism within the PDP.”

Hashim, positioning himself as a 2027 presidential aspirant, revealed ongoing high-level consultations with governors, elders, and representatives from both the Damagum and Mohammed camps. “I’ve engaged key stakeholders, including governors and party leaders from all sides,” he said. “We cannot afford to fracture the PDP further. Measures are in motion for a unified convention.”

He floated the idea of a caretaker committee as a stopgap to guide the party through the impasse, crediting it as his longstanding proposal. “Discussions on a caretaker committee are advancing—that was my initial suggestion,” Hashim noted. “I’m not aligned with any faction; my priority is letting reason triumph and keeping the PDP as one political family.”

Hashim confirmed dialogues with acting National Chairman Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum and factional rival Alhaji Abdulrahman Mohammed, signaling tentative progress. “I’ve spoken directly with Chairman Damagum, Alhaji Mohammed, and other vital players,” he added. “An understanding is taking shape, and I’m confident all will convene soon.”

Tug-of-War Over Venue and Legality

The PDP’s 2025 elective convention, slated for November 15–16 in Ibadan, Oyo State, has been mired in controversy. A Federal High Court in Abuja issued an interim injunction last month, halting proceedings over alleged constitutional breaches and blocking figures like former Jigawa Governor Sule Lamido from chairman bids—moves Hashim decried as a “choreographed plot” to neuter the opposition. 1 Yet, the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) and Convention Organizing Committee (NCOC) insisted Wednesday that the event remains on track, dismissing postponement rumors and welcoming delegates to Ibadan. 5 6 7

Hashim’s intervention underscores the PDP’s escalating crisis, pitting Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde’s anti-Wike bloc against loyalists of Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. 8 The Board of Trustees (BoT), however, expressed optimism Thursday that a convention could still materialize, even as Hashim’s stance casts fresh doubt. 3

With the PDP’s internal fractures threatening its viability as Nigeria’s main opposition ahead of 2027 polls, Hashim’s call for unity highlights the high stakes: a divided party risks irrelevance in a landscape dominated by President Bola Tinubu’s All Progressives Congress (APC).

Nigeria Sets 20% Health Insurance Target by 2027, Unveils Sweeping Reforms

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

TOYIN ADEBAYO, ABUJA

Nigeria is targeting 20 percent national health insurance coverage by 2027 as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda to deliver a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable healthcare system, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, announced Thursday.

Speaking on the second day of the 2025 Joint Annual Review Meeting (JAR) at the Transcorp Event Centre in Abuja, Dr. Salako outlined transformative reforms under the Nigerian Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII), structured around a Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) to streamline funding, coordination, and accountability across federal, state, and local tiers.

“We are building a health system that anticipates, withstands, and recovers from shocks—a truly resilient Nigerian health system,” he declared.

While acknowledging gains in maternal and child health, Salako stressed the urgency of accelerated action. The 2023 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) reported a Maternal Mortality Ratio of 512 per 100,000 live births (down from 576 in 2018) and an Under-5 Mortality Rate of 110 per 1,000 live births (from 132 in 2018).

Yet systemic gaps persist: government health spending stands at just 5.2 percent of GDP—well below the 15 percent Abuja Declaration benchmark—while out-of-pocket expenditure accounts for 71 percent of total health costs. Insurance penetration remains low at 10–12 percent.

Salako highlighted President Tinubu’s executive order mandating health insurance for all Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), and public entities as a cornerstone of universal health coverage enforcement.

Key Reforms Underway

  • Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF): Funding absorption rose from 45 percent in 2019 to 78 percent in 2023.
  • National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act 2024: Expanded enrollment to over 20 million Nigerians.
  • Power for Health Initiative: Completed more than 500 high-impact infrastructure projects for reliable electricity in health facilities.
  • Nigeria Digital in Health Initiative (NDHI): Established a unified National Digital Health Architecture, eliminating data silos.
  • Workforce Expansion: Recruited over 37,000 new health workers since 2023; training underway for more than 70,000 personnel.

