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FG to Expand Gemstone, Jewellery Training Centres to Spur Mining Sector Growth

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Federal Government has restated its commitment to developing Nigeria’s mining sector through the establishment of more gemstone and jewellery training centres across the country, as part of efforts to promote entrepreneurship and value addition in solid minerals.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, gave the assurance during a tour of the Laurel School of Mining in Abuja. He commended the centre for its impressive work in grooming skilled gemstone and jewellery artisans and producing high-quality, finished products that rival global standards.

“From raw materials like gold and sapphire, we are now witnessing refined, finished jewellery pieces being produced locally. That is the essence of value addition. It shows we are moving beyond extraction to manufacturing, which is key to creating jobs, boosting industrialization, and increasing revenue generation,” Dr. Alake said.

The Minister disclosed that once the 2025 budget implementation begins, the Federal Government will replicate the model across the country to further deepen capacity development in the mining industry. He added that the sector holds immense potential not only for job creation and wealth generation but also as a major source of foreign exchange through exports.

On his part, the Managing Director and CEO of Laurel School of Mining, Mr. Tope Adebanjo, expressed appreciation to the Ministry for its support. He emphasized that the ongoing Batch 4 Advanced Master Class would not have been possible without government backing. Adebanjo also outlined plans to train more mining entrepreneurs and appealed for continued collaboration to ensure optimal use of the centre’s facilities.

In response, Dr. Alake directed Mr. Adebanjo to submit a detailed proposal to the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe, for necessary action, reaffirming the Ministry’s readiness to support initiatives that align with national goals.

Laurel School of Mining is a specialized training institution focused on the exploration, processing, and value addition of gemstones and jewellery. Backed by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, it aims to foster a new generation of skilled professionals and entrepreneurs in Nigeria’s mining ecosystem.

Wike Queries UniAbuja’s Land Acquisition, Orders Review Amid Project Inspections

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has raised concerns over the University of Abuja’s acquisition of over 1,000 hectares of land, describing the move as excessive and a hindrance to developmental efforts within the territory.

Wike made the observation during an inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja on Friday, ahead of activities marking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second year in office.

“This has opened our eyes to the kind of land the University of Abuja has acquired. It is not acceptable. You can’t deny development,” Wike said. “What makes a university is not how much land it controls, but the quality of its infrastructure.”

The minister criticized the institution for failing to put the land to productive use and warned that any public land left fallow would be repossessed and reassigned.

“If you don’t develop it, the government will take it back and give it to those who will,” he said. “We must stop this idea of acquiring land just for acquisition’s sake.”

Wike also questioned the underlying motive of such large-scale land acquisition. “Before you know it, they’ll begin to lease it out to individuals. That’s not what land meant for educational development should be used for,” he added.

The FCT Minister directed the Director of Lands to summon the university and the Nigeria Police, who also reportedly hold undeveloped land in the area, for a review and explanation on the underutilization of the allocated space.

Despite this concern, Wike commended the quality and speed of work on critical projects being executed across the territory. He singled out the 15-kilometre Wassa road project by CGC and another road linking the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital being handled by Levant.

“These projects reflect our commitment to ensuring that promises made are promises kept,” Wike noted, adding that several key projects will be completed and commissioned in May as part of the president’s anniversary celebrations.

He explained that current site inspections are focused on projects slated for completion in time for the second anniversary, with further rounds of inspections to cover other areas.

FCT Minister Commissions Nigeria’s First Green Solar-Powered Farmers Market in Utako

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

…says project will empower farmers, drive food security and sustainable growth

The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has emphasized the need for a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient economy that empowers local farmers, supports small-scale agribusinesses, and guarantees access to quality food for residents.

Dr. Mahmoud made this known during the official commissioning of the Utako Farmers Market—Nigeria’s first-ever green, solar-powered, state-of-the-art agricultural market—executed by the Abuja Investment Company Limited (AICL).

Describing the project as a hub of economic empowerment and agricultural excellence, she said the market would serve as a vital link between producers and consumers.

“This market provides a platform for farmers to sell directly to buyers—cutting off middlemen, minimizing post-harvest losses, and boosting rural incomes,” the Minister stated.

