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Niger State Mining Explosion: Alake Orders Probe, Promises Justice

Toyin Adebayo
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Niger State Mining Explosion: Alake Orders Probe, Promises Justice

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has taken swift action in response to a tragic explosion at a mining site in Sabon Pegi, Mashegun Local Government Area, Niger State. Officials from the Federal Mines Office in the state have been deployed to the site to conduct an on-the-spot assessment.

The explosion, which occurred early Sunday morning, has been linked to the illegal stockpiling of explosives by Yushua Maikampala, a resident of New Bussa. Preliminary findings suggest that the explosives, stored in a residential building, were ignited by an electrical spark at around 7:00 AM. The blast resulted in the destruction of the building, significant damage to approximately 20 other houses, and at least two confirmed fatalities.

In a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Segun Tomori, Dr. Alake described the incident as “avoidable” and expressed his condolences to the affected families. He attributed the tragedy to negligence in the handling and unauthorized storage of explosives, vowing to ensure accountability.

Minister’s Directives and Government Actions

The Minister has instructed the Mines Inspectorate Department to conduct a forensic analysis of soil samples from the site to trace the origin of the explosives. He emphasized that this would inform subsequent actions.

“Security agencies have been put on the trail of the suspected culprit. He will be apprehended to face justice,” Dr. Alake stated.

He reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to enforcing stringent environmental and safety standards in the mining sector to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Eyewitness Accounts and Community Impact

Residents of Sabon Pegi described the explosion as devastating, with the aftermath leaving the community in shock. The blast site and surrounding area have been marked by widespread destruction, with debris scattered across the neighborhood.

The federal government has reiterated the importance of adhering to safety regulations, particularly concerning the handling of explosives, to avoid further loss of lives and property.

Ongoing Investigations

As investigations continue, the government has vowed to hold all responsible parties accountable. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the need for stricter enforcement of safety protocols in the mining and explosives sectors.

Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Eliminating NTDs by 2030

Toyin Adebayo
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Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Eliminating NTDs by 2030

Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to eradicating Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) by 2030, with the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Kunle Salako, calling for stronger partnerships to achieve universal health coverage.

Speaking at the 2025 World NTD Day commemoration in Abuja, Dr. Salako revealed that over 200 million Nigerians are at risk of one NTD or another, with 165 million requiring preventive chemotherapy.

“NTDs continue to affect the most vulnerable, particularly women and children, due to poverty, poor sanitation, and unsafe water supply,” Dr. Salako stated. He highlighted Nigeria’s achievements, including the eradication of Guinea Worm in 2013 and the elimination of Onchocerciasis in Plateau and Nasarawa States.

The theme of this year’s campaign, “Unite, Act, and Eliminate NTDs,” underscores the urgency of innovative and sustainable financing to achieve the 2030 targets. Dr. Salako pointed to the 2023–2027 NTD Master Plan as a comprehensive framework for advocacy and stakeholder engagement.

“The 2021–2030 WHO NTD Roadmap provides ambitious targets and innovative approaches. Nigeria is fully committed to implementing it, with a focus on accountability, multi-sectoral integration, and political will to ensure sustainability,” he added.

Dr. Salako further noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Unlock Healthcare Value Chain” initiative aims to address pharmaceutical shortages and boost local manufacturing, which would significantly enhance the fight against NTDs.

Progress and Partnerships

Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Mrs. Kachollom Daju, represented by the National NTD Coordinator, Mr. Fatai Oyediran, highlighted progress in reducing the disease burden through collaborative efforts. She emphasized the need for sustained commitment to creating a healthier and disease-free environment.

“While some diseases have been eradicated, others still affect low-income communities, impacting their health and economic stability. Efforts by stakeholders have yielded significant results in reducing disease prevalence across many states,” she said.

The Director of Helen Keller International, Mr. Aliyu Mohammed, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to eliminate leprosy and other NTDs. “We are stretching our collaboration to ensure the complete eradication of leprosy and other NTDs as part of the broader fight against poverty,” he stated.