Disease Control Milestones

  • HIV/AIDS: 1.78 million on treatment; 80 percent national ART coverage; 96 percent PMTCT coverage.
  • Tuberculosis: 80 percent case notification; 85 percent treatment success rate.
  • Malaria: 63 million insecticide-treated nets distributed; ~18 million cases averted annually.
  • Immunization: Penta-3 coverage at 57 percent (2023); zero wild poliovirus cases since 2020.

More than 30,000 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) are undergoing upgrades, with quality scores climbing from 42 percent to 67 percent. The Health Workforce Registry, diaspora engagement programs, and rural retention incentives aim to reverse brain drain—rebranding the “Japa syndrome” into “Japa-da,” Salako quipped.

The administration is advancing health financing through increased capital releases and infrastructure bonds.

A Call to Collective Action

“Our vision is simple: quality healthcare for every Nigerian, anywhere, without financial ruin,” Salako stated.

He urged federal agencies, states, development partners, and communities to deepen collaboration.

“Only a healthy population can build a prosperous, secure, and great nation. Let us deliver health—and make Nigeria great again,” he concluded to sustained applause.

House Committee Vows to Revitalize Livestock Sector, Investigate Unpaid Bird Flu Compensation

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

Abuja, Nigeria – The House of Representatives has reaffirmed its dedication to transforming Nigeria’s livestock industry, with a simultaneous probe into the federal government’s failure to compensate poultry farmers hit by avian influenza outbreaks since 2021.

Hon. Wale Raji, Chairman of the House Committee on Livestock Development, announced the dual focus during a public hearing Thursday at the National Assembly complex in Abuja. The session examined six bills aimed at establishing new federal colleges and research institutes for animal production, veterinary training, and agricultural innovation.

The proposed laws align with the National Livestock Transformation Plan and broader legislative efforts to enhance research, education, and productivity in the sector.

“This hearing provides a platform for stakeholders to contribute ideas that will drive livestock growth, boost output, and create jobs,” Raji said. “Concurrently, we are examining delays in bird flu compensation to guarantee equity, accountability, and transparency.”

Raji pledged that the committee would translate stakeholder input into actionable recommendations for nationwide policy and institutional reforms.

Unpaid Claims Total ₦498.7 Million

Dr. Adeniyi Adedoyin, representing the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr. Chinyere Akujobi, disclosed that the government owes ₦498.7 million to 307 verified farmers affected by outbreaks between 2021 and 2023.

Prior to that period, ₦3.16 billion had been paid to 1,055 farmers for earlier incidents. A fresh outbreak in Wukari, Taraba State, led to the culling of 2,050 birds, with claims still pending.

Adedoyin traced compensation payments back to 2006, noting disbursements of ₦630.9 million, ₦674.2 million, ₦1.81 billion, and ₦47 million in phases through 2019. He blamed current delays on budget constraints and the lack of a dedicated Animal Diseases Contingency or Emergency Fund (ADEF) since 2021.

“Most farmers also operate without insurance,” he added.

Under a 2022 Federal Executive Council-approved framework, costs are split 50% federal, 25% state, and 25% farmer. Eligibility is limited to small-scale operators with 3,000 birds or fewer; larger commercial farms must carry insurance.

New Institutions to Drive Innovation

Hon. Bello Ka’oje (Kebbi State), sponsor of one bill, advocated for the Federal College of Animal Husbandry in Ka’oje as a hub for specialized training, research, and breeding advancements.

“The institution will elevate productivity, create employment, and bolster food security,” Ka’oje stated.

He highlighted Ka’oje’s entrenched livestock tradition and Nigeria’s lagging global rankings—94th in milk production and 33rd in meat as of 2022—despite surpassing regional peers like Egypt, Kenya, and Ethiopia in agricultural potential.

Ka’oje called for bipartisan support, underscoring livestock’s role in economic diversification and rural prosperity.

“No Country Grows in Lawlessness” – Wike Vows to Shield FCT Officials from Attacks

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

By Toyin Adebayo, Abuja – November 13, 2025

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike on Thursday issued a stern warning against impunity, declaring that Nigeria will stagnate if lawlessness and assaults on public servants are tolerated. He pledged full protection for government officials enforcing planning laws and other regulations, amid rising incidents of intimidation and physical attacks.

