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I Made No Attempt to Evade Investigations’ — Malami Replies EFCC

By
Ola Akinola
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0

Detained former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has rejected claims by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) that he refused bail, insisting he made no effort to evade investigations and describing the bail conditions as deliberately stringent to prolong his detention.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his media aide, Muhammed Bello Doka, Malami accused the EFCC of denying him the opportunity to perfect his bail, alleging that the conditions—reportedly including sureties from serving federal permanent secretaries—are intentionally unattainable.

“Such conditions are intentionally used by EFCC to prolong his detention at the same time saying he refused bail. From the onset, Malami was ready to comply with the bail but the commission denied him the opportunity to do so,” the statement read.

Malami, a law-abiding citizen, has never attempted to evade investigations, the aide emphasised, adding that suggestions otherwise originated solely from the EFCC.

He called on the commission to adopt a holistic approach by setting realistic, attainable bail conditions and to refrain from media narratives claiming he rejected bail.

The response follows the EFCC’s Saturday rebuttal denying political motives in Malami’s detention, insisting it stems from his failure to meet five provisional administrative bail conditions granted on November 28, 2025, after initial questioning.

Malami has been in custody since December 8, 2025, amid probes into alleged money laundering, abuse of office, and other financial irregularities linked to his tenure.

NIMASA Denies Nigerian Ownership of US-Seized VLCC Skipper

By
Ola Akinola
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0

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has firmly denied any Nigerian ownership or registration links to the Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) Skipper (IMO 9304667), intercepted by the United States Coast Guard and Navy amid allegations of crude oil theft, piracy, and transnational crimes.

In a statement issued on Saturday, NIMASA clarified that the vessel is not Nigerian-flagged, and its alleged operator, Thomarose Global Ventures Limited—a Nigeria-based but inactive company—is not registered with the agency as a shipping entity.

Tracking data from NIMASA’s C4i Centre shows the Skipper was last in Nigerian waters on July 1, 2024, before proceeding on international routes through the Arabian Sea and into the Caribbean, where the U.S. interdiction occurred.

The vessel, formerly owned by Triton Navigation Corp. and with a history of name changes, was reportedly flying a false Guyanese flag and has prior U.S. sanctions for alleged Iranian-linked activities.

NIMASA Director-General Dr. Dayo Mobereola reaffirmed cooperation with U.S. authorities in the probe, stating: “Criminality will not be tolerated in Nigerian waters.

The clarification addresses media reports linking the vessel to Nigeria, amid ongoing concerns over maritime security and oil theft in the region.

Power, Pressure and Integrity Define True Leadership — Uche Nwosu Tells Emerging Leaders

By
Ola Akinola
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0

Former Imo State Chief of Staff, Ugwumba Uche Nwosu, has outlined power, pressure, and integrity as the three core pillars of effective governance and enduring leadership, advising emerging leaders to prioritise character over positional titles in public service.

Nwosu delivered this message in a keynote address at the 2025 Emerging Leaders Conference, themed “Navigating Power, Pressure, and Integrity in Governance.

He portrayed leadership as a profound responsibility, asserting that its true measure lies in character, consistency, courage, and a strong connection with the people, especially the youth.

On power, Nwosu urged viewing it as a tool for development rather than personal gain, emphasising its role as a public trust to be wielded with humility and accountability. Great leaders, he said, are judged not by the extent of their authority but by their responsible application in serving the populace.

Regarding pressure, he acknowledged that political, social, and economic challenges are inherent, but true leaders distinguish themselves by staying calm, principled, and focused amid adversity—relying on facts, values, and the courage to make unpopular decisions.

Nwosu stressed that integrity forms the bedrock of sustainable leadership, cautioning that its compromise leads to collapse. He argued that Africa’s progress hinges on leaders who treat integrity as a non-negotiable moral duty.

Highlighting his Ugwumba Leadership Centre—established to bridge leadership deficits across Africa, particularly among youth and women—Nwosu detailed its programmes, including the Ugwumba Leadership Development Programme, Ugwumba Enterprise Challenge, and SkillUp Programme, which have fostered entrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders among young Nigerians.

He encouraged emerging leaders to adopt purpose, discipline, and integrity to drive Africa’s transformation, commending the conference organisers for their dedication to leadership growth and expressing hope that such initiatives will forge a brighter continental future.

Bandits Use Special Technology to Evade Call Tracking, Says Minister Bosun Tijani

By
Ola Akinola
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0

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has revealed that bandits employ a “special kind of technology” to make calls while evading surveillance and tracking by security agencies.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today with Seun Okinbaloye on Friday night, Tijani explained that monitoring bandits’ communications for intelligence is far more technically complex than commonly assumed.

