The Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC) has begun demolition of illegal structures in Guzape District, following the arrest of a developer for encroaching on green areas and converting waterways into residential plots in violation of the Abuja Master Plan.
The developer, identified as Kadiri Ogbaidi of Citiscape Villa, was accused of flouting development approvals by selling government-reserved plots to unsuspecting subscribers.
AMMC Coordinator, Chief Felix Obuah, who led a high-powered enforcement team to the site on Monday, described the infractions as deliberate sabotage of the Federal Capital Territory’s planning regulations. He warned that the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has zero tolerance for such abuses and is determined to restore order in the city.
“The developer clearly violated the approval granted by the Department of Development Control. He encroached on green areas and waterways, and we are here to enforce the law,” Obuah said while supervising the demolition exercise.
Obuah also revealed that a foreign firm had illegally taken over more green areas in Utako and vowed that AMMC will recover all encroached lands across the territory. He warned that any civil servant found to have colluded with developers in illegal allocations would be sanctioned in line with extant public service rules.
The Director of the Department of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima, confirmed that the developer ignored multiple stop-work notices before AMMC moved in with enforcement. He said the department has ramped up monitoring to curb similar infractions across the city.
In a show of remorse, Kadiri Ogbaidi admitted to the violations and pleaded for two weeks to remove all illegal structures at his own cost.
“There have been many infractions here, mostly from our subscribers, but we take responsibility. We will remove every structure and revert to the original approval,” he said.
AMMC granted the request but warned that enforcement would resume if the illegal structures are not cleared within the grace period.
***Alake says Damau operation is a blueprint for tackling illegal mining across Nigeria
In a major breakthrough, the Federal Government has successfully reclaimed a tin-rich mining site in Damau, Kubau Local Government Area of Kaduna State from illegal operators—without firing a shot.
Rather than confront the illegal miners with force, the Mining Marshals—under the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development—adopted a strategy rooted in dialogue, diplomacy, and community engagement. The site, legally owned by Trobell Minerals Limited, had been under illegal occupation for months, causing environmental damage, economic loss, and growing insecurity in the area.
Through consultations with traditional leaders and local stakeholders, the Marshals secured community backing, leading to the peaceful evacuation of the illegal miners under official supervision.
A respected community elder described the intervention as timely and effective. “This peaceful approach is commendable. The illegal miners posed a serious threat to lives and property. Their exit brings relief to our people,” he said.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, who spoke during the one-year anniversary of the Mining Marshals, praised the operatives for their professionalism and results-driven approach.
“This is a clear demonstration of smart enforcement. The reward for hard work is more work,” the minister stated, pledging additional resources and operational support to the Marshals.
Dr. Alake noted that while Nigeria has witnessed violent clashes during past anti-illegal mining operations, the Damau case offers a compelling alternative. “If replicated across the country, this model—built on community buy-in and cooperation—could become our blueprint for sustainable enforcement,” he said.
He urged communities nationwide to support the government’s efforts to eliminate illegal mining, which he described as a major threat to national development and investor confidence.
“Illegal mining and insecurity remain the biggest obstacles to unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector. The Kaduna success story shows what’s possible when we work together,” Dr. Alake added.
The peaceful outcome in Damau stands in contrast to the often-violent confrontations that have marred similar operations in the past, offering new hope for reforming the mining sector through a balanced mix of law enforcement and community trust.
…The fight you are waging here in Katsina and across the country is not just a battle for territory; it is a battle for the soul of Nigeria- PBAT…
In a rare and unprecedented state visit, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, visited the frontline troops of OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA in Katsina State. The visit aimed to assess the security situation and have direct first hand knowledge of operations of the troops without the accompaniment of a high military entourage.
Amid ongoing security challenges in the region, the President’s visit served to boost morale and reaffirm the government’s commitment to the welfare of the troops. He commended their unwavering dedication to their mission and urged them to remain resolute in the fight against terrorism and other security threats.
This was contained in a statement signed by Patience Ituke, For: Director, Information and Public Relations
“The fight you are waging here in Katsina and across the country is not just a battle for territory; it is a battle for the soul of Nigeria. Nigeria depends on you, and I am with you today, tomorrow, and always. Stay strong. Stay focused,” he stated.
