The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has sought the partnership of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to enhance public awareness on the dangers of tanker fires in Nigeria.
The Director General of NOA, Mallam Issa Onilu, made the request during a working visit to NEMA’s headquarters in Abuja, where he commended the agency for its critical role in disaster management.
A statement issued on Thursday highlighted NOA’s commitment to intensifying public sensitization efforts, particularly in light of the recent surge in tanker fire incidents across the country.
NEMA Pledges Support for Public Sensitization Efforts
In her response, NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, welcomed the collaboration, acknowledging the importance of raising public awareness to mitigate the risks of tanker fires.
She emphasized that NEMA’s Coordination Forum, which includes NOA as an active participant, provides a strategic platform for stakeholders to align efforts in achieving humanitarian and disaster response objectives.
Mrs. Umar further pledged NEMA’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with NOA, the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, and the media to enhance public awareness and disaster preparedness nationwide.
The partnership is expected to bolster nationwide safety campaigns, equipping Nigerians with essential knowledge on fire prevention, emergency response, and r
The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has strongly opposed the Federal Government’s plan to introduce tolling on selected federal roads, calling it an unacceptable form of extortion given the poor state of the country’s road network.
TUC President Festus Osifo made the union’s position clear on Thursday while presiding over the 1st Quarter 2025 National Administrative Council (NAC) meeting in Abuja.
Tolling Bad Roads is an Insult to Nigerians – TUC
Osifo criticized the government for failing to engage relevant stakeholders before making decisions that directly affect citizens.
“The NAC deliberated on the proposed introduction of toll gates on selected federal roads and strongly condemned it in its entirety. While we acknowledge that tolling is a globally recognized method of generating revenue for road maintenance, it is unacceptable to impose tolls on roads that are unpaved, dilapidated, and riddled with potholes,” he stated.
Describing Nigeria’s highways as death traps, he warned that tolling them without first repairing and upgrading them to international standards would amount to exploiting suffering Nigerians.
“Rather than fulfilling its responsibility to fix and maintain these roads, the government is resorting to shameless extortion,” Osifo added.
The TUC has demanded that no tolling should be introduced until all earmarked roads are fully rehabilitated and properly tarred.
Electricity Tariff Hike: An Act of Economic Oppression
Although the Federal Government recently denied plans to increase electricity tariffs by 65%, the TUC expressed concerns that such an increase was even considered.
Osifo lamented that the previous tariff hike had already placed severe hardship on citizens, with no improvement in electricity supply.
“This proposed increase is not only ill-timed but also a deliberate act of economic oppression against Nigerians, who are already struggling under unbearable economic conditions. Most consumers, regardless of their tariff band, continue to live in perpetual darkness,” he said.
TUC Blames Naira Devaluation for Inflation, Calls for FX Reforms
The TUC identified the devaluation of the naira as the root cause of rising inflation and escalating costs of goods and services.
Osifo recalled that in February 2024, the union had warned that excessive naira devaluation would worsen inflation and affect virtually every sector of the economy.
“Twelve months later, our position remains unchanged. The symptoms of this root cause have manifested clearly—skyrocketing prices of essential goods, rising electricity and telecom tariffs, and higher fuel prices,” he noted.
The union urged the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to adopt a better foreign exchange management regime, as experts—both local and international—agree that the naira is currently undervalued.
TUC Threatens Nationwide Protest
The TUC warned that if these anti-people policies were not reviewed to favor citizens, the union would mobilize workers, civil society groups, and the general public for a nationwide protest.
“The NAC, on behalf of the Congress, strongly advises the government to refrain from introducing policies that would further worsen the economic hardship faced by hardworking Nigerians. If the administration insists on implementing these policies, the TUC will have no choice but to mobilize the working class and the oppressed masses for nationwide action. This level of exploitation is unacceptable. A stitch in time saves nine,” Osifo declared.
With economic pressures mounting on Nigerian households, the TUC’s strong stance signals the possibility of widespread labor unrest if the government fails to reconsider its policies.