He stated that the criminals “bounce calls off multiple towers” to confuse tracking efforts, deliberately operating in unconnected areas to exploit network gaps.

“The reason why the president actually pushed us to invest in towers in those areas is that we realised that there was a special kind of technology that they [the bandits] were using to call,” Tijani said. “They were not using the normal towers; they bounce calls off multiple towers. That is why they enjoy living in areas that [are] unconnected.

Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital

To counter this, the minister disclosed that the federal government is upgrading Nigeria’s communication satellites as a backup monitoring system. “Because if our towers are not working, our satellites will work,” he noted, adding that Nigeria is the only West African country with its own communication satellites, with upgrades underway.

Tijani emphasised the need for massive investment in telecom infrastructure, contrasting Nigeria’s approximately 40,000 towers with China’s over four million 5G towers.

The minister’s comments come amid a recent surge in insecurity, particularly in northern Nigeria, including mass school abductions in Niger and Kebbi states and attacks on churches in Kogi and Kwara.

The escalating violence has prompted the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to schedule a nationwide protest on December 17, 2025, demanding urgent government action.

Tijani’s explanation of “call bouncing” has sparked debate, with some tech experts arguing that routing calls through multiple towers is a standard network function and could potentially aid rather than hinder tracking.

At 58, Wike Declares No Regrets Backing Tinubu Since 2022, Dismisses Criticism

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has affirmed that he harbours no regrets for his open support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu since 2022, shrugging off criticism and political backlash as inconsequential to his convictions.

The declaration came during an early-hour gathering on Friday at his Abuja residence to celebrate his 58th birthday, attended by cross-party political leaders and associates honouring his influence.

The former Rivers State Governor explained that his backing of Tinubu—before, during, and after the 2023 presidential election—stemmed from principles of character, integrity, equity, and justice, particularly the rotation of power to the South.

“I have no regrets supporting President Tinubu. I did it openly and consistently, guided by my conviction that power should shift to the South,” Wike stated.

He highlighted being the sole prominent opposition figure to publicly endorse Tinubu pre-election, framing it as a stand of principle.

Wike cited Rivers State’s 2023 election results—APC presidential win alongside PDP victories in governorship, National Assembly, State Assembly, and local government polls under his leadership—as proof of his ability to navigate political diversity while maintaining FCT Minister Nyesom Wike at his 58th birthday celebration in Abuja.

Political associates and supporters gather to celebrate Wike’s 58th birthday.

Wike with Rivers State House of Assembly Speaker Martins Amaewhule and lawmakers.

The event attracted notable figures, including Rivers National Assembly members, serving and former legislators, the Rivers State House of Assembly delegation led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, local government chairmen, and party stalwarts.

Amaewhule, representing 27 assembly members, pledged unwavering loyalty: “Wherever our leader goes, we will follow. Whoever he supports, we will also support.”

Port Harcourt City Local Government Chairman and Rivers ALGON Chairman Hon. Allwell Ihunda lauded Wike’s consistency and compassion.

Former Rivers PDP Chairman Desmond Akawor called Wike the “naked wire of Rivers politics,” asserting his achievements validated President Tinubu’s collaboration choice.

Other attendees included PDP National Caretaker Committee Chairman Mohammed Abdulrahman, PDP Board of Trustees Chairman Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, PDP South-South Vice Chairman Chief Dan Orbih, APC South-South Vice Chairman Hon. Victor Giadom, former Abia Governor Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, and Senators Magnus Abe, George Sekibo, Barinada Mpigi, and Prof. Sandy Onor.

In response, Wike expressed gratitude for their support, viewing criticism as fuel: “Criticism and abuse are some of the things that keep me going. I have never been bothered by those who abuse me.”

He recommitted to collaborating with allies for Rivers State and national progress.

The celebration concluded with prayers for Wike and his family, underscoring his enduring prominence in Nigerian politics.

Tomori Foundation, Study AI Launch Nigeria’s First AI-Powered Exam Prep Platform for SSS Students

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Abosede Tomori Foundation (ATF), in partnership with Study AI, has unveiled Nigeria’s pioneering artificial intelligence-powered examination preparation platform, a significant advancement in digital education for senior secondary school (SSS) students gearing up for WAEC, NECO, and JAMB exams.

The initiative initially enrols 200 SS3 students from Oshodi-Isolo Constituency II, delivering personalised, intelligent tutoring via an adaptive digital system tailored to individual strengths and weaknesses.

This launch extends ATF’s growing educational efforts, building on its recent “Back to School” programme that supplied learning materials to hundreds of pupils in the constituency.

Nationwide, millions of students face challenges in national exams due to scarce quality resources, traditional study methods, and lack of customised support—issues contributing to persistent low pass rates.

