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

By
Toyin Adebayo
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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.

Matawalle Emphasizes Need For Improved Collaboration And Funding to To Address Security Challenges

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

…Emphasizes the Need for Modern Equipment to Combat Banditry and Criminality

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H. E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has urged for increased collaboration and funding for the Defence sector to effectively combat and eliminate banditry and other forms of criminality across the nation.

The Minister made this appeal during the presentation of the 2025 Budget Proposal for the Ministry of Defence to the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Defence at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.

In his address, Minister Matawalle underscored the importance of robust collaboration with lawmakers, commending the unwavering commitment and cooperative efforts of both the House and Senate Committees on Defence. He noted that their steadfast support has been instrumental in the Ministry’s achievements to date.

Addressing the critical issue of funding, he described the current budget as insufficient given the modern security challenges faced by the nation. “With the right equipment, we can significantly resolve the battle against banditry,” he stated. He further elaborated that the Ministry of Defence is tasked with providing essential equipment to various regions, a goal that remains unfulfilled due to budget constraints. “In 2024, we were only able to procure some Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs). We need more APCs to tackle insecurity swiftly ” he said.

The Minister expressed his hope that the legislative bodies would consider increasing the budget allocation for the Ministry of Defence, enabling the provision of necessary equipment to areas experiencing fresh attacks and facilitating a decisive action against banditry.

He extended his gratitude to the leadership of the committees for their continued support, emphasizing that their cooperation has significantly contributed to the Ministry’s progress.

In response, the leadership of the committees assured Minister Matawalle of their ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Defence to ensure the successful realization of President’s Renewed Hope Agenda on Security.

The Minister was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, and Directors of the Ministry.

Akpabio Urges Senators to Rededicate Themselves to Nation-Building

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

ABUJA – The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has called on his colleagues to renew their commitment to addressing Nigeria’s challenges and transforming the nation into a beacon of hope and progress.

In a welcome address titled “Rising to the Greatness of Our Calling” delivered during the Senate’s resumed plenary on Tuesday, Akpabio emphasized the urgency of their legislative responsibilities in shaping Nigeria’s future.

“As we embark on this new legislative year, I urge us all to include in our New Year resolutions a renewed commitment to the service of our great nation, Nigeria. Let us resolve to rededicate ourselves to the task of fixing Nigeria—transforming it into the country of our dreams, the pride of Africa, and a beacon of hope for the world,” he stated.

Budget and Electoral Reforms: Key Priorities

The Senate President highlighted the immediate need to focus on the 2025 national budget, describing it as a blueprint of the aspirations and hopes of millions of Nigerians.

“We must ensure that every item within it reflects the collective dreams of our people and serves as a catalyst for development, equity, and justice,” Akpabio said.

He also underscored the importance of completing electoral reforms ahead of the next electoral cycle. “Electoral reform is not just a legislative duty; it is a moral imperative. It is our chance to gift the Nigerian people a system that is transparent, credible, and reflective of their will,” he added.

Unity, Peace, and Leadership

Akpabio encouraged his colleagues to remain steadfast in their prayers for the peace and unity of Nigeria. He stressed the power of collective intercession and divine guidance in navigating the country’s challenges.

“This moment is significant. We are at the end of the first quarter of the 21st century, a time that demands bold action and visionary leadership. History is calling on us to make a difference—to write a new narrative for our nation, one of progress, justice, and boundless possibilities,” he remarked.

A Call to Action

The Senate President urged the lawmakers to rise to the challenges before them, reminding them that their work transcends legislation.

“Our work here is not just about legislation; it is about shaping the future of a nation and leaving a legacy for generations to come. Nigeria is counting on us. The time to act is now

Nigeria Requires ₦2.779 Trillion to Execute 149 Electricity Projects – Minister

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has revealed that the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) requires approximately ₦2.779 trillion to complete 149 electricity projects across the country, many of which are at various stages of completion. This was disclosed during the Ministry of Power’s budget presentation before the National Assembly.

Legislative Support and Commendations

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Power, Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe, acknowledged the improvements in electricity supply but emphasized the need for sustained efforts to achieve Nigeria’s energy goals. He commended the Minister’s understanding of the sector, a sentiment echoed by other lawmakers, including Senator Ashiru Oyetola of Osun State and the Chairman of the House Committee on Power, Hon. Victor Nwokolo.

Hon. Afam Ogene, Chairman of the Reps Committee on Renewable Energy, alongside Hon. Lanre Okunlola and Hon. Ezechi Nnamadi, also noted improvements in power supply while urging the Ministry to engage more with legislators to identify areas requiring further intervention.

