The Federal House of Representatives Committee on Land Transport has initiated an investigation into the frequent vandalization of railway tracks and other assets belonging to the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) nationwide.

During the investigative hearing, the Committee’s Chairman, Hon. Blessing Onuh, stated that the probe was prompted by reports of alleged theft of NRC assets across the country. The recent incident involving the movement of coaches from Maiduguri to Jos, which raised suspicions, served as a catalyst for the inquiry.

Concerns have been raised by Nigerians regarding the condition of NRC assets, particularly the safety of railway tracks amidst reports of vandalism of track sleepers in various parts of the country.

Reports surfaced last October when train coaches, loaded on special trucks, were intercepted by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) while being transported out of Maiduguri.

Addressing the Committee, the Managing Director of NRC, Freeborn Okhiria, clarified that the Maiduguri incident resulted from a communication gap, leading to allegations and the temporary detention of NRC officials by security agencies. However, the issue was later resolved.

Okhiria explained that the movement of coaches is a routine procedure to relocate them to areas where they are needed. The coaches in Maiduguri were en route to NRC’s workshop in Jos when intercepted.

The NRC chief informed lawmakers that, besides the three trucks apprehended, there are additional trucks located at various points awaiting transfer to NRC custody once investigations by NSCDC and other security agencies are concluded.

Furthermore, Okhiria revealed that the Minister of Transport, Saidu Alkali, has constituted a committee tasked with assessing the volume and value of NRC assets nationwide.

In response, the Committee Chairman directed the Corporation to furnish the panel with all relevant documents pertaining to its activities, ensuring a comprehensive investigation

The Kebbi State Government, through the Ministry for Religious Affairs and its Hisbah unit, has confirmed the stabilization of no fewer than 23,542 individuals with mental retardation and other brain anomalies.

Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Arch Muhammad Sani Aliyu, made this revelation during the weekly press briefing organized by the Ministry of Information and Culture in Birnin Kebbi.

Aliyu emphasized that the treatment provided is inclusive and continuous, with patients from other states and neighboring countries also benefiting from the health outreach program. The services, which are offered free of charge, encompass conditions such as leprosy, epilepsy, and various mental disorders.

In a concerted effort to address the challenge of street begging and underage almajiri syndrome, the state government is conducting a demographic survey of almajiri schools. This initiative aims to identify the ages, origins, and living conditions of the almajiris’ parents to facilitate strict measures against defaulters. Such measures may include seeking legislation to ban underage begging and holding parents accountable for sending almajiris to local malams without providing for their basic needs.

Highlighting the multifaceted approach of the ministry, Commissioner Sani noted that Hisbah also played a role in facilitating a detribalized mass wedding. This event saw 600 couples, including divorcées, widows, and spinsters from both Christian and Muslim backgrounds, join in matrimony. Notably, some Christian couples from Zuru emirate were among the beneficiaries of this initiative.

The efforts of the Kebbi State Government underscore its commitment to holistic healthcare provision and social welfare, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the support they need to lead dignified and fulfilling lives.

The federal government has reaffirmed its stance on not paying ransom to secure the release of abducted individuals, including the recent case of the 287 school children kidnapped from Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Speaking after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reiterated the government’s policy of non-payment of ransom. He emphasized that this principle was upheld in the case of the Kuriga school children.

Idris expressed appreciation for the efforts of the security services in safely reuniting the abducted children with their families. He assured the public that the government is committed to bringing all perpetrators of such criminal acts to justice.

The release of the school children followed a combined effort of security personnel, prompting President Bola Tinubu to renew his commitment to protecting educational facilities from such incidents. He commended the diligence of the National Security Adviser, service chiefs, and all security agents involved in the rescue operation.

Furthermore, Minister Idris provided insight into President Tinubu’s upcoming birthday celebration, revealing that the President has opted for a private affair without any formal ceremony. He emphasized the President’s directive to channel resources away from congratulatory gestures towards charity and social security programs for the benefit of Nigerians.

In addressing Nigeria’s infrastructure challenges, Minister Idris highlighted the establishment of the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, approved by the Federal Executive Council. This fund, to be domiciled in the Presidency, aims to bridge the infrastructure deficit in the country, which requires substantial investment totaling $878 billion between 2016 and 2040.