Study AI addresses these by providing curriculum-aligned tools, including AI-guided tutoring, instant feedback, personalised learning paths, gamified elements, collaborative features, and realistic mock tests for a more interactive experience. Scalable design positions it to serve hundreds of thousands of users as it expands.

ATF Founder and Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Segun Tomori, hailed it as a groundbreaking shift leveraging AI in exam preparation.

“We are excited to pioneer what we believe is a paradigm shift in exam preparation—the deployment of technology, particularly artificial intelligence,” Tomori said. “Study AI has developed something truly innovative and unprecedented. Our goal is to ensure that students in my constituency excel in their final exams and secure admission into tertiary institutions.”

The programme aligns with ATF’s Skills Development and Scholarship Scheme, one of its five pillars.

Study AI CEO Yvonne Momah described it as ushering in a new era for exam readiness.

“Our mission is to make high-quality education accessible, affordable and engaging for every learner,” Momah stated. “With AI-driven tutoring, real-time feedback and gamified motivation, we are building a platform that truly understands students and unlocks brighter futures.”

The pilot targets 200 SS3 students from schools in Isolo and Ejigbo LCDAs, granting full access until 2026 exams.

ATF plans to track progress, incentivise top performers, bridge gaps via online support, and run periodic mocks for optimal preparation.

Established in July 2025, ATF has executed several initiatives: health outreach for 250 residents, ₦50,000 grants to 50 micro-business owners, food aid for indigent families, and materials for 200 pupils.

Through this collaboration, ATF and Study AI are harnessing technology to democratise education, paving new routes to success for Nigerian students.

DESOPADEC Applauds Gov Ododo for Establishing KOSOPADEC on Solid Foundation, Pledges Collaboration

By
Ola Akinola
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0

The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) has commended Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for establishing the Kogi State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (KOSOPADEC) on a strong footing, positioning it to accelerate development in the state.

The board and management of DESOPADEC also assured full partnership and collaboration with KOSOPADEC to facilitate its rapid growth and maturity.

The commendation came from DESOPADEC Chairman Chief John Obukowho Nani during a recent fact-finding visit by a KOSOPADEC delegation to DESOPADEC headquarters in Warri, Delta State.

Chief Obukowho expressed delight in collaborating with KOSOPADEC to build human capacity, share knowledge, and unlock potentials in both commissions. He noted that as Nigeria’s newest oil-producing state, Kogi requires nurturing to fulfil KOSOPADEC’s core mandate effectively.

He praised Governor Ododo’s commitment to the commission’s seamless takeoff, predicting that the calibre of its board and management would soon see it surpass peers.

During interactive sessions, Obukowho explained that no two development commissions share identical enabling laws, as each is tailored to state-specific needs. For DESOPADEC, the board comprises 13 eminent personalities, including the Chairman and Managing Director/CEO, supported by executive directors overseeing finance and administration, projects, social services, and planning, research, and statistics.

He detailed representation based on ethnic nationalities in oil-producing areas—Itsekiri, Urhobo, Ijaw, Isoko, Ndokwa, and Ika—rather than local government councils. Allocations follow quantum of production, with a bottom-up budgeting approach prioritising community-identified needs through consultations.

Obukowho urged strict adherence to enabling laws, financial regulations, and gubernatorial approvals for expenditures above certain thresholds, emphasising that commissions remain integral to state governance. Staff recruitment and benefits, he added, prioritise oil-producing communities.

KOSOPADEC Chairman Alhaji Suleiman Ndalayi Abdullahi thanked DESOPADEC for the peer-learning opportunity, noting that the newly inaugurated commission—established August 1, 2025—seeks to adopt best practices for enhanced performance.

He commended DESOPADEC’s leadership, including Managing Director Festus Ochonogor, and pledged to apply lessons learned while prioritising ongoing synergy.

KOSOPADEC Managing Director James Omonu Jackson acknowledged Governor Ododo’s dedication to the commission’s growth and thanked Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for approving the visit, affirming sustained interstate ties.

DESOPADEC Managing Director Festus Ochonogor urged continued engagement to foster strong partnerships.

The visit included sessions with department heads for in-depth operational insights. The KOSOPADEC entourage comprised the secretary, executive directors, directors of finance and administration, representatives from ministries of justice and finance, a technical advisor, and head of media.

$6.1m NGF Primary Health Care Leadership Challenge Set for Today

By
Ola Akinola
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0

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), UNICEF, and supported by the Gates Foundation, has launched the third edition of the Primary Health Care (PHC) Leadership Challenge Awards.

Scheduled for today, Friday, December 12, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., the event recognises exceptional gubernatorial leadership in bolstering primary health care systems across states.

In a statement, Yunusa Tanko Abdullahi, NGF Director of Media and Strategic Communications, noted that the initiative stems from the 2019 Seattle Declaration, endorsed by all 36 governors, to drive better governance, funding, and accountability in PHC.