Achievements and Plans

In his presentation, Chief Adelabu highlighted key achievements since his appointment, including an increase in electricity generation capacity from 4,100 MW to a peak of 5,270 MW. He attributed this progress to better utilization of existing infrastructure, commissioning of new power plants, and ongoing project completions.

The Minister disclosed that 95% of the pilot phase of the Siemens Presidential Power Initiative has been completed, with the second phase set to commence. This phase involves the construction of five substations across the country, aimed at stabilizing the grid and addressing issues like grid collapses caused by outdated equipment.

Tackling Challenges

Chief Adelabu called for collaborative efforts to address critical issues such as vandalism of power infrastructure, describing it as a major threat to electricity supply. “The damage to transmission lines and towers, such as the Shiroro-Mando-Kaduna line, highlights the need for robust advocacy and enhanced security measures involving the Army, Air Force, Navy, Police, and Civil Defence,” he stated.

The Minister also emphasized the importance of working with the National Security Adviser to combat banditry and cable theft, which have escalated in recent years.

Encouraging Local Procurement

To conserve foreign exchange and reduce procurement delays, the Ministry plans to prioritize local contractors for materials like cables and poles. Chief Adelabu noted that this initiative would not only support local industries but also streamline project execution.

A Call for Support

Addressing the lawmakers, the Minister underscored the urgent need for increased funding. “For the TCN alone, we need ₦2.779 trillion to execute these 149 projects. Our total budget as a Ministry is not even close to this amount. We rely on your cooperation to meet the President’s mandate of stable electricity for Nigerians,” he stated.

Looking Ahead

Chief Adelabu assured lawmakers that the Federal Government is fully committed to addressing the electricity challenges in 2025, with a focus on stabilizing the grid and reducing the frequency of outages. “We are confident that with the Presidential Power Initiative and other ongoing projects, 2025 will be a turning point for Nigeria’s power sector,” he concluded.

NPHCDA Proposes ₦48.14 Billion Budget for 2025

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0


The National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) has unveiled a proposed budget of ₦48.14 billion for the 2025 fiscal year, emphasizing its commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s primary healthcare system. This proposal was presented by the agency’s Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Muyi Aina, during a budget defense session with the House Committee on Healthcare Institutions in Abuja.

Dr. Aina highlighted the agency’s focus on improving health outcomes, particularly in underserved communities, by addressing funding gaps and strengthening healthcare delivery mechanisms. Despite the availability of alternative funding streams such as the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund and Vaccine Immunization Funds, Dr. Aina argued that additional government support is essential to achieving optimal performance.

Reflecting on the 2024 budget, he noted the shortfall in allocation but expressed optimism about securing more substantial funding in 2025. “If approved, this budget will significantly contribute to addressing critical health challenges and advancing primary healthcare services across the country,” Dr. Aina stated.

Other Health Agency Budgets

Similarly, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has proposed a ₦7.38 billion budget for 2025 to strengthen the country’s disease surveillance and outbreak response capabilities.

According to the NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, the funds will bolster preparedness and ensure Nigeria’s capacity to manage ongoing and potential outbreaks. Highlighting the country’s current battle with eight active disease outbreaks, Dr. Idris advocated for a dedicated contingency fund. “Without such a fund, the agency risks scrambling for resources during emergencies,” he warned.

The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) also presented a ₦113 billion budget proposal for its 2025 operations. The Registrar, Dr. Fatima Kyari, revealed that the agency had been excluded from the 2024 budget and relied solely on revenues from doctors’ registration fees. She outlined plans for advocacy to engage more medical professionals while emphasizing the council’s role in alleviating pressure on federal health institutions.

Meanwhile, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has requested ₦130 billion to expand health insurance coverage in 2025. Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, the NHIA Director-General, reported that only 19.4 million Nigerians are currently covered, with 2.5 million benefitting from the Basic Health Care Provision Fund. Dr. Ohiri outlined strategies to boost enrollment through private sector partnerships, telecom collaborations, and digital transformation initiatives.

Legislative Oversight and Recommendations

Chairman of the House Committee on Healthcare Institutions, Hon. Amos Magaji, emphasized the importance of adequate funding for healthcare institutions, linking a functional healthcare system to efforts to curb corruption. He noted that the high cost of accessing quality healthcare remains a significant challenge for Nigerians.

Hon. Magaji commended the various agencies for their detailed presentations and assured them that the committee would carefully review their proposals. “We are committed to ensuring these agencies receive the necessary funding to improve health outcomes for all Nigerians,” he stated.

Nigeria’s Cancer Fight: Progress in Child Cancer Care , Treatment Centers

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The President of the Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) Prof. Abidemi Omonisi has lauded recent strides in cancer treatment and care across the country, highlighting significant improvements in child cancer care and the establishment of new treatment centers.

