The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed the purported suspension of the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, declaring it null, void, and of no effect.
In a statement issued by the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the party emphasized that the Abia State Working Committee lacked the constitutional authority to suspend Wabara, as such actions must be approved by the NWC.
> “No State Working Committee has the power to suspend or take any disciplinary action against a member of the National Executive Committee (NEC) without due recourse to the NWC, as clearly provided under Section 57 (7) of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017),” Ologunagba stated.
Quoting Section 57 (7) of the PDP Constitution, he noted that:
> “Notwithstanding any other provision relating to discipline, no Executive Committee at any level, except the National Executive Committee, shall entertain any question of discipline as may relate or concern a member of the National Executive Committee, Deputy Governors, or members of the National Assembly…”
PDP Warns Against Unconstitutional Actions
The PDP NWC condemned the alleged suspension of Senator Wabara as reckless and unconstitutional, warning those responsible to retrace their steps.
> “The Abia State Chapter has no powers whatsoever to take any disciplinary action against the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Senator Adolphus Wabara, being a member of the National Executive Committee of the Party,” Ologunagba reiterated.
The party further cautioned individuals acting against the PDP Constitution, stating that disciplinary measures would be taken to uphold the stability of the party
In a major boost to Nigeria’s mining sector, the Federal Government has commissioned the country’s first Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS) Laboratory at the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) Headquarters in Abuja.
The state-of-the-art facility is set to revolutionize mineral exploration, environmental monitoring, forensic investigations, and clinical research by providing high-precision geoscience data.
Commissioning the laboratory on Tuesday in Abuja, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe, described the development as a milestone in the government’s efforts to attract investors, enhance exploration activities, and strengthen Nigeria’s mining sector.
“The mining sector roadmap has identified critical gaps that must be filled to achieve the desired growth. One of these is the need for reliable geoscience data to enable investors to develop projects and support small-scale miners in growing into large-scale entrepreneurs,” Dr. Alake stated.
Game-Changer for Nigeria’s Mineral Sector
The ICP-MS Laboratory is a high-tech analytical facility capable of detecting trace elements at extremely low concentrations, making it essential for accurate mineral exploration and environmental assessments.
Dr. Alake noted that the facility aligns with the Federal Government’s economic diversification agenda, as it will significantly reduce capital flight by providing local access to world-class mineral analysis—eliminating the need to send samples abroad.
> “This facility will not only enhance investor confidence but also create value addition along Nigeria’s mineral value chain. It will serve stakeholders in material science, defense, environmental studies, and food analysis,” he added.
The new laboratory complements other government initiatives, including the electronic Mineral Resources Decision Support System (NMRDSS), which enables real-time analysis of mineral deposits and surrounding infrastructure.
Economic and Environmental Impact
The ICP-MS Laboratory is expected to save Nigeria billions of naira annually and create employment opportunities by encouraging investment in mineral exploration and research.
Dr. Alake also reiterated the government’s commitment to formalizing artisanal miners into cooperatives and equipping them with modern mining techniques, ensuring responsible mining practices while boosting job creation and revenue generation.
> “We are committed to formalizing artisanal miners into cooperatives and equipping them with modern mining techniques. This will ensure responsible mining practices while generating more jobs and boosting revenue for the nation,” he said.
The Minister urged researchers, mining firms, and government agencies to maximize the benefits of the facility by utilizing its services. Plans are also in place to secure ISO accreditation, further enhancing the credibility and acceptance of the laboratory’s results on the international stage.
NGSA DG: Nigeria Poised for Global Recognition
Speaking at the event, the Director-General of NGSA, Professor Olusegun O. Ige, emphasized the significance of the new laboratory in advancing geoscience research and supporting the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
> “The commissioning of this facility represents a significant leap in our efforts to generate high-quality geoscience data that will drive investment and economic growth. It will ensure that Nigeria has a world-class mineral analysis center, reducing dependence on foreign laboratories,” he said.
Professor Ige highlighted that the Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS acquired for NGSA can detect elements in concentrations as low as parts per billion (ppb), making it an invaluable tool for mineral analysis, resource assessment, and environmental protection.
> “With this facility, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s mining sector. We are also working towards obtaining ISO certification for all NGSA laboratories, ensuring our data meets global standards,” he added.
