In a bid to strengthen climate resilience and enhance weather forecasting capabilities, selected staff of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) will undergo specialized training sponsored by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
The training is part of the Building Agricultural Systems Resilience in Nigeria Project (2024-2026), implemented by Sahel Consulting, and aims to equip NiMet personnel with advanced skills in climate data analysis and application.
A statement from NiMet’s media office highlighted that staff members have previously benefited from similar training under the ongoing partnership.
The upcoming training will be conducted by the International Research Institute for Climate and Society (IRI), a key technical partner in the project and a part of the Columbia Climate School at Columbia University.
The program is structured into two phases: Training of Trainers (ToT) session – February 18 to 21 and Expanded training session – February 24 to 28, where NiMet staff will train participants from various ministries and agencies under the guidance of an IRI expert.
Receiving Dr. Tufa Dinku, a Research Scientist from IRI, who visited to brief him on the training, NiMet’s Director General and CEO, Prof. Charles Anosike, expressed appreciation to the Gates Foundation and its partners for their support.
“Access to high-quality climate data is essential for developing effective, decision-relevant, and sustainable climate services. This training will enhance our capacity and empower beneficiaries to leverage climate information for improved decision-making,” Prof. Anosike stated.
The initiative is expected to significantly boost Nigeria’s agricultural resilience, improve climate adaptation strategies, and enhance the country’s meteorological services.
The Federal Government has launched a comprehensive four-year roadmap for the Open Government Partnership (OGP), aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement to drive socio-economic development in Nigeria.
The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, announced the initiative during the valedictory session of the National Action Plan III (NAP III) and the inauguration of the committee tasked with developing the fourth National Action Plan (NAP IV) in Abuja.
According to the Minister, the new roadmap will build on the successes of NAP III while addressing past challenges. He urged the steering committee members to review the roadmap critically and provide constructive feedback to ensure an improved framework for NAP IV.
“Please draw extensively from your experience with NAP III as you contribute to the draft. Our goal is to create a new action plan that avoids previous challenges,” Olawande stated.
He emphasized the importance of nationwide adoption of OGP principles, noting that 26 out of Nigeria’s 37 states, along with three local councils, have already embraced the initiative.
He also highlighted progress in beneficial ownership reforms and commended the President for promoting transparency in governance, citing the removal of the corruption-ridden petrol subsidy as a key achievement.
Dr. Gloria Ahmed, National Coordinator of the OGP and Director of Special Duties at the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, explained that the National Steering Committee (NSC) has transitioned from a two-year to a four-year action plan cycle. This shift, she noted, allows for a mid-term review to reassess priorities in response to government policy changes or emerging challenges.
“The roadmap will officially commence in March with a stakeholder retreat, where participants will assess past performance and review the previous National Action Plan,” Dr. Ahmed stated.
The unveiling of the four-year roadmap marks a significant step toward strengthening governance and fostering inclusive development in Nigeria.
Leaders of the Balogun Business Association (BBA) have raised concerns over individuals they describe as impostors falsely representing themselves as executives of the association.
In a petition addressed to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the traders warned that these individuals recently paid a courtesy visit to the governor despite having no legitimate claim to leadership.
The petition, signed by Chief Anthony Obih (Chairman, Board of Trustees), Chief Jones Okpala (Secretary, Board of Trustees), Hon. Anselm Dunu (Chairman, Caretaker Committee), and Chief Leonard Ogbonnia (Secretary, Caretaker Committee), was also copied to the Attorney General of Lagos State.
The traders accused Chief Paul Oscar Ikechukwu Odogwu and his group of acting in “brazen and egregious defiance” of ongoing judicial proceedings. They cited multiple court cases, including Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/451/2021 and Suit No: FHC/L/CS/2665/2023, which they claim validate the authority of the Caretaker Committee led by Hon. Anselm Dunu as the lawful management body of the association.
According to the petitioners, the Federal High Court had issued orders preventing government interference in the association’s affairs, particularly regarding its management and administration. Despite this, they allege that Chief Odogwu misrepresented himself to gain access to Governor Sanwo-Olu under false pretenses.
