NIGERIAN NOTCH

The management of Federal Polytechnic Oko has announced the commencement of full operations at its Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Registration Centre. In a public notice, the institution disclosed that the centre is now fully active and attending to prospective candidates seeking to register for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Candidates, popularly referred to as “Jambites,” are invited to visit the Mass Communication Centre within the institution for their JAMB registration and related processing. Prospective candidates are advised to come with the required registration materials, including a valid National Identification Number (NIN), which is mandatory for all applicants. They must also have generated their JAMB profile code using their NIN prior to registration. Other requirements include an active Nigerian phone number to be used throughout the admission process, a valid and accessible email address—preferably Gmail—linked to the...

Ahead of the 2027 General Election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expanded Nigeria’s political space with the registration of two additional political parties—the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, announced this on Thursday during the Commission’s first regular consultative meeting with political parties, bringing the total number of registered political parties in the country to 21. According to him, the DLA successfully scaled the Commission’s rigorous verification process, while the NDC was registered in compliance with an order of the Federal High Court. Despite the development, Amupitan expressed serious concern over persistent leadership crises and internal disputes within political parties, warning that such instability poses a threat to constitutional democracy. “Our collective commitment to the integrity of the electoral process is being challenged by ...

From Ijeoma John, Nnewi  Many people across Nnewi North, Nnewi South, Ekwusigo and beyond have heard the name Amb. Ikebunwa Lotanna. His name is not new on the political, academic, or social landscape. He is widely respected, deeply admired, and increasingly recognized as one of the brightest and most accomplished young leaders to emerge from our constituency in recent years. Among youths, entrepreneurs, students, and everyday people, he has become more than a popular name; he is a symbol of public trust, competence, resilience, and purposeful leadership. Fondly identified with the spirit of Good Governance and Results-Based Leadership, Amb. Ikebunwa Lotanna has earned his reputation not through empty promises, but through excellence, discipline, visible achievement, and consistent commitment to development. Yet, for many who hear his name echoing strongly in discussions about the future of Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo, the question has been: Who exactly is Am...

The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, on Tuesday marked her first anniversary in office during the institution’s monthly prayer meeting held on February 4, 2026. Speaking at the gathering, Dr. Awuzie explained that the prayer session, initially scheduled for February 3, was rescheduled to enable the Polytechnic community commemorate her one year in office during the event. In her address, the Rector expressed gratitude to God for sustaining her leadership journey, noting that meaningful progress in administration is achieved not only through experience, policies, or intellect, but through total dependence on divine guidance. She urged leaders and administrators to commit their plans to God, stressing that sustainable development is achieved when leadership is guided by clarity, stability, and excellence. Dr. Awuzie called on staff of the institution to align with both God’s will and her vision for the development of the Polytechnic, expressing...

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has denied reports claiming that he hosted a former Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, at his Abuja residence. Atiku, a leading figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), clarified that his interaction with Yari, a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), was neither planned nor held at his home. In a statement issued on Tuesday by his media adviser, Mr. Paul Ibe, Atiku confirmed that the two politicians met briefly but explained that the encounter took place at the departure lounge of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. According to the statement, Atiku was at the airport on Monday, February 2, preparing to travel to Saudi Arabia for the lesser hajj alongside family members and associates when he coincidentally met Yari and exchanged pleasantries. Ibe said the clarification became necessary following media reports suggesting that Yari had paid a private visit to Atiku’s Abuja residence. Th...

A frontline aspirant for the Nnewi North mayoralty under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Mr. Cornel Osigwe, has pledged to declare a state of emergency on primary healthcare and primary education in Nnewi if elected Mayor. Osigwe said education and healthcare form the foundation of any progressive society, warning that neglecting primary schools and community health centres amounts to mortgaging the future of the people. Speaking while outlining his policy priorities, the aspirant described the condition of many primary schools in Nnewi as unacceptable, despite efforts by the Anambra State Government to recruit qualified teachers. While commending Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo for employing competent teachers, Osigwe noted that quality teaching cannot thrive in dilapidated learning environments marked by leaking roofs, cracked walls, overcrowded classrooms and lack of basic learning facilities. According to him, his administration would declare a state of eme...

Participants at the Conference on Generation of Wealth from Waste: Briquette as Energy Source for Domestic and Industrial Uses have received certificates of participation from the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie. The beneficiaries, who are staff of the institution, took part in the conference organised on December 9, 2025, by the Renewable Energy Research and Departmental Centre of the polytechnic. The event was aimed at creating awareness on the use of briquettes as a sustainable alternative energy source to conventional fossil fuels, which contribute significantly to environmental pollution through carbon dioxide emissions. Briquettes, the organisers noted, that the programme also offered them a practical solution to deforestation by reducing dependence on firewood and other traditional energy sources, thereby promoting a cleaner and healthier environment. The participants were led to the Rector’s office for the presentation of certificates...