Boosting Investor Confidence and Sustainable Mining
The commissioning of the ICP-MS Laboratory marks another step in the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity, boosting investor confidence, and promoting sustainable mining practices.
Stakeholders at the event applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its renewed focus on economic diversification through solid minerals development.
With the new laboratory now fully operational, Nigeria is strategically positioned to maximize its vast mineral resources, drive industrializat
ion, and attract global investors into the mining sector.
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating cervical cancer by 2030, aligning with the World Health Organization (WHO) target and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of eradicating preventable cancers in Nigeria.
This commitment was reiterated by the Minister of State for Health & Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, while receiving the Task Force on Elimination of Cervical Cancer, led by former Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, in Abuja.
“The formation of this Task Force in 2024 demonstrates the government’s unwavering commitment to tackling cervical cancer and ensuring its elimination. This aligns with Mr. President’s vision of achieving universal health coverage for all Nigerians,” Dr. Salako stated.
Prevention as a Cost-Effective Strategy
Dr. Salako emphasized that prevention remains the most effective approach to combating cervical cancer, especially given Nigeria’s weak health infrastructure and limited funding in the sector.
“Preventive approaches to cervical cancer and other diseases are the best in our current health system. Prevention is not only cheaper but also much more effective than cure. Eliminating cervical cancer means prioritizing prevention at both primary and secondary levels,” he explained.
To ensure widespread access to preventive healthcare, the Minister charged the Task Force to intensify screening and immunization efforts at the grassroots. He stressed the need for mass awareness campaigns to encourage early detection and vaccination.
Strengthening Collaboration with NICRAT
Dr. Salako expressed optimism about the collaboration between the Task Force and the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT). He noted that this partnership would play a critical role in advancing the fight against cervical cancer and reinforcing the sector-wide approach (SWAp) strategy initiated by the Ministry.
On funding, the Minister assured that the 2025 budget would accommodate some of the Task Force’s activities, ensuring the successful implementation of its recommendations.
Task Force Presents First-Quarter Report
Presenting the first-quarter report, Prof. Isaac Adewole revealed that the Task Force comprises sixteen eminent Nigerians who are passionate and committed to the global agenda of eliminating cervical cancer by 2030.
He highlighted key activities carried out between October and December 2024, emphasizing the importance of collaborating with NICRAT to enhance its functionality and fulfill its mandate.
“With the right support, Nigeria can fully integrate into the global movement to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030,” Prof. Adewole affirmed.
The report presentation was witnessed by the National Coordinator of the National Cervical Cancer Programme, Dr. Uchechukwu Nwokwu, alongside Dr. Abisola Adegoke, representing Dr. Salahudeen Jimoh, Director of Hospital Services, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
Public Awareness and Early Detection Key to Success
As the government accelerates efforts to eliminate cervical cancer, stakeholders emphasize that public awareness, early detection, and sustained immunization campaigns will be critical to achieving this ambitious target.
In a decisive move to bolster security in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has directed the formation of a high-powered security committee to address concerns over the influx of Almajiri and other individuals into the capital.
Speaking after an expanded security meeting with the Minister and Area Council Chairmen on Tuesday in Abuja, the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, disclosed that the committee comprises security agencies including the Nigerian Police, Army, DSS, and NSCDC. The primary focus will be profiling individuals entering the FCT and assessing informal learning centers where Almajiri children are being brought to study.
> “A lot of issues regarding security were discussed, but we mainly focused on the influx of people into the FCT, especially the Almajiri. The Minister has directed us to set up a committee, and we are expected to submit our findings in two weeks,” CP Disu stated.
Security Agencies Intensify Surveillance, Arrest Five Suspects
In response to recent security concerns, security agencies have intensified clearance operations and arrested individuals deemed to pose security risks.
> “We enjoin all residents of the FCT to be security conscious and take note of any new persons coming into their areas. Recently, some arrests have been made of persons who are security risks. If you see anything suspicious, quickly inform the security authorities,” CP Disu warned.
When asked about the recent arrests, the Police Commissioner confirmed that five individuals had been apprehended within the FCT, with investigations still ongoing.
> “We are working on them at the intelligence level and will provide updates as soon as investigations are concluded,” he added.