UNICEF Consultant Hilary Adie stressed the importance of clean water and sanitation in combating hygiene-related diseases. “We thank the Nigerian government for initiatives like the Clean Nigeria Campaign, which aims to make communities open-defecation-free,” Adie noted.

Similarly, CBM Global Country Director, Abdulazeez Musa, emphasized the need for sustainable funding and equitable healthcare. “To act now is essential, as delays result in lost lives, diminished livelihoods, and prolonged suffering,” he said.

Challenges and Advocacy

Despite progress, challenges remain. The National President of IDEA Nigeria, Mr. Peter Iorkighir, condemned the prolonged shortage of Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT) medications for leprosy treatment. “Leprosy is curable, yet thousands remain untreated due to bureaucratic delays. This is a human rights violation,” he said.

The commemoration concluded with a call to action for governments, development partners, and stakeholders to unite in addressing the NTD burden and ensuring no one is left behind.

Nigeria Solid Minerals Corporation to Revolutionize Mining Sector – Alake

Toyin Adebayo
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Nigeria Solid Minerals Corporation to Revolutionize Mining Sector – Alake

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has announced that the Nigeria Solid Minerals Corporation is set to transform the mining sector, fostering sustainable development and shielding it from political interference.

Speaking on Monday during a meeting with the British Deputy High Commissioner, HE Jonny Baxter, in Abuja, Alake revealed that the corporation will be modeled after the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) framework. He emphasized that the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) will lead the corporation’s establishment, with an equity structure allocating 50% to private investors, 25% to Nigerians, and 25% to the Federal Government.

“This corporation will serve as an enduring legacy. With the President’s approval, it ensures that no future government can interfere politically with its operations,” Alake stated.

Plans for 2025 and Beyond

The Minister highlighted plans to develop intermodal transport systems, including roads, railways, and waterways, to improve access to mining sites. Additional initiatives include remediating abandoned pits, strengthening regulations, ensuring investor security, and expanding exploration efforts to produce comprehensive geo-data that will attract global mining investors.

UK Partnership

Dr. Alake welcomed the UK’s support in providing capacity building, technical assistance, and knowledge transfer to bolster Nigeria’s mining value chain. He also encouraged British investors to explore opportunities in the growing sector.

In response, Ambassador Baxter praised the Federal Government for adopting the NLNG model and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s mining sector through regulatory improvements and increased investment.

Economic Reforms Underway

Dr. Alake described 2025 as a pivotal year for the Tinubu administration, emphasizing that the government’s ongoing reforms are already yielding positive economic results. “Prosperity is on the horizon, and we are encouraged by the progress being made,” he added.

This initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to diversifying the economy and making the mining sector a significant contributor to Nigeria’s economic growth.

NEITI Partners EFCC to Recover $6bn, N66bn from Oil Sector

Shehu Danladi
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NEITI Partners EFCC to Recover $6bn, N66bn from Oil Sector

The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has announced a collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to recover $6 billion and N66 billion from oil industry players, funds owed to the Federal Government.

NEITI’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, disclosed this during a budget defense session before the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream) in Abuja. He emphasized that the partnership aims to address financial irregularities in the oil sector and ensure transparency and accountability in extractive industries.

“This initiative is vital to the economic stability of the nation. These recoveries will significantly boost government revenues and reaffirm our commitment to transparency in the sector,” Orji stated.

2025 Budget Scrutiny

Despite its crucial role, NEITI is grappling with budgetary constraints. For 2025, the agency was allocated N6.5 billion: N2.22 billion for personnel costs, N1.72 billion for overheads, and N2.58 billion for capital expenditures.

However, lawmakers raised concerns about the agency’s proposed budget, including a controversial N32 million allocation for meals. Kafilat Ogbara, representing Kosofe Federal Constituency, questioned the justification for such an expense amid Nigeria’s economic challenges.