President Tinubu emphasized the significance of his personal visit, stating that it underscores the urgent need to bring an end to the ongoing conflict. “My gallant officers, brave soldiers, and defenders of our great nation, I stand before you today not just as your President and Commander-in-Chief, but as a fellow patriot, deeply humbled by your courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the peace, security, and sovereignty of our great nation.”
He further articulated that the hopes of Nigeria are deeply rooted in the efforts of the military in combating insecurity. “You are the shield of Nigeria, the brave sons and daughters who stand between our people and the forces of terror. Every inch of ground you hold, every terrorist you neutralize, and every community you secure is a victory for justice, freedom, and the future of our children. Your resilience in the face of danger inspires the entire nation, and your sacrifices do not go unnoticed.”
The President acknowledged the personal sacrifices made by the soldiers, stating, “You have left behind your families and the comforts of civilian life to wear the uniform of honor and duty. You face danger not for wealth or recognition, but for the love of our dear country. That, my brothers and sisters in uniform, is the highest form of patriotism. You are the silent guardians of our democracy, and I salute you.”
He assured the troops of the Federal Government’s unwavering support, saying, “As your Commander-in-Chief, I am fully aware of the challenges you face. We are taking bold steps to equip you with advanced technology, superior intelligence, and robust logistical support to not only defend this nation but to dominate and defeat every adversary. Your welfare is my top priority. We are committed to ensuring your families are safe, your allowances are paid promptly, your healthcare is guaranteed, and your dignity upheld. Housing programs, family support systems, insurance coverage, and improved remuneration are being implemented without delay.”
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the troops, stating, “This war will not be won by weapons alone but by your will to stand, resist, fight, and triumph. To those who seek to destabilize our nation be they domestic collaborators or foreign agents hear this: Nigeria will not bow. Not to fear. Not to terror. Not to treachery. You, the Nigerian military, are the spearhead of this fight. With your valor and discipline, peace shall prevail. Stand tall. Be proud. Nigeria depends on you, and I am with you today, tomorrow, and always. Stay strong. Stay focused.”
In a strategic push to tackle Nigeria’s malaria burden, the Federal Government has thrown its weight behind the Geneith National Health Competition, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at mobilizing Nigerian youth to fight malaria through education, advocacy, and innovation.
Unveiled on Friday in Abuja, the programme is a collaborative effort between Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd and CEOAfrica, with prizes worth approximately ₦1 billion—including ₦400 million in cash and ₦600 million in gift items—targeted at students across junior and senior secondary schools as well as tertiary institutions.
Speaking on behalf of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Director of Public Health, Dr. Godwin Ntadom, described the competition as a “timely and strategic intervention.”
> “While nations like Belgium, Britain, and the U.S. eliminated malaria decades ago, Nigeria continues to suffer. It’s time we moved from rhetoric to results,” Ntadom declared.
He highlighted that malaria in Nigeria is not just a medical challenge but also rooted in environmental and socioeconomic conditions such as poor drainage, overcrowding, and low public awareness.
> “This initiative aligns with the national strategy by engaging youth as change agents. Their influence in homes and communities can spark long-lasting transformation,” he added.
Declaring the competition open, Ntadom applauded Geneith Pharmaceuticals for leveraging private-sector innovation to solve public health crises.
Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals, Mr. Umenwa Emmanuel, emphasized the competition as more than a CSR project—it is a call to reengineer malaria solutions from the ground up.
> “This isn’t another event—it’s a national wake-up call. Nigeria accounted for 66.7 million malaria cases and over 189,000 deaths in 2022 alone. These numbers demand emergency-level response,” he stated.
He urged the youth to embrace the 2024 theme—“Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite, and Stay Committed”—as a launchpad for tech-driven, locally rooted solutions.
Chairman of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), Pharm. (Mrs.) Wosilat O. Giwa, praised the campaign as a movement rather than a mere programme.
> “Nigeria, the DRC, and Niger bear more than half of global malaria deaths. But we are not powerless. Empowered youth and modern tools like vaccines and treated nets can shift this narrative,” she asserted.