Committee to Profile Informal Schools and Learning Centers
One of the key mandates of the newly formed security committee is to work with Area Council Chairmen to identify and profile informal schools where Almajiri and other individuals are being brought to learn.
> “The committee will identify these schools, profile those organizing them, collect their full details, and assess the content of the training being provided. This will help the government determine appropriate measures to regulate these centers and ensure they align with national security interests,” CP Disu explained.
Authorities Assure Residents: No Immediate Threat
Despite the heightened security measures, authorities have assured residents that there is no immediate cause for alarm.
> “There is nothing to be worried about. The town is calm. We are being proactive rather than reactive. Our focus is on staying ahead of any potential security threats,” CP Disu reassured.
As the security committee begins its work, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and st
In a major effort to address Nigeria’s employment deficit, the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) has partnered with US-based SBTS Group to create at least 50,000 direct and indirect jobs for Nigerians while equipping over five million youths with critical ICT skills.
The initiative, set to launch in February 2025, aims to close the digital skills gap by providing advanced training in digital literacy, coding, and other high-demand skills, ensuring Nigerian youths can compete in the global job market.
Bridging the Digital Skills Gap
Speaking on the partnership, Daser David, President/CEO of DBI, explained that despite Nigeria’s expanding digital economy, sectors like financial services, healthcare, entertainment, transportation, and ICT continue to struggle with a shortage of qualified digital professionals.
> “This collaboration is a direct effort to bridge this gap by equipping young Nigerians with the essential skills needed for today’s digital workforce,” David stated.
The initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (2020-2030) and the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative led by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, under Minister Dr. Bosun Tijani.
David projected that by 2030, over five million Nigerian youths will have received advanced ICT training, with 50,000 jobs created in the short term.
Empowering Youth for a Digital Future
Highlighting the importance of the initiative, David emphasized that Nigerian youth hold the key to the country’s economic transformation.
> “To transition from an agriculture-dependent economy to a thriving digital landscape, targeted IT upskilling is crucial. This initiative provides after-school programs in digital literacy and vocational training for underserved youth, preparing them for a tech-driven job market and driving inclusive economic growth,” he added.
Each DBI campus will host a Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) center, offering thousands of job opportunities in both local and remote digital work, further integrating Nigeria into the global digital economy.
SBTS Group’s Commitment to Youth Development
Evelyn Lewis, CEO of SBTS Group, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to empowering Nigerian youths and countering the narrative of hopelessness surrounding unemployment.
> “Despite the negativity often portrayed, Nigeria is brimming with opportunities for young people. We are thrilled to collaborate with DBI in supporting the government’s agenda to train and equip unemployed youth with digital skills and comprehensive ICT knowledge, empowering them for a brighter future,” Lewis said.
This partnership underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to fostering decent, productive, and freely chosen employment opportunities, in line with President Bola
The Federal Government has commenced the appointment process for new Permanent Secretaries and the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), emphasizing a transparent, merit-based, and rigorous selection process.
A statement issued by Mrs. Eno Olotu, Director of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), confirmed that two Permanent Secretary positions are vacant due to the recent retirement of the Oyo State representative and an impending vacancy in the North-West Geopolitical Zone.
Additionally, the position of Accountant-General of the Federation will become vacant in March 2025 upon the retirement of the current officeholder.
The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, stated that the selection process will be structured, multi-tiered, and in line with President Bola Tinubu’s approval to ensure only credible, competent, and ethical individuals are appointed.
Eligibility Criteria and Screening Process
According to the statement, the process is open to all serving Grade Level 17 officers in the mainstream Federal Civil Service who have held their current position for at least two years and have expressed interest in participating.
Applicants must:
Be screened and confirmed by their respective Permanent Secretaries and the AGF to ensure they are not under any disciplinary procedures.
Undergo a verification screening conducted by a Committee of Permanent Secretaries, with oversight from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Department of State Services (DSS).
Declare their assets with the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB).
Obtain anti-corruption clearance from the DSS, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and ICPC.