The Balogun Business Association, established in 1992 and operating under a lease from the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board, is a major commercial hub for traders across Nigeria and West Africa.
The traders urged the Lagos State Government to disregard Odogwu and his group, stating: “We respectfully urge Your Excellency to treat Chief Paul Oscar Ikechukwu Odogwu and his associates as deceivers, tricksters, and impostors.
They should not be granted any recognition as representatives of the Balogun Business Association nor be given any further audience.”
The crisis at BBA has been ongoing, with tensions escalating over allegations that certain individuals are unlawfully extorting traders under the guise of utility bill payments, despite the issue being subject to court proceedings.
The petitioners emphasized that legal resolution is the only path forward, warning against intimidation and harassment of traders.
The Lagos State Government is yet to respond to the petition.
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has strongly refuted recent statements by Dr. Babachir Lawal regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s potential bid for re-election in 2027.
Matawalle asserted that President Tinubu enjoys significant support in Northern Nigeria and has made notable strides in governance.
Speaking on Sunday, Matawalle emphasized that Tinubu’s administration has implemented impactful reforms across all regions, including the North. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has been in office for just 19 months, has made significant contributions. The people of the North will rally behind him to build upon these achievements,” he said.
Matawalle highlighted key security improvements, noting that in 2024 alone, Nigerian security forces neutralized over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, arrested 11,600 criminals, and recovered more than 10,000 illegal weapons. Additionally, approximately 8,000 kidnap victims were successfully rescued. The establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC), in collaboration with the UK’s National Crime Agency, has further strengthened anti-kidnapping efforts.
He dismissed claims of waning Northern support for Tinubu, stating, “Any insinuation to the contrary is a deliberate attempt to sow discord and undermine national security.”
The Minister also outlined Tinubu’s economic policies aimed at transforming the North, including the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development to harness the region’s agricultural potential.
He noted that this initiative is empowering millions, particularly women and youth, and has contributed to stabilizing food prices.
Infrastructure development has also been a priority, with the administration focusing on road construction and transportation network improvements to drive economic growth in the North.
Matawalle underscored the importance of President Tinubu’s signing of the Local Government Autonomy law, which empowers local administrations, enhances accountability, and improves grassroots governance.
Urging critics like Lawal to evaluate Tinubu’s performance objectively, Matawalle stated, “The cries of dissent should not overshadow the progress being made. The North remains steadfast in its support for the President.”
Concluding his statement, he reaffirmed the Northern region’s commitment to Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing, “Our support for President Tinubu is unwavering and unshakeable. We stand firmly behind his vision for a prosperous and secure Nigeria.”
The Federal Government has announced a partnership with the Kaduna State Government to provide skill acquisition and reintegration programs for minors recently pardoned under the EndBadGovernance initiative.
The Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, disclosed this during a follow-up visit to Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State.
The visit aimed to assess the current status of the freed minors and discuss strategies for their rehabilitation.
Professor Yilwatda emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the children not only regain their freedom but also have access to vocational training and starter packs to help them build a sustainable future.
“We are not just handing them their freedom; we are giving them a chance to build their future where their potentials are fully realized,” the Minister stated, assuring that none of the beneficiaries would leave the program with regrets.
He commended Governor Sani for his leadership in ensuring the children are reunited with their families while also receiving education, counseling, and vocational skills.
He also lauded the Kaduna State Government’s alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the areas of security, education, inclusivity, and empowerment.
Additionally, the Minister expressed gratitude to UNICEF and development partners for their support in providing psychosocial care, vocational training, and education for the minors.
During the meeting, Governor Uba Sani acknowledged the progress made since Professor Yilwatda assumed office, particularly in addressing humanitarian challenges.
He revealed that the minors received by Kaduna State in 2024 had undergone psychosocial therapy under the supervision of Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, a medical doctor.
Governor Sani further stated that the children are being supported in schools and businesses, with skill acquisition programs facilitated at three major centers in the state.
