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Abana Moves To Reset Fiscal Responsibility Commission, Raises Reform Hopes After Nationwide Tour

Maryam Aminu

Fresh signals of a possible shake-up at the Fiscal Responsibility Commission emerged as its Acting Chairman, Charles Chukwuemeka Abana, wrapped up a sweeping familiarisation tour that insiders say could redefine the agency’s performance and accountability framework.

The tour, which began shortly after Abana assumed office, took him across all directorates and units of the Commission, ending with strategic visits to the Protocol, SERVICOM, and Audit departments. It was designed to give the new leadership a ground-level understanding of operations, challenges, and institutional gaps.

During the exercise, Abana held extensive engagements with staff across key departments, including Administration and Human Resources, Policy and Standards, Strategic Communications, Planning, Research and Statistics, Monitoring and Evaluation, Legal, Investigation and Enforcement, Finance and Accounts, as well as the Secretariat. The interactions created an open platform for staff to present detailed briefings on their mandates, ongoing projects, and operational constraints.

Observers say the hands-on approach reflects a deliberate effort by the Acting Chairman to build an informed foundation for reform. Throughout the tour, Abana was said to have asked critical questions, identified inefficiencies, and offered practical feedback aimed at strengthening productivity, transparency, and service delivery.

He also stressed the need for stronger inter-departmental collaboration, noting that repositioning the Commission would require a unified and results-driven workforce. Abana reaffirmed his commitment to aligning the agency’s operations with its core mandate of enforcing fiscal discipline and promoting responsible financial management in public institutions.

Staff reactions to the tour have been largely positive, with many describing it as a morale booster and a sign of inclusive leadership. Several employees expressed optimism that the new administration would prioritise long-standing concerns, particularly around staff welfare and remuneration.

Issues such as the implementation of a revised salary structure and improved welfare packages were prominently raised during the engagements, reflecting growing expectations within the workforce.

In response, staff pledged their support for Abana’s vision, assuring management of their readiness to collaborate in driving institutional reforms.

Analysts believe the completion of the familiarisation tour marks a critical first step in Abana’s tenure, potentially setting the stage for a more transparent, accountable, and performance-oriented Fiscal Responsibility Commission.

Armed Forces of Nigeria Records Major Gains As Troops Neutralise Terror Leaders, Rescue 813 Victims Nationwide

Emmanuel Daudu/Maryam Aminu

The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has reported significant breakthroughs in its nationwide security operations, announcing the neutralisation of several top terrorist commanders, the rescue of over 800 kidnapped victims, and the arrest of more than 1,300 suspects within the first quarter of 2026.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Michael Onoja, said the military’s intensified offensives across multiple theatres had dealt a heavy blow to terrorist networks and criminal syndicates operating across the country.

Onoja stated that one of the most notable developments was the confirmed killing of a senior commander of the Islamic State West Africa Province, Abu Yahya Al-Muhajir, a member of the group’s Shura Council, noting that this reflected the increasing pressure being mounted on insurgent leadership structures.

Onoja explained that under Operation HADIN KAI, troops had sustained aggressive assaults on insurgents linked to Boko Haram, ISWAP and other terrorist factions across the North East, leading to the arrest of 274 suspects, rescue of 168 kidnapped victims, and the surrender of 90 insurgents within the quarter.

He further disclosed that in March, precision airstrikes in Sambisa Forest eliminated multiple high-profile terrorist leaders, while coordinated attacks in parts of Borno and Yobe states were successfully repelled.

He added that troops also foiled attempts to infiltrate IDP camps and disrupted logistics supply chains, including fuel smuggling operations intended for terrorist use.

The Defence spokesman noted that in the North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded the rescue of 386 kidnapped victims and the arrest of 114 suspects, adding that troops dismantled terrorist enclaves, intercepted logistics suppliers, and apprehended a suspected gunrunner transporting ammunition toward Kaduna.

Onoja stated that across the North Central region, operations under SAVANNAH SHIELD and ENDURING PEACE resulted in the neutralisation of terrorist elements, arrests of suspects, and interception of explosive materials.

