FRC Reaffirms Support for Local Governments to Boost Transparency, Accountability

Maryam Aminu

…Commission pledges technical assistance to strengthen grassroots fiscal management under FRA 2007

The Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) has reiterated its commitment to promoting fiscal discipline and prudent financial management across Nigeria’s local government system through targeted technical support and capacity-building initiatives.

Speaking at a capacity-building workshop for Local Government Areas in Adamawa State, held at the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, the Deputy Director of the Policy and Standards Directorate, Mr. Ado Hassan, who represented the Executive Chairman, Victor Muruako, Esq., reaffirmed the Commission’s resolve to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of funds at the grassroots level, in line with the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007.

Mr. Hassan noted that extending technical guidance to local councils will help strengthen compliance with fiscal regulations and enhance service delivery to citizens.

“The Fiscal Responsibility Commission remains committed to working with subnational governments, particularly at the local level, to entrench fiscal discipline and promote the effective utilization of resources for sustainable development,” he stated.

The workshop brought together key stakeholders from government institutions, academia, and civil society organizations in a collaborative effort to strengthen governance and accountability at the local government level.

Among the participating agencies were the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme, the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), and the Federal Ministry of Justice.

A key highlight of the event was the unveiling of the Local Government Accountability Framework (LGAF), presented by Dr. Umar Yakubu, Executive Director of the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Integrity Watch (CeFTIW). The framework serves as a practical tool to strengthen accountability systems, ensure efficient use of public funds, and foster citizens’ trust in governance.

By fostering collaboration among multiple oversight institutions, the initiative reinforces the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in promoting transparency, accountability, and sustainable development at the grassroots.

Unmasking the Vicious Political Sabotage: Governor Peter Mbah’s Desperate Assault on Minister Uche Nnaji Through Orchestrated ‘Certificate Scandal’ by UnityTimes

In a reprehensible act of political thuggery and unbridled hypocrisy, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State—clinging to his PDP ticket while secretly plotting a defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for a 2027 reelection bid—has unleashed a manufactured certificate forgery scandal against the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji.

According to UnityTimes Television and Online Magazine,  this orchestrated witch-hunt, funneled through his loyal stooge, the newly installed Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Professor Simon U. Ortuanya, is a blatant attempt to eliminate a formidable rival and clear Mbah’s path to the APC governorship ticket. It is a disgraceful abuse of power that demands outright condemnation and swift intervention.

UnityTimes further stated that Mbah’s audacity knows no bounds. “This is the same governor who barely survived his own certificate forgery storm during the 2023 elections, where the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) publicly disavowed his purported discharge certificate, branding it a fake amid cries of electoral fraud.

“Courts may have dubiously cleared him, but the stench of that scandal lingers, exposing Mbah as a master of deceit. Now, he hypocritically turns the tables on Nnaji, a dedicated APC stalwart whose only offense is positioning himself as a strong contender for the Enugu governorship in 2027 under the APC banner.

“Mbah’s impending defection—widely reported as imminent, driven by PDP’s internal collapse and his desire to cozy up to federal power for reelection—faces a massive stumbling block in Nnaji, who has boldly declared APC’s intent to seize Enugu from PDP’s grip.

“By fabricating this forgery narrative, Mbah aims to force Nnaji’s sack, neutralizing a rival and paving his treacherous crossover.

“Enter Professor Simon U. Ortuanya, former Secretary to the Enugu State Government, whose appointment as UNN’s VC in August 2025 was no coincidence but a calculated reward for loyalty.

“Ortuanya, in his inaugural speech, shamelessly praised Mbah’s “doggedness,” revealing the strings attached to his position. Under his watch, UNN has conveniently “discovered” discrepancies in Nnaji’s 1985 degree records, claiming no evidence of graduation or certificate issuance—despite Nnaji’s clear explanation of bureaucratic delays in collection.

“This is not academic diligence; it is sponsored sabotage, transforming a prestigious federal university into a partisan weapon. Ortuanya has sullied his scholarly credentials, prostituting UNN’s integrity for Mbah’s political gains ahead of 2027.