During a press conference, the President shared exciting developments, including the recent inspection by the World Health Organization (WHO), which recognized Nigeria’s progress in addressing cancer, particularly in the area of child cancer care. “For the first time, Nigeria has been recognized by the WHO in child cancer care, a major achievement for us,” the President said. “This marks a pivotal step forward in our fight against cancer.”

The establishment of a national child cancer facility, the first of its kind in Nigeria, was also highlighted. This facility is seen as a significant development in providing much-needed care to children battling cancer, a disease often neglected in many parts of Africa.

Despite these achievements, the President pointed out the ongoing challenges, especially in the availability of advanced treatment centers. “For many years, Nigerians suffering from cancer had to travel abroad for treatment, often to countries like India and Ghana. This is something that has to change,” the President emphasized. In response to this gap, the federal government has committed to increasing the number of treatment centers across the country. “We now have nearly 20 cancer treatment centers, and the government is committed to opening more,” the President stated.

In addition to the growth of treatment facilities, the President praised the government’s ongoing advocacy for increased resources in cancer research and treatment. The establishment of these centers is a direct result of these advocacy efforts, which have been ongoing for years.

Looking to the future, the President expressed optimism about the continued efforts to combat cancer, both in Nigeria and across the African continent. “We are not just looking at Nigeria. Our advocacy extends to the entire continent, as we strive to provide better cancer care for all,” the President concluded, calling for sustained efforts in research and policy development.

With the collaboration between the Nigerian government, international health bodies, and local organizations, the fight against cancer in Nigeria has gained a renewed focus, with tangible progress that promises to benefit countless individuals in the years ahead.

Nigerian Cancer Society to Launch ₦10 Billion National Cancer Intervention Fund

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) has unveiled plans to establish a National Cancer Intervention Fund aimed at improving cancer treatment, care, and awareness across Nigeria.

Speaking at a seminar and media parley on HPV vaccine uptake in Abuja on Saturday, NCS President, Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, stressed the urgent need for increased funding to tackle the nation’s growing cancer burden.

“The government is committed to addressing cancer in Nigeria, but we need more resources to effectively tackle the disease. This initiative aims to raise at least ₦10 billion to support treatment, research, and awareness programs,” Omonisi said.

Key Objectives of the Fund

The fund, scheduled for an official launch on World Cancer Day, will be an independent initiative supported by leading figures in the medical, philanthropic, and legal sectors. It will focus on:

Enhancing access to affordable cancer treatments.

Supporting research and innovation in cancer care.

Increasing public awareness about cancer prevention and early detection.

Omonisi noted that despite some progress in the fight against cancer, care remains underfunded, leaving many Nigerians without access to critical treatment. He emphasized the NCS’s commitment to mobilizing both public and private sector resources to bridge this gap.

“We are collaborating with international partners to strengthen local cancer care infrastructure so that Nigerians no longer need to seek treatment abroad,” he added.

HPV Vaccine Advocacy

At the seminar, Dr. Uzoma, a consultant to the NCS, highlighted the importance of addressing myths and misconceptions surrounding the HPV vaccine to improve its acceptance in Nigeria.

“HPV is a known precursor to cervical cancer, the second leading cause of cancer worldwide. Advocacy is critical to dispel myths and ensure no girl or daughter is left behind,” Uzoma said.

He urged stakeholders to support the Federal Ministry of Health’s efforts to prevent cervical cancer and ensure widespread vaccine adoption.

Call to Action

The NCS called on prominent Nigerians, organizations, and stakeholders to rally behind the initiative and contribute to the fund.

This initiative is expected to be a game-changer, improving the quality of life for cancer patients and advancing efforts to reduce cancer-related mortality in Nigeria.

FCT-IRS Urges Employers to File 2024 Annual Tax Returns by January 31, 2025

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) has reminded all private companies, Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs) of government, and other employers of labour within the FCT to file their employee annual tax returns for 2024 before the statutory deadline of January 31, 2025.

This directive complies with Section 81 of the Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) 2011 (as amended) and the PAYE Regulations, which require employers to submit detailed annual returns of all emoluments paid to employees and total taxes remitted during the preceding year.

Legal Mandate and Compliance

Speaking during a stakeholder engagement for 2025, the Acting Executive Chairman of FCT-IRS, Mr. Michael Ango, emphasized the importance of adherence to the law, warning that failure to meet the deadline would result in penalties and sanctions.

“The filing of employee annual returns is not optional. It is a mandatory provision of the law, and the FCT-IRS will not hesitate to impose penalties on any defaulters,” Ango stated.