The government, under President Tinubu’s leadership, remains committed to addressing Nigeria’s developmental needs and ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.

The Vice Chancellor of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Prof. Edward Olanipekun, has announced that several eminent Nigerians will be conferred with honorary doctoral degrees at the institution’s 28th Convocation ceremonies.

Addressing journalists at the Convocation Press Conference, Prof. Olanipekun listed the awardees as Pastor E.A Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God; Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, the first civilian governor of Ekiti State; former secretary of health, Prince Julius Adeluyi; and Princess Folorunsho Alakija.

He also revealed that the university will graduate 91 First Class graduates and numerous other second class graduates, highlighting the institution’s commitment to academic excellence. Notably, five Law graduates achieved First Class honors at the 2024 call to bar.

In addition to academic achievements, Prof. Olanipekun announced disciplinary actions against staff and students involved in misconduct. Nine staff members were dismissed, ten appointments were terminated, and five individuals were warned and pardoned. Furthermore, three staff members were suspended. Regarding students, twelve were expelled, thirty were suspended, six were warned, and seven were exonerated.

Highlighting the academic accomplishments of EKSU, Prof. Olanipekun stated that out of 10,894 graduates, 91 attained First Class degrees, including 73 Ph.D. graduates, 81 Masters graduates, and 1 Postgraduate Diploma recipient. Additionally, 58 new medical doctors were inducted into the profession by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria on February 8th.

Reflecting on his tenure, Prof. Olanipekun listed achievements such as the approval of 16 new academic programs, including BSc Mass Communication and BSc International Relations. He also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for intervention funds from agencies like TETFund and NEEDS Assessment, which facilitated the completion of numerous projects on campus.

The Vice Chancellor commended the university’s ambassadors and educators for their contributions to EKSU’s success.

The Convocation ceremony is scheduled to take place on the 3rd and 4th of April 2024, marking a significant milestone for the institution.

Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, candidate of the Social Democratic Party in the concluded Kogi State Governorship election, has commended the successful rescue operation of school pupils abducted in Kuriga, Kaduna state. He urged Nigerians to prioritize unity and cooperation, setting aside sentiments and animosity towards one another.

In a statement released on Monday in Abuja, Ajaka, a former APC stalwart currently challenging the victory of Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi state in Court, lauded President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s administration for its efforts in combating violent activities perpetrated by terrorists and non-state actors.

Describing the rescue operation as a significant milestone, Ajaka emphasized its profound impact in assuring the safety of both the abducted children’s families and all Nigerians wary of the nation’s security challenges. He stressed that meaningful development hinges on peace, stability, equity, and justice.

“I urge all Nigerians to set aside divisive sentiments, reject hatred, and rally behind President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s administration in its resolute campaign against violent and non-state adversaries of the Nigerian State,” Ajaka stated, underscoring the urgency of national unity to achieve peace and progress.

Ajaka extended his congratulations to President Tinubu, the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Governor of Kaduna State, as well as the Service Chiefs, Inspector General of Police, Director General of the Department of State Services, media organizations, volunteers, informants, and traditional institutions for their collaborative efforts leading to the successful rescue operation.

He praised President Tinubu for his leadership and visionary strategies, emphasizing the crucial role played by the coordinated planning and operational synergy among Nigeria’s security agencies.

In conclusion, Ajaka reaffirmed his commitment to promoting unity and cooperation among Nigerians, urging collective efforts towards building a peaceful and prosperous nation under President Tinubu’s administration.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to apprehending Nadeem Anjarwalla, the Director of Binance, a cryptocurrency organization, who has reportedly fled the country.

Idris asserted that despite Anjarwalla’s escape, there is no sanctuary for him, as the International Police (Interpol) is actively pursuing him. Emphasizing that Binance operates internationally, Idris assured that Anjarwalla will be brought to justice and compelled to comply with Nigeria’s laws and financial regulations.

The Minister’s statement follows confirmation from the Office of the National Security Adviser that Anjarwalla managed to evade lawful custody on March 22nd, 2024. Zakari Mijinyawa, Head of Strategic Communication for the Office of the National Security Adviser, outlined collaborative efforts underway to swiftly locate and detain the fugitive.

Security agencies are cooperating with Interpol to secure an international arrest warrant for Anjarwalla, who fled Nigeria using a smuggled passport, according to preliminary investigations.

