National Library Faces Eviction Over ₦447 Million Unpaid Rent

The National Library of Nigeria (NLN) is on the brink of eviction over an astounding ₦447,424,760.91 in unpaid rent, highlighting what many are calling a national embarrassment and a stark symbol of neglect for the country’s intellectual infrastructure.

The library, originally relocated from Lagos to Abuja in 1995, has operated from a rented building at Plot 274, Sanusi Dantata House, Central Business District, Abuja, for nearly three decades.

Despite its role as the custodian of Nigeria’s literary and cultural heritage, the institution has failed to secure a permanent home, forcing it to rely on leased premises.

It was gathered that the building, formerly owned by Asada Group Ltd, had previously issued a demand notice for outstanding rent, which went unpaid. When the property was sold to a new landlord, the library was granted a two-year lease starting 31 March 2025 as an act of goodwill. However, to date, no payment has been made under this new lease.

“The National Library, rather than being a proud symbol of national identity and intellectual advancement, is now facing eviction like any other delinquent tenant,” said a concerned observer familiar with the matter.

The new landlord has now served a quit notice and a seven-day statutory notice of intention to recover possession, putting the future of the institution at immediate risk.

Observers say the situation underscores a wider issue of misplaced national priorities. While Nigeria continues to allocate vast sums to political functions, recurrent expenditures, and incomplete projects, critical institutions like the National Library struggle to meet basic operational obligations.

The plight of the library is further compounded by the long-abandoned permanent National Library building in Abuja, a project that has remained unfinished for decades despite repeated government promises.

Without urgent intervention from the Federal Government, Nigerians may soon witness the National Library, a vault of the country’s books, records, and cultural treasures, locked up over unpaid rent, a move that would spark national and international ridicule.

Press release: Brace Up For Seamless Trade, Comptroller Oshoba Urges Stakeholders,As Apapa Command Prepares Scanning 200 Containers Per Hour

Customs Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, Comptroller Oluwadare Oshoba has urged port users and stakeholders to brace up for more seamless trade process following more giant strides being achieved by the Nigerian Customs Service modernisation project with the commencement of fixed scanners installation.

Speaking shortly after inspecting the location for the installation of three new scanners at the port, Comptroller Oshoba said Apapa Port Command is ready to surpass expectations as the scanners would be examining 200 containers per hour.

While describing the quayside location for the scanners as an operational masterstroke, the CAC said no consignment will escape high-tech driven, non-intrusive inspection at Apapa port as the scanners would be strategically positioned close to the berthing area.

The CAC who commended CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi for his relentless commitment to NCS modernisation also urged officers to prepare for intensive train the trainer sessions as the next phase after installation would be training ahead of full deployment

He also advised NCS ICT officers to improve on capacity building for tier one and tier two levels of maintenance of the scanners, which are first of its kind in the West and Central Africa subregion

Comptroller Oshoba described the feat as a great milestone about to happen and advised port users, especially importers, exporters and their agents to uphold the tenet of sincere declaration as all false declarations and concealment would be exposed by the technology.

In expression of gratitude to the CGC, Comptroller Oshoba said, ” I want to on behalf of our officers and men, thank the CGC for leading us through an era of revolutionary customs modernisation. The coming of these scanners is one of the many great fruits we shall be harvesting from the modernisation project

“Our partners, the Trade Modernisation Project (TMP), have assured us that the installation would last for 45 days, and we are expecting two units of scanners from them with an additional one from APM Terminals. These three scanners would ensure that there is no downtime for cargo examination here and reinforce our position as the number one destination for port activities in Nigeria

“All hands must be on deck to see to the full realisation of this dream which would save time, increase revenue, enhance national security, promote trade and prevent port related crimes from the earliest point of entry” The CAC said.

Also speaking on the development, Aliyu Suleiman, TMP Team Leader at the site, gave details on the scanners produced by Nuctech in Chin. He described them as the NUCTECH FS6000 with a high-throughput, non-intrusive, drive-through X-ray inspection system for cargo and vehicles.

He added that the scanners use high-penetration dual-energy X-ray transmission technology to inspect trucks and containers in one pass at speeds up to 15 km/h, allowing for non-stop inspection at busy locations like ports and border crossings.