President Bola Tinubu underscored the critical importance of joint security operational effectiveness in tackling Nigeria’s emerging security challenges.
This was contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence.
President Tinubu who was represented by the Honourable Minister of Defence H. E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni gave the asserted this at the opening session of the Chief of Defence Staff Joint Task Force Commanders Conference held at Defence Headquarters in Abuja.
The President commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) for their unwavering dedication and sacrifice in safeguarding the nation. He noted that this year’s conference theme, “Enhancing Jointness across all Theatres of Operations,” aligns seamlessly with his administration’s strategic vision for a more secured Nigeria.
“This forum is expedient and timely especially at this time where the security landscape is dynamic and constantly evolving. Such a landscape undoubtedly requires us to harmonize our efforts and evolve proactive and innovative measures that can decisively address the security threats,“ he stated.
President Tinubu emphasized the necessity for enhanced collaboration among the military, police, intelligence agencies, and other security organizations to maximize operational efficiency. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces and all security agencies, and further highlighted the importance of continuous strategy re-evaluation, the integration of emerging technologies, and strengthening inter-agency cooperation.
“I therefore urge you to holistically explore,in detail,the concept of jointness, while harnessing the power of emerging technologies and innovation. I further implore you to continue to work together to ensure multi-agency synergy on all fronts as this will enable the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain an agile, adaptable and lethal force performing at its highest potential,“ he emphasized.
President Tinubu also expressed gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, and all officers and personnel of the Armed Forces for organizing the conference. He reiterated his administration’s full support for Nigeria’s security forces.
In conclusion, President Tinubu wished the participants fruitful deliberations, expressing confidence that the outcomes of the conference will significantly contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s national security framework.
…FG Assures Payment of Outstanding CONMESS & CONHESS Arrears
In a major policy shift aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery and retaining skilled medical professionals, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the extension of the retirement age for clinically skilled health workers from 60 to 65 years.
The approval was announced by the Coordinating Minister for Health & Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, during a stakeholders’ meeting with leaders of key medical and allied health associations, including:
Prof. Bala Audu, President, Nigerian Medical Association (NMA)
Prof. Muhammad Muhammad, President, Medical & Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN)
Comrade Martin Egbanubi, National Secretary, Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU)
Comrade Haruna Mamman, President, National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM)
Retirement Age Extension to Address Workforce Gaps
Prof. Pate emphasized that the decision aligns with the Tinubu administration’s commitment to improving healthcare services, ensuring that experienced professionals remain in service to train younger practitioners and bridge workforce shortages.
“His Excellency, President Tinubu, has given consent for this extension, with an explicit directive that all necessary administrative procedures be followed,” Pate stated.
To implement the policy, the Minister said the **Ministry will collaborate with the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, the National Council on Establishment, and other relevant stakeholders.
FG Working on Payment of Outstanding CONMESS & CONHESS Arrears
Addressing concerns over unpaid allowances, Prof. Pate assured health workers that the government is working towards resolving the payment of seven months’ arrears for the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS).
“The arrears will be sourced and released. We are on track for a resolution,” he added.
Medical Unions Commend FG’s Decision
In response, NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, commended President Tinubu for demonstrating leadership in the health sector. He also praised the Coordinating Minister for fostering openness and dialogue with unions, creating an enabling environment for policy implementation.
“We appreciate the Minister’s engagement with stakeholders and will continue to cooperate with the Ministry to ensure a smooth implementation of the retirement age extension and payment of outstanding arrears,” Prof. Audu stated.
This decision marks a significant step in addressing Nigeria’s healthcare workforce challenges, particularly at a time when the country faces brain drain and rising deman
…Wike Allocates ₦3.648bn for Security Facilities in Kuje, Gwagwalada, and Kwali
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has approved critical projects in security, infrastructure, insurance coverage, and judicial services, signaling a strong commitment to urban and rural development in its first Executive Committee (EXCO) meeting of 2025.