He affirmed Kaduna State’s readiness to collaborate with the Ministry to provide skills for the youth and expand financial inclusion for vulnerable persons in rural areas.
He disclosed that the state has already opened accounts for 2.2 million vulnerable individuals and aims to reach 3.5 million under the social register initiative.
It will be recalled that the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, officially handed over the freed minors and youths to their respective state governments in December 2024 in Abuja.
The meeting, held at Sir Kashim House, Kaduna, was attended by top government officials, including Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, Secretary to the State Government Dr. Abdulkadir Muazu Mayere, Senior Special Assistant to the President on School Feeding Dr. Yetunde Adeniyi, directors from the Ministry, aides to the Minister, and members of the Kaduna State Executive Council.
A groundbreaking initiative is underway, offering a lifetime opportunity to approximately 6,000 Nigerians. They will receive training in Fire Extinguisher servicing vendors (FESV) a vital skillset that will not only enhance their employability but also contribute to the country’s safety and well-being.
This pioneering program is a testament to the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has made strategic appointments, including Dr. Olubumi Tunji-Ojo as the Honorable Minister of Interior. This appointment has yielded significant results, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to driving positive change.
The project, which is designed to achieve multiple objectives, including controlling fake importers and illegal manufacturers, promoting enlightenment on the use of fire extinguishers, and enhancing national security, is expected to generate employment opportunities in servicing, distribution, and pre-enforcement data gathering.
In addition to creating employment opportunities, the project also aims to block economic loopholes and boost government internally generated revenue (IGR). This will be achieved by controlling fake fire extinguisher servicing vendors and tracking failed fire extinguishers at the point of usage.
A minimum of 6000 Nigerian youths are to be trained as Fire Extinguisher servicing vendors (FESV) Who will be deployed to strategic locations to service fire extinguishers booked by FRSC/FFS enforcement team and those from normal law abiding and safety conscious citizen. They will also be integrated to serve as sales agents for the manufacturer and importer of fire extinguishers under the NFEC aggregator program .
Aside from creating employment for Nigerians, the Federal Fire Service and Federal Road safety fire extinguisher enforcement collaboration will prevent lives and properties to petroleum tankers crash by enabling the right size and category of extinguisher to be used by articulated vehicles. This process will ensure that tanker caries type of fire extinguisher that can be used to dilute petrol to prevent the public from scooping to avert the usual explosion and loss of lives .
Our visit to the Ministry of Interior joint service Department and N-Alert technical office confirmed the claim of Benue state Executive Governor of creating over 2000 jobs for youths as Pre- enforcement Data Collector (PDC) aka adhoc staff (NFEC prove of concept ) In 2024.These individuals performed both advocacy and data collection . Presently there are about over 70,000 buildings ready for joint enforcement by Federal Fire Service, State fire service , SON, NSCDC . If replicated in all states and FCT the Ministry of Interior NFEC program will crate over 100,000 jobs . And Generate over 500 million for each state of the federation annually from tax, Levi, penalty etc.
The government’s plan to create employment opportunities for youths through this project is a welcome development, given the country’s high youth unemployment rate. According to recent statistics, over 50% of Nigerian youths are unemployed, with many more underemployed.
With the government’s commitment to creating employment opportunities for youths, Nigerian young people can look forward to a brighter future.
A very reliable source from the office of the Controller – General federal fire service and the project manager Messer 2TOC solutions Ltd said the plans are on top gear to commence public announcement for the training of interested youths across the country as FESV who will do that at their own cost . However, project managers are urged to reach out to organizations and spirited individuals to subside the cost of training for indigent youths, who may be qualified but not having the means.
From the media space we shall consult Fintechs to utilize NFEC window to empower these youth. We shall update the public on the training registration portal when it’s finally opened .
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle has strongly criticized the recent denial of visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, and other members of the Nigerian delegation by Canadian authorities.
The delegation was en route to attend a significant event honoring Nigerian veterans in Canada when the refusal occurred.