According to the expert, the system provides detailed images that help identify concealed contraband and dangerous materials, and its compact, modular design allows for easy relocation and integration with other systems like License Plate Recognition (LPR) and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)

In addition to the three fixed scanners about being installed, APM Terminals has also promised to provide a mobile scanner to serve as support in the event of unexpected downtime.

SC Tunde Ayagbalo
Public Relations Officer
For CAC Apapa Area Command

Ghana: American Global Knighthood Awards (Sir): UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu Decorated Sir Prof. Dr. Jerryson Ameworgbe Gidisu with Global Golden Award

According to UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu and others global leaders of the Chartered World Order of the Knights of Justice of Peace in the USA has stated below: Our endorsement of Sir Prof. Dr. Jerryson Ameworgbe Gidisu for this Global Golden American Knighthood Awards is apt.

This world’s great prestigious awards on most eminent people in the world is as a result of his course in pursuit of peace and justice locally and internationally through his International Health Care and Service to Humanity”.

“Sir Prof. Dr. Jerryson Ameworgbe Gidisu Is Open For Mentorship of African Youths, Urges African Leaders To Prioritize Youth’ Talent Development.

Prof Dr. Jerryson Ameworgbe Gidisu, The President of the Kings & Queens Medical University College, Ghana, Founder and CEO of Kings and Queens Teaching Hospital, Ghana’s First Private Teaching Hospital, Professor of Cardiothoracic and Neurosurgery, has dedicated his Global Golden Award to God, Orphans in Ghana, Africa, Worldwide as he noted that, inspiring Ghanaian, African Youth to greatness is one of his burning desire, that he would live with it and leave a legacy on earth as role model to young people as he is open for mentorship, while he dedicates his today’s Global Golden Award to God almighty.

The Ghanaian-Chinese trained Medical Doctor who also is product of Crown University Intl, Chartered Inc in USA which is teaching and research hospital campuses are located in the Santa Cruz Province in Argentina South America, Spain and Brazil with official partners constituent campuses at government regulated universities world and online operation where he earned his Post Graduate Degrees and also serves as Professor as well he is the Founder and CEO of Kings and Queens Teaching Hospital, Ghana’s First Private Teaching Hospital, Prof Dr. Gidisu stated that, the power of Youth is the common wealth of the entire world. He noted further that Ghanaian, African Youth are a force to be reckoned with as he enjoined them not to allow setback define them, rather learn from them and grow.

The Ghanaian, African, global Youth model noted that he would continue to inspire the Youths in Ghana, Africa and the rest of the world to greatness. In his words: “The Medical Educationist , Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Neurosurgeon and International Healthcare Management Expert who Attain the Professorial Rank at Age 39 says he Dedicated his Global Golden Award of The Chartered World Order of the Knights of Justice of Peace USA and associates worldwide to Orphans in Ghana and Worldwide. As one of those fell into this category at tender age, I give thanks to God Almighty for making me an icon and Role Model of African Youth Today”.

“Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu is the World Grand Chancellor of Chartered World Order of the Knighrs of Justice of Peace and World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), UNESCO Laureate & HRH Duke of Kingdom of Atlantis in Singapore is The VC, CUICI, USA, a Fellow of Royal Society For Arts, Manufacturers and Commerce (RSA), United Kingdom (UK). He is a Life Fellow & World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), USA. He is the World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor and Editorial Board Member, Cambridge Publishing, United Kingdom”.

“He is known as World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor of Computer Science, Information Communication Technology in different global and Nigerian Universities such as Novena University, Ogume, Delta State, Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Imo State University, Imo State, Kaduna State University, Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State”.

“UNESCO Laureate is the Pioneer Member Board of Trustees of Minaret International University, Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria (Proposed) to mention but a few. And other Global Universities such as West Coast University of Science, Technology & Arts, Bharat University, India.

“He is also a World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor at Pradesh, Mandsaur, Mother Theresa Women University, India, World Congress of Arts, Sciences & Communication, as had served as Deputy Director-General for Africa And Research Professor at International Biographical Centre. Prof Aremu is cited in the World recognized publications by Famous Marquis Who’s is Who in the World”.

Defence Minister Badaru Champions Dialogue as Key to Regional Peace at Beijing Forum

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has urged world leaders to prioritise dialogue and consultation as the foundation for peace and stability in global and regional affairs.