Former President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, called for stronger backing of local pharmaceutical production as part of sustainable malaria response strategies.
Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, CEO of CEOAfrica and team lead for the initiative, called the programme a “historic milestone” in youth-led health mobilisation.
> “With over ₦600 million in support, this is Africa’s largest health competition. We’re training students to become malaria ambassadors who can lead change from classrooms to communities,” he said.
Representing over 40 million Nigerian students, Amb. Comrade Egunjobi Samuel Oluwaseyi pledged full student support for the campaign.
> “This is not just a malaria programme; it is a life-saving mission. Nigerian students are behind it 100%. The future of this fight lies in our hands,” he affirmed.
With firm support from government, professional bodies, the pharmaceutical industry, and student leaders, the Geneith National Health Competition marks a bold new chapter in Nigeria’s war against malaria—one led by its youth and powered by innovation, advocacy, and national unity.
As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes the global media landscape, Nigeria has taken a bold step by establishing a UNESCO-backed Media and Information Literacy Institute, positioning itself at the forefront of international efforts to safeguard press freedom and combat misinformation in the digital age.
Speaking at the World Press Freedom Day celebration held at the Abuja Continental Hotel, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris—represented by Dr. Sulaiman Dauda, Director of Press at the Ministry—described AI as a “dual-edged force” that brings both opportunity and peril to journalism.
“AI is revolutionizing newsrooms, enabling faster content generation and augmenting investigative reporting,” he said. “However, this technological advancement also raises ethical concerns around bias, misinformation, and accountability.”
The event, jointly organized by Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) and the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), spotlighted Nigeria’s landmark achievement: the approval by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and endorsement by seven countries—with 20 more expressing interest—to host a UNESCO Category 2 International Media and Information Literacy Institute at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
“This institute will serve not only Nigeria but the global community, equipping citizens to critically engage with media in an age of digital disruption,” the Minister declared, adding that media literacy is now a frontline defense against fake news, deepfakes, and politically motivated disinformation.
CJID: Journalism Must Evolve with AI
Executive Director of CJID, Mr. Akintunde Babatunde, emphasized that AI has already embedded itself in every stage of the news process—from generative tools aiding reporters to algorithms that shape public perception.
“Artificial intelligence is no longer theoretical; it is embedded in the DNA of modern journalism,” Babatunde said. “While it enhances storytelling and data analysis, it also brings real-time challenges like algorithmic bias, job displacement, and threats to editorial independence.”
He stressed the need for collaborative action, applauding KAS for fostering dialogue through the forum.
“This is not just about identifying problems. It’s about building a coalition—of technologists, journalists, policymakers, and civil society—to ensure that AI enhances rather than erodes press freedom,” he said.
House of Reps Moves to Regulate AI
Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Akintunde Rotimi, added a legislative dimension to the discussions, warning that AI, if left unchecked, could “generate grammatically perfect lies” capable of destabilizing democracies.
“Technology is a tool, not a conscience,” Rotimi said. “We are already witnessing how deepfakes and false narratives influence elections and incite unrest across Africa.”
Rotimi disclosed that the House has passed the second reading of a consolidated bill co-sponsored by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen and others, aimed at regulating AI in Nigeria.
“The bill seeks to balance innovation with responsibility, ensuring that AI development respects human rights, press freedom, and public safety,” he stated.
He urged media practitioners and unions to strengthen internal regulatory mechanisms or risk external interventions that may compromise press autonomy.
Rotimi also cited global trends, noting a Pew Research Center survey showing that 41% of Americans are concerned about press freedom, and referenced Hungary, where over €1 billion in state funds have reportedly been used to silence independent media.
“In Nigeria, the press faces both overt pressure and the subtle erosion of credibility caused by click-driven, unverified reporting,” he warned.
KAS: Defending Press Freedom Requires Global Unity
Earlier, in her welcome remarks, Marija Peran, Resident Representative of KAS, underscored the global dimension of AI’s influence on journalism.
“AI is fundamentally altering how information is gathered, processed, and distributed,” she said. “This opens doors for innovation, but it also threatens press freedom, journalist safety, and media independence.”