Describing the incident as a serious affront to Nigeria’s national dignity and integrity, Matawalle emphasized that such treatment threatens the long-standing bilateral relationship between both nations.
“This is not merely a bureaucratic oversight; it is a blatant disregard for Nigeria’s status on the global stage,” he stated. “We cannot allow our country to be treated with such levity.”
The Minister called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the reasons behind the visa denial, stressing that Nigeria must respond decisively to safeguard its diplomatic reputation.
“We must not remain passive in the face of such disrespect. If no satisfactory explanation is provided, Nigeria must take a firm and assertive diplomatic stance,” Matawalle declared.
The refusal of visas to high-ranking military officials raises serious concerns about Canada’s approach to diplomatic engagements with Nigeria. While the specific reasons for the denial remain unclear, the incident highlights ongoing bureaucratic and political obstacles faced by Nigerian officials in international affairs.
Matawalle reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to upholding its dignity on the international stage, urging collective action to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Hon. Philip Agbese has strongly refuted allegations made by Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, who claimed Agbese was among those who demanded a $150 million bribe from the cryptocurrency firm.
In a statement released on Friday, Agbese described the allegations as “false and baseless,” asserting that he was never part of any meeting involving Binance executives regarding any financial transaction.
He emphasized that the leadership of the Committee on Economic and Financial Crimes had already taken legal action on the matter, and Binance had since apologized.
“Let it be on record that I am not a member of the Committee on Economic and Financial Crimes,” Agbese clarified.
“I visited my colleague, Hon. Peter Ankpanke, in his office while he was meeting with some visitors about an activity of his Committee. Hon. Peter Anakwe, another member of the Committee, was also present. I exchanged pleasantries and discussed Binance’s activities in general, but at no point did I make any demands.”
He further explained that he left the meeting before any discussions between Ankpanke, Anakwe, and Binance representatives took place. “I never saw those visitors again after that chance meeting and did not attend any subsequent meetings with Binance executives, the EFCC, or the DSS,” he stated.
Addressing claims about his involvement in cryptocurrency transactions, Agbese categorically denied ever using or owning a crypto wallet. “I have never used any cryptocurrency, so I could not have asked for funds to be credited to a non-existent wallet,” he asserted.
He also condemned Gambaryan’s allegations, stating that they were part of a broader attempt to undermine public officials.
“This is not the first time a foreign entity has made baseless accusations against me. Previously, there were claims that I worked for the past government and the Armed Forces to promote Nigeria’s agenda. These falsehoods reflect the desperation of those seeking to discredit nationalist public office holders,” he said.
Agbese has now issued a demand for Gambaryan to provide evidence linking him to the bribery claims or publicly retract his statement and apologize within seven days. “Gambaryan and his associate, who escaped from prison, should return to the EFCC and defend themselves instead of attempting to implicate me,” he stated. “If he fails to produce evidence, my legal team will take necessary action.”
The lawmaker urged all inquiries on the matter to be directed to the Committee on Economic and Financial Crimes rather than to him.
He added: “The fellow mentioned in his allegations that the Honourable members demanded for bribe from them and that it should be paid into their personal account.
“I want to state in my honour that I have no cryptocurrency account anywhere in the world. I have never transacted any business with any electronic currency since I was born and I challenge the accuser to supply the so-called crypto currency account belonging to me.”
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has announced the implementation of a monitoring mechanism to track the progress and challenges related to product adoption. This initiative will involve regular reports from each institute, detailing product usage, feedback, and obstacles encountered. The collected data will be used to drive continuous improvement.
According to the newly introduced policy, the initiative is expected to strengthen internal confidence, thereby enhancing the internal usage and validation of products. This, in turn, aims to make NASENI’s innovations more attractive for external markets, promote collaboration among institutes, and foster a culture of mutual support for innovation.
In a statement signed by Mr. Olusegun Ayeoyenikan Director of Information, NASENI on 10th February 2025, he said the key anticipated outcomes include the development of an External Commercialization Model, ensuring successful internal integration serves as a foundation for external adoption. Additionally, the initiative is expected to enhance Product Development, leveraging feedback to ensure products meet high standards before market introduction.