Delivering a keynote lecture at the Fourth Plenary Session of the 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum on Friday, Badaru said constructive engagement remains the most effective instrument for preventing conflicts and fostering lasting security.

Speaking under the theme “Upholding International Order and Promoting Peaceful Development”, the minister told defence chiefs, policymakers, diplomats and academics from over 100 countries that: “Dialogue succeeds where confrontation fails. It is the foundation on which lasting security is built.”

Badaru highlighted Nigeria’s peacebuilding credentials, citing the country’s leadership in ECOWAS interventions in Liberia, Sierra Leone and The Gambia, its role in the Multinational Joint Task Force against Boko Haram, and domestic initiatives such as the Niger Delta Amnesty Programme and Operation Safe Corridor.

He linked his message to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that Nigeria’s commitment to regional security is anchored on strategic autonomy, reform at home, and proactive international engagement.

Calling for stronger partnerships, Badaru urged global stakeholders to embrace dialogue, consultation and collaboration as shared responsibilities in advancing peace and upholding international order.

Pate, Salako, Regulators Set for Groundbreaking OneBarrow Health Equity Conference

Adejoh Bilkisu

Nigeria’s healthcare sector is set for a historic moment as the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, his deputy, Dr. Iziaq Salako, and all 13 national healthcare regulatory councils prepare to headline the 2025 Health Equity Conference in Abuja.

The high-profile event, convened by OneBarrow International Limited in collaboration with regulators and private sector leaders, is scheduled for Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the Nigerian National Merit Award Hall.

With the theme “From Access to Impact: A National Agenda for Equitable Healthcare,” the conference will, for the first time in Nigeria’s history, bring together all statutory health councils to chart a bold national agenda for equitable healthcare delivery.

OneBarrow’s Public Relations Analyst, Maryam Aminu, said the forum represents a unified call to place preventive healthcare, regulatory clarity, and stronger public-private partnerships at the heart of national reforms.

Chief Executive Officer of OneBarrow International Limited, Yemi Ajao, stressed that the conference goes beyond access to healthcare, explaining that the goal is to translate access into real and sustainable outcomes for every Nigerian community.

He further stated that discussions would focus on national strategies to expand preventive health assessments, strengthen regulatory oversight, and extend healthcare services to underserved and rural communities.

According to him, participants from pharmacy chains, laboratory networks, hospitals, medical suppliers, and corporate organizations have been invited to join policymakers and regulators in shaping the agenda.

The initiative, he added, reflects President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes affordable and accessible healthcare as a central pillar of development.

Organizers emphasized that the conference is designed to move the country from dialogue to delivery, with outcomes capable of transforming healthcare access for millions of Nigerians.

RMAFC Chairman Reaffirms Commitment to Reposition Commission

Maryam Aminu

Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, has restated his determination to reposition the Commission for greater efficiency and effectiveness in carrying out its mandate.

Dr. Shehu gave the assurance in a keynote address delivered at the opening of a three-day retreat for members of the Central Bank Monitoring Committee (CBMC), which opened in Kano on Wednesday, September 17, 2025.

He was represented at the event by the Committee Chairman and Commissioner representing Ebonyi State, Engr. Nduka Henry Awuregu.

Group photograph of the committee members, other participants, and resource persons

He explained that the retreat was organised in recognition of the Commission’s expanded monitoring mandate under the new RMAFC Act, 2025, and stressed the importance of strengthening oversight of revenue accruals and disbursements from the Federation Account domiciled with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

“The CBN is an important and cardinal institution that the Commission must relate with in carrying out its monitoring function of revenue accruals and disbursement from the Federation Account,” Dr. Shehu said.

He urged members to actively engage in the sessions and pledged his leadership

Made in the North Festival Returns with Bigger Stage for Culture, Creativity, and Commerce

Maryam Aminu

Northern Nigeria is gearing up for the much-anticipated second edition of the Made in the North Festival and Trade Fair, an electrifying showcase of culture, creativity, and commerce.

Created to spotlight the region’s rich heritage while unlocking fresh economic opportunities, the festival is positioning the North as a hub for fashion, film, art, trade, tourism, and technology.

This year’s edition promises to outshine the debut, with more performances, exhibitions, and high-impact networking sessions.

Organizers say lessons learned from the maiden outing have inspired stronger logistics, deeper partnerships, and wider community participation.