He added that troops also foiled attacks, rescued abducted civilians, and uncovered sophisticated methods used by criminals to transport ammunition.

According to him, troops operating under Operation DELTA SAFE intensified the crackdown on oil theft in the Niger Delta, dismantling 101 illegal refining sites and recovering over 547,000 litres of stolen petroleum products, while several suspects linked to kidnapping and illegal refining activities were arrested.

Onoja also revealed that operations under UDO KA targeted criminal elements associated with the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, leading to the arrest of 91 suspects, rescue of kidnapped victims, and destruction of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during clearance operations in Imo and Anambra states.

Nationwide Impact
Summarising the nationwide impact, Onoja said AFN operations across all theatres led to the rescue of 813 kidnapped civilians, arrest of 1,359 suspects, surrender of 197 insurgents, and recovery of hundreds of weapons and thousands of rounds of ammunition.

He added that the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, had commended troops for their resilience and professionalism, while reaffirming the military’s commitment to intensifying operations against terrorism and criminality.

Onoja further urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with timely intelligence, stressing that public cooperation remained crucial in sustaining the gains recorded so far.

Unlocking Youth Potential Key To Nigeria’s Economic Growth – Minister

Maryam Aminu

Nigeria’s path to sustainable economic growth lies in harnessing the vast potential of its young population, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, said on Monday, as he received participants of the Senior Executive Course 48 (SEC 48) of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies in Abuja.

Olawande stressed that young Nigerians are not just a demographic advantage but a strategic asset capable of driving innovation, enterprise, and economic transformation, noting that government policies are increasingly focused on positioning youth at the centre of productivity and wealth creation.

Olawande noted that the Ministry is implementing targeted policies and programmes aimed at empowering youths through entrepreneurship development, digital innovation, skills acquisition, and improved access to finance.

He said the goal is to reposition young Nigerians from the margins of economic participation to the centre of productivity and wealth creation.
“We are deliberately strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem by building human capital, expanding mentorship networks, and developing sustainable financing mechanisms to help young people start, grow, and scale viable enterprises,” he said.

The Minister added that the study visit by the NIPSS delegation presents an opportunity for meaningful engagement and exchange of ideas that would enrich government’s ongoing efforts at designing responsive and impactful youth development policies.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, said the Ministry remains committed to transitioning Nigerian youths from job seekers to job creators through strategic investments in innovation and capacity development.

She noted that the focus of the Senior Executive Course aligns with the Ministry’s priorities, particularly in advancing youth entrepreneurship and promoting inclusive economic growth.

Keshinro urged members of the delegation to critically engage with the Ministry’s programmes and contribute practical policy recommendations that would further unlock opportunities for young people.

Speaking on behalf of the Director-General of NIPSS, Ayo Omotayo, the Director of Research, Musa Umar, said the institute has continued to play a pivotal role in training strategic leaders and shaping national policy since its establishment in 1979.

He explained that the institute’s flagship Senior Executive Course, which runs for ten months, brings together participants from the public and private sectors, the military, and civil society to deliberate on critical national issues.

Umar added that the focus of SEC 48 on the orange economy and entrepreneurship underscores the central role of young people in Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and economic transformation.
“That is why we are here today. We consider this Ministry critical in discussions around the orange economy and entrepreneurship because young people are at the heart of these sectors,” he said.

The New Oil Is Not Data, It Is Trust: Why Nigeria Must Build a Governance Architecture for the Digital Age – By Dr. Gabriel Akinremi

Nigeria stands at a defining moment in its digital evolution. For years, we have repeated the familiar phrase that “data is the new oil.” But in a world where information flows faster than institutions can regulate it, where digital systems shape public life, and where citizens depend on technology for everything from healthcare to justice, that statement is no longer sufficient.

The true currency of the digital age is not data, it is trust. And Nigeria is running dangerously low.

As someone who has spent years working at the intersection of digital governance, public safety, and institutional reform, I have seen firsthand how the absence of trust in digital systems undermines national development. Citizens hesitate to adopt government platforms. Businesses fear cyberattacks more than market competition. Public institutions struggle to modernize because the digital infrastructure they rely on is inconsistent, fragmented, or vulnerable.