The statement revealed that personnel responsible for Anjarwalla’s custody have been apprehended, and a comprehensive investigation is ongoing to uncover the circumstances surrounding his escape from lawful detention.

The Federal Government’s investigation into money laundering and terrorism financing transactions on the Binance currency exchange platform mirrors similar efforts by governments worldwide.

Prior to his escape, Anjarwalla, a British and Kenyan national serving as Binance’s Africa regional manager, was undergoing trial in Nigerian courts. He absconded while under a 14-day remand order, with his scheduled court appearance set for April 4th, 2024.

The Federal Government has taken decisive action against the devastating fungal disease affecting ginger production in several states by inaugurating the National Ginger Blight Epidemic Control Taskforce.

Senator Sabi Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, announced the formation of the task force during its inauguration in Abuja on Monday. He highlighted the significant losses suffered by ginger farmers in states including Nasarawa, Plateau, Kaduna, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, due to the epidemic.

Abdullahi emphasized the economic importance of Nigerian ginger, citing projections indicating a surge in international market demand from $4.16 billion in 2013 to $6.29 billion by 2030. He stressed that Nigerian ginger presents a substantial opportunity for the country’s economic growth.

The minister lamented the adverse effects of the epidemic on Nigeria’s standing as the world’s second-largest producer of ginger. He revealed staggering losses, noting that ginger farmers in Southern Kaduna alone suffered over N12 billion in losses, representing 85 percent of the country’s ginger production.

To address the crisis, Abdullahi assured affected farmers of government support, including relief materials to mitigate the impact of the damage and prevent future occurrences. He announced the launch of a N1.6 billion Recovery Fund in Kaduna State later in the week to aid ginger farmers in affected states.

Comprising researchers, extension service agents, farmers, and other stakeholders, the National Taskforce aims to coordinate efforts in combating the epidemic and revitalizing the ginger sub-sector.

Abdullahi stressed the importance of robust research and support systems in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, emphasizing the need for preparedness to ensure a prosperous future.

He also urged Nigerian farmers to adhere to proper procedures, including obtaining seeds through the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS), to prevent the introduction of crop diseases through importation.

In response, Engr. Abubakar Garba Abdullahi, Director of the Federal Department of Agriculture and Chairman of the National Ginger Blight Epidemic Control Taskforce, pledged the task force’s commitment to reviving the ginger sub-sector and restoring the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) affected by the epidemic.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged parents and guardians to prioritize the cultivation of moral values in their children, emphasizing the pivotal role of the family in shaping character and guiding ethical conduct.

In a statement released by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Minister Idris made this appeal during the Annual Ramadan Lecture themed “Family Dynamics: Rights and Obligations from Islamic Perspectives,” held in Kaduna.

Highlighting the significance of moral values, Minister Idris remarked, “Moral values serve as the compass that steers our children through the complexities of the world, helping them distinguish right from wrong and navigate ethical dilemmas with clarity and conviction.”

He emphasized the family’s sacred duty in instilling integrity, empathy, and honesty, among other values, within children, asserting that such teachings equip them to become responsible and conscientious members of society.

Minister Idris underscored the family’s status as the cornerstone of society, embodying religious, cultural, and traditional values while nurturing the next generation and fostering bonds that transcend time and circumstance.

Furthermore, he disclosed plans by his ministry to introduce the Nigeria Values Charter, a blueprint for a national value system. This initiative, to be launched by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, comprises the Nigerian Promise and Citizen Codes, aimed at ingraining fundamental values within citizens through formal and informal educational policies.

Minister Idris reiterated the Tinubu administration’s commitment to bolstering policies and programs that support families and ensure opportunities for all Nigerians to thrive. He highlighted ongoing fiscal and monetary reforms, coupled with a comprehensive Social Intervention Programme, as efforts to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development.

Additionally, Minister Idris highlighted recent strides in the agricultural sector, citing successes observed during a tour of farming communities in Kano and Jigawa States. He commended the achievements of resilient farmers, particularly in dry-season farming, and encouraged embracing agriculture for its vast value chain potentials.

The Minister concluded by stressing the importance of transparency and accountability in social interventions, highlighting measures to ensure the fair and equitable disbursement of funds to the vulnerable segments of society.