“No country, no matter how hard you work, if you allow impurity, if you allow lawlessness to continue to prevail, that country will never, never, never grow,” Wike told a gathering of FCT stakeholders.

The minister cited recent cases where senior civil servants—including directors—were “beaten up” while carrying out lawful duties, arguing that such violence erodes governance and discourages public service. “How will some officials carry out their functions again when they know their principal and their boss cannot protect them?” he asked.

High-Profile Appeals for Lawful Resolution

Wike revealed that prominent Nigerians, including former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and retired General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, have personally contacted him to resolve land and security disputes through legal channels.

“Chief Olusegun Obasanjo…he will call me on the phone: ‘Minister, look o! There’s this problem of land here, can you…’ and we will solve the problem,” Wike said, noting that these elder statesmen and retired military leaders consistently advocate peaceful, lawful solutions rather than confrontation.

Root of the Crisis: Fraudulent Land Deals

At the heart of recent tensions is a disputed plot in Mabushi District—originally allocated in 2007 to Santos Estate Limited for parks and recreation, not residential or commercial use. Despite a 2022 rejection of conversion requests, the land was allegedly subdivided and sold illegally, including to retired Chief of Naval Staff Vice Adm. Awwal Gambo.

“This is government property, it is not your property,” Wike asserted, emphasizing that the FCT Administration is reclaiming such parcels through due process after ministerial reviews exposed multiple litigations and irregular transactions.

Equal Enforcement, No Exceptions

Wike rejected accusations of selective enforcement, insisting that respect for Abuja’s master plan and planning laws is non-negotiable—regardless of status or connections.

“If an instruction is unlawful, you have the right to say no,” he said, defending his criticism of illegal orders while reaffirming strong support for the military and security agencies when acting lawfully.

Call for Responsible Journalism

The minister also criticized “lazy and sensational reportage” that misrepresents events, urging journalists to verify facts before publication. He pledged to perfect administrative processes to ensure transparency and continuity beyond his tenure.

“Even when you are working with me, you are not here forever… Therefore, I have to perfect the document. So when I leave, you will not have yourself to be blamed,” he said.

Zero Tolerance for Impunity

Concluding his address, Wike vowed to insulate FCT law enforcement from undue influence and ensure that public servants face no reprisals for legitimate duties.

“We will protect our officials. We will enforce the law fairly, transparently, and without fear or favor,” he declared.

The minister’s remarks follow a series of high-profile confrontations, including Tuesday’s standoff with naval personnel, and come as the FCT intensifies efforts to restore order in land administration and urban planning.

Atiku Abubakar Rejects ‘Fabricated’ Claims of Gifting SUV to Naval Officer in Wike Clash

By
Ola Akinola
-
0

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has swiftly debunked viral social media reports alleging he rewarded a naval lieutenant with a brand-new Toyota SUV for confronting Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike over a disputed Abuja land plot, labeling the story “entirely fabricated” and urging the public to disregard it.

The denial, issued Thursday by Atiku’s media adviser Paul Ibe, comes amid escalating fallout from Tuesday’s heated standoff at Plot 1946 in Gaduwa District, where Lt. Ahmed M. Yerima—deployed to secure the site allegedly owned by retired Chief of Naval Staff Vice Adm. Awwal Gambo—barred Wike and his enforcement team from accessing the area. The clash, captured in widely shared videos, saw Wike accuse the military personnel of intimidation and land-grabbing, vowing not to yield to “blackmail.” 0 1

The baseless rumor, which surfaced on Facebook Wednesday, claimed Atiku—Nigeria’s main opposition figure and 2023 PDP presidential candidate—gifted the vehicle to Lt. Yerima as a token of appreciation for “standing up” to Wike, a political rival from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faction. Ibe’s statement was unequivocal: “His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, Vice President of Nigeria (1999–2007), did not gift Lt. Ahmed Yerima—or any other individual—a brand-new Toyota SUV, contrary to the false reports currently circulating on social media. The story is entirely fabricated and should be completely disregarded by the public.” 0 1 2