NGF Chairman, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described the platform as “a beacon of what strong, accountable leadership can achieve in our health system. It celebrates results, rewards performance, and ultimately delivers better care for our people.”

The challenge accelerates Seattle Declaration commitments, enhances political ownership of PHC outcomes, boosts transparency, encourages peer learning, and monitors progress under the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative Compact.

Governors are evaluated via a Performance Monitoring Framework, developed by stakeholders and endorsed by state health commissioners, covering governance, leadership, financing, quality of care, evidence-based decision-making, and sustainability—aligned with MAMMS principles and presidential NHSRII indicators.

A total of 13 awards will be distributed: two per geopolitical zone (Best Performing and Most Improved States), one national Overall Best Performing State, with a $6.1 million prize fund. Winners must reinvest funds into PHC strengthening.

An independent panel of public health experts, academics, religious and traditional leaders, media, and civil society reviews assessments by UN-recruited verification agents.

Previous editions: The inaugural event in May 2023 crowned Borno State national champion, with zonal winners including Kwara, Jigawa, Ebonyi, Rivers, and Ondo.

The 2024 edition named Anambra State national champion, with zonal winners Anambra, Rivers, Osun, Yobe, Kaduna, and Kwara; runners-up from Abia, Delta, Lagos, Gombe, Jigawa, and the FCT; and a special innovation award for Gombe.

“This is not just an award ceremony. It is a celebration of impact, accountability, and a commitment to the health and wellbeing of every Nigerian,” AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq affirmed.

Governor Fubara Formalises APC Membership with Party Card Ceremony

By
Ola Akinola
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0

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has officially formalised his membership in the All Progressives Congress (APC), receiving his party card from State Chairman Chief Tony Okocha during a brief ceremony at the Government House on Friday.

The event follows Governor Fubara’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, which he announced at a stakeholders’ meeting on December 9, 2025.

Attendees at the ceremony included APC State Secretary Eric Nwibani, Publicity Secretary Chibuike Ikenga, and Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo, who was in Port Harcourt for a road project commissioning.

Chief Tony Okocha, praising the governor’s decision, revealed he was mandated by the APC National Chairman to present the membership card as a prelude to Fubara’s official reception.

“Let me take this time out to congratulate you on your decision to join the All Progressive Congress,” Okocha said.

In response, Governor Fubara described his move to the APC as essential for the safety, protection, progress, and development of Rivers State, emphasising the need to align with the federal government and the ruling party.

He called it a “spiritual assignment,” thanking Okocha for accepting the role.

Fubara credited President Bola Tinubu’s interventions for his continued tenure, stating: “There is every reason to support Mr President. If not for any other thing, as a person, I know the sacrifice he has made to ensure that we still stand as a government.”

The governor portrayed his defection as a personal favour to ease President Tinubu’s 2027 reelection in Rivers State: “So I took this decision as my own return favour, my own clearing the bush to ensure that his reelection come 2027 will be easy, smooth in this state. Now that we are all in one party… We are now inside one flat.”

Expressing gratitude to the APC national and state executives, Fubara assured them: “We will do everything to keep APC as the main and active progressive party in Rivers State. It is my responsibility from this minute to ensure that the party is properly taken care of. Every need of the executive, every need of the party in this state, becomes my responsibility.”

UHC: FCTA Exceeds 2025 Health Insurance Enrollment Target, Registers Over 69,500 Residents

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has marked the 2025 Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day with a major achievement, announcing that the Federal Capital Territory Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS) has exceeded its annual enrollment target by registering 69,512 new beneficiaries, including over 33,000 vulnerable individuals, as of November 2025.

At an event held at Garki Market organised by the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Permanent Secretary Dr. Baba Gana Adams revealed that the enrollment figure surpassed the 25,000 target under the Renewed Hope Agenda by more than 8,000.

“Health is not a privilege, it is a right,” Dr. Adams stated, highlighting the UHC Day theme: “Unaffordable health costs? We’re tired and sick of it!” He stressed the need for financial protection and equitable healthcare access for all FCT residents.

The success was supported by partnership with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) for NIN-based verification, alongside FHIS’s ongoing sensitisation campaigns, community interventions, and stakeholder engagements. Similar outreach activities took place across the FCT’s six area councils.

Acting Director of FHIS, Dr. Salamatu Belgore, emphasised free medical screenings for diabetes, hypertension, and minor ailments during the event, describing health insurance as a vital safeguard against financial hardship rather than a luxury.

The FCTA reiterated its dedication to bolstering the health system through expanded coverage, facility upgrades, and workforce support, ensuring quality care is accessible to every resident without economic barriers.

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