NIGERIAN NOTCH

The Arewa Consultative Forum Youth Movement (ACFYM) has declared that Nigeria needs transparent public institutions and leaders whose conduct reinforces, rather than erodes, citizens’ trust. ACFYM President, Kabiru Yusuf, made the call in Abuja on Wednesday while reacting to intensifying public demands for a forensic probe into the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). Yusuf said the youth wing of the northern socio-political group firmly aligns itself with the cause of accountability and the protection of national interest. He expressed concern over allegations raised against the FIRS Chairman, Mr Zacch Adedeji, bordering on lifestyle-related issues and the management of taxpayers’ funds under his watch. Although the allegations remain unproven, Yusuf said their gravity and the potential damage to public confidence necessitate an immediate, comprehensive forensic investigation by relevant anti-corruption and oversight bodies. “As responsible stakeholders committed to tran...

By Ukpa Ewa  Journalists in Anambra State have been urged to improve the quality, sensitivity and ethical standard of reporting Gender-Based Violence (GBV) as the menace continues to grow due to deep rooted cultural norms and weak enforcement structures. The charge was made during a one day capacity building workshop in Awka for media personnel on GBV reportage, content development and amplifying survivor voices. The training, titled “Empowering Christian Women and Women Leaders of Culture for Prevention and Response to Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria, Through the Strengthening of Grassroots Organizations " was implemented by Gender Perspective and Social Development Center (GPSDC) with support from WomenAid Collective (WACOL). Speaking at the workshop, Executive Director of GPSDC, Mrs. Eucharia Anakwe said many GBV cases collapse at the police level because the media often publicise details prematurely, enabling perpetrators to flee. She noted that improved reportage...

FirstPower Electricity Distribution Limited (FPEDL) has announced that several parts of Anambra State will experience a planned power outage on Sunday, December 7, 2025, to allow for critical maintenance and upgrade work by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). According to a statement signed by the management of FPEDL, the interruption—scheduled to last from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.—is necessary to enable TCN engineers to install a TR13 60MVA transformer and reconfigure outgoing feeders at the Onitsha Transmission Station. To create a safe operational environment for the technical crew, the MOBITRA 40MVA and 45MVA transformers, along with the 1T1 100MVA 132/33KV transformer, will be temporarily shut down during the exercise. As a result, the following 33KV feeders will be affected: Army Barracks, Awada, Obosi, Umunya, Juddy Bolema, Nnewi Oba, Nnewi Industrial, Ossomala, 3-3, Niccus and Ogidi. Also affected are the Nwaziki 11KV and Woliwo 11KV feeders. Customers served ...

The Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, has presented certificates to staff who successfully completed the Advanced Digital Empowerment Programme for Tertiary Institutions (ADEPTI)—a comprehensive digital skills training sponsored by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The capacity-building programme, conducted by the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), equipped staff with critical 21st-century competencies, including digital literacy and cybersecurity, ICT office productivity tools, e-teaching and e-learning technologies, data analysis and visualization using SPSS and Power BI, as well as collaboration and emerging technology skills. Speaking at the certificate-presentation ceremony, Dr. Awuzie said the initiative aligns with her administration’s commitment to strengthening staff capacity and advancing the digital transformation of the institution’s academic and administrative systems. According to her, empowering staff with modern ICT skills...

Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), on Wednesday received a delegation of prominent political figures at his Abuja office in what analysts describe as another sign of emerging political recalibrations ahead of the 2027 general elections. The delegation comprised former Osun State governor and National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; former Minister of State for Education, Hon. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba (PhD); former Niger State CPC Chairman, Hon. Umar Shuaibu; and serving Benue lawmaker, Hon. Samuel Godday. While the meeting was officially described as a courtesy and solidarity visit, its timing has drawn attention against the backdrop of early political projections indicating that opposition movements and emergent coalitions may intensify efforts to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) through the ballot in 2027. Since the end of the 2023 election cycle, several pol...