Atiku’s swift rebuttal highlights the rapid spread of disinformation in Nigeria’s polarized political arena, where the Abuja land row has already drawn in heavyweights. Wike’s aide, Lere Olayinka, framed the dispute as fallout from a fraudulent 2007 allocation to Santos Estate Limited for non-residential use, which was illegally subdivided and sold to Gambo in 2022—allegedly without valid titles or development approvals. 3 Olayinka accused the retired admiral of leveraging “military might” instead of legal recourse against the scammers, while constitutional expert Prof. Sebastine Hon condemned Yerima’s actions as a “breach of law,” citing Supreme Court precedents against obeying unlawful orders. 4

Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, addressing the incident during Wednesday’s press briefing, vowed protection for “any officer on lawful duty” and confirmed an ongoing probe, signaling the military’s intent to shield Yerima pending investigation. 5 Separately, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle described the confrontation as “unnecessary and avoidable,” insisting the young officer “did not commit any offence.” 9

The SUV rumor, though swiftly quashed, amplifies perceptions of elite meddling in the saga, which pits Wike’s aggressive FCT reforms against perceived military overreach. Atiku, who has clashed publicly with Wike since the PDP’s 2023 primaries, has remained largely silent on the core dispute but used the denial to reinforce his detachment from the fray.

As the FCT Administration pushes for demolition over missing titles, and with Gambo’s camp yet to respond, the episode underscores broader tensions in Abuja’s land governance—where high-profile claims often blur lines between politics, security, and speculation. Fact-checkers and social media watchdogs have since flagged the SUV post as misinformation, but its virality serves as a cautionary tale in an election cycle already rife with digital warfare.

Nigeria vs Gabon World Cup Qualifier Preview

By
Ola Akinola
-
0

Super Eagles Face Gabon Test: Osimhen’s Fire vs. Aubameyang’s Grit in World Cup Playoff Semi-Final

In the sweltering heat of Morocco’s Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium, Nigeria’s Super Eagles confront a defining moment in their quest to return to the FIFA World Cup stage. At 5:00 p.m. local time (6:00 p.m. Nigerian time), Eric Chelle’s side meets the Panthers of Gabon in the semi-final of Africa’s high-stakes playoff mini-tournament—a single-elimination showdown where only one African nation will advance to March’s intercontinental playoffs for a shot at the 2026 finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

For Nigeria, ranked 41st in the world, this is redemption territory. After a turbulent group stage that saw them finish second behind South Africa in Group C—edging out Burkina Faso on goal difference thanks to Eritrea’s withdrawal—the Super Eagles clinched their playoff spot with a commanding 4-0 demolition of Benin Republic on Matchday 10. 0 Unbeaten in their last six outings across all competitions, including two straight wins, they enter with momentum but carry the scars of missing Qatar 2022—a first consecutive absence since their 1994 debut. 1 A victory here sets up a potential final clash on Sunday against either Cameroon or DR Congo, winners of the evening semi-final at Al Barid Stadium. 6

Gabon, 36 places lower at 77th in FIFA rankings, arrives as resilient underdogs chasing a historic debut at the global showpiece. 1 The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations hosts topped Group F runners-up spot with a formidable 25 points from 10 matches—eight wins, one draw, one loss—scoring 22 goals while conceding just nine, only one point shy of Ivory Coast’s automatic qualification. 12 Unbeaten in seven straight games, Thierry Mouyouma’s Panthers boast a compact, counter-attacking edge that has frustrated bigger names. 11

Head-to-Head: Nigeria’s Edge, But Gabon Knows How to Sting

History favors the Super Eagles in this Central African rivalry, which dates back over six decades. Across nine senior-level meetings, Nigeria hold five wins, three draws, and one solitary defeat—a 2-1 upset in Libreville on June 25, 1989, during 1990 World Cup qualifiers that famously derailed Nigeria’s path to Italia ’90. 13 17 Since then, the Eagles have been unbeaten, including a 2-0 victory in Abuja on March 26, 2005—their most recent encounter and another World Cup qualifier where both sides ultimately fell short. 8