Nigeria is digitising rapidly, but it is not building the governance architecture required to sustain that transformation. The result is a digital ecosystem that is expanding in scale but not in reliability.

Trust is the foundation of every digital society. It is what allows citizens to share information, businesses to innovate, and governments to function efficiently. But trust cannot be demanded; it must be earned. And it is earned through systems that are secure, transparent, resilient, and accountable.

Nigeria’s digital landscape today is marked by contradictions. On one hand, we have some of the most innovative startups on the continent, a young and dynamic tech workforce, and a growing appetite for digital solutions. On the other hand, we face persistent cyber threats, inconsistent data protection practices, weak institutional coordination, and a regulatory environment that often lags behind technological reality.

This gap between innovation and governance is widening and it is becoming a national risk.

The consequences are already visible. Citizens are increasingly skeptical of digital identity systems. Businesses are reluctant to adopt cloud based solutions because they fear breaches. Government agencies struggle to share data because there is no unified framework for interoperability. Hospitals hesitate to digitise patient records because they lack confidence in the security of their systems. Researchers lose valuable datasets because institutions do not have structured preservation protocols.

These are not isolated challenges. They are symptoms of a deeper structural issue: Nigeria has not yet built a governance model that matches the speed and complexity of its digital transformation.

To move forward, Nigeria must embrace a new paradigm one that treats digital governance not as a technical function but as a national priority. This requires more than infrastructure. It requires leadership, policy coherence, institutional discipline, and a cultural shift in how we think about information.
Digital governance must be built on four pillars: security, to protect systems from threats;
resilience, to ensure continuity in the face of disruption; transparency, to build public confidence; and accountability, to ensure that institutions uphold the standards they set.

These principles are not abstract. They are the foundation of every successful digital nation. Estonia, Singapore, and South Korea did not become global leaders in digital innovation by accident. They built trust deliberately, systematically, and consistently.

In my work supporting justice sector reforms, strengthening digital systems, and advising institutions on data governance, I have seen how transformative the right frameworks can be. When institutions adopt structured data protection protocols, they reduce operational risks. When agencies implement interoperable systems, they improve service delivery. When organizations treat data as a strategic asset, they unlock new opportunities for innovation.

But these successes must be scaled nationally. Nigeria needs a unified digital governance strategy one that integrates cybersecurity, data protection, digital identity, cloud adoption, and institutional resilience into a coherent national agenda. Without this, our digital progress will remain fragmented and fragile.

The stakes are high. As Nigeria deepens its digital economy, the question is no longer whether we will rely on digital systems we already do. The question is whether those systems will be strong enough to support the weight of national development.

Trust is not built in moments of crisis. It is built through foresight, preparation, and responsible governance. Nigeria must act now, before vulnerabilities become failures and failures become national setbacks.

The future of Nigeria’s digital transformation will not be determined by how much technology we adopt, but by how much trust we can build. And trust is earned through systems that protect citizens, empower institutions, and preserve the integrity of national information.
If Nigeria can build that trust, it will not only secure its digital future, but it will also lead Africa into a new era of governance, innovation, and resilience.

Dr Gabriel Akinremi is a cybersecurity and digital transformation policy analyst. He is currently the director of programmes at the Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN) and a lecturer at Iconic Open University

Extreme Weather Tops Global Risks As Nigeria Pushes Stronger Climate, Aviation Safety Systems

Emmanuel Daudu/Maryam Aminu

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s weather, aviation and hydrological sectors have raised fresh concerns over the growing threat of extreme weather, urging urgent investments in data systems, infrastructure and partnerships to safeguard lives and the economy.

This was the central message at the 2026 World Meteorological Day celebration held at the headquarters of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) in Abuja, where experts warned that climate-related risks are intensifying across Africa, including Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Secretary-General Celeste Saulo highlighted that extreme weather has now emerged as the leading long-term global risk, according to the World Economic Forum.

She noted that Africa has experienced its warmest decade on record, with increasing incidents of heatwaves, floods, droughts, and sandstorms trends already affecting Nigeria.
“These are not distant problems they are today’s reality,” she stressed, calling for stronger observation systems and early warning mechanisms to mitigate disasters.