“There is no justification for spending this amount on meals when Nigerians are struggling economically,” Ogbara said. She urged all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to ensure their budgets align with essential needs.

Committee’s Position

Chairman of the committee, Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, criticized the inclusion of certain items in NEITI’s budget, such as welfare packages for the National Assembly, calling them “excessive and insensitive.”

Doguwa assured that while the committee supports NEITI’s mandate, all expenditures must be justified. “Our priority is to ensure public resources are spent prudently. Proposals deemed unnecessary will not pass unchallenged,” he added.

Reforms and National Interest

NEITI plans to implement several reforms in 2025, including publishing comprehensive reports on the oil, gas, and mining sectors, auditing fiscal allocations, and researching petroleum consumption. These measures aim to enhance transparency, attract investment, and promote accountability within Nigeria’s extractive industries.

The collaboration between NEITI and the EFCC is expected to strengthen the fight against corruption in the oil sector and ensure that funds due to the government are recovered for the nation’s development.

Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji Wins Prestigious Award for Transforming Africa’s Mining Host Communities

Toyin Adebayo
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Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji Wins Prestigious Award for Transforming Africa’s Mining Host Communities

Renowned sustainability advocate, Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, has been awarded the “Peace and Development in Mining Host Communities” Award by the Northern Youth Peace Ambassadors (NYPA).

The award recognizes her tireless efforts in creating sustainable solutions and empowering mining host communities across Africa, placing her among a distinguished group of honorees, including Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General C.G. Musa, and other notable leaders.

Dr. Asokoro-Ogaji, Group Managing Director of Richflood Group, has led transformative projects that improve the livelihoods of mining communities while ensuring environmental sustainability.

With support from global development banks like the African Development Bank (AfDB) and International Finance Corporation (IFC), her initiatives have shaped over 350 investment projects in mining, agriculture, power, and manufacturing.

Her leadership of Women in Mining Africa (WiM-Africa) has also championed gender equality and better mining practices, including programs like “Voices of Children from the Pits”, which remove children from hazardous mines.

“This award is a testament to our collective commitment to empowering mining host communities across Africa,” Dr. Asokoro-Ogaji said.

As she continues her mission through WiM-Africa, the organization remains a beacon for responsible mining and inclusive leadership, advocating for sustainable development one mining community at a time.

Buhari Reveals Rental Income as Main Source of Livelihood

Toyin Adebayo
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Buhari Reveals Rental Income as Main Source of Livelihood

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has disclosed that he now relies on rental income from one of his two properties in Kaduna State for his daily sustenance. This revelation was made during an All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus meeting held on January 25 at the Presidential Banquet Hall in Katsina State’s Government House.

Speaking in Hausa, Buhari detailed his financial situation, explaining that he owns three houses: one in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, and two in Kaduna State. He highlighted that one of the Kaduna properties has been rented out, providing him with the income necessary to meet his living expenses.

Buhari’s statement underscores the need for transparency in governance and has sparked discussions on the financial management of public officeholders after leaving power.

Despite Decline, Nigeria Still Detects 1,000+ New Leprosy Cases Annually

Toyin Adebayo
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Despite Decline, Nigeria Still Detects 1,000+ New Leprosy Cases Annually

Nigeria remains one of the countries detecting over 1,000 new leprosy cases annually, according to recent data presented by the Focal Person, National Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme, Munirah Abdulahi.

She made this known during her presentation at a townhall meeting to commemorate 2025 World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTFS) Day on Monday in Abuja.

Statistics spanning 2011 to 2023 indicate fluctuating trends, with a noticeable decline in cases but persistent detections.

The data reveals that in 2011, Nigeria recorded 3,623 new cases of leprosy, which peaked in 2012 at 3,805 cases. Since then, there has been a gradual reduction, dropping to 1,541 cases in 2020. However, the figures show a slight resurgence, with 2,425 new cases detected in 2023.

The chart highlights the challenges in achieving complete eradication, despite global and national efforts to combat the disease. Experts warn that leprosy remains a public health concern, particularly in underserved communities where awareness, access to healthcare, and early detection remain limited.

