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Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Livestock Development in Partnership with Brazil

By
Roland Edet
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The Nigerian Government has reiterated its dedication to collaborating with Brazil to enhance the nation’s livestock sector, an essential part of efforts to bolster food security. On Monday, Idi Muktar Maiha, Minister of Livestock Development, welcomed a high-level delegation led by Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Carlos Garcete, at the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in Abuja.

Maiha highlighted the importance of the Ministry’s creation, calling it a landmark decision by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that underscores Nigeria’s openness to foreign investments in the livestock industry.

The Minister referenced recent discussions at the G20 Summit in Brazil, where Nigeria secured commitments from prominent Brazilian livestock companies such as JBS.

Maiha assured the Brazilian delegation of Nigeria’s preparedness for business, with JBS already touring livestock markets in the country, and a technical team scheduled for feasibility studies next month.

He further outlined key strategic focus areas for the ministry, which include research and development, breed improvement, feed and fodder production, and creating a conducive environment for private sector investments.

Ambassador Garcete, speaking on behalf of the Brazilian government, emphasized Brazil’s global leadership in livestock production and exports.

He expressed Brazil’s readiness to assist Nigeria not only in importing products but also in establishing a sustainable platform for local production, job creation, and economic development.

Garcete also announced the upcoming Brazil-Nigeria Trade Mission, scheduled for January 27, 2025, which will bring nearly 50 Brazilian business leaders to explore investment opportunities in Nigeria’s livestock sector.

The collaboration between Nigeria and Brazil aims to modernize the livestock industry, drive economic growth, and reduce poverty through large-scale investments and sustainable practices.

Pastor Arrested for Defiling his 14-year-old daughter

By
Shehu Danladi
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The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a pastor, Louis Akpojotor Mevoweoyo, for allegedly defiling his 14-year-old daughter over several years.

According to DSP Timfon John, the Police Public Relations Officer, the victim was first abused at the age of 12, with the latest incident occurring in December 2024 ¹.

The pastor, who resides in Ibiono Ibom, was arrested for defiling his daughter, and investigations revealed a pattern of sexual assault spanning several years. The suspect will face prosecution for his crimes.

In a separate incident, the police arrested a suspected serial rapist, Daniel Effiong Umoh, alias Akaka, from Abak LGA. Umoh allegedly used a machete to drag a teenage girl into a bush and assault her. Investigations revealed that he had been involved in similar attacks on other young girls.

Additionally, six child trafficking suspects were arrested for kidnapping four children aged 2, 4, 11, and 12. The children were rescued, and two have already been reunited with their families. The suspects will face prosecution for their crimes.

Other suspects were arrested for various crimes, including cultism, armed robbery, vandalism, stealing, and unlawful possession of hard substances.

Wike Commissions Road Project in Abaji, Promises More Development in Satellite Towns

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to equitable development as he commissioned the 5km Naharati-Ukya to Unguwan Hausawa Road with a three-span river bridge in Abaji Area Council on Monday. Wike highlighted the administration’s focus on extending infrastructure projects to satellite towns, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling promises made to the people.

“Let me take this opportunity to say Happy New Year to each and every one of you. Are you happy? This project is proof of our resolve to deliver. In January 2024, we flagged off this project with a promise it would be ready by December, and today, in January 2025, we are here to commission it,” Wike said. He also assured residents that two additional police divisions would soon be completed to enhance security in the area, in line with commitments made during a stakeholder meeting last year.

The Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, echoed similar sentiments, commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing rural development. “Improved road networks like this one connect rural producers to markets, enhance productivity, and stimulate local economies. To get the FCT of our dreams, we must first strengthen its roots—our area councils, satellite towns, and villages,” she stated. Dr. Mahmoud also praised Wike’s leadership and the efforts of the Satellite Towns Development Agency (STDA) for delivering the project on schedule.

The ceremony was attended by traditional rulers, security agency representatives, and jubilant residents, who celebrated the administration’s fulfillment of a long-standing promise. Wike assured the crowd that more development projects would be commissioned in satellite towns before the administration’s second anniversary in May.

Edo Governor Hails President Tinubu’s Support, Assures 100% Votes in 2027 Presidential Election

By
Toyin Adebayo
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Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to the people of Edo State, pledging continued support and assurance of maximum votes in the 2027 presidential election.

The governor made this known in a goodwill message during a food outreach organized by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) under its Social Investment Programme. The event, held at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, Edo State, was part of the First Lady’s nationwide initiative to support vulnerable Nigerians.

Speaking at the occasion, Governor Okpebholo expressed gratitude for the food donations and assured the president of the state’s unwavering support.

“The entire people of Edo State are very appreciative of this kind gesture of food outreach and donations of different food items to the vulnerable in Edo State.