Chaired by FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, the meeting deliberated on key memoranda covering security, infrastructure, and administrative concerns, with five to six major projects receiving executive approval.
₦3.648bn Allocated for Police Headquarters in Three Area Councils
A key highlight of the meeting was the allocation of ₦3.648 billion for the construction of police divisional headquarters and officers’ quarters in Kuje, Gwagwalada, and Kwali Area Councils.
According to the Director of the Department of Security Services, Mr. Adamu Gwary, the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Minister’s commitment to enhancing security in the six area councils.
“The facilities include a police divisional headquarters and a six-man staff quarters for officers in these locations. This move will ensure adequate security presence in rural communities and address security challenges in the hinterlands,” he said.
Mr. Gwary also revealed that nine similar projects had already been completed and approved in 2024, making this the final phase of ensuring two divisional headquarters per area council.
FCTA to Insure Government Assets for Business Continuity
The EXCO also approved insurance coverage for the FCTA’s movable and immovable assets, ensuring financial protection against unforeseen losses.
The Head of Service, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, noted that the decision aligns with the 2018 Federal Government directive mandating compulsory insurance for government properties under Sections 64 and 65 of the Insurance Act.
“This approval ensures that the FCT Administration adheres to best practices in asset protection, reducing financial risks and enhancing business continuity,” she explained.
Infrastructure Boost for Satellite Towns
The Satellite Towns Development Department (STDD) secured approval for two key infrastructure projects:
Construction of a 33KV power supply line from Dawaki to Bwari
Installation of solar-powered street lights along Arab Road and connecting roads
STDD Coordinator, Hon. Abdulkadir Zulkiflu, emphasized that these projects will enhance security at night and improve infrastructure in satellite towns.
“Improving power supply and lighting will significantly boost economic activities and ensure safer roads, particularly in rural and developing areas,” he said.
New Magistrate Courts and Multi-Event Sports Centers Approved
The EXCO ratified the award of contracts for multi-event sports centers in Abuja, with a 12-month completion timeline, and the construction of two magistrate courts in Asokoro and Garki, expected to be completed within 15 to 18 months.
The Chief of Staff to the FCT Minister, Hon. Chidi Amadi, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to infrastructure, security, and service delivery.
“We are making steady progress in crime reduction, and these new approvals will further enhance security and governance in the FCT,” he stated.
With these strategic approvals, the FCTA reinforces its vision for a more secure and developed capital city, aligning with Minister Wike’s pledge to deliver impactful projects under Pres
…SON, NAFDAC, FCCPC, GAIN Pledge Stronger Collaboration to Tackle Micronutrient Deficiencies
Key regulatory agencies and development partners have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening food fortification and tackling micronutrient deficiencies in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for improved compliance and regulatory oversight.
This was the focus of the Annual Joint Regulatory Agencies Directors General Roundtable Meeting, held on Thursday in Abuja, bringing together stakeholders to discuss strategies for enhancing food fortification efforts.
SON’s Commitment to Fortification Compliance
In his keynote address, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, Director General of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), stressed the critical role of food fortification in improving public health outcomes.
“SON remains committed to championing national and regional efforts to address micronutrient deficiencies. Through factory-level monitoring, we enforce fortification guidelines to ensure compliance, particularly in essential food vehicles such as sugar, vegetable oil, margarine, and flour,” Dr. Okeke stated.
He highlighted the Digital Fortification Quality Traceability Plus (DFQT+) initiative, which enhances supply chain transparency and regulatory oversight, and Nigeria’s leadership role in the West African Fortification Alliance to harmonize policies across the region.
GAIN Calls for Stronger Stakeholder Collaboration
Also speaking, Dr. Michael Ojo, Country Director, Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), acknowledged Nigeria’s progress in fortification compliance but pointed out that significant challenges remain.
“This Roundtable provides a critical platform for collaboration and strategic alignment among key stakeholders. Today, we will review and adopt revised Terms of Reference, launch the LSFF Innovations Fund, and secure commitments for the next phase of the DFQT+ project,” Dr. Ojo stated.