The Ndiakwu Otolo Community Meeting, Lagos branch, has commemorated its 50th anniversary with the launch of an ambitious ₦200 million building project, aimed at securing a permanent home for the association after five decades of holding meetings in rented venues across Lagos. The golden jubilee celebration, held in Lagos, brought together members, leaders, and supporters of the community to reflect on its journey since its establishment in 1974 and to chart a new course for the future. Speaking at the event, former chairman and patron of the association, Prince Christopher Nwobi, expressed gratitude to God for the community’s growth over the past 50 years. He noted that the new building marks a major milestone in the association’s history and will solidify its presence in Lagos. “For over five decades, we have relied on rented halls for our meetings. That model is no longer sustainable,” he said. “This new structure, already sited on secured land, will not only serve as our...

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated Mrs. Chioma Ohakim, former First Lady of Imo State, as a non-career ambassador, marking a significant return to public service for the respected philanthropist and advocate for women’s empowerment. Ohakim, widely regarded for her humanitarian work and influence in community development across the South-East, joins a select group of distinguished Nigerians chosen for ambassadorial appointments. Her nomination underscores the administration’s recognition of citizens with strong leadership backgrounds and national influence. The President also forwarded the names of former Rivers State sole administrator and ex-Chief of Naval Staff, Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas; former senator Ita Enang; and former Minister of Interior and Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd), as non-career ambassadors. Chioma Ohakim’s inclusion has drawn attention within diplomatic and political circles, with many describing it as a strategic move that bring...

...Lauds Tinubu's Choice Of Defence Minister  Anambra-born international security expert Amb. Dr. John Metchie has commended Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State for equipping very well-trained forest security guards with sophisticated guns and other technologically-driven gadgets to fight Kidnappers, bandits and other terrorist groups operating in the forest regions.  Metchie also commended Governor Mbah for the launch of security drones with capacities to mount surveillance in the entire Enugu state and beyond; describing it as a high profile initiative intended to detect as well as nip criminal activities in the bud.  Giving the commendations in an exclusive interview with this journalist, the security expert, said Governor Mbah's decision to train and equip forest guards with state-of-the-art security apparatus was a bold and courageous step taken in the right direction inorder to combat criminal insurgents lurking in the forested areas of the state...

The youth wing of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has congratulated former Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, on his induction into the Hall of Fame of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Enugu State Council. The NUJ, under the leadership of Comrade Obinna Ogbuka, announced that Ugwuanyi would be formally inducted on Thursday, citing his outstanding performance in office and his cordial relationship with journalists throughout his tenure. Reacting to the development, the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, described the honour as both timely and well deserved. He commended the NUJ for recognizing excellence and noted that the recognition was especially significant since it came after Ugwuanyi had left office. “This underscores a fundamental truth: while in positions of authority, people observe our actions, and history ultimately records them—either in a book of infamy or a book of honour,” Okwu said. “In the cas...

Enugu State Governor, Barr. Peter Mbah, has been commended by the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide for his landmark commitment to education in the newly presented 2026 budget. Governor Mbah on Tuesday submitted a historic ₦1.62 trillion budget proposal to the Enugu State House of Assembly. Titled “Budget of Renewed Momentum,” the proposal allocates ₦1.296 trillion (80%) to capital expenditure and ₦321.3 billion (20%) to recurrent spending, bringing the total to ₦1,617,397,465,000. A breakdown of the social sector shows that education received the largest share—32.27%—the highest allocation in the state’s history. Reacting to the development shortly after the presentation, the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, praised Governor Mbah for his visionary leadership and urged other South-East governors to follow suit. He described the governor’s consistent prioritization of education since assuming office as a firm indication...