Examinations and Competency Tests
Candidates will be required to take a Written Examination administered by a top Federal Government security agency. The examination questions will be set and marked by a panel of serving and retired Permanent Secretaries, with oversight from representatives of:
Civil Society Organizations
The Organized Private Sector
Professional Associations
The DSS and ICPC
Additionally, candidates will undergo an ICT proficiency test covering Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Final Selection and Presidential Approval
Candidates who pass the written and ICT tests will proceed to an Oral Interview, to be conducted by a panel consisting of:
Serving and retired Permanent Secretaries
Retired Heads of Civil Service of the Federation/retired AGFs
Representatives from the private sector and professional bodies
Observers from ICPC and DSS
The final appointment will be made by President Bola Tinubu, who will select the best-performing candidates based on their overall performance throughout the selection process.
Commitment to Good Governance and Professionalism
Mrs. Walson-Jack emphasized that the appointment process reflects the government’s dedication to meritocracy, good governance, and professionalism in the Public Service.
“This process is designed to ensure that only the most qualified individuals assume these leadership positions. The Federal Government remains committed to strengthening institutional capacity, improving service delivery, and promoting national development thr
ough transparent and merit-based recruitment,” she stated.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), through the Child Nutrition Fund (CNF), has supplied three million bottles of Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) to enhance maternal health in Nigeria. An additional three million bottles are expected in 2025 to support more pregnant women.
With 12 million pregnancies annually, Nigeria faces severe maternal health challenges, including one of the world’s highest maternal mortality rates at 1,047 deaths per 100,000 live births. Many newborns also suffer from low birth weight or premature delivery, increasing the risk of infant mortality.
Findings from the National Food Consumption and Micronutrient Survey (2024) indicate widespread deficiencies in iron, zinc, vitamin A, and folate among Nigerian pregnant women, significantly impacting maternal health and birth outcomes.
The first batch of MMS, donated by Kirk Humanitarian Foundation, was distributed during the 2024 Maternal Newborn and Child Health Week (MNCHW). The 2025 batch, also provided by Kirk Humanitarian, aims to broaden coverage and ensure more pregnant women receive essential nutrients.
UNICEF Nigeria Representative, Cristian Munduate, emphasized the critical role of maternal nutrition in reducing maternal mortality and improving child health.
“Ensuring pregnant women receive the necessary micronutrients is a vital step in reducing maternal mortality and improving child health. This donation supports Nigeria’s efforts to prioritize maternal health.”
Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing maternal nutrition challenges through the inclusion of MMS in the Essential Medicines List and investments in local production.
To ensure widespread MMS availability, Federal and State Governments are encouraged to invest in procurement through the Child Nutrition Fund’s 1:1 match funding mechanism.
“Nigeria is taking decisive steps to ensure sustainable access to MMS for all pregnant women. Expanding this initiative will significantly improve maternal and child health outcomes,” Pate stated.
Spencer Kirk, Founder of Kirk Humanitarian, reaffirmed his organization’s dedication to scaling up MMS availability in Nigeria.
“Providing MMS at scale is one of the most impactful ways to support healthy pregnancies and ensure better outcomes for mothers and babies,” Kirk said.
Nigeria is among the first countries to include MMS in its Essential Medicines List and invest in local manufacturing, ensuring long-term accessibility.
The Child Nutrition Fund, managed by UNICEF, is supported by global partners, including the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office, the Gates Foundation, and Kirk Humanitarian.
This initiative aims to establish a sustainable financing model, ensuring more pregnant women receive essential micronutrients for healthier pregnancies and improved birth outcomes.
The Federal Government has directed the National Universities Commission (NUC) to increase the application fee for establishing private universities from N6 million to N30 million.
The directive, issued by Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, was communicated through a memo from the Executive Secretary of the NUC, Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, on Monday.
In addition to the fee hike, the NUC has suspended fresh applications for new private universities, including private open universities, for one year.
Breakdown of the New Fees
According to Prof. Ribadu, the purchase of application forms has been increased from N1 million to N5 million, while the processing fee has been raised from N5 million to N25 million.
> “The NUC will convey the reviewed processing fee of N25 million to applicants who have already purchased application forms. They must effect payment within 30 working days or risk forfeiture of their pending applications,” Ribadu stated.
Suspension of Inactive Applications
The one-year moratorium affects applicants who have not made progress or submitted updates for over two years.