Gabon’s lone triumph remains a psychological footnote, but their recent form—capped by a 4-3 thriller over Gambia in October—signals evolution. As Mouyouma noted, “We must adopt a special tactical approach” to neutralize Nigeria’s threats. 5 Expect a 4-3-3 setup emphasizing quick transitions, with former Premier League midfielders Mario Lemina (Wolves) and Didier Ndong anchoring the engine room. 28

Team News: Bonus Drama Resolved, But Defensive Shuffle Looms for Nigeria

Nigeria’s camp endured midweek turbulence, with players boycotting Tuesday’s training over unpaid bonuses dating to 2019. 30 Captain William Troost-Ekong confirmed a swift resolution on Wednesday, allowing full sessions to resume: “The team is united and focused on representing Nigeria at our maximum.” 33 The NFF’s intervention ensured no lingering distractions ahead of this do-or-die tie. 14

Injuries and suspensions force tweaks, however. Ola Aina remains sidelined post-surgery from a South Africa clash, while center-back Semi Ajayi is suspended after two yellows in qualifiers. 21 7 Troost-Ekong is likely to partner Calvin Bassey at the back, with Chelle favoring a familiar 4-3-3: Stanley Nwabali in goal; Bright Osayi-Samuel, Troost-Ekong, Bassey, and Zaidu Sanusi across the line; Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka in midfield; and Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, and Samuel Chukwueze supporting talisman Victor Osimhen up top. 4 Osimhen, fresh off a Champions League hat-trick for Galatasaray, has 29 goals in 44 caps and six in five qualifiers—his aerial dominance and unpredictability will test Gabon’s rearguard. 3

For Gabon, it’s a clean bill: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, 36 and thriving at Marseille, leads with seven qualifier goals, including a four-goal haul against Gambia before a red card (now served). 12 Flanked by LAFC’s prolific winger Denis Bouanga (eight qualifier goals, 32 in 2025 MLS) and Aaron Boupendza, the Panthers’ attack packs punch. 10 28 Defensively, Bruno Ecuele Manga and Johann Obiang provide steel, with Anthony Kanga adding midfield bite. 32 No major absences reported, though Mouyouma may rotate for freshness in the neutral heat.

Key Battles: Where the Game Will Be Won or Lost

  • Osimhen vs. Ecuele Manga: The Napoli loanee’s pace and power (idolizing Didier Drogba) against Gabon’s veteran center-back could decide set-piece duels. 3
  • Lookman/Iwobi Creativity vs. Lemina/Ndong Tenacity: Nigeria’s flair must pierce Gabon’s combative midfield to feed the forwards.
  • Bouanga’s Counter-Threat: The MLS star’s eight qualifier strikes make him Gabon’s wildcard on the break. 10

Both sides favor 4-3-3, promising end-to-end action in Rabat’s compact arena. Nigeria’s superior depth should prevail, but Gabon’s organization—conceding just 0.9 goals per qualifier—demands precision. 20

How to Watch: Eyes on a Continent

Tune in via NTA, SuperSport, or streaming on DStv Now and the CAF app—coverage starts at 4:30 p.m. Nigerian time. 0 Gabon’s federation cheekily mocked Nigeria’s boycott on social media Tuesday, but with issues settled, focus returns to the pitch. 37

Prediction: Nigeria 2-1 Gabon. The Super Eagles’ firepower edges a cagey affair, but expect Aubameyang to test Nwabali. Victory keeps Nigeria’s seventh World Cup dream flickering—failure would sting deeper than 1989. As NFF President Ibrahim Gusau put it: “We have a team capable of earning a World Cup ticket.” 0 The Eagles must soar.

Super Eagles Poised for World Cup Redemption: NFF Boss Gusau Backs Team in Crucial Gabon Playoff

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

With the weight of a nation’s football dreams on their shoulders, the Super Eagles of Nigeria stand on the brink of a potential World Cup revival. Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau has voiced unshakeable faith in Eric Chelle’s squad as they prepare to battle the Panthers of Gabon in the semi-finals of the African playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set for a tense 5 p.m. kickoff today at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat, Morocco.