He assured that GAIN remains committed to supporting the Nigerian government through regulatory innovations, policy alignment, and resource mobilization to drive fortification efforts forward.
NAFDAC Reaffirms Support for Food Fortification Program
On her part, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to Nigeria’s food fortification program, calling for stronger collaboration among regulatory agencies to ensure compliance.
Represented by Mrs. Eva Edwards, Director of Food Safety and Applied Nutrition at NAFDAC, she commended the joint regulatory initiative, which has been in place since 2022 to advance Large-Scale Food Fortification (LSFF) efforts in Nigeria.
“We are all acutely aware of the challenges with food and nutrition security in Nigeria. These times call for urgent and meaningful action from all stakeholders,” she stated.
While noting progress in the mandatory fortification of wheat flour, sugar, and vegetable oil over the past 20 years, she emphasized that compliance remains a work in progress. She urged greater regulatory oversight and industry commitment to ensure fortified foods meet required standards and reach vulnerable populations.
“At NAFDAC, we remain fully committed to our responsibilities in enforcing the mandatory food fortification program. Strengthening compliance is key to achieving improved nutrition and public health outcomes in Nigeria,” she added.
FCCPC Stresses Consumer Protection in Fortification Efforts
Meanwhile, Mr. Olatunji Bello, Executive Vice Chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), represented by Dr. Nkechi Mba, Director of Quality Assurance and Development, emphasized the importance of consumer protection in food fortification.
“Food fortification is necessary to correct micronutrient deficiencies, also known as hidden hunger. FCCPC supports this initiative and the collaboration between SON, NAFDAC, and development partners like GAIN and the Gates Foundation,” Dr. Mba stated.
She added that FCCPC actively monitors food fortification at the household level to ensure that Nigerian consumers receive adequately fortified food.
Stakeholders Agree on Strengthening Regulatory Innovations
As Nigeria continues its fight against malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies, stakeholders at the roundtable agreed that effective collaboration, strengthened regulatory frameworks, and technological innovations remain key
…Says Religious Literacy is Key to Sustaining Peace in Nigeria
The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), His Eminence, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, has called for urgent and sustained interfaith dialogue to preserve peace and harmony in Nigeria, warning against religious divisions and false teachings that sow enmity.
Speaking at the 2025 United Nations World Interfaith Harmony Week Conference and Awards in Ibadan, Archbishop Okoh stressed that religious literacy and mutual understanding remain vital for unity in a diverse society like Nigeria.
“We must continue to engage in dialogue as the only option to achieve and sustain peace and harmony. Promoting religious literacy will help us see that what unites us is greater than what divides us,” he stated.
NIREC’s Role in Promoting Peace
The conference, themed “The Love of the Good and the Love of the Neighbour”, with a sub-theme “Peace for Our Time”, brought together faith leaders, scholars, and stakeholders to discuss strategies for strengthening interfaith cooperation and social cohesion.
Archbishop Okoh highlighted the success of the Nigeria Interreligious Council (NIREC), co-chaired by CAN and the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), in reducing religious conflicts since its formation in 1999.
“NIREC must be celebrated as one of the greatest efforts to bring about peace and harmony in Nigeria. Dialogue remains our strongest weapon against religious intolerance and extremism,” he added.
Call for Religious Tolerance and Rights Protection
The CAN President urged Nigerians to defend the rights of others, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds, emphasizing that peace can only thrive when people recognize their shared humanity.
“It is in defending the rights of others that our own rights can be protected. We must speak up for others, recognizing the common humanity we all share,” he noted.
Commending the United Nations for championing interfaith dialogue, Archbishop Okoh applauded the efforts of individuals and organizations dedicated to building bridges across religious divides.
Faith Leaders Reaffirm Commitment to Peace
He also recognized Honor 103.5 FM and Pan-Af Publishers for organizing the event and urged all stakeholders to remain committed to fostering a world where no one is left behind.