She encouraged farmers, traders, and entrepreneurs to take ownership of the facility and maximize its potential as a catalyst for economic growth.

Commending AICL for its vision and dedication, Mahmoud stressed that the project is a demonstration of what is possible through strategic public-private partnerships and community-centered development.

“As we commission this market today, we reaffirm the FCT Administration’s commitment under the leadership of Barrister Nyesom Wike to delivering impactful and sustainable development,” she added.

The Minister also extended her appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support toward the development of Nigeria’s capital city.

In her remarks, the Group Managing Director/CEO of AICL, Ambassador Maureen Tamuno, said the Utako Farmers Market is not only the first of its kind in the FCT but also arguably the first green market in Nigeria.

She reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to make Abuja a model city in line with Sustainable Development Goal 11, which promotes urban growth that supports economic development, environmental protection, and improved quality of life.

“With this project, we have shown our commitment to climate action and environmental sustainability,” Tamuno said. “The availability of reliable solar power will extend trading hours, reduce energy costs, and help preserve perishable goods—ultimately increasing traders’ income.”

She added that the project aligns with the food security objectives of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Utako Farmers Market sits on 3,000 square meters of land and comprises 50 lockup shops, 40 informal stalls, and 7 warehouses.

Mining Marshals Raid Heavily Fortified Site, Arrest 3 Foreign Nationals

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

A daring operation by the Mining Marshals has dealt a significant blow to illegal mining in Nigeria, with the successful dismantling of a heavily fortified illegal mining site in Rafin Gabas, Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

Despite being protected by compromised security personnel, the Mining Marshals, led by Commander John Attah Onoja, carried out a strategic and well-coordinated raid that resulted in the arrest of three foreign nationals involved in the illicit activities.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake in a statement signed by his SA Media, Mr Segun Tomori, hailed the operation as a “crucial milestone” in the government’s ongoing efforts to sanitize the mining sector.

“We are committed to cracking down on illegal mining operations and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable,” Alake stated.

The operation is a testament to the government’s resolve to tackle illegal mining, which has been a long-standing challenge in the country.

The Mining Marshals have been working tirelessly to identify and dismantle illegal mining sites, and this latest success is a major boost to their efforts.

The site has been sealed off, and a manhunt is underway for the suspects who escaped. Investigations are also ongoing to identify any security personnel involved in facilitating the illegal activities.

The company behind the illegal operations, along with some of the suspects on the run, have pending criminal charges in the Federal High Court, Abuja.

This operation marks a significant step towards curbing illegal mining in Nigeria, and the government has reiterated its commitment to eradicating the practice.

Plans are underway to enhance the operational capacity of the Mining Marshals through satellite monitoring of mining sites and the provision of state-of-the-art equipment.

Senate to Prioritize Tax Reforms, Constitution Review Upon Resumption – Bamidele

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

As the Nigerian Senate prepares to resume plenary at the end of April 2025, its legislative agenda will be dominated by the Tax Reform Bills 2024 and the review of the 1999 Constitution, according to Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Michael Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central).

Speaking at an empowerment programme in Ado Ekiti on Thursday, Bamidele emphasized that the Senate was committed to addressing issues of public concern regarding the Tax Reform Bills, which seek to harmonize Nigeria’s tax laws and create a fairer fiscal environment.

Tax Reforms: A Game Changer

Bamidele described the proposed Tax Reform Bills as transformative, highlighting key provisions:

Tax Exemption for Low-Income Earners: Employees earning ₦1,000,000 or below annually will be completely exempt from taxation.

Support for Small Businesses: Companies with capital of ₦50 million or less will enjoy tax exemptions.

Removal of VAT on Essentials: No Value Added Tax (VAT) will be placed on exports, food, education, transportation, and medical services.

Competitive Corporate Tax Rates: The bills propose a 27.5% tax rate in 2025 and 25% in 2026, which Bamidele argued is moderate compared to South Africa (27%) and Kenya (30%).

> “The House of Representatives has successfully passed the Tax Reform Bills 2024. When the Senate resumes after the Eid and Easter holidays, we will re-examine the bills, address public concerns, and pass them purely in the national interest,” Bamidele assured.