As part of efforts to address the issue, health authorities continue to advocate for sustained funding, community outreach, and integration of leprosy control measures into primary healthcare systems.

The report serves as a call to action for stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and intensify interventions to prevent new infections and support affected individuals.

Speaking on some of the challenges facing the fight against leprosy and Buruli ulcer in Nigeria, Abdulahi hinted that persistent stock-outs of Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT) drugs, which are essential for treating leprosy. The non-supply and frequent shortages discourage field officers and adversely impact program performance, further complicating disease control efforts.

She also expressed waning interest in leprosy and Buruli ulcer interventions due to operational and funding challenges. The lack of motivation among field workers raises concerns about the sustainability of ongoing campaigns.

Additionally, the absence of a dedicated WHO National Program Officer (NPO) for NTDs, including leprosy and Buruli ulcer, has complicated program coordination. Experts believe that appointing a dedicated officer could significantly enhance strategic planning and execution.

A critical impediment to progress remains inadequate funding. Limited budget allocation for leprosy and Buruli ulcer activities continues to hinder efforts, leaving affected communities without essential support.

Abdulahi hinted that , the challenges call for urgent attention from stakeholders to ensure sustained progress in the fight against leprosy and other NTDs. Enhanced funding, supply chain management, and improved program coordination are necessary to overcome these hurdles and bring much-needed relief to affected individuals.

Abdulahi while speaking on the way forward notes that, the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme has unveiled a comprehensive roadmap to tackle leprosy and Buruli ulcer in Nigeria. The strategy, presented during a recent stakeholders’ meeting, emphasizes strengthening program implementation, advocacy, resource mobilization, and capacity building.

According to her, Program Implementation:
The plan prioritizes expanding active case-finding efforts through community-based interventions. It also emphasizes enhancing community awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and improve case detection; Advocacy and Engagement:
The program aims to organize a National Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Partners Engagement Meeting. This meeting will foster alignment between stakeholders and resource mobilization efforts; Resource Mobilization:
Strategies to ensure sustainable funding for the program were underscored as critical for long-term success; MDT and Logistics Management:
Ensuring continuous availability of multi-drug therapy (MDT) remains a priority. The roadmap calls for improvements in the procurement and supply chain processes to ensure timely delivery of essential medications; Capacity Strengthening:
Training healthcare workers and building the technical capacity of relevant stakeholders are central to the initiative; and Monitoring and Evaluation:
The program will focus on rigorous monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track progress and make necessary adjustments.

This initiative aligns with the global fight against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to eliminating leprosy and Buruli ulcer as public health challenges. Stakeholders, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and other partners, were commended for their unwavering support in addressing these diseases.

She concluded with a call for collective efforts to sustain the momentum and ensure the implementation of the outlined strategies for better health outcomes across the country.

Wike Revamps School for the Gifted, Calls for Sustained Support to Elevate Excellence

Toyin Adebayo
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Wike Revamps School for the Gifted, Calls for Sustained Support to Elevate Excellence

The School for the Gifted, Gwagwalada, Abuja, has undergone a remarkable transformation following the intervention of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike.

Previously grappling with dilapidated facilities and crumbling infrastructure, the institution now boasts freshly painted walls, upgraded classrooms, new fans, and improved amenities.

The changes have rejuvenated the school environment, making it conducive for learning and inspiring both students and staff.

Principal Bello Adamu Audu described the intervention as a lifeline for the school, which was on the verge of collapse. “Before the Minister’s intervention, the school was in a state of sorrow. The walls were cracked, the roof was failing, and learning was almost impossible. Today, we have a conducive environment that has renewed hope for our staff and students,” he said.

Audu added that while the renovation was transformative, lingering challenges like the need for more furniture, modern books, and updated technology persist.