“This scandal is patently manufactured, a desperate ploy to destabilize Nnaji, whose ministerial role is propelling Nigeria’s innovation agenda forward with international partnerships and technological advancements. Mbah’s envy-fueled campaign threatens national progress for petty state-level ambition, all while he schemes to jump ship to APC, exploiting President Tinubu’s administration for personal survival.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, architect of Renewed Hope, must not fall for this charade. Mbah’s antics are a direct assault on your party’s unity and merit-based governance. Investigate this conspiracy immediately, shield Minister Nnaji from these baseless attacks, and reject Mbah’s opportunistic defection. Allowing such manipulation would embolden political vampires and undermine APC’s 2027 prospects.

“To right-thinking Nigerians—journalists, activists, and citizens alike—do not be hoodwinked by Mbah and Ortuanya’s deceitful theater. This is classic Nigerian godfatherism: a failing PDP governor weaponizing state resources and a captured university to crush competition. Demand accountability, expose the hypocrisy, and rally behind truth. Enugu and Nigeria deserve leaders of integrity, not schemers like Mbah who forge scandals to forge their futures. The 2027 elections must be won on merit, not malice—let this shameful plot crumble under the weight of justice.

“This is clearly a disturbing display of abuse of power, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State and the newly installed Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), Professor Simon U. Ortuanya, have launched a baseless, politically motivated campaign to malign and discredit the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, through spurious allegations of certificate forgery.

“This shameful conspiracy is not only a disgrace to democratic principles and academic integrity, but it also reflects the growing rot in Enugu State’s leadership—a rot that threatens to drag one of Nigeria’s most respected federal universities into the mud of partisan politics.

“At the heart of this malicious campaign is a desperate attempt by Governor Mbah and his political cronies to neutralize perceived threats and opposition voices by weaponizing falsehood and state institutions. That Professor Simon Ortuanya—barely warmed into his seat as Vice Chancellor—has allowed himself and the hallowed institution of UNN to be used as a political attack dog raises serious questions about his character, independence, and suitability for the office he holds.

“Let it be stated clearly: Uche Nnaji is a respected technocrat and politician who has contributed immensely to the development of Enugu State and Nigeria at large. His track record, both in public service and private enterprise, speaks volumes—far louder than the whispers of envy and propaganda echoing from the corridors of Enugu’s Government House.

UnityTimes also stressed in its report that it is an insult to the intelligence of right-thinking Nigerians that Governor Mbah—a man who himself has faced intense public scrutiny over allegations surrounding his own academic records—would now turn around to sponsor a witch-hunt against another son of the state. “The hypocrisy is staggering, the motives are transparent, and the outcome is bound to fail.

“Let us be clear: this is not about truth, justice, or accountability. This is about political vendetta, executed with reckless disregard for truth and decency. It is about silencing credible leaders who refuse to kneel before the godfathers of Enugu politics. It is about consolidating power by any means necessary—even if that means dragging the name of a federal minister through the gutter of manufactured scandal.

“Nigerians must not be fooled. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all defenders of truth and justice must stand firm and reject this poorly scripted drama. The Presidency must not lend even a second of attention to the distraction being cooked up by elements who fear accountability, transparency, and competence in government.

“Furthermore, we call on the governing council of the University of Nigeria Nsukka, the Federal Ministry of Education, and the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) to urgently investigate the conduct of Professor Simon U. Ortuanya. No Vice Chancellor should ever use the sacred office of academia to serve as a foot soldier for political hatchet jobs.

“The University of Nigeria was founded to restore the dignity of man—not to be reduced to a propaganda mill for disgraced politicians and desperate governors. The future of academic credibility and democratic accountability demands that this toxic alliance between Mbah and Ortuanya be publicly condemned and thoroughly investigated.

“We, as citizens, owe it to our democracy to resist the politics of blackmail and character assassination. Let truth prevail. Let integrity rise above impunity. And let those who think they can manipulate public perception with falsehood be reminded: the Nigerian people are watching, and history never forgets.”

FRC Joins Push for Grassroots Accountability at Launch of Nigerian Local Government Integrity Index

Maryam Aminu

In a bold move to strengthen transparency and accountability at the grassroots, the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) was featured at the unveiling of the Nigerian Local Government Integrity Index (NLGI) by the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity (CeFTPI) on Friday, October 3, 2025, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja.

The landmark event drew stakeholders from government, civil society, academia, and the media to deliberate on mechanisms for improving governance at the local level.

Executive Director of CeFTPI, Dr. Umar Yakubu, explained that the index is a data-driven tool designed to evaluate governance and corruption risks across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas.