This policy aligns with NASENI’s commitment to fostering innovation, strengthening internal structures, and positioning its products for broader market acceptance.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria have intensified their operations against terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities across the country, leading to the neutralization of over 150 terrorists and the arrest of hundreds of suspected criminals.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, disclosed this during a media briefing, emphasizing that the military’s sustained offensives have significantly degraded terrorist activities nationwide.
According to Major General Kangye, in the past six weeks alone, troops neutralized 75 terrorists and arrested 138 suspected criminals in coordinated operations across multiple theaters.
He noted that joint efforts with security agencies and hybrid forces also resulted in the rescue of 46 kidnapped victims and the disruption of criminal supply chains, particularly those involved in arms smuggling and oil theft.
Providing an update on security operations in the South-South region, Kangye stated that the military foiled oil theft operations valued at approximately ₦646 million.
He detailed that troops successfully seized 497,152 liters of stolen crude oil, 142,000 liters of illegally refined diesel (AGO), and 4,075 liters of petrol (PMS).
Additionally, he reported the destruction of 42 illegal refining sites and the recovery of various arms, vehicles, and communication equipment used by oil theft syndicates.
The Defence Spokesperson further revealed that 65 members of Boko Haram and ISWAP including 12 men, 19 women, and 34 children surrendered to troops of Operation Hadin Kai in the past week.
“In counterterrorism operations, our forces neutralized 22 insurgents, arrested 13 others, and successfully rescued 34 kidnapped victims in coordinated clearance missions across Gwoza, Konduga, Damboa, and Mafa,” he added.
Kangye also highlighted the seizure of 12 AK-47 rifles, RPGs, ammunition, and aircraft engine components from a previously unidentified crash site.
Furthermore, he disclosed that 18 ISWAP collaborators were apprehended in Borno and Yobe States, with items including arms, mobile phones, and ₦58,980 in cash recovered.
Speaking on military advances in the North-West under Operation Fasan Yamma, Kangye confirmed that 58 terrorists were neutralized, while 11 others were arrested.
He highlighted key breakthroughs, including:
Weapons Recovery: 31 AK-47 rifles, RPGs, and thousands of rounds of ammunition were seized.
Rescue Missions: Troops freed 16 kidnapped victims during operations across Katsina, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Sokoto States.
Notorious Terrorist Arrested: Security forces apprehended a terrorist kingpin, Muhada Muhammadu (Yellow), along with four others, recovering ₦2.45 million in the process.
Kangye also provided insights into operations under Operation Whirl Punch, stating that security forces successfully carried out raids in Kogi, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye during the briefing
Raid on Insurgent Camp in Kogi: Troops arrested eight criminals and seized two locally made revolvers and ammunition.
Illegal Mining Crackdown in Nasarawa: 51 individuals involved in illegal mining were arrested, and security operatives confiscated gold, lithium, and mining equipment.
Troops intercepted a kidnapped victim who had escaped captivity and provided security support.
In the North-Central region, troops of Operation Safe Haven and Operation Whirl Stroke recorded further successes:
Arrests & Seizures: 51 violent extremists were captured, and security forces recovered three AK-47 rifles and ammunition.
Hostage Rescues: Troops rescued 11 kidnapped individuals in Plateau State, while multiple criminal suspects linked to violent attacks were apprehended.
Summarizing military efforts across all theaters of operation, Major General Kangye stated that in recent weeks, the Armed Forces: Neutralized 151 terrorists, Arrested 313 suspects, including gunrunners and oil thieves, Rescued 107 kidnapped victims, Seized over 60 AK-47 rifles, RPGs, and thousands of rounds of ammunition and Destroyed multiple illegal refineries and criminal hideouts
Kangye reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian military to dismantling terrorist networks, securing national assets, and restoring peace across the country.
He urged citizens to continue providing timely intelligence to security agencies to aid the ongoing fight against insurgency and organized crime.
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