Students and staff echoed their gratitude while emphasizing the need for sustained support. Head Girl Abdulraheem Taofeeqiyah praised the improved learning environment, noting, “Before, broken boards and dilapidated walls distracted us. Now, it’s much easier to focus.” However, she called for better library facilities, updated books, and reliable power supply to ensure uninterrupted learning.

Similarly, Head Boy Binuyo Dabira Goodnews applauded the new dining hall, which resolved the issue of overcrowding. “We’re grateful, but we need more resources like modern computers and a school bus to enhance our learning and representation,” he said.

Teachers also highlighted the impact of the improvements on teaching effectiveness. Mr. Ezeigbo Chidozie, Head of the Mathematics Department, commended the Minister for the renovations but appealed for digital upgrades to match the students’ high potential. “Our students are inquisitive and demand modern teaching tools like smart boards and updated materials. The changes so far are commendable, but we need more to unlock their full potential,” he stated.

As the school basks in its new glory, the community remains united in its call for sustained investments to elevate the institution to global standards, making it a beacon of excellence in Nigeria.

FCTA Invests Over N100 Billion in Bwari Infrastructure Under Renewed Hope Agenda, Wike

Toyin Adebayo
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FCTA Invests Over N100 Billion in Bwari Infrastructure Under Renewed Hope Agenda, Wike

The Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, has invested over N100 billion in road, education, and security projects in Bwari Area Council, according to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike.

Speaking at the commissioning of the Gaba-Tokulo road project, Wike emphasized the administration’s focus on delivering tangible development to area councils.

“This Gaba-Tokulo road project alone cost no less than N7 billion. We ensured prompt payments to avoid delays or abandoned contracts,” Wike stated, adding that other rehabilitated roads, including those in Ushafa and War College communities, have collectively cost N28 billion. In addition, he revealed that N27 billion has been spent on new and rehabilitated schools, bringing the total infrastructure investment in Bwari to nearly N90 billion.

Wike also announced the construction of two police divisions in Igu and Ushafa to enhance security in the region, with completion expected by May 2025. Looking ahead, the Minister confirmed plans to extend the Gaba-Tokulo road to Kawu in the 2025 budget, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to meeting the needs of residents.

Echoing his sentiments, the Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, praised the Tinubu administration for its commitment to rural infrastructure development, which she described as a catalyst for connectivity and economic growth. She emphasized the transformative impact of the new road and bridges on trade, healthcare, and mobility, urging residents to maintain the projects and support the government’s efforts.

“This is more than just infrastructure; it is a pathway to progress and prosperity,” Mahmoud stated, commending community members, contractors, and stakeholders for their cooperation and dedication to the project’s success.

Wike’s Aide Blasts Bala Mohammed Over PDP Leadership, Calls Him ‘Fairweather Politician’

Toyin Adebayo
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Wike’s Aide Blasts Bala Mohammed Over PDP Leadership, Calls Him ‘Fairweather Politician’

The Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Lere Olayinka, has called out Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, over his alleged failure to provide effective leadership as Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum. Olayinka accused Mohammed of using Chief Ezenwo Nyesom Wike’s ministerial appointment under President Bola Tinubu as an excuse for his lack of leadership capacity.

In a statement issued on Friday, Olayinka described Mohammed’s remarks against Wike as “ridiculous and preposterous,” alleging that the Bauchi governor has a history of political opportunism. He criticized Mohammed’s tenure as PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman, claiming he has divided the party’s National Working Committee and failed to unite the party. “Rather than take responsibility for his inefficiency, Bala Mohammed blames Wike’s service in Tinubu’s administration for his own shortcomings,” Olayinka said. He also highlighted Mohammed’s political history, including his defection from the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) to the PDP after securing a ministerial appointment in 2010, branding him a “fairweather politician.”

The statement also praised Wike’s record as FCT Minister, contrasting it with Mohammed’s tenure in the same role, asserting that Wike’s achievements in just one year surpass Mohammed’s during his five-year term. Olayinka concluded by urging Mohammed to focus on his leadership failures and stop using Wike as a scapegoat for PDP’s challenges.

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