She reaffirmed KAS’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, supporting independent media, and building journalist capacity across Africa.
“The erosion of press freedom is not isolated. It’s a global trend, and reversing it will take coordinated efforts from governments, civil society, and the media industry itself,” she noted.
Forum Outcomes: A Roadmap for Ethical AI in Journalism
The event concluded with a unified call for action, including the development of ethical guidelines for AI in journalism, capacity-building for media professionals, transparency in AI-generated content, and robust public education on media literacy.
As Nigeria positions itself as a leader in global media innovation and information ethics, stakeholders emphasized that the future of journalism must uphold human judgment, transparency, and democratic accountability alongside technological advancement.
***Nigeria Records 34 Deaths , 1,307 Suspected Cases
As Nigeria braces for the peak of the rainy season, the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), Dr. Jide Idris, has raised the alarm over a possible surge in cholera outbreaks, revealing that 1,307 suspected cases and 34 deaths have already been reported across 30 states and 98 Local Government Areas this year.
Dr. Idris, who addressed journalists at a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, warned that over 3,300 communities in flood-prone areas are at immediate or moderate risk of cholera transmission due to limited access to clean water and poor sanitation.
“The current case fatality rate of 2.6% is above our target of less than 1%. This is unacceptable and preventable,” Dr. Idris declared. “We are urging states to activate their emergency preparedness plans and avoid suppressing data. Timely action can save lives.”
He cited projections from the 2025 Annual Flood Outlook which identified over 1,200 high-risk communities in 176 LGAs, and another 2,187 communities in 293 LGAs at moderate risk, emphasizing the need for localized and proactive responses.
Ongoing Threats: Lassa Fever, Cerebrospinal Meningitis, and Mpox
Dr. Idris also provided updates on other major disease threats:
Lassa Fever: A decline in cases has been recorded, from 41 in epidemiological week 12 to 10 in week 16. Cumulatively, Nigeria has reported 4,253 suspected cases, 696 confirmed, and 132 deaths, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 19.0%.
Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM): The outbreak is showing signs of containment, with a steady decline in cases over the last three weeks. Vaccination and community outreach have helped reduce mortality.
Mpox: From January to mid-April 2025, 723 suspected cases and 136 confirmed cases have been recorded in 27 states and the FCT, with three fatalities reported. “Mpox remains a concern with community and healthcare-associated transmission still ongoing,” Dr. Idris said.
In response to these threats, NCDC has deployed Rapid Response Teams (RRTs), activated its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), optimized five Mpox testing labs across the geopolitical zones, and conducted training for health workers on infection control and case management.
“We’ve prepositioned vital supplies and intensified public communication to reach vulnerable populations,” Dr. Idris added. “But health workers and communities must remain vigilant.”
Dr. Idris emphasized that cholera is a highly contagious but preventable and treatable disease, spread through contaminated food and water. He warned that flooding, open defecation, and poor hygiene practices heighten the risk, especially in urban slums and rural communities.
Symptoms include sudden watery diarrhea, vomiting, and rapid dehydration, which can lead to death within hours if untreated. The NCDC advises the use of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) and prompt medical attention.
The NCDC has issued strong recommendations to health workers, state governments, and the public:
For Health Workers: Report suspected cases promptly, adhere to infection control measures, and educate patients on hygiene.
For States: Activate preparedness plans, ensure provision of clean water, sanitation, and conduct vaccination campaigns in hotspots.
For the Public: Boil drinking water, maintain hygiene, avoid raw street foods, and seek immediate care for diarrhea.
Dr. Idris concluded by reaffirming NCDC’s commitment to protecting public health, calling for collaborative, sustained efforts to reduce mortality and contain outbreaks before they spiral out of control.
“We are not helpless. With timely surveillance, public cooperation, and government commitment, we can prevent these diseases from claiming more lives,” he said.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, is set to arrive in China for high-level meetings aimed at accelerating the provision of potable water to satellite towns within the territory.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike is currently in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, en route to China, where he will hold talks with executives of the China Geo-Engineering Corporation Overseas Construction (CGCOC) Group.