Nigeria’s path to the expanded 48-team tournament in North America has been anything but smooth. After a rocky group stage that saw them flirt with elimination, a dramatic 4-0 thrashing of Benin Republic on Matchday 6 clinched second place in Group C, earning them a spot as one of CAF’s best runners-up. Now, the stakes couldn’t be higher: victory over Gabon propels them to the playoff final against either Cameroon or DR Congo on Sunday, with the ultimate prize a berth in the intercontinental playoffs in March—Africa’s last gateway to the global showpiece.

“We believe in the players and their ability to make Nigeria proud, not only on Thursday but throughout these playoffs,” Gusau told thenff.com. “We have a team capable of earning a World Cup ticket.”

Gusau’s optimism echoes the sentiments of a squad brimming with European talent and resolve. Defender Calvin Bassey, speaking to Sporty TV, underscored the team’s renewed vigor: “We started slow, but hope is restored. We’re Nigeria—a massive nation with huge expectations. We just need to take it game by game.” 2 Alex Iwobi is also poised for a milestone, eyeing his 90th cap for the three-time African champions. 6

Tactical Battle: Osimhen’s Fire vs. Aubameyang’s Guile

Under Chelle’s steady hand, the Super Eagles enter unbeaten in their last four qualifiers, boasting a historical edge over Gabon—five wins, three draws, and just one loss in nine meetings. 3 That solitary defeat? A heartbreaking 2-1 upset in 1989 that cost Nigeria a spot at Italia ’90—a scar that lingers but fuels today’s fire.

Victor Osimhen, Napoli’s talismanic striker, looms as Nigeria’s X-factor. With 29 goals in 43 caps, he’s eight shy of Rashidi Yekini’s record and primed to exploit Gabon’s backline. 3 ESPN analyst Alejandro Moreno, tipping Nigeria to advance, gushed: “Osimhen is a goalscorer in every big moment.” 7 Flanking him could be the pace of Moses Simon and Alex Iwobi’s creativity, though Semi Ajayi’s suspension forces a reshuffle at center-back. 0

Gabon, however, won’t roll over. Coached by Thierry Mouyouma, the Panthers narrowly missed direct qualification, finishing a point behind Ivory Coast in Group F. 4 At 36, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang remains a lethal threat, with 39 goals in 80 caps for his country—his Marseille form secondary to his national team pedigree. 9 Wing wizard Denis Bouanga adds dynamism, but Gabon’s defense must contain Osimhen’s unpredictability, as Mouyouma admitted: “We need a special tactical approach.” 1

Neutral venue in Morocco levels the playing field, but Nigeria’s quick transitions and wide play could prove decisive, per preview analyses. 0 The other semi-final pits Cameroon against DR Congo, setting up a potential blockbuster final.

How to Watch: Eyes on History

Fans can catch the action live on NTA, SuperSport, and streaming platforms like DStv Now, with kickoff at 5 p.m. Nigerian time (6 p.m. Rabat). 4 As the Super Eagles chase a seventh World Cup appearance—last in 2018—Gusau’s rallying cry resonates: This isn’t just a game; it’s redemption.

Nigeria’s football faithful, scarred by past playoff heartbreaks like the 2001 loss to Ghana, dare to dream again. A win today keeps the flame alive for 2026’s expanded fiesta. For the Super Eagles, the message is clear: Fly high, or crash out.

Nigerian Army Rescue 74 Stranded NYSC Members from Boko Haram Hotspot in Borno

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

Troops from the Joint Task Force (JTF) North East Operation HADIN KAI executed a swift nighttime rescue operation on Tuesday, saving 74 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members from a vulnerable forested stretch along the Buratai-Kamuya road in Borno State—just as potential Boko Haram insurgents lurked nearby.

The dramatic intervention unfolded around 9:05 p.m. when three buses carrying the corps members—36 males and 38 females—broke down at the notorious Borko Haram crossing point, a dense woodland area long plagued by terrorist ambushes.

Vigilant JTF surveillance detected the unusual activity via closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, triggering an immediate deployment of a heavily armed patrol team. Upon arrival, the soldiers secured the perimeter and evacuated all 74 individuals without incident, thwarting what preliminary reports suggest could have escalated into a mass abduction.