Federal Polytechnic Oko has elected Dr. Ferguson Chukwudozie Ezeokafor as the institution’s new Deputy Rector (Administration), following a keenly contested election conducted by the Academic Board on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. The election took place during the Academic Board meeting presided over by the Rector and Chairman of the Board, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie. In line with the provisions of the Polytechnic Act, Dr. Awuzie nominated two candidates for the position: Dr. Ferguson Ezeokafor, the current Director of Academic Planning, and Dr. Elias Okeke, Head of the Department of Chemistry. Dr. Ezeokafor secured the highest number of votes to emerge as Deputy Rector (Administration)–elect. In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Ezeokafor expressed profound gratitude to the Rector and members of the Academic Board for the confidence reposed in him. He pledged unwavering support to the Rector’s administration and reaffirmed his commitment to contributing meaningfully to the continue...

The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, has officially launched this year’s yuletide celebrations on campus with a colourful and symbolic ceremony that drew the admiration of staff and management alike. In a vibrant display of festivity, Dr. Awuzie led principal officers and members of the institution’s Governing Council to unveil the Polytechnic’s Christmas decorations, accompanied by a ceremonial appearance of Santa Claus. The event, described by many as both spectacular and unprecedented, marked the formal commencement of the institution’s end-of-year activities. The celebrations will climax with the institution’s annual Nine Lessons and Carols scheduled for 19 December, a cherished tradition that brings together staff, students, and4 friends of the Polytechnic. Speaking during the unveiling, Dr. Awuzie announced the installation of a special sealed donation box placed at the Christmas manger. The box, she explained, is dedicated to collecting fin...

About two hundred and fifty persons living with disabilities in Anambra State have been given the sum of two hundred thousand naira each to support their existing small businesses. The program which was supported by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) of the Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, under the RHI Economic Empowerment Programme, provides financial assistance to persons with disabilities across the country to recapitalize their businesses.  The annual event was launched simultaneously across the 36 states of Nigeria and the FCT, including for members of the Police Officers’ Wives Association, which will see a total of 9,500 PWDs across Nigeria benefit from the program's total of one billion, nine hundred million naira. Delivering the president's wife address, the wife of the Governor of Anambra State, Dr. (Mrs) Nonye Soludo, who was represented by the Deputy Governor's wife, Lady Oluchi Ibezim, said the programme aligns with the ...

TAF Africa has called for renewed national commitment to disability inclusion as Nigeria joins the global community in marking the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). Speaking on the significance of this year’s theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” in a statement signed by the CEO and Founder of TAF Africa, Ambassador Jake Epelle, FNIPR, said the observance provides the nation with an important moment to reflect on existing gaps and accelerate action toward full inclusion of persons with disabilities. Epelle noted that the theme aligns with the outcomes of last month’s Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, where world leaders reiterated their pledge to build just, inclusive, and equitable societies. He stressed that Nigeria must translate these global commitments into concrete policies and measurable progress at home. While acknowledging some improvement in disability-responsive initiatives, Ep...

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Anambra State Sector Command, has called on motorists and all applicants for the National Driver’s Licence to proceed to the Board of Internal Revenue (BIR) or any FRSC Driver’s Licence Centre in the state to collect their processed licences. According to the Sector Commander, recent assessments revealed that a significant number of licences have already been produced and are awaiting collection at various Motor Licensing Authorities (MLAs). The Command stressed that prompt collection of licences is essential for proper identification of motorists, improved road safety, and the avoidance of unnecessary inconveniences during routine checks. FRSC reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a seamless licensing process and ensuring the safety of all road users across Anambra State. Applicants are advised to visit any FRSC Driver’s Licence Centre or the nearest FRSC Command within the state to get information on how to collect their processed ...

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has raised strong concerns over the withdrawal of police operatives from the security detail of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing the move as dangerous and politically motivated. The withdrawal followed President Bola Tinubu’s November 23 directive ordering police personnel assigned to VIPs nationwide to return to regular policing duties. The directive affected several high-profile individuals, including former First Lady Aisha Buhari, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, and 17 others. Frank, in a statement on Tuesday, criticised the decision as abrupt and ill-timed, alleging that it exposes the former vice president to heightened security risks. He claimed the action could be part of a wider political plot ahead of the 2027 general elections—an allegation the Presidency has not responded to. “No administration since 2007 has ever tampered with At...