He noted that the assessment framework rests on eight pillars, ranging from fiscal transparency and accountability to public service delivery, civic oversight, and e-governance.

Speaking on behalf of FRC Chairman, Victor Muruako, Esq., the Commission’s Special Adviser, Dr. Chris Uwadoka, praised CeFTPI for the initiative, stressing that the NLGI complements FRC’s mandate to entrench fiscal discipline and accountability.

He described the index as a “vital instrument for empowering civil society, oversight bodies, and citizens to demand responsible use of public resources at the grassroots.”

Stakeholders at the launch welcomed the initiative as a timely tool, particularly in light of the Supreme Court’s recent judgment granting financial autonomy to local governments.

They agreed that the real impact of the index will be seen in its application as a reform driver, civic engagement enabler, and accountability mechanism for better service delivery.

CSEAN Launches Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2025 with Call for National Action

Maryam Aminu

As Nigeria joins the global community to mark Cybersecurity Awareness Month this October, the Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN) has urged citizens, organizations, and government institutions to take stronger action in safeguarding the nation’s digital space.

Speaking under the global theme “Secure Our World,” CSEAN President, Olabode Agboola, stressed that cybersecurity is no longer a technical issue but a shared responsibility critical to national stability and trust.

According to him, the 2025 campaign is anchored on the “Core-4 Practices” using strong passwords with a password manager, enabling multifactor authentication, updating software regularly, and recognizing/reporting scams.

He noted that past breaches, from global cases like Yahoo and Twitter to local fintech incidents, highlight the devastating consequences of neglecting these practices.

“Every Nigerian regardless of age, profession, or location must take meaningful steps toward digital safety,” Agboola said, warning that weak security habits continue to expose individuals and institutions to fraud, identity theft, and cyberattacks.

CSEAN outlined key responsibilities across different sectors:

Government must enforce cybersecurity standards, fund awareness campaigns, and strengthen cybercrime laws.

Organizations should integrate the Core-4 Practices, train staff regularly, and invest in secure infrastructure.

Professionals are expected to stay current, mentor young experts, and collaborate ethically with regulators.

Community leaders should promote awareness in schools, religious centers, and local councils, translating messages into local languages to deepen understanding.

With cybercrime already costing Nigerians billions annually, CSEAN’s leadership insists that digital defense is a societal imperative.

“Cybersecurity is a national mandate. Together, by embracing the Core-4 Practices, we can build a resilient Nigeria,” Agboola concluded.

Minister of State for Housing Empowers Over 500 Destitute in Kano

Usman Aliyu.

The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, participated in a humanitarian service event organized by Dossier Transparency Nigeria, a non-governmental organization, in Kano State on September 27, 2025. The event aimed to empower destitute individuals and provide them with necessary support to improve their livelihoods.

During the event, Ata reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people of Kano State and contributing to the nation’s development. Although Ata’s primary focus is on housing and urban development, his participation in this event highlights his dedication to humanitarian causes.

Empowerment Initiative

The empowerment initiative, which benefited over 500 destitute individuals, is part of Dossier Transparency Nigeria’s efforts to address poverty and inequality in the state. The program provided participants with skills acquisition training, financial support, and other forms of assistance to help them become self-sufficient.
Ata’s Vision for Kano
Ata has expressed his vision for Kano State, emphasizing his commitment to delivering the state to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections. As Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Ata aims to address the state’s housing deficit and promote sustainable urban development.

Addressing Housing Deficit

Nigeria faces a significant housing deficit, estimated at over 17 million units. Ata has highlighted the need for innovative policies and substantial investment to bridge this gap. His ministry is working to attract foreign direct investment and promote public-private partnerships to develop affordable housing projects

Nigeria@65: CEO of NESC GROUP Felicitates with  Fubara  and Wike

The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of NESC GROUP, A group with diverse interest in Telecommunications, Marine , Shipping , Agriculture, Construction and Oil & Gas , Mazi Ejikeme Nwankwo, has extended warm felicitations to the Honorable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, and The Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, as our country marks her 65th independence Anniversary.

In his goodwill message, Mazi Nwankwo commended Chief Nyesom Wike for his transformational leadership in the FCT, describing his contributions to urban renewal and national development as a reflection of the resilience and progress that the Independence celebration represents.

He equally praised His Excellency, Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his commitment to peace, stability, and inclusive governance in Rivers State, noting that his leadership is fostering grassroots growth and strengthening unity in the Niger Delta region.