“We are happy in Edo State, and the people are beginning to see and enjoy a new dawn. Look at food items all over the place in this hall, all thanks to the president and his wife for this great initiative that Edo people are benefitting from today.

“We are assuring you, Mr. President, of our 100 percent votes in the state come the 2027 presidential election, and if possible, we will give you more than 100 percent,” the governor stated.

Governor Okpebholo also commended the First Lady and Chairperson of RHI, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her motherly role in ensuring that vulnerable Nigerians receive the dividends of democracy, emphasizing that the success of the initiative was made possible by President Tinubu’s support.

The First Lady, represented by the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, recounted the progress of the food outreach program, which commenced in March 2024, highlighting its achievements in alleviating the challenges faced by vulnerable households.

“This food outreach began in March 2024 in Abuja to provide vulnerable households with food to support their families. We have been able to distribute food items to seven states across Nigeria,” she said.

She further urged beneficiaries to make good use of the items provided and emphasized the RHI’s commitment to initiatives in education, health, economic empowerment, social investments, and agriculture, in alignment with the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“This programme aims to further complement the renewed hope agenda of the President Tinubu administration. There will be more activities this year to positively impact women and youths for a better life,” the First Lady added.

Mrs. Edesili Anani Okpebholo, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady of Edo State, thanked Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her impactful initiative, noting that it has touched millions of lives in less than two years. She assured that the food items would be distributed to the most vulnerable in the state.

She also praised Governor Okpebholo for his developmental strides within three months in office, acknowledging his support for RHI programs in Edo State.

Distributed items included noodles, semovita, and pasta, among others.

Dignitaries at the event included Secretary to the Edo State Government, Musa Ikhilor; Deputy Chief of Staff, Pius Alile; Mrs. Anna Shaibu, wife of the former Deputy Governor of Edo State; market leaders; serving commissioners; political leaders; security agency heads; Permanent Secretaries; widows, and other stakeholders.

The RHI food outreach has so far benefited seven states, including Edo, with plans to extend the initiative to Kwara, Kogi, and Abia in subsequent phases.

Nigeria, France Deepen Collaboration on Mining Sector Development

By
Toyin Adebayo
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Nigeria and France have strengthened their commitment to advancing the mining sector through the implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed last month in Paris. Meeting on the sidelines of the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, officials from both nations outlined actionable steps to enhance Nigeria’s geological infrastructure, facilitate technology transfer, and promote sustainable mining practices.

Dr. Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, and Benjamin Gallezot, France’s Interministerial Delegate for Strategic Minerals, led their delegations in discussions that focused on aligning policies, exchanging expertise, and fostering investment opportunities in Nigeria’s mining industry.

Advancing the MOU Goals

In a statement by Hon. Kehinde Bamigbetan, Special Adviser to the Minister, France committed to providing advanced technological equipment, funding geological data exploration, and upgrading the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency’s (NGSA) laboratory to international standards.

Dr. Alake commended Gallezot for his role in expediting the MOU’s completion during President Bola Tinubu’s meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. He expressed confidence in the partnership’s potential to dispel doubts and deliver measurable results, particularly in geological exploration, cadastral management, and artisanal mining reforms.

Investment Opportunities

Gallezot revealed that his department was finalizing a list of vetted French companies interested in investing in Nigeria’s mining sector. This list will soon be forwarded to Nigeria’s Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to facilitate investment initiatives.

Christophe Poinssot, Deputy Director of France’s Bureau de Recherches Géologiques et Minières (BRGM), highlighted that Nigeria would benefit from French funds dedicated to building geological capacity in Africa. He assured that France would upgrade Nigeria’s geological laboratory and implement training programs to develop local expertise.

Sectoral Challenges and Solutions

Professor Olusegun Ige, Director-General of the NGSA, emphasized the need for modern equipment and laboratory upgrades to expedite mineral exploration across Nigeria’s resource-rich regions. He called for international partnerships to facilitate skills transfer and global exposure for Nigerian experts.

Engineer Simon Nkom, Director-General of the Nigerian Mining Cadastral Office, advocated for a comparative analysis of mining laws in both countries to identify best practices. He also encouraged French investors to leverage opportunities presented by the MOU.

Hajiya Fatima Shinkafi, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF), proposed co-funding initiatives for early-stage exploration projects in collaboration with French financial institutions. She underscored the SMDF’s success in collaborating with the Africa Finance Corporation to support mining entrepreneurs.

Roadmap for Execution

The parties resolved to pursue collaborative geological exploration and database development initiatives. Gallezot assured that the proposals discussed would undergo review by the French government, with implementation strategies to be finalized at the Mining Indaba in Cape Town next month.

A Path to Sustainable Growth

This renewed partnership between Nigeria and France is expected to accelerate investments, build capacity, and unlock Nigeria’s vast mineral potential. By fostering collaboration and innovation, both nations aim to position the mining sector as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.