“Love is not passive; it demands courage, sacrifice, and a willingness to listen with open hearts and minds. Through acts of love and solidarity, we can truly embody the spirit of this year’s theme,” he said.
As the conference concluded, faith leaders reaffirmed their commitment to counter religious extremism, promote peaceful coexistence, and advance a culture of tolerance and understanding.
“Together, through the power of love, we can build a brighter and more united future fo
A devastating attack occurred in Benue State’s Okpomaju community on Wednesday night, as armed herdsmen launched a surprise assault on local hunters, killing five people and injuring many others. The attack is believed to be a retaliatory response to the earlier killing of a herdsman in a clash with hunters.
According to eyewitnesses, the herdsmen stormed the Okpomaju community with sophisticated guns, shooting indiscriminately and setting houses ablaze. The attack left several houses burned, and many community members displaced.
A local resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the attack: “The hunters were at home in Okpomaju when the armed herdsmen, numbering around 12, stormed the village with sophisticated guns, shooting indiscriminately.”
The resident continued: “In the process, they killed Peter, popularly known as JPG, and Moses, while others ran in different directions into the nearby bushes with gunshots. So far, we have recovered three dead bodies from those who ran to the bush, making a total of five. The fifth was recovered near Odudaje stream.”
The attack has sparked widespread fear and displacement in the community, with many residents fleeing to nearby towns for safety. Some of those who fled described the sound of gunshots as “deafening” and said they were too frightened to stay in their homes.
The Chairman of the Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed that security agents, including soldiers and police, had been deployed to the area to restore order and prevent further attacks.
Efforts to reach the Benue State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Sewuese Anene, for confirmation were unsuccessful.
The attack is a clear indication of the escalating tensions between herders and local communities in Benue State, which has been plagued by violent clashes and killings in recent years.
The incident has also raised concerns about the effectiveness of efforts to address the root causes of the conflict and ensure justice for victims and their families.
In a surprise move, President Bola Tinubu has sacked Professor Aisha Maikudi as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja (UniAbuja) and dissolved the university’s Governing Council. Maikudi’s removal comes after her controversial appointment in December, which was met with opposition from academic staff and council members ¹.
The President also announced a series of new appointments, including Professor Lar Patricia Manko as Acting Vice-Chancellor of UniAbuja for a six-month term. Manko will not be eligible to apply for the substantive Vice-Chancellor position when it becomes available.
Other changes include:
– *New Pro-Chancellors*: Senator Lanre Tejuoso will take over as Pro-Chancellor of Yakubu Gowon University, while Senator Joy Emordi will become Pro-Chancellor of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi.
– *Leadership Changes at UNN*: Prof Polycarp Chigbu has been removed as Acting Vice-Chancellor, and Prof Oguejiofu Ujam will take over for six months.
– *New Appointments*: Engineer Olubunmi Kayode Ojo will become the new Pro-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, while Barrister Olugbenga Kukoyi will take over as Pro-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State.
Tinubu emphasized that these changes reflect his administration’s commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s higher education system through dynamic leadership and accountability.
Nigeria’s House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review has received a proposal for the creation of 31 additional states to the existing 36 states of the country. The proposal was disclosed by the Chairman of the committee and deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu.
*Breakdown of Proposed States by Region:*
– _North Central:_ 6 new states
– _North East:_ 4 new states
– _North West:_ 5 new states
– _South East:_ 5 new states
– _South South:_ 4 new states
– _South West:_ 7 new states
Some of the proposed states include:
– Okun, Okura, and Confluence States from Kogi
– Benue Ala and Apa States from Benue
– Amana State from Adamawa
– Katagum from Bauchi
– Savannah State from Borno
– Muri State from Taraba
The committee has outlined the criteria that must be met to initiate the state creation process, including:
– A two-thirds majority vote in the National Assembly
– Support from the House of Assembly and Local Government Council in respect of the area
– Submission of proposals in strict compliance with the outlined stipulations
The Committee remains dedicated to supporting efforts that align with the provisions of the Constitution and will only consider proposals that fully adhere to the established guidelines.