Constitutional Review Still in Progress

The Senate Leader reaffirmed that the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution was aimed at improving governance, promoting inclusivity, and strengthening democratic institutions.

> “The goal is to evolve a more efficient and responsive governance system that serves all Nigerians, irrespective of political, ethnic, or religious affiliations,” he said.

He also noted that the Senate was working on legislative measures to:

Attract foreign direct investment (FDI) to stabilize Nigeria’s economy.

Amend social investment laws to ensure accountability and efficiency in poverty alleviation programs.

Strengthen economic and digital regulations, including the recently amended Nigeria Data Protection Act, which mandates social media platforms and bloggers to establish physical offices in Nigeria.

Empowerment for Constituents

During the empowerment programme, which benefited 5,000 constituents across five local government areas in Ekiti Central, Bamidele distributed:

180 motorcycles, 165 tricycles, and 20 mini-buses to improve local transportation.

536 sewing machines, 303 chest freezers, and ₦100,000 grants for 1,900 entrepreneurs.

10 diesel engine tractors, one caterpillar tractor, and agricultural inputs to support farmers.

10,000 school bags, 1,000 mathematical sets, 1,000 calculators, and 40,000 notebooks for public school students.

Ekiti Governor Applauds Bamidele’s Impact

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, commended Bamidele’s contributions, stating that the lawmaker’s efforts were direct dividends of democracy for the people.

> “Senator Bamidele is delivering for Ekiti on behalf of President Tinubu. We now see the benefits of allowing him to serve at the federal level,” Oyebanji remarked.

Court Affirms Agbo Major’s NNPP Leadership, Dismisses Kwankwaso-Led Faction’s Suit

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has reaffirmed Dr. Agbo Major as the National Chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), dismissing a suit challenging the legitimacy of the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) and National Executive.

In a ruling delivered on Thursday, Justice M.A. Hassan held that the case, filed by Dr. Ahmed Ajuji and 20 others, lacked jurisdiction as it pertained to the internal affairs of the party, which are non-justiciable under Nigerian law.

> “The courts have consistently maintained that internal party leadership issues are non-justiciable, as reaffirmed by both the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. Consequently, I have no option but to dismiss this suit for lack of jurisdiction,” Justice Hassan ruled.

Victory for NNPP Leadership

The judgment solidifies the authority of Chief Dr. Boniface Aniebonam as the NNPP’s founder and Dr. Agbo Major as its National Chairman, putting an end to a prolonged leadership tussle that had threatened the party’s stability.

The claimants, aligned with a faction led by Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, had sought to invalidate the leadership of National Secretary Comrade Oginni Olaposi, Deputy National Chairman Chief Felix Chukwurah, and Legal Adviser Barr. Tony Christopher Obioha. They also attempted to halt the party’s meetings, congresses, and National Convention.

However, defense counsel Segun Fiki Esq., along with C.F. Odiniru, E.C. Nwanya, and Arnold Ubua, argued that the suit was a deliberate interference in the party’s internal affairs, citing a previous ruling by the Abia State High Court (Suit No.: HUZ/11/2024), which had already affirmed the legitimacy of the NNPP leadership.

Political Implications

With this ruling, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is now expected to formally recognize and engage with Dr. Agbo Major’s leadership in line with the judicial pronouncement.

Political analysts view the judgment as a significant setback for the Kwankwaso-led faction, which had sought to challenge the party’s leadership through the courts.

Legal experts also assert that the decision reinforces the judiciary’s stance on non-interference in political party affairs, aligning with past Supreme Court and Court of Appeal precedents.

Call for Party Unity

Following the ruling, NNPP’s leadership has called on all party members to set aside differences and unite behind the recognized National Executive to strengthen the party ahead of future political engagements.

> “This decision is a victory for democracy, party stability, and the rule of law,” Dr. Agbo Major said in a post-judgment statement.

Rainstorm Destroys Over 70 Houses, Barns in Plateau’s Langtang South

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

A devastating rainstorm has left a trail of destruction in Langtang South Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State, damaging over 70 houses and barns across several communities, including Mabudi and Sabon Gida.