Wike Calls for Urgent Judicial Reforms to Restore Confidence in Nigeria’s Legal System

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has called for comprehensive reforms in Nigeria’s judiciary to address inefficiencies and inconsistencies that undermine its integrity and effectiveness.

Speaking during a media chat on Sunday in Abuja, Wike expressed concern over the manipulation and delays in the judicial system, which he described as detrimental to governance and justice delivery.

“The judiciary must be above reproach and serve as the last hope of the common man. Unfortunately, we are witnessing a slow erosion of its credibility due to actions that prioritize personal or political interests over justice,” Wike stated.

Concerns Over Political Interference

The minister criticized the frequent use of courts to settle political disputes rather than uphold the rule of law. He also raised issues about the arbitrary assignment of political cases to specific judges, alleging a lack of transparency and fairness in such processes.

“These practices divide the judiciary, creating factions among judges loyal to different interests. This cannot continue if we are to maintain the integrity of our legal system,” Wike said.

Call for Oversight and Collaboration

Wike emphasized the need for stricter oversight by judicial authorities, including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the National Judicial Council (NJC), to address biases and ensure equitable justice delivery.

“Every citizen deserves access to a fair and impartial judicial process. We must act now to rebuild trust and ensure that the judiciary fulfills its constitutional mandate without interference,” he noted.

Advocacy for Judicial Independence

While advocating for reforms, Wike reiterated his support for judicial independence. He urged stakeholders to work collaboratively to safeguard the judiciary’s reputation and restore public confidence.

The minister’s remarks come at a time when debates around judicial accountability and independence are gaining momentum, with many Nigerians calling for structural changes to enhance transparency and fairness in the legal system.

Wike’s Aggressive Revenue Drive Boosts FCT Monthly Earnings to ₦25bn

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has revealed that the administration’s aggressive revenue drive has significantly increased the monthly income of the nation’s capital, growing from ₦9 billion in August 2023 to an average of ₦25 billion.

During a media chat on Sunday, Wike disclosed that the FCT achieved a record revenue of over ₦40 billion in December 2024. He attributed this financial surge to improved ground rent collections and increased compliance by land allottees in paying for Certificates of Occupancy (C of O).

“When I assumed office, the FCT was generating about ₦9 billion to ₦10 billion monthly. Today, by the grace of God, we are not generating less than ₦25 billion a month. In December alone, we generated over ₦40 billion,” Wike announced.

Infrastructure Funding Through Taxes

The minister underscored the necessity of taxes for infrastructural development and appealed to land allottees to fulfill their financial obligations. “Infrastructure must be funded, and that funding comes from taxes. If taxes are not paid, how do we achieve development?” he asked.

Despite the improved revenue, Wike acknowledged the FCT’s financial challenges, citing a monthly salary obligation of ₦13 billion. He noted that limited contributions from Value Added Tax (VAT) and federal allocations compel the FCT to rely heavily on internally generated revenue (IGR).

“We don’t receive up to ₦13 billion from VAT and the 1% allocation from the Federal Government. To meet salary payments, especially with the new wages, we must augment with IGR,” he explained.

FCT’s Revenue Potential

Highlighting the untapped revenue potential, Wike said the FCT could generate up to ₦300 billion monthly if land allottees complied fully with their obligations. He called for greater accountability in ensuring that the funds collected are effectively utilized for development.

“In your conscience, can you say the FCT is justifying the taxes you pay? While we can proudly point to some progress, it is not enough. The potential exists to achieve much more,” he stated.

Wike’s emphasis on revenue optimization reflects his administration’s commitment to driving infrastructural growth and enhancing service delivery in the FCT. His call to action is expected to resonate with stakeholders and residents alike as the FCT strives to achieve its developmental goals.

Wike Vows Severe Action Against Vandals Behind Abuja Blackout

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has pledged strict consequences for vandals responsible for damaging and stealing transmission cables, an act that has left over 60% of Abuja in darkness.

During a media chat on Sunday, Wike, visibly angered by the incident, revealed that security agencies had arrested suspects linked to the crime, which he described as a severe act of economic sabotage.

“They vandalised and stole cables, plunging over 60% of Abuja into darkness. Sabotage!” Wike stated. “Security agencies are on top of the matter. We’ve arrested some of them, and I assure you, they will face the full wrath of the law. People will learn lessons from this.”

The minister underscored that the perpetrators would not merely face charges of theft but of economic sabotage due to the significant impact of their actions on the nation’s capital.

“Enough is enough,” he declared. “Nobody who loves this country can tolerate such acts. We won’t charge them with stealing; we will charge them with economic sabotage. Nobody will take this lightly.”

Wike also urged FCT residents to be vigilant and collaborate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities to safeguard critical infrastructure.