The suspension specifically applies to:
Inactive applications for new private universities, pending a comprehensive review to determine their viability.
Applications that are still at Step 1 of the 14-Step Procedure (i.e., those that have submitted only a Letter of Intent).
New applications for private universities, including private open universities.
Reason for the Changes
The NUC said the decision aligns with the Education, National Minimum Standards and Establishment of Institutions Act, CAP E3, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, which empowers the commission to regulate university establishment.
The review aims to ensure that new private universities meet global educational standards and 21st-century challenges.
> “This move is part of efforts to reposition private universities in Nigeria and strengthen the regulation of the private university education sub-sector,” Ribadu said.
Future Developments
The NUC is also reviewing other aspects of the guidelines for establishing private universities.
> “Details of the review will be communicated to stakeholders in due course. However, the Commission will continue processing active pending applications and make appropriate recommendations to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval,” Ribadu added.
This new directive marks a significant shift in private university licensing, tightening regulations while increasing fina
The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed an appeal by Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, seeking to remove 27 members of the State House of Assembly over their alleged defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Court of Appeal had earlier dismissed Fubara’s appeal on October 10, 2024, affirming a lower court ruling. Similarly, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, had on January 22, 2024, nullified the passage of Rivers State’s ₦800 billion 2024 budget by just four lawmakers led by Hon. Ehie Edison, describing it as an “aberration and illegality.”
Delivering the ruling, Justice Musa Uwani-Aba-Aji of the Supreme Court dismissed the appeal after Governor Fubara, through his lead counsel, Yusuf Ali (SAN), formally withdrew the suit.
Fubara, in his notice of withdrawal, told the three-member panel of Justices that “events have overtaken the suit and that the lawmakers are now their friends.”
The Rivers State House of Assembly and its Speaker, Martin Amaewhule, represented by Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), did not oppose the withdrawal. However, Olanipekun urged the court to dismiss the case outright, arguing that parties had already filed and exchanged briefs of arguments, making dismissal the appropriate order.
The Supreme Court agreed and dismissed the case accordingly.
The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has ratified the expulsion of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Buba Galadima, and the entire Kwankwassiya faction, while electing Dr. Agbo Major as its new National Chairman at the party’s National Convention held in Lagos on February 4, 2025.
Speaking at a post-convention press briefing on Saturday at the NNPP National Headquarters in Abuja, Dr. Agbo Major reaffirmed the party’s compliance with the Abia High Court ruling of November 1, 2024, which directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognize the Board of Trustees (BOT) led by Dr. Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam, pending the resolution of internal disputes.
“Following this judgment, all party congresses were conducted at the ward, local government, state, and zonal levels, culminating in the National Convention,” Dr. Major stated.
Key Decisions from the NNPP Convention
Ratification of Congresses: The convention confirmed all congresses from ward to zonal levels.
Expulsion of Kwankwaso & Kwankwassiya Faction: The party officially cut ties with the Kwankwassiya movement, citing the expiration of the 2022 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that brought them into the NNPP.
Election of New Leadership: Dr. Agbo Major was elected National Chairman, alongside a new National Working Committee (NWC).
Rejection of the New Party Logo: The convention approved a return to the original NNPP logo—a basket of fruits on the Nigerian map.
Financial Review: The party assessed its finances to strengthen internal structures.
Party Leadership Dismisses Kwankwassiya’s Influence
Dr. Major accused Senator Kwankwaso’s loyalists of trying to destabilize the party despite their formal expulsion.
“We will not be distracted by unemployed characters masquerading as NNPP members, spewing falsehoods in the media. The courts have ruled, and they must peacefully exit our party instead of causing chaos,” he declared.
He further dismissed Dr. Ahmed Ajuji’s claims regarding court rulings, stating that legal decisions had already confirmed the Kwankwassiya faction’s removal from the NNPP.
Calls for INEC’s Recognition & 2027 Elections Focus
Dr. Major expressed confidence that INEC would soon update its records to reflect the leadership changes, in line with the Abia High Court directive.
“We urge INEC to uphold the rule of law and formally recognize our leadership. NNPP is focused on preparing for 2027 and consolidating the party’s progress,” he affirmed.
He also called on the press and the public to disregard distractions from expelled members, emphasizing that the NNPP remains united and co