Youth wing of apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has called on the people of South-East to shut the Monday sit-at-home declared by the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB.  It could be recalled that as part of the raging controversy involving Onitsha Main Market traders and Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State, IPOB spokesman, Emma Powerful said there will be a sit-at-home across the South-East tomorrow, Monday, February 2.  However, Ohanaeze youths in a statement issued on Sunday by its National President, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike urged all the residents of South-East to go about the lawful businesses.  Okwu, who described the sit-at-home directive as self-serving, noted that Ndigbo would no longer be drawn into non-profitable ventures.  He recalled that IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, had on several occasions warned against any form of sit-at-home in the South-East.  “Mazi Nnamdi Kanu spoke clearly that he wa...

The Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria (TOAN) has endorsed the Chairman of Awka South Local Government Area, Hon. Chinedu Okafor, for a second term in office, while also donating the sum of ₦2 million in support of his re-election bid. The endorsement was announced on Saturday, January 30, during the association’s Annual General Meeting held at the Awka South Local Government Secretariat. Speaking at the event, the Chairman of TOAN, Hon. Prince Collins Ozojiofor, said the gathering was convened not only to deliberate on issues affecting the welfare of members and challenges with enforcement agencies, but also to formally endorse the council chairman for a second term. According to him, the association resolved to support Okafor after reviewing his administration’s policies and programmes, particularly his interventions in favour of tricycle operators across the local government area. “We, the tricycle operators, having seen the level of support from the Mayo...

Ambassador Ikebunwa Lotanna a frontline aspirant for the Nnewi Federal constituency under the ADC platform has extended warm February greetings to the people of Nnewi North, Nnewi South, Ekwusigo, and Nigerians nationwide, describing the new month as a season of love, hope, and renewed commitment to collective progress. In a goodwill message to mark the beginning of February, Amb. Lotanna expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, stressing the resilience, strength, and untapped potential of its people. “February, the month of love, offers us another opportunity to reaffirm our faith in one another and in our nation,” he said. “We are stronger than we often imagine, more capable than we sometimes realize, and united in our shared desire for progress and prosperity.” Reaffirming his dedication to public service, he noted that it remains a privilege to serve the people and to champion initiatives aimed at transforming communities and improving lives. “I remain steadfast in my...

A chieftain of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and aspirant in the forthcoming Nnewi North Local Government Area election, Mr. Nnanna Osita Nzewi, on Saturday, January 31, 2026, announced his withdrawal from the council chairmanship race, citing the need to preserve peace, unity, and stability in Nnewi. Nzewi made the announcement at a media press conference held at Dove Resort, Nnewi, where he addressed developments surrounding the Nnewi North Local Government Area election, the issue of rotational arrangements, and rising political tensions within the one community LGA, particularly in Nnewichi. He said his decision to speak publicly was informed by his deep roots in Nnewi and Nnewichi, noting that peace, genuine brotherhood, and sincere engagement must always take precedence over personal political ambition whenever Nnewi is faced with sensitive choices, like the present one. According to him, although public discourse has largely centred on rotation of the ch...

Aspirant for the position of Mayor in Nnewi North local government area of Anambra state, on the platform of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Mr. Cornel Osigwe, has promised to replicate the giant strides of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo in the council area. He gave the assurance on Friday, January 30, while fielding questions from newsmen at his Nnewichi country home. Mr. Osigwe, a frontline contender for the race, noted that Nnewi, the one-time local government area, stands at a defining moment in its history, and needs an administrator at the grassroots, who understands what it means to pool human and material resources together to achieve a defined goal. He said, "Our governor, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, is working relentlessly to build a prosperous, livable, and smart Anambra state. His vision is bold, transformative, and people-centered. However, for that vision to be fully realized, it must be translated to the grassroots level, where g...

By Chigozie Igbo Jr The Supreme Knight of the Order of the Knights of Saint Mulumba Nigeria (KSM), Sir Steve Zakari Adehi, SAN, CKSM, KCSS, has called for moral renewal and institutional strengthening in Nigeria, warning that the country faces deepening ethical and social challenges. Sir Adehi made the call on Thursday, January 29, 2026, during his maiden media briefing held at the KSM National Headquarters in Onitsha, following his election as the Supreme Knight of the Catholic Order. Addressing journalists, the senior advocate said Nigeria is experiencing not only economic and political pressures but a growing moral fatigue that has weakened public confidence and lowered societal expectations. According to him, the nation’s present condition is the result of years of tolerated injustice, neglect, and the gradual withdrawal of institutions meant to protect citizens from hardship. He explained that while the Knights of Saint Mulumba have traditionally carried out their acti...