The visit follows up on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in September last year during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s official visit to China. The agreement, involving the CGCOC Group and the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), targets improved electricity and water supply in the FCT.
President Tinubu, under his Renewed Hope Agenda, had approved ₦50 billion for the implementation of water supply projects in FCT satellite towns, particularly in Gwagwalada, Kwali, and Kuje Area Councils.
Wike’s trip to China underscores his commitment to actualizing the President’s directive to ensure accessible and safe water in underserved FCT communities. The Minister is expected back in Nigeria next week.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed the Administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of FCT workers, even as he called on Area Councils to immediately pay the new minimum wage and arrears to their staff.
Speaking during the 2025 International Labour Day celebration held in Abuja, Wike emphasized that a motivated and well-supported workforce is essential to effective public service delivery and national development.
“We have made staff welfare a top priority since assuming office,” he declared. “From prompt salary and pension payments to capacity development and office upgrades, our focus has been to ensure every worker feels valued and supported.”
Highlighting recent achievements, Wike listed the prompt implementation of the new salary structure, recruitment of 60 doctors for residency training, renovation of government offices, and plans for staff regularisation and promotion exercises.
Addressing the ongoing strike by Area Council workers over the non-payment of the minimum wage, Wike stated, “I had approved the release of N4.17 billion to the six Area Councils for wage payment. I now urge them to do the needful and pay workers their due.”
He also noted ongoing efforts to improve the working conditions of Area Council teachers, including school renovations and enhanced provision of learning materials.
On this year’s Workers’ Day theme, “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” Wike said it was a timely reminder of the need to protect worker rights, promote dialogue, and uphold democratic participation even in difficult times.
“The civic space must not shrink in hardship—it should expand through partnership and mutual respect,” he added.
The Minister concluded by commending all workers for their sacrifices and resilience, noting that their dedication is key to building a better future for both the FCT and Nigeria at large.
The Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his numerous interventions and continuous support to Nigerian students.
This was contained in a statement signed by
Mati Ali, PA Media & Publicity to the Hon. Minister.
He made this commendation during the formal inauguration of the 2025 National Executive Members of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), held on Wednesday, 30 April 2025, at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja.
As the grand patron of the Association, the Minister emphasized that Nigerian students remain deeply grateful for the President’s unwavering support, guidance, and commitment to shaping the future of the youth towards self-reliance and patriotism for a better Nigeria.
He also applauded the students’ resilience and acknowledged their efforts throughout the year, particularly during and after the Association’s election period. While noting that elections often come with challenges, he stressed the importance of unity, collaboration among the students to enable elected officials to advance the cause of Nigerian students.
Therefore, he urged all groups that may have felt aggrieved during the election to set aside differences, prioritize the legitimate interests of students, and rally behind the newly elected NANS leadership to help fulfil their campaign promises.
He concluded by once again thanking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, and reminding the students of a unifying slogan: “Let us remain united; united we are. Let us stand united, and the mission will be accomplished.”
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has called for increased support from the United States in intelligence sharing, counterterrorism efforts, and the enhancement of military capabilities to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
Minister Matawalle made this appeal during a meeting with Major General Garrick Harmon, the Director for Strategy, Engagement, and Programs of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), who is on his inaugural official visit to Nigeria in his current capacity. The meeting took place at Ship House in Abuja.
During the high-level discussions, Matawalle underscored the significance of strengthening bilateral defence relations and urged the United States to expand its assistance in critical areas, including intelligence cooperation, technical training, logistics, and equipment support.
“Nigeria is dedicated to promoting regional peace and security; however, we cannot achieve this alone,” he stated.
“We require more robust support from the United States, particularly in intelligence sharing and capacity building, to effectively combat terrorism, insurgency, and transnational threats,” he emphasized.
In response, Major General Garrick Harmon expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts in enhancing security and stability across West Africa. He noted that despite the brief duration of his visit, the engagements in Nigeria have been highly productive and highlight the strength of the existing partnership between the two nations.
Both parties acknowledged their shared interests and agreed on the necessity for deeper collaboration in addressing the security challenges facing the region.