Also speaking, Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Chris Najomo, underscored the critical role of meteorological data in aviation safety.

He described weather observation as “the foundation of every takeoff and landing,” noting that real-time data helps pilots and air traffic controllers navigate hazards such as turbulence, wind shear, and storms.

Najomo warned that climate change is rapidly altering aviation conditions, with extreme weather events becoming more frequent.

He called for:
Investment in weather-resilient airport infrastructure
Adoption of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and satellite systems
Stronger collaboration with NiMet to enhance operational safety

Speakers emphasized that while meteorological services are essential, they remain expensive to maintain, with significant gaps still existing in observation systems.

There were strong calls for increased funding of NiMet, not only by government but also by the private sector, which benefits from climate services across industries such as agriculture, health, disaster management, and energy.

In his remarks, Director-General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, praised NiMet’s contributions to national development, particularly in disaster risk reduction.

He noted that weather and climate forecasts in Nigeria have become increasingly reliable and accessible, helping to protect vulnerable communities and support economic planning.

Mohammed also urged stakeholders to expand the use of meteorological and hydrological data, especially among populations most at risk of climate impacts.
“Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow”
The 2026 theme“Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow” was widely echoed by speakers as a call to action.

Participants stressed that accurate weather observation and data management remain the backbone of modern economies, influencing decisions from daily activities to multi-billion-dollar investments.

They warned that without urgent and sustained investment in climate observation systems today, future risks could escalate significantly.

As the demand for weather and climate services continues to grow, stakeholders agreed that strengthening partnerships, embracing innovation, and expanding data coverage are critical to building a more resilient Nigeria.

World Records Holder unvied the new Logo of Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu Int’l Foundation Inc USA and Associate worldwide

Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu International Foundation Inc is a philanthropic organization founded by the renowned Nigerian academic, Prof. Sir Bashiru Aremu, who is also the first African UNESCO Laureate. The foundation focuses on empowering communities through education, mentorship, and global partnerships.

Key Areas of Focus:

Education: Providing scholarships and educational seminars
Community Development: Supporting small businesses and local growth
Mentorship: Guiding youth and professionals in education and career paths
Global Impact: Addressing social issues like abusive marriages and promoting mental wellness

Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu Int’l Foundation Inc has collaborated
for the humanitarian services of Oluwakemi Women and Girls Child Empowerment Foundation (OWAGCEG) which was founded by Prof Mrs Bushiro Oluwakemi a Professor in Fountain University Osogbo Osun State Nigeria

The foundation has partnered with organizations like the GFA Foundation to promote women and child welfare in Nigeria. Prof. Aremu’s vision is to uplift communities and foster global development through compassion, education, and community empowerment ¹

Make Your Parent Enjoy The Fruit Of Their Labour, Place Them On Salary – Pastor Komaiya tells Nigerians

The presiding pastor of the Masters Place International, Pastor Korede Komaiya has said, people should make their parent happy, let them enjoy the fruit of their labour and place them on salary, stressing that, “parental blessings are critical” in the fulfilment of purpose, destiny and a major covenant secret.

Komaiya spoke in a video message recently released, where he made the assertion.

According to the revered cleric, “if you have mother alive, father alive, you have gold mines alive”, parental blessings are critical.

Komaiya added, Let your parents enjoy the fruit of their labour, place them on salary even if it’s 2000, ‘Not comme ci comme sa’, even when they don’t need it, do it, it is the covenant, you’re practicing.

He explained, Something must leave you to your parent, listen carefully to their needs, he emphasised.

Speaking further, Komaiya added, “Don’t let mosquito kill your parents and you spend #7m on their burial”.

Even, “If they’ve made mistake, we all do, can you please forgive, be the fulfilment of their dream”.

Using this as a backdrop, Komaiya said “Please, you owe your parent one thing, let them die happy”.

He concluded, “Let your parent thank God for having you, it is a major covenant secret, Parental blessings”, he stressed.