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) identified the vandalism of its 132kV transmission line and underground cables as the cause of the massive power outage. The affected areas include Wuse, Utako, Jabi, Maitama, Lifecamp, Asokoro, Mabushi, and parts of the Presidential Villa, home to President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.

Wike reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing the issue and ensuring that measures are in place to prevent future occurrences. “We will do everything to protect the infrastructure critical to the smooth running of the capital city,” he assured.

Wike Rejects Ohanaeze’s Choice of Mbata as President-General, Insists Ikwerre Not Igbo

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed the suggestion that the Ikwerre ethnic group is part of the Igbo nation, despite the election of former Senator John Azuta Mbata, an Ikwerre man, as President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo on January 10.

Speaking during a live media chat broadcast on major television networks, Wike asserted that Mbata’s position as the head of the apex Igbo socio-cultural group does not alter the distinct ethnic identity of the Ikwerre people.

“Mbata’s emergence as the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo does not make the Ikwerre people part of the Igbo ethnic group,” Wike said. “Just as not all northerners are Hausa, the Ikwerre people, despite sharing a region with the Igbos, cannot automatically be categorized as Igbos.”

The minister acknowledged the shared cultural and linguistic ties between the Ikwerre and the Igbo but emphasized that such similarities do not determine ethnic identity.

This statement has reignited debates about the nuanced relationship between the Ikwerre and the Igbo people. While some have seen Wike’s remarks as an assertion of Ikwerre’s distinct identity, others interpret it as a reflection of the broader complexities of ethnic affiliation and self-determination in Nigeria.

Wike’s stance highlights the ongoing conversations about cultural and political identity in the country, with implications for the dynamics of regional and national unity.

Hidden Riches’ Premiere Ignites Dialogue on Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Potential

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

In a groundbreaking showcase of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, in collaboration with Take 7 Media, premiered Hidden Riches, a compelling documentary spotlighting the untapped potential of the industry.

The premiere, held over the weekend, highlighted the sector’s pivotal role in driving economic growth and diversification under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Dr. Mary Ogbe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, hailed the documentary as a transformative initiative. “Hidden Riches is not just a documentary; it’s a call to action for Nigerians and the global community to recognize the limitless possibilities beneath our soil,” she said. “This project aligns with the Federal Government’s economic diversification agenda and the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025.”

Ogbe emphasized the ministry’s commitment to capacity building and investment attraction. “Through partnerships like this, we aim to inspire young Nigerians, engage stakeholders, and attract both local and international investors to this critical sector,” she added, while applauding Take 7 Media’s creativity and the visionary leadership of Dr. Oladele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development.

Mr. Kehinde Bamgbetan, Special Adviser to the Minister, commended the documentary as a powerful tool for public education and engagement. “The media is an instrument for conscientizing Nigerians. With programs like Hidden Riches, we can effectively highlight the immense potential of our solid minerals sector,” he said. Bamgbetan outlined reforms such as formalizing artisanal mining cooperatives and deploying mining marshals to curb illegal mining, emphasizing the ministry’s goal of ensuring Nigerians actively participate in and benefit from the sector.

Bem Pever, the series producer, expressed pride in showcasing Nigeria’s mineral wealth and opportunities. “This series is not just entertainment; it’s a platform to inspire viewers to explore opportunities in this sector,” he said. Pever praised African Natural Resources and Mines in Kaduna for supporting production and encouraged Nigerians to watch the series on NTA.

Highlighting industry contributions, Mr. Partha Ghosh, Group Head of Africa Industry Group Ltd., shared his company’s $600 million investment in iron ore mining and processing in Kaduna State, creating over 4,000 jobs. “With continued reforms and infrastructure development, Nigeria’s mining sector can transform the economy and attract even more investments,” he said, emphasizing improved transportation infrastructure to enhance competitiveness.

Mr. Patrick Odiegwu, Managing Director of Polyguard Investment Nigeria Ltd., stressed the importance of infrastructure and local beneficiation. “Mining is the foundation of any nation’s industrial base. To unlock its potential, we must prioritize local participation and ensure mined resources are processed and consumed locally,” he said, calling for greater financing and proactive strategies to address industry challenges.

Reflecting on journalism’s role, Mr. Tunde Aremu highlighted the constitutional mandate of the media to hold stakeholders accountable. “Journalists must interrogate policies, engage stakeholders, and connect citizens with the management of their resources,” he said. Aremu also urged journalists to advocate for sustainable practices, emphasizing the social and environmental impacts of mining.

The premiere of Hidden Riches left attendees inspired and ready to act, sparking a transformative dialogue among policymakers, investors, and the public. As the credits rolled, the documentary ignited a renewed commitment to unlocking Nigeria’s mineral wealth for sustainable development.

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