Escort Lapse Exposed Amid Heightened Risks

Investigations revealed the group had been safely escorted from Maiduguri to Damaturu by troops of the 7 Division Nigerian Army Garrison. However, upon reaching Damaturu, the corps members pressed on toward Hawul Local Government Area without alerting Sector 2 Headquarters or securing fresh armed escorts—a critical oversight in a region where Boko Haram remnants frequently target travelers on isolated routes.

The rescued youth, many of whom were en route to their Primary Assignment Posting (PAP) locations, have been relocated to the fortified Buratai Military Base for temporary accommodation and debriefing. Arrangements are underway for their secure onward travel.

Army Reaffirms Commitment, Urges Public Vigilance

In a statement, the JTF hailed the operation as a testament to its “unwavering resolve” to protect civilians. “The Nigerian Army remains committed to safeguarding lives and property across the North East,” it read. “We will sustain a robust security footprint to deny terrorists operational freedom and foster enduring peace.”

The military urged the public to prioritize collaboration: “Report suspicious movements promptly and adhere to escort protocols on high-risk corridors. Your cooperation fuels our success.”

This rescue underscores the fragile security landscape in Borno, where the JTF’s tech-enhanced monitoring—bolstered by CCTV networks and rapid-response units—has increasingly foiled insurgent plots since the 2021 resurgence of attacks. With over 200,000 NYSC participants deployed annually, such lapses highlight the need for stricter travel advisories and mandatory security briefings for corps members in conflict zones.

As the dry season approaches—a period historically rife with heightened militant activity—the incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle to reclaim Nigeria’s North East from extremism.

Defence Minister Badaru Vows Protection for Soldiers on Lawful Duty Amid Wike-Navy Clash

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has pledged unwavering support for military personnel carrying out legitimate duties, amid fallout from a high-profile confrontation between Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike and a Navy lieutenant over a disputed Abuja land plot.

Speaking at a ministerial press conference in Abuja on Wednesday—focused on preparations for the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebrations—Badaru addressed the Tuesday incident involving Lt. A.M. Yerima, who allegedly obstructed Wike’s team from accessing a site purportedly owned by retired Chief of Naval Staff Vice Adm. Awwal Gambo.

“At the Ministry and across the Armed Forces, we will always protect our officers on lawful duty,” Badaru told journalists. “We’re investigating this matter closely, and we assure that any officer performing his role diligently will receive the highest level of protection. We won’t allow anything to happen to him as long as he’s doing his job—and doing it well.”

The clash, captured in viral videos, highlighted tensions over land administration in the FCT, with Wike accusing developers and military personnel of encroachment. Badaru’s remarks signal a firm stance from the defence hierarchy, potentially averting escalation while underscoring the military’s operational autonomy.

New Initiative to Deploy Veterans in Security and Economic Revival

In a broader push to leverage military expertise for national development, Badaru unveiled the Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme (RUSEB-P), aimed at enlisting retired, able-bodied veterans in community policing and local economic recovery.

Designed to target insurgency-ravaged areas in the North-East and beyond, RUSEB-P will deploy veterans’ discipline and skills to bolster local security, prevent terrorism’s resurgence, and ignite productivity through ventures like farming and artisanal mining.

“By engaging veterans to reinforce community defenses and kickstart economic projects, RUSEB-P will not only curb threats but revitalize local economies and foster national unity,” Badaru explained. “This goes beyond short-term fixes—it’s about sustainable reintegration.”

A dedicated inter-agency committee is finalizing the rollout framework, with initial pilots slated for high-risk zones. The minister emphasized the programme’s dual focus: immediate security gains and long-term veteran empowerment, addressing unemployment among ex-servicemen while filling gaps in ungoverned spaces.

Push for Veterans’ Federation and Pension Reforms

Badaru also announced plans to amend the Nigerian Legion Act, paving the way for a Veterans Federation of Nigeria (VFN) to streamline benefits, advocacy, and reintegration support for ex-military personnel.

“This will create a robust legal backbone for honoring our heroes’ sacrifices,” he said.