“As we commemorate this historic occasion, I celebrate both leaders for their unwavering service and dedication to the Nigerian people. Their roles exemplify the values of patriotism, sacrifice, and vision required to build a greater nation,” Mazi Nwankwo stated.

The Chief Executive reaffirmed that NESC GROUP, with branches in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Enugu, remains committed to advancing economic growth and supporting government efforts at both federal and state levels.

He prayed that the Independence Anniversary would inspire renewed unity and determination among Nigerians to collectively pursue peace and prosperity.

Founder of NESC GROUP Felicitates with President Tinubu and Akume on the Nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

Maryam Aminu

As our country marks another milestone in her nationhood, the Founder and CEO of NESC GROUP, a group with diverse interest in Telecommunications, Marine , Shipping , Agriculture, Construction and Oil & Gas , Mazi Ejikeme Nwankwo, has extended warm felicitations to our dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, on the occasion of the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

In his goodwill message issued on behalf of the board , management and staff of the Group with branches in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Enugu, Mazi Nwankwo described the day as “a reminder of our collective journey as a nation of resilience, unity, and the shared aspiration to build a country where peace, progress, and prosperity thrive.”

He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth and energy security, while also supporting the Federal Government’s reforms geared towards innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development.

“As we celebrate this anniversary, NESC GROUP OF COMPANIES stand in solidarity with the Federal Government in advancing reforms that will secure a better future for all Nigerians,” he stated.

Nwankwo prayed that the Independence Anniversary would rekindle in Nigerians the spirit of patriotism and the determination to work together for a greater Nigeria.

Nigeria to Host Landmark Youth Creative Conference 2025 in Abuja

Maryam Aminu

In a bold step to position young Africans at the forefront of peacebuilding and innovation, Nigeria has announced plans to host the Youth Creative Conference (YCC) 2025, a high-profile gathering of over 1,000 youth leaders and delegates from across Africa and the diaspora.

Scheduled for October 22–23, 2025, at the ECOWAS Headquarters, Abuja, the conference will be held under the theme “Silencing the Guns: Pathway for Peacebuilding in Africa”. It is jointly organized by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the African Union (AU), and the YCC Organizing Committee.

Speaking on the significance of the event, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, described the conference as a strategic platform aligned with the African Union Agenda 2063, President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and Nigeria’s foreign policy pillars of the Four DAs Democracy, Diaspora, Development, and Diplomacy

“With 70% of Nigeria’s population made up of young people, we recognize their potential as peacebuilders, innovators, and architects of Africa’s future. This conference provides a vital platform for youth-led dialogue, creative exchange, and inclusive development,” the Minister stated.

Picture 1: Representatives from the African Union and Youth Creative Conference, during their visit to the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, in Abuja.

The event’s key objectives include:

Empowering African youth to champion peacebuilding and sustainable development.

Promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and good governance.

Strengthening regional and international partnerships for youth-led development and peace.

The Minister further reaffirmed Nigeria’s leadership in peace and regional solidarity, citing the country’s mediation roles in Libya, Syria, and The Gambia, as well as contributions to security, governance reforms, climate action, digital transformation, and inclusive education.

Convener of the YCC Initiative, Blaize-Kizito Ndukwe, praised the growing continental recognition of the platform just months after its launch, noting that it leverages creativity as a tool for non-violent conflict resolution. Similarly, Mr. Ernest Nya Dolo, Coordinator of the AU’s Silencing the Guns Unit, stressed the importance of youth in building a conflict-free Africa

“Youth are not just the future, they are the present. By partnering with young people across the continent, we are laying the foundation for sustainable peace and inclusive development.”

The Silencing the Guns initiative, backed by a Master Roadmap of Practical Steps, continues to engage youth alongside governments, civil society, traditional leaders, and regional blocs to drive peace across the continent.

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development and its partners have called for continued collaboration to empower African youth as agents of peace, unity, and prosperity.

FG Reviews Youth-Focused Priorities at Mid-Term Retreat, Unveils New Investment Window for Women and Youth with Disabilities

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has pledged to deepen its investment in young Nigerians by prioritising women and youth with disabilities under the National Youth Investment Fund (NYIF), as part of renewed efforts to drive inclusive development.

Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, made the announcement in Abuja during the Presidential Priorities and Deliverables – 2025 Mid-Term Review Retreat, where he presented the Ministry’s performance scorecard.