A classified U.S. military reconnaissance operation has reportedly entered Nigerian airspace multiple times within the past 48 hours, gathering intelligence on ISWAP and Boko Haram positions across Borno State, according to authoritative security sources in Washington and West Africa. The high-altitude RQ-4B Global Hawk, operated by the United States Air Force, was said to have taken off from a covert AFRICOM facility in Accra, Ghana, on Saturday, November 29, conducting three undetected entries into Nigeria within 24 hours. During the mission, the aircraft allegedly captured high-resolution imagery, video recordings, thermal signatures, and audio intercepts from terrorist hideouts around Lake Chad and the Sambisa axis. Security insiders claim the round-the-clock surveillance is part of a larger joint counter-terrorism arrangement between Abuja and Washington, though neither government has publicly confirmed the operation. The reported missions come amid a major restructuri...

The youth wing of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has thanked President Bola Tinubu over the inclusion of former Enugu State governor, Rt Hon Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi among the ambassadorial nominees sent to the Senate. It could be recalled that the presidency confirmed on Saturday that President Tinubu has sent a list of ambassadorial nominees to the Senate.  Reacting, the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike described the inclusion of Ugwuanyi as well deserved.  The youth group said Ugwuanyi made a mark as a three-time member of the House of Representatives, adding that he delivered excellency in all the committees he chaired without any form of controversy or compromise.  “He also continued to demonstrate excellence in public service as the governor of Enugu State,” Okwu noted, adding that as “as bridge builder, His Excellency, Rt Hon Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi left a legacy of peace and security in Enugu State. He is no doubt a man of ...

The Presidency has issued a dramatic call to Nigerians nationwide: name and shame VIPs and private individuals still parading police escorts in defiance of President Bola Tinubu’s sweeping security directive. The warning came from the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Daniel Bwala, during a televised interview on TVC on Sunday. Bwala said the era of “untouchables” enjoying illegal police protection is over and urged citizens to become active watchdogs of the enforcement process. According to him, the President’s order withdrawing police escorts from private individuals is a decisive move to reclaim thousands of officers needed for real policing—not escorting celebrities, businessmen, and political big shots. “If you see any celebrity, business mogul or private individual flouting the President’s order, capture it—photo, video, anything. Send it to the authorities,” Bwala declared. He stressed that public vigilance is now critical as the administ...

President of the United States, Donald Trump, has announced that the ongoing pause on asylum decisions will remain in effect “for a long time,” following the fatal shooting of two National Guard members near the White House last week. Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Trump said he had set “no time limit” for lifting the suspension, which the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) says is tied to existing travel restrictions placed on 19 countries. “We don’t want those people,” Trump said when asked to clarify the scope of the measure. “Many have been no good, and they shouldn’t be in our country.” The policy was introduced after the November 26 shooting in Washington, D.C., which resulted in the death of 20-year-old National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom and left another officer critically injured. Authorities have arrested 29-year-old Afghan national, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, and charged him with first-degree murder. According to investigators, Lakanwal previously served as par...

Northern Nigeria is confronting an escalating security emergency as a loose but deadly convergence of local bandits, armed herders, and foreign jihadist fighters tighten their grip across nine states in the North-West and North-Central regions. Investigations reveal that communities in Sokoto, Kwara, Kebbi, Katsina, Kano, Kaduna, Zamfara, Kogi, and Niger have become targets of interlinked criminal factions whose activities now mirror insurgency-level operations—kidnappings, mass raids, extortion, territorial occupation, and ideological policing. Security sources confirm that local bandit groups are increasingly integrating foreign fighters fleeing instability in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Republic, resulting in more coordinated, sophisticated, and mobile attacks. Unlike structured terror organisations such as Boko Haram or ISWAP, these groups operate fluidly,shifting alliances, leadership, and camps with little traceable pattern. This investigative report presents a stat...