Acting CMD FTHL, Sunday Ojochide Ebune receives recognition for outstanding performance and disability-inclusivity in recruitment

The National Association of Applicants and Workers with Disabilities, Kogi State Chapter, has honoured Acting Chief Medical Director of Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja,, Dr. Sunday Ojochide Ebune, for his remarkable efforts in promoting disability-inclusive recruitment practices.

President of the Association, Mr. Samuel Mark while presenting the award in Lokoja commended Dr. Ebune for absorbing individuals with disabilities into the hospital’s workforce, citing examples such as an albino, a deaf individual, and a lady with physical disability among others as a way of reducing unemployment among persons with disabilities.

Mr. Mark highlighted Dr. Ebune’s achievements, including the organisation of a landmark town hall meeting that brought together staff and stakeholders to enhance service delivery and patient management. He also noted the revitalisation of the X-ray section and renovation of dilapidated hospital sections, showcasing Dr. Ebune’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure.

Dr. Ebune’s leadership has prioritized productivity, demonstrating a deep understanding of human capital value and investing in the growth of Kogi State Hospital. His approach to patient welfare, staff reorientation, and resource mobilisation has improved staff morale and productivity, with personal resources deployed for ‘Emergency Funds’ to facilitate quality service delivery.

The association has appealed for Dr. Ebune’s confirmation as substantive CMD, citing his dedication to inclusivity and commitment to upholding the 5% job reservation law for persons with disabilities.
Responding ,Dr. Ebune expressed appreciation for the recognition, emphasizing his commitment to creating a more accessible environment and promoting equality and inclusion for persons with disabilities.
The acting CMD thanked the body for the recognition, saying he’s just doing his part to create a more inclusive environment. “Disability is a universal risk, and it’s our collective responsibility to ensure equal opportunities for all,” he said, urging continued support for inclusive practices.

He reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the 5% job reservation law for persons with disabilities, ensuring FTHL remains a hub for excellence in healthcare delivery, research, and training.

UKOMU Igala Targets N500m Fundraiser For Community Development Projects

Maryam Aminu

The UKOMU Igala Organisation has announced plans to raise N500 million through a fundraising dinner aimed at financing major development projects for Igala and Bassa communities.

The fundraising event, scheduled for March 21 in Abuja, is part of broader efforts under the Igala/Bassa Renaissance Project, an initiative designed to mobilise resources and support long-term socio-economic development in the region.

In a statement issued on Saturday and made available to journalists, the organisation said the dinner will hold at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess, Asokoro, and is expected to attract prominent members of the Igala and Bassa communities, as well as other stakeholders and supporters.

According to the group, the initiative seeks not only to generate funds for critical community interventions but also to strengthen unity and collaboration among the people.

The statement noted that the organisation is optimistic about meeting its N500 million fundraising target, which will be channelled into programmes aimed at advancing development priorities and sustaining the renaissance agenda for the communities.

It added that traditional rulers, professionals, community leaders, and well-meaning Nigerians have been invited to participate in the event and contribute toward the success of the initiative.

The organisers expressed confidence that the fundraiser will serve as a platform to rally collective support for transformative projects that will benefit Igala and Bassa communities in the years ahead.

Former Labour Party Candidate Abdulmalik Sani Resigns Party Membership In Kogi

Maryam Aminu

Abdulmalik Sani, who contested the Olamaboro State Constituency seat under the Labour Party in the last general election in Kogi State, has formally resigned from the party.

Sani, popularly known as “Gabaidu,” announced his decision while speaking with journalists in Imane, a community in Olamaboro Local Government Area of the state.

He said the move followed extensive consultations with his political associates, supporters and key stakeholders across the constituency.

According to him, the decision became necessary to allow him pursue his political aspirations more effectively while continuing to serve the people of Olamaboro.

The former candidate expressed gratitude to members of the Labour Party who supported his ambition during the last general election, noting that their commitment and sacrifices would not be forgotten.

Sani also reassured his supporters that his exit from the party would not diminish his commitment to the development and progress of the constituency.

He stressed that his political journey remains focused on promoting good governance, unity and sustainable development for the people of the area.

However, the politician did not disclose the political platform he intends to join next.

Political observers in Kogi State say the development could reshape the political dynamics in Olamaboro constituency ahead of future elections.