Nnewi North Local Government Area stands at a pivotal crossroads at the moment, one that demands visionary leadership anchored on integrity, competence, and people-centered governance. That moment is now, and that leadership style is embodied in Cornel Osigwe. Renowned as a strategic communicator and development-oriented professional, Cornel Osigwe represents a refreshing blend of capacity, compassion, and credibility.  His experience as former Head of Corporate Communications at Innoson Vehicles Manufacturing (IVM) and Chief Executive Officer of Freshmind Associates, reflects a career defined by innovation, excellence, and results. Beyond professional accomplishments, Cornel Osigwe is distinguished by his deep sense of humanity and unwavering commitment to service.  A God-fearing man guided by strong moral values, he exemplifies integrity, empathy, transparency, and accountability, qualities essential for responsive and responsible leadership in today’s Nigeria. H...

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has fixed February 15, 2026, for its primary elections, the statement was signed by Ejimofor Opara, the National Publicity Secretary of APGA.  The party also announced the cost of nomination and expression of interest forms for aspirants seeking elective positions at the local government level. According to the statement, aspirants for the position of Local Government Chairman are required to purchase a nomination form for ₦5 million, in addition to an expression of interest form priced at ₦1 million. Similarly, aspirants vying for Councillorship positions are to obtain their nomination forms at ₦500,000, while the expression of interest form costs ₦100,000. The statement said the arrangements were part of the party’s preparations to ensure a transparent and credible primary election process.

The Federal Polytechnic, Oko, has elected new members into its Council Selection Board, a key body responsible for overseeing the appointment of principal officers of the institution. At separate emergency meetings of the Congregation and the Academic Board held on January 27, 2026, at the Polytechnic Auditorium, Engr. Dr. Ananti John Egbunike, Mr. Chike Nwolum and Comrade Innocent Okeke were elected by the Congregation as members of the Selection Board. In the same vein, the Academic Board elected Dr. Kenneth Ezekwe and Mr. Chioma Nwankwo as its representatives on the board. Announcing the outcome of the elections, the Rector of the Polytechnic and Chairman of both the Congregation and Academic Board, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, charged the elected members to conduct themselves with utmost fairness and objectivity, stressing the need to ensure that only the most qualified candidates emerge in the selection process. She explained that the Selection Board is mandate...

The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company Plc (EEDC) has announced a loss of power supply affecting parts of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo states. In a statement issued on Tuesday, 27th January 2026 signed by Emeka Ezeh, Group Head, Corporate Communications, EEDC, said the outage occurred at about 10:48 a.m. following a loss of supply from its source of power. According to the company, the development led to a widespread blackout across areas served by its subsidiary distribution companies—MainPower, TransPower, FirstPower, NewEra and EastLand. EEDC noted that the cause of the supply loss was yet to be ascertained but assured customers that efforts were underway to restore electricity as soon as possible. “The company is currently on standby and in active liaison with relevant stakeholders to ensure the prompt restoration of power supply across the affected areas,” the statement said. EEDC appealed to customers for patience and understanding, while apologising for a...

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has upgraded the operating licences of leading financial technology firms and microfinance banks, including Opay and Moniepoint, granting them national status and authorising them to operate across the country. The regulatory upgrade follows the firms’ compliance with stipulated requirements and reflects their rapid expansion beyond regional boundaries. Beneficiaries of the approval include Moniepoint Microfinance Bank, Opay, Kuda Bank, PalmPay and Paga, all of which have leveraged mobile technology and extensive agent networks to scale their services nationwide. Confirming the development in Lagos, the Director of the CBN’s Other Financial Institutions Supervision Department, Mr Yemi Solaja, said the affected institutions had effectively been operating at a national level prior to the formal upgrade. “Institutions like Moniepoint MFB, Opay, Kuda Bank and others have now been upgraded. In practice, their operations are already nationwide,” ...

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that investigations uncovered evidence linking some military personnel to an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, several months after the Federal Government dismissed speculations surrounding national security threats. Rumours of a coup attempt first emerged in October 2025 following the abrupt cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day military parade scheduled for October 1, a development that sparked widespread public concern. In a statement issued on Monday, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Samaila Uba, disclosed that the military had concluded a comprehensive investigation into the matter and identified officers with cases to answer. According to him, the findings of the investigation have been forwarded to the appropriate superior authorities in line with extant military regulations. “The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to inform the general public that investigations into the ma...