The storm, which accompanied heavy rainfall, struck the area on Sunday, blowing off rooftops, collapsing buildings, and leaving many residents displaced.

Residents Call for Government Intervention

Residents described the storm as one of the worst in recent years, with several families now struggling for shelter.

A community member, Nanbol Nanzing, lamented the impact of the storm and called on the state government to provide urgent relief to affected households.

Local Government Response

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Langtang South LGA, Hon. Nanfa Nbin, in a statement signed by his media aide, Mr. Iliya Bako, said the Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC) had already visited affected areas to assess the damage.

The Deputy Chairperson, Hon. Julcit Musa, who also serves as the committee chairman, led a delegation to inspect the affected communities.

Expressing sympathy with the victims, the council chairman urged residents to remain resilient, describing the disaster as an act of God.

> “We sympathize with all those affected and assure them that the local government will work with relevant agencies to provide necessary support,” the statement read.

As affected residents count their losses, calls for emergency aid and reconstruction efforts continue to grow in the disaster-hit communities.

Edo Guber Tribunal Judgment a Violation of Judicial Impartiality – PDP

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

…Heads to Appeal Court, Insists Ighodalo Won Poll

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected the judgment of the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, which declared Monday Okpebholo as the winner of the September 21, 2024 governorship election.

Describing the ruling as a violation of judicial impartiality, the PDP announced its decision to challenge the verdict at the Court of Appeal, where it expects a conscientious judicial review to restore what it calls the true mandate of the people of Edo State.

PDP Alleges Miscarriage of Justice

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the PDP asserted that the tribunal’s verdict betrayed public trust and constituted a miscarriage of justice.

> “With the avalanche of evidence properly presented and duly admitted by the Tribunal, it is clear that our candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, won the Edo State governorship election, having scored the highest number of valid votes cast,” the statement read.

The party expressed concern that despite the tribunal acknowledging instances of vote manipulation, wrongful allocation of votes to the All Progressives Congress (APC), and arbitrary cancellations of PDP votes, it still ruled against the PDP.

> “It is disturbing that despite overwhelming evidence, the Tribunal contradicted itself by arriving at a conclusion that does not align with its own findings.”

Threat to Democracy and the Rule of Law

The PDP warned that the judgment poses a significant threat to public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy and electoral adjudication process.

> “Democracy can only thrive when the rule of law is upheld, and tribunals apply legal principles impartially. A judgment like this erodes trust in the judicial system and democracy itself.”

Despite this, the party reaffirmed its belief in the judiciary, expressing confidence that the Court of Appeal would deliver justice in line with the evidence presented.

Call for Calm, Confidence in the Judiciary

The PDP urged the people of Edo State to remain resolute and patient, assuring them that justice would prevail.

> “We call on Edo people to remain steadfast and not allow this tribunal ruling to shake their confidence in democracy. The mandate they freely gave to Dr. Asue Ighodalo will be restored.”

As the legal battle moves to the Court of Appeal, the political landscape in Edo State remains tense, with both parties gearing up for the next phase of the electoral dispute.

Federal Polytechnic Offa Hosts 53 Polytechnics for 22nd NIPOGA Games

By
Uche Kingsley
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0

– Education Minister, NSC Chairman, and Top Dignitaries to Attend Opening Ceremony

The Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State, is set to host the 22nd Nigeria Polytechnic Games (NIPOGA) from April 5 to April 12, 2025, bringing together 53 polytechnics for a week of intense sporting competition, cultural exchange, and economic engagement.

Dr. Oluwakemi Ogungbamigbe, Chairman of the Media and Publicity Committee, confirmed that all preparations are in place for the major sporting event, which will see over 4,000 athletes competing in athletics, football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, chess, scrabble, handball, badminton, table tennis, judo, and taekwondo.

A Platform for Talent Discovery and National Unity

The Secretary General of NIPOGA, Mallam Abubakar Abdullahi, revealed that contingents from states such as Delta, Taraba, Bauchi, Rivers, Osun, and Ekiti have already begun arriving.

> “All necessary arrangements have been made to ensure a smooth and successful NIPOGA,” he assured.