Call for Voluntary Compliance

In a statement signed by the Head of Corporate Communications, Mr. Mustapha Sumaila, the FCT-IRS highlighted voluntary compliance as the best approach. Employers, including private organizations, MDAs, government-owned enterprises, and sole proprietorships, were urged to prioritize filing their returns.

Ango noted that timely compliance not only avoids sanctions but also contributes significantly to the development of the FCT. He applauded the ongoing transformative efforts of the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, towards making the capital city more modern and efficient.

“Complying with tax obligations is about more than avoiding penalties; it’s about playing an active role in supporting the Honourable Minister’s vision of making the FCT a truly modern city,” he added.

Deadline and Enforcement

Employers are urged to use the prescribed forms provided by the FCT-IRS and submit their returns promptly to avoid disruptions. The agency has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the January 31, 2025 deadline, ensuring accountability and transparency in tax administration.

With this reminder, the FCT-IRS calls on all stakeholders to prioritize their legal obligations, reinforcing the collective drive toward a more developed and sustainable Federal Capital Territory.

FCT Pilgrims Board Sets January 30 Deadline for 2025 Hajj Registration

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced January 30, 2025, as the final deadline for intending pilgrims to register for this year’s Hajj.

In a statement by the Board’s spokesperson, Mohammed Lawal Aliyu, the new deadline aligns with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON)’s directive requiring state Pilgrims Welfare Boards and Agencies to remit all collections by February 1.

High Demand for Slots

The Board disclosed that over 40% of its Hajj allocation has already been utilized since registration commenced in September 2024. Intending pilgrims are urged to seize this opportunity to make the required deposit and secure their slots.

Registration Details

Prospective pilgrims must deposit a minimum of ₦8,400,000.00 via bank draft payable to the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Abuja. Registration can be completed at the Board’s offices across the six area councils or at the head office in the Central Business District, Abuja.

Aliyu stressed that the registration process operates on a first-come, first-served basis to ensure fairness. Those who made deposits in previous years but were unable to participate are advised to top up their payments to meet the minimum deposit requirement before the deadline.

Enhanced Services for Pilgrims

The Board assured registered pilgrims of improved services during the 2025 Hajj through newly introduced strategies aimed at enhancing the experience. “We are committed to delivering outstanding services in Hajj operations,” Aliyu said.

Final Call for Registration

This announcement serves as a last call for residents of the FCT intending to embark on the spiritual journey to complete their registration promptly to avoid missing out.

The Board reiterated its commitment to facilitating a seamless and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience for all registered pilgrims.

Wike Revolutionizes Land Administration with Record 5,481 Certificates of Occupancy Signed in One Year

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ushered in a new era of efficiency in land administration, signing an unprecedented 5,481 Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-Os) within his first year in office. This achievement marks a significant departure from the inefficiencies of the past and sets a new benchmark for governance in the nation’s capital.

According to Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media to the FCT Minister, this figure represents a massive improvement compared to the 13 years from 2010 to 2023, during which only 13,150 C-of-Os were signed.

“The moment necessary payments are made, land allottees can now get their C-of-O within two weeks,” Olayinka stated. He attributed this efficiency to Wike’s commitment to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes improved service delivery across all sectors.

A Historical Comparison

Olayinka provided a breakdown of previous years’ performance:

2010–2015: 5,655 C-of-Os signed

2015–2019: 1,174 C-of-Os signed

2019–2023: 1,571 C-of-Os signed

2023–2024 (under Wike): 5,481 C-of-Os signed

This remarkable output in just one year surpasses the combined achievements of several years, reflecting a decisive shift toward transparency, accountability, and prompt service delivery.

Faster Processes, Transparent Governance

Under Wike’s leadership, the FCT Administration has drastically reduced the time required for uploading and verifying land information. What previously took months is now completed within 72 hours.

To further enhance transparency and accessibility, the administration is set to implement an auto-generated SMS notification system. This innovation will promptly inform land allottees when their C-of-Os are ready for collection, addressing a long-standing issue where many were unaware of their document status.

“Delays in issuing C-of-Os previously discouraged land allottees from completing necessary payments. Now, with this transformation, they are assured of timely service, boosting confidence in the system and encouraging compliance,” Olayinka explained.

A New Standard for Land Administration

Wike’s reforms signify more than just numbers—they reflect a commitment to building trust and efficiency within the FCT’s land administration system. By cutting bureaucracy and ensuring faster service delivery, the minister has created a model of governance that aligns with the aspirations of residents and investors alike.

This transformation in land administration underscores Wike’s dedication to redefining public service, ensuring that the FCT remains a beacon of accountability and development in Nigeria.

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