From cultural parades, traditional events, and food fairs to fashion shows, concerts, poetry, photography exhibitions, and talent competitions, the festival is blending heritage with modern innovation to give participants an unforgettable experience.

Already attracting government endorsements, corporate sponsorships, NGO partnerships, and international collaborations, the festival is gaining traction as both a cultural highlight and an economic catalyst.

Looking ahead, the organizers are not just thinking locally. By 2030, the Made in the North Festival aims to become a global cultural and creative economy brand, touring major cities across Nigeria and the world to showcase Northern talent and woo international investors.

With its powerful mix of culture and commerce, the Made in the North Festival is more than just an event, it’s a movement to put Northern Nigeria on the global creative map.

Nigeria, China Deepen Defence Ties at Beijing Xiangshan Forum

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, is in Beijing for the 12th Xiangshan Forum, where he has opened fresh talks with China on defence technology cooperation.

On Thursday, Badaru held a high-level bilateral meeting with China’s Minister of Equipment and Development, Air Chief Marshal Xu Xueqiang, focused on practical collaboration in defence technology, local military production, and joint capacity building.

According to Mati Ali, PA (Media & Publicity) to the Honourable Minister, the discussions zeroed in on strengthening industrial partnerships between Nigerian and Chinese defence manufacturers, building technical capacity, and exploring sustainable technology transfer in line with Nigerian laws and international standards.

Both sides also agreed to pursue cooperative training, exchange programmes, and potential joint projects that could boost Nigeria’s defence self-reliance and technological growth. Relevant agencies from both countries have been tasked with carrying out follow-up studies to translate proposals into concrete programmes and formal agreements.

The Xiangshan Forum, one of Asia’s biggest defence and security gatherings, brings together military leaders, experts, and officials from across the globe to debate pressing regional and global security issues. Nigeria’s active participation signals its growing commitment to international defence diplomacy and strengthening national capacity through strategic partnerships.

Nigeria’s Defence Minister Badaru Joins World Leaders at Beijing Xiangshan Forum

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, is in Beijing, China, where he is representing the country at the 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum, which officially opened today, Wednesday, September 17, 2025.

Confirming his participation, Mati Ali, Personal Assistant (Media & Publicity) to the Minister, said the high-profile event has drawn defence and military leaders from more than 100 countries, including Singapore, Russia, France, Vietnam, Brazil, and Nigeria, alongside international and regional organisations.

This year’s edition is themed “Upholding International Order and Promoting Peaceful Development.” Discussions are structured around four plenary sessions and eight breakout sessions, tackling issues such as global security governance, Asia-Pacific cooperation, safeguarding international order, and building regional peace.

The Forum continues to serve as a strategic platform for countries to deepen military diplomacy and strengthen collaboration towards global peace and stability.

RMAFC Pushes Digital Transformation, Trains Staff on Performance Management

Maryam Aminu

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has taken a bold step toward digital transformation with the launch of staff training on a new Performance Management System (PMS).

The Chairman of RMAFC, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to boosting productivity and service delivery through technology. Represented by Hon. Ismail Mohammed Agaka, Federal Commissioner for Kwara State, Dr. Shehu explained that the PMS will replace the outdated annual performance evaluation report.

He noted that automation and digital tools will streamline processes, reduce errors, and consign the analog system to history.

Urging staff to embrace the change, he remarked, “If you do not shake into the system, the system will likely shake you out.”

Speaking at the opening session, the Secretary to the Commission, Mr. Nwaeze Joseph Okechukwu, described RMAFC as one of Nigeria’s most strategic institutions and stressed that digital transformation would equip officers with vital new skills.

He encouraged staff to “learn, unlearn, and relearn,” while also upholding professionalism through good dressing and punctuality.

A cross section of the Participants at the training

In his goodwill message, Mr. Emmanuel Ohiro, PMS Consultant from Reliefline Nigeria Limited, praised the initiative and urged participants to take the workshop seriously, describing it as a pathway to improved service delivery.

The training, organised by RMAFC’s Administration and Human Resources Department in partnership with Reliefline Nigeria Limited, kicked off on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, and will run until Wednesday, September 24, 2025.

The announcement was signed by Maryam Umar Yusuf, mnipr, Head of Information and Public Relations Unit, RMAFC