Awka, Anambra State, was alive with joy and cultural pride as Nwoke Udi Palmwine Bar, a beloved landmark in the city's entertainment scene, proudly celebrated its 10th anniversary.  The milestone event, spanning three memorable days, culminated on Sunday, January 11, 2026, with an outpouring of appreciation for loyal customers, thrilling competitions, and generous rewards. The highlight of the grand finale included a series of exciting contests that had everyone cheering.  Ebere Obi, a talented dancer from Ihiala and based in Awka, emerged victorious in the dance competition, claiming the top prize.  Other highlights featured intense drinking and eating contests, where participants showcased impressive skills and determination. All winners and participants went home smiling, handsomely rewarded with cash prizes and attractive gift items, courtesy of the visionary CEO, Ogbuefi Ndubuisi Eze.  True to the bar's reputation for hospitality, regular...

As preparations intensify for the forthcoming local government elections in Anambra State, former spokesperson of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM), Mr. Cornel Osigwe has formally declared his intention to contest for the chairmanship of Nnewi North Local Government Area under the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Osigwe made the declaration on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Nnewi Hotel, Nnewi, before a large gathering of youths, women, community leaders, and party stakeholders. Addressing the audience, Osigwe said Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s vision of building a prosperous, livable and smart Anambra State must be effectively driven at the grassroots, where government policies have the most direct impact on the lives of the people. He noted that Nnewi North requires purposeful and competent leadership at the local level to translate the governor’s development agenda into tangible results, adding that he possesses the experience and capacity to ...

The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, has urged newly admitted students of the institution to embrace discipline, innovation, and academic excellence as core values for a successful academic journey. Dr. Awuzie gave the charge on Friday, January 23, 2026, while delivering her address at the 42nd Matriculation Ceremony of the Polytechnic, held at the Oko Campus. The ceremony formally inducted the new students into the academic community of the institution. Congratulating the matriculating students on their admission, the Rector described their entry into the Polytechnic as a product of merit, hard work, and confidence in their potential. She noted that Federal Polytechnic, Oko has built a strong reputation over the years for academic excellence, discipline, innovation, and the production of skilled manpower for national development. According to her, the Management of the institution remains deliberate and proactive i...

The Federal Polytechnic, Oko, has appointed Dr. Obinna Michael Okeke as the new Director of Medical Services of the institution, with effect from Wednesday, January 22, 2026. Dr Obinna Michael Okeke is a Chief Consultant and a Fellow West African College of Surgeons. The appointment followed due process, in line with the officially advertised position and a transparent, merit-based interview exercise conducted by the Governing Council of the Polytechnic, chaired by Senator Engr. Dr. Barnabas Gemade. Dr. Okeke’s appointment is for a single tenure of five years, in accordance with established regulations. The Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, formally presented the letter of appointment to Dr. Okeke on behalf of the Chairman of the Governing Council. Management, staff, and the entire Polytechnic community have congratulated Dr. Okeke on the appointment, expressing confidence in his capacity to strengthen healthcare service delivery at the institution’s Medic...

Hon. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, presidential aspirant on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has said the party is positioning itself to form a broad-based coalition government focused on improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians. Speaking on Prine Time segment of News Night, an interview session on ARISE Television, Nwajiuba called on Nigerians who are committed to building a functional, self-sustaining nation to fully align with the ADC, describing the party’s growing momentum as a critical turning point in the country’s political journey. “This is the time for people who want Nigeria to work to come in completely. Nigeria is beginning to move again, and this is the moment to fix what is broken. This is the time to tell Nigerians that the real work of governance is about to start,” he said. Addressing concerns about entering a political field already crowded with established parties and formidable political machinery, Nwajiuba dismissed the idea of political...

Cornel Osigwe (FIMC, CMC, MNIPR, CNS) is a respected communication strategist, management consultant, and community development advocate whose career spans corporate communications, public relations, youth empowerment, and digital innovation. He holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing and Public Relations from the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Relations. Osigwe is a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (FIMC), a Certified Management Consultant (CMC), a Member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (MNIPR), and a Certified Negotiation Specialist (CNS). As a strong proponent of continuous learning and capacity building, Osigwe has undertaken extensive professional training across diverse fields including real estate investment, sales and marketing, personnel management, career development, information technology, digital marketing, and youth development. Between 2017 and 2024, he served as Head...