NIGERIAN NOTCH

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...

Following the signing into law of the Electricity Act 2023 by the President, which empowers states to actively participate in the electricity sector, the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has commenced a major transformation of its operations. In response to the new legal framework, EEDC has restructured by establishing subsidiary companies that will interface directly with the respective state electricity regulatory commissions. This strategic move is designed to align the company’s operations with the emerging state-based regulatory environment. The management of EEDC has formally introduced the newly created subsidiaries and the states under their respective jurisdictions to its customers, assuring them of improved coordination and responsiveness. According to the company, the new arrangement will strengthen its operations, drive greater efficiency, and translate into enhanced service delivery for electricity consumers across its franchise areas. The developm...

By Dr Samuel Chukwudi Ojiakor The death of Nkanu Nnamdi Esege, one of the twin sons of the renowned author, Chimamanda Adichie and her husband, Dr Ivara Esege on 7th January 2026 is an undeniable and unforgettable tragedy that will continue to mount intense scrutiny on Nigeria’s healthcare services. This harrowing incidence no doubts would have a long-term devastating emotional draining not only on the grieving families but also on the medical community because medical professionals are wired to have a strong connection to their patients and fundamentally, no medical practitioner would ever engage in maleficence by any means.  Meanwhile, I join millions of sympathizers, friends and associates across the world to offer my deepest condolences to the families of Adichie’s and Esege’s while also praying for peaceful repose of the Lad’s saintly soul. The public outrage that greeted this tragic incident was phenomenal and not unexpected given the personality involved and the ...

The Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, has begun a two-day interview exercise aimed at recruiting qualified personnel to fill vacant positions arising from staff retirements and other forms of exit from service. The exercise commenced on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. and is being overseen by the Rector, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, who personally announced the names of shortlisted candidates. Addressing the applicants, Dr. Awuzie cautioned that while many candidates were invited for the exercise, only a limited number would eventually be engaged, citing budgetary constraints facing the institution. She urged the candidates to remain patient and understanding throughout the process. According to the Rector, the recruitment exercise was structured to ensure transparency, fairness, and strict compliance with approved financial limits. Speaking with journalists at the interview venue, the Acting Registrar, Chief Dominic Nwagwu, explained that the exercise became necessary...

  Former Labour Party spokesperson in Enugu State, Dr. Nonso Ginger Ibeneme, and his wife recently celebrated two significant milestones — 15 years of marital union and the first birthday of their triplets — in a grand ceremony that drew dignitaries, clergy, and well-wishers from across the state. The celebration commenced with a thanksgiving service at St. Andrew’s Church, Trans Ekulu, Enugu, officiated by the Archdeacon and Vicar, The Venerable Chigozie Bright Igwemba. The church auditorium was filled to capacity as friends, associates, and prominent personalities gathered to give thanks with the Ibeneme family. In his sermon, The Venerable Ebere Akpado urged Christians to remain steadfast in proclaiming Christ regardless of societal pressures or criticism, stressing that faith must be boldly lived and shared. Other clergy present included The Venerable Simon E. O. Emelumadu, The Venerable Chimechefulam Onyemaobi, and the Reverend Canon Samuel Ede, among others. Following the chu...

In a bid to strengthen youth participation in governance, members of the New Nigerian Patriots (NNP) on Sunday held a strategic meeting with aspirants who have declared interest in the forthcoming Abuja Area Council elections. The meeting brought together young members contesting for Chairmanship and Councillorship positions across the Area Councils, with discussions centred on leadership responsibility, teamwork, strategic planning, and people-oriented governance. The engagement was sponsored by the group’s leader, Hon. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, whose support, organisers said, reflects his sustained commitment to youth empowerment, leadership development, and inclusive governance. Participants described Nwajiuba as a consistent advocate for creating opportunities that enable young people to take up leadership roles and contribute meaningfully to national development. According to the organisers, the meeting also served as a platform to foster unity among the aspirants, align s...

By Chigozie Igbo Jr  Hon. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, PhD, the former Minister of State for Education and two-time member of the House of Representatives, has formally declared his intention to contest the presidency of Nigeria on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Nwajiuba, a seasoned lawyer called to the Nigerian Bar in 1989 and a former Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), enters the race with a message anchored on what he describes as a “competence-first” approach to leadership. His declaration signals the entry of a candidate who is positioning experience, policy depth, and institutional knowledge at the centre of national governance. Speaking on his ambition, Nwajiuba emphasized that Nigeria’s current challenges require leadership driven by clear policies, effective negotiation skills, and a strong grassroots political structure rather than rhetoric. He noted that his years in the legislature, the executiv...

By Chigozie Igbo Jr  Residents of Ogwu Ikpele, a riverine community in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State, on Friday and Saturday, January 16 and 17, 2026, staged a mass protest against Sterling Petroleum Energy Exploration Company (SPEECO) over what they described as a decade of neglect, unfulfilled agreements, and environmental degradation. Ogwu Ikpele, situated along the River Niger and surrounded by rich wetlands, has lived with seasonal flooding for years. However, community leaders say the presence of SPEECO, which has explored oil in the area for the past ten years, has brought more hardship than relief. The protest coincided with activities marking SPEECO’s 10th anniversary. Hundreds of youths, women, children, and elderly residents took to the streets, barricading access routes to oil facilities, shutting down drilling operations, and cutting off electricity supply to the rigs. Community sources claimed the shutdown resulted in losses est...