According to the Minister, the Ministry exceeded several of its second-quarter targets, including training 14,509 youth in digital skills (against a 10,000 target), engaging 97,212 in mentorship and career development (target: 80,000), and training 5,023 in crime reduction and peace-building (target: 2,500).

Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, delivering his address at the Presidential Priorities and Deliverables Retreat in Abuja.

He also noted that more than 250,000 youths have enrolled in the Nigerian Youth Academy, while 5,700 HelpDesk cases were processed with 3,407 resolved. Additionally, ₦31.6 million was generated from Youth Centres, almost triple the ₦11 million target.

Olawande said the dedicated NYIF window will involve partnerships with women’s groups, disability organisations, and the private sector, backed by clear performance indicators to ensure impact.

The European Union (EU) Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Gutier Migot, commended the Ministry’s leadership, recalling past collaborations such as the 2021 National Youth Conference and the 2024 CSO Stakeholders’ Forum.

He highlighted ongoing EU-backed programmes, including the D SAFE Project with UNFPA, the Nigeria Jubilee Fellowship Programme, Digital Transformation Centres, and the EU Agricultural Value Chain Facility.

Declaring the retreat open, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, described the event as a moment for reflection and renewed commitment, noting that the Ministry is prioritising stronger coordination, capacity-building, and sustainable structures.

Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, delivering the welcome address at the Presidential Priorities and Deliverables Retreat in Abuja.

Goodwill messages also came from the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, who highlighted NYSC’s digital training of 56,013 corps members and entrepreneurial support to over 1,100 young Nigerians since 2023. Similarly, the Director-General of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC), Ms. Rinsola Abiola, reaffirmed her agency’s commitment to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that “Nigeria’s future depends on nurturing responsible, patriotic, and ethical youth.”

Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, joined by management staff and partners for a group photograph at the retreat.

CSEAN Appoints Dr. Gabriel Akinremi as Director of Programmes, Swears in New Board Members

By Maryam Aminu

Nigeria’s cybersecurity ecosystem is set for a new leap forward as the Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN) inaugurated its new Board of Directors, with Dr. Gabriel Akinremi appointed as Director of Programmes.

Dr. Akinremi, a seasoned cybersecurity advocate, will spearhead the design and execution of strategic initiatives that strengthen cybersecurity knowledge, awareness, and resilience nationwide.

The inauguration ceremony, which drew professionals, stakeholders, and partners from across the country, also featured the swearing-in of other newly elected board members who will drive the Association’s vision of innovation, advocacy, and collaboration.

In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Akinremi expressed gratitude for the appointment and pledged to deliver impactful programmes that enhance professional development and promote industry best practices. Congratulating the new team, Mr. Remi Afon, Chairman of the CSEAN Board of Trustees, urged the directors to uphold the Association’s core values of professionalism, integrity, and service to society.

Delivering his inaugural address, the new President of CSEAN, Mr. Olabode Agboola, described the transition as a “collective victory” for all members who believe in building a safer and more resilient digital Nigeria.

He warned that the cyber threat landscape is evolving rapidly, with online fraud, ransomware, and AI-powered disinformation threatening the nation’s economy and social fabric. “Cybersecurity must no longer be seen as an afterthought, but as a cornerstone of national resilience,” Agboola declared.

Outlining his 18-point agenda, the President highlighted initiatives such as the Cyber-Ninja Hackathon to nurture youth creativity, the CyberYarn Podcast to amplify Nigeria’s voice in cyber discourse, and the institutionalization of the State Information Security Advisory Forum (SISAF).

He also unveiled plans for the Association’s first-ever Cyber Secure Summit, scheduled for October 8.

Agboola further announced that CSEAN has been approved as a member of the Steering Committee for the Nigeria National Digital Trustmark under NITDA, a milestone he said demonstrates the Association’s credibility and growing influence.

On partnerships, he emphasized closer collaboration with government MDAs, NCC, NITDA, NDPC, ONSA, academia, industry leaders, and international partners. “Cybersecurity is a collective endeavor that requires cooperation across all sectors. Together, we will secure Nigeria’s cyberspace, strengthen our economy, and build a digital future we can all be proud of,” he said.

With this leadership transition, CSEAN has reaffirmed its role as a leading voice in Nigeria’s cybersecurity space committed to forging partnerships, shaping policy, and equipping professionals to navigate the challenges of an evolving digital era.