Speaking at a press conference, the Rector of Federal Polytechnic Offa, Engr. Dr. Kadiri Kamoru Oluwatoyin, FNSE, emphasized that the games are not just about competition but also about fostering unity, inclusiveness, and national cohesion among students.

> “This tournament will serve as a platform for talent discovery and future international sports participation. If we get it right at this level, we will be securing the future of Nigerian sports,” he stated.

Celebrating Offa’s Rich Culture & Technological Innovations

Themed ‘Ijakadi 2024,’ this edition of NIPOGA takes inspiration from the traditional Ijakadi wrestling festival of Offa, which symbolizes equality, unity, and justice—values that align with the spirit of fair competition at NIPOGA.

In addition to sports, the Federal Polytechnic Offa will showcase groundbreaking technological innovations developed by its students and faculty. These include:

Okin-EV1 Electric Car

Okin-EBicycle

A full-color digital advertising billboard

A 3D printer

This exhibition highlights the institution’s commitment to technological advancement, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.

Security and Readiness for the Games

Dr. Salmon Ishiaq Rasheed, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and Deputy Rector (Administration), confirmed that all game facilities are ready, and robust security measures have been implemented. The security arrangements involve the Kwara State Police Command, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Man O’ War, and local security agencies, ensuring the safety of athletes, officials, and spectators.

Dignitaries Expected at the Opening Ceremony

The event will attract top government officials and dignitaries, including:

Dr. Tunji Alausa – Minister for Education

Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq – Governor of Kwara State

Mr. Shehu Dikko – Chairman, National Sports Commission

Prof. Idris Bugaje – Executive Secretary, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE)

Alhaji Moshood Ojikutu – Chairman, Governing Council, Federal Polytechnic Offa

Engr. Dr. Kadiri Kamoru Oluwatoyin, FNSE – Rector, Federal Polytechnic Offa (Chief Host)

Oba Mufutau Muhammad Gbadamosi Okikiola Oloyede Esuwoye II, Ajagungbade I – Olofa of Offa (Royal Host & Father of the Day)

With top-level sportsmanship, cultural heritage, and innovation on display, the 22nd NIPOGA Games in Offa promises to be a landmark event in Nigerian polytechnic sports history.

Wike Dismisses Health Rumors, Reaffirms Commitment to Abuja’s Development

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has dismissed rumors that he collapsed and was flown abroad for medical treatment, calling the claims baseless and politically motivated.

Speaking in Abuja while inspecting ongoing projects, Wike said, “I don’t want to give credence to people who are only interested in spreading rumors. First of all, I am a human being, not a ghost. If someone collapses, it is a human being that collapses, not a ghost. Unfortunately, I did not collapse.”

He emphasized that he has remained active in his official duties, attending key public engagements, including leading Abuja residents to the Presidential Villa and participating in the President’s Iftar event.

“There was never a time I collapsed. There was never a time anybody took me anywhere for medical attention. People who spread such rumors should focus on reality,” he stated.

Wike accused political detractors of fabricating the story to divert attention from real national issues, adding: “I will sign their condolences.”

FCT Projects On Track for Completion

Despite the controversy, the minister reaffirmed that several key infrastructure projects in Abuja are progressing smoothly and are on schedule for inauguration as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-anniversary celebrations.

Wike expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work, assuring that contractors are meeting their deadlines.

“I am very, very impressed with what I have seen. The contractors have confidence in us, and we are not lagging behind in terms of funding,” he assured.

He also urged residents and businesses in the FCT to fulfill their tax obligations, emphasizing that ongoing projects are a direct result of taxpayer contributions.

> “As you can see, we are putting taxpayer money to work. Those who are supposed to pay their taxes should do so,” Wike said.

Abuja’s Transformation Remains Priority

Reiterating his commitment to transforming Abuja’s infrastructure, Wike stated that his focus remains on delivering tangible development, not engaging in political distractions.

> “We will not be distracted. Our focus remains on delivering world-class projects that will benefit every resident of Abuja,” he stated.

With the World Championships and other major international events approaching, Wike assured that critical projects will be completed on time, ensuring that Abuja remains a model capital city in Africa.

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