In a nod to historical equity, the ministry has enrolled 2,141 Civil War veterans—who served on Nigeria’s side but retired short of pension eligibility—into the national pension scheme, ensuring they receive long-overdue recognition and financial support.

Badaru reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s dedication to military welfare, including enhanced troop allowances, modern equipment procurement, and anti-corruption drives within the armed forces.

As Nigeria marks Remembrance Day 2026, these initiatives underscore a holistic approach to security: not just defending borders, but rebuilding lives and communities. The defence sector’s evolution under Badaru—once Kano’s governor—continues to blend operational resolve with socio-economic innovation, even as flashpoints like the Wike incident test civil-military relations.

FG Unveils Ambitious Plan to Rehab Dams, Boost Irrigation and Hydropower Nationwide

By
Ola Akinola
-
0

The Federal Government has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to rehabilitate aging dams and build new multipurpose facilities across Nigeria, aiming to supercharge irrigated agriculture, ramp up hydropower output, and generate jobs for the youth.

announced the initiative during an on-site assessment tour on Wednesday to the Azare-Jere Irrigation Project and Gurara Multipurpose Dam in Kaduna State. He was accompanied by Permanent Secretary Mr. Richard Pheelangwah and several technical directors.

“This aligns directly with President Bola Tinubu’s mandate to my ministry: to drive food security through expanded irrigation, bolster the national grid with reliable hydropower, and empower our youth with employment opportunities,” Utsev told reporters at the facilities.

The ministerial visit focused on evaluating the operational health of these key assets, pinpointing bottlenecks, and charting swift remediation paths. “We’re conducting a full audit to ensure these projects deliver maximum value,” he added.

Targeted Rehab and New Builds Along Key Corridors

Utsev disclosed that a slate of existing multipurpose dams has been earmarked for urgent rehabilitation, while fresh constructions are in the pipeline—particularly along the strategic Sokoto-Badagry Highway corridor. These efforts, he said, will unlock vast tracts of arable land for year-round farming and inject gigawatts of clean energy into the grid.

Nigeria currently boasts over 300 dams, but many suffer from siltation, structural decay, and underutilization, hampering agricultural productivity in a nation where farming employs nearly 70% of the rural workforce. The minister’s blueprint addresses these gaps head-on, promising to irrigate millions of hectares and mitigate perennial flooding risks.

Insecurity Hampers Operations, But Commitment Holds Firm

Facility Manager Engr. Gazali Tukur Mohammed acknowledged persistent security threats as a “major hurdle” to seamless operations at both sites. “Banditry and communal clashes disrupt supply chains and staff safety, but our team is resolute in providing water to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and beyond,” he said.

The Gurara Multipurpose Dam, a 22MW hydropower behemoth completed in 2012, and the Azare-Jere Irrigation Scheme—spanning 8,000 hectares in Bauchi and Jigawa states—were both developed under the ministry’s oversight. Parts of their management have been concessioned to private firm Grams and Abel via a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, blending government funding with corporate efficiency.

Broader Implications for Food Security and Energy

Utsev’s tour underscores a renewed federal push to harness Nigeria’s water resources amid climate volatility and energy deficits. With hydropower accounting for about 20% of the country’s electricity (roughly 2,000MW), scaling up could ease chronic blackouts plaguing industries and households.

The initiative also ties into Tinubu’s broader economic agenda, including the National Livestock Transformation Plan and Renewed Hope Agricultural Initiative, which prioritize irrigation to cut food imports and stabilize prices.

Stakeholders have welcomed the plans but called for robust community engagement to address local grievances, especially in dam catchment areas prone to displacement. As implementation ramps up, the ministry vows quarterly progress reports to maintain transparency.

This development positions Nigeria to potentially add 1,000MW of hydropower capacity within the next few years, while irrigating an additional 500,000 hectares—enough to feed millions and create thousands of agro-jobs.

1...131415...404Page 14 of 404

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

Newsfocus is your news, sports,politics, entertainment, music fashion website. We offer you the latest breaking news and videos straight from the sports and entertainment industry across the world.

Contact us: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

© 2020 Focus Media . All Rights Reserved