UNESCO Laureate’s Brother became King of Yoruba Community in Enugu State

UNESCO Laureate’s Brother became King of Yoruba Community in Enugu State as Iwoland scored another limelight in Enugu State as another distinguished Iwo son in the person of Dr. Engr. Isiak A. Salmon who was recently crowned as the Oba of Yoruba United Community in Enugu State after emerging successfully from the community selection process.

The installation of his cabinet members took place on April 26, 2025 and selected Yoruba undergraduates were awarded scholarships to commemorate the installation ceremony by the Oba (Dr.) Isiak A. Salmon.

You will recall that Oba Salmon is a graduate of The Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State before proceeding to serve as a youth Corps member, he was subsequently retained at his place of primary assignment as a Lecturer due to his excellent performance in the service year. Oba Salmon later went on to obtain additional degrees culminating in his attainment of a Ph.D. in Computer Science with specialty in System/Cyber security and Information Technology. He is a registered Engineer with COREN, and a registered Teacher with TRCN. He belongs to different professional bodies including The Nigeria Society of Engineers, Nigeria Computer Society, National Association of Physical Science, Computer Professionals (Registration Council of Nigeria) among others.

Congratulations Kabiyesi .

I salute you for your great achievement and I wish good health, happiness goodness, Long life and future success

Yours sincerely
The First African UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu

Defence Minister Applauds President Tinubu’s Support for Nigerian Students

Emmanuel Daudu

The Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support and numerous interventions aimed at improving the lives of Nigerian students.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by Mati Ali, Personal Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Honourable Minister, following the formal inauguration of the 2025 National Executive Members of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), held at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja.

As the grand patron of NANS, the Minister expressed appreciation for President Tinubu’s consistent efforts in empowering young people, describing his commitment as vital to fostering self-reliance and national development.

He noted that Nigerian students remain deeply grateful for the President’s guidance and contributions toward building a more prosperous and patriotic generation.

The Minister also praised the students’ resilience and active participation during and after the election process, urging them to embrace unity and work collaboratively. He acknowledged that election seasons can be challenging, but emphasized the importance of setting aside differences to support the newly elected leadership in delivering on their promises.

The Minister reiterated his gratitude to President Tinubu and encouraged the students to remain focused on collective progress. “Let us remain united; united we are. Let us stand united, and the mission will be accomplished,” he stated.

RMAFC Chairman Hails Governor Umoh Eno’s gVision on Arise Resort Project in Uyo

Maryam Aminu

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, has lauded Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno Bassey, PhD, for the visionary transformation of the Arise Resort project in Uyo, describing it as a benchmark for sustainable development and innovative leadership in Nigeria.

This was contained in a statement signed by Maryam Umar Yusuf, Head of the Information and Public Relations Unit of RMAFC, following a working visit by the Commission’s leadership to the resort site on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

Speaking during the visit, Dr. Shehu who led a delegation of Honourable Commissioners and senior management staff expressed deep admiration for the state’s reclamation of over 70 hectares of severely eroded land, now being transformed into a modern eco-tourism and digital innovation hub.

“We are truly amazed by what we have seen here today,” Dr. Shehu remarked. “This is not just about land reclamation; it’s about transforming adversity into opportunity. It takes intellect, vision, and commitment to lead such a monumental project. Governor Umoh Eno and his team deserve commendation.”

He assured the State Government of the Commission’s support and emphasized that RMAFC would review Akwa Ibom’s request for federal assistance with priority.

Governor Umoh Eno, while receiving the RMAFC team, presented a visual timeline of the site’s evolution.

He stressed that the Arise Resort was not just an infrastructure project but part of the state’s broader economic diversification strategy.

“We’ve invested billions to reclaim this land,” the ẞMGovernor said. “But if we stop here, we risk leaving behind ungoverned spaces. This project is a vital piece in our plan to boost tourism, create jobs, and promote innovation.”

The governor also disclosed that a formal request had been sent to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to commission the project upon its completion.

The visit concluded with a tour of the resort facilities, during which the RMAFC delegation reiterated their support and pledged to advocate for federal backing to ensure the successful completion of the landmark project.

RMAFC Concludes Strategic Retreat in Uyo, Charts Path for Fiscal Reforms

Maryam Aminu

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has concluded a pivotal three-day strategic retreat in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, aimed at strengthening fiscal governance and advancing reforms aligned with Nigeria’s evolving economic landscape.

Held at the Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort from April 28 to 30, the retreat brought together RMAFC commissioners and senior management staff under the theme “Understanding the Role of RMAFC and Other Stakeholders/Agencies in Nation Building.”

According to Maryam Umar Yusuf, Head of the Commission’s Information and Public Relations Unit, the retreat was designed to deepen the understanding of the Commission’s constitutional role and realign its operations with the goals of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Chairman of RMAFC, Dr. Muhammed Bello Shehu, noted that the engagement was particularly important for newly inaugurated members and critical to strengthening institutional focus amid changing national and global economic realities.

In a communique presented at the end of the retreat by Hon. Ismail Muhammed Agaka, Federal Commissioner representing Kwara State and Chairman, Public Affairs and Communications Committee, the Commission emphasized the urgent need to review Nigeria’s revenue allocation formula, which has remained unchanged for 16 years, despite constitutional provisions for periodic revision.

Key recommendations from the communique include:

A constitutional amendment to reflect evolving fiscal realities, including the inclusion of Local Government Chairmen and Councilors among beneficiaries of the remuneration package.

Direct payment of allocations to Local Governments from the Federation Account in line with the July 11, 2024, Supreme Court ruling affirming Local Government financial autonomy.

Amendment of Section 162(2) of the 1999 Constitution to establish a timeline for presidential submission of RMAFC proposals to the National Assembly.

The Commission also proposed the:

Establishment of a National Revenue Dashboard to enable real-time digital tracking of revenue inflows;

Amendment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to expand the NNPC Limited board to include state, local government, and Central Bank of Nigeria representatives;

Creation of a distinct Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, separate from that of the Federal Government.

Furthermore, the Commission reaffirmed its constitutional duty to monitor revenue accruals, ensuring all funds due to the Federation Account are accurately and promptly remitted by revenue-generating agencies. It also reiterated that its recommendations on the remuneration of political, public, and judicial office holders remain constitutionally binding on all tiers of government.

“This retreat marks a major step in repositioning the Commission to better respond to Nigeria’s dynamic fiscal landscape,” said Hon. Agaka.

The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, represented by Dr. Ibrahim Muhammad Natagwandu; Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD; Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq; and Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Planning and Economic Affairs, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi.

Nigeria Seeks Greater U.S. Support in Fight Against Insecurity – Defence Minister Matawalle

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has urged the United States to increase its support in intelligence sharing, counterterrorism operations, and military capacity building to help address Nigeria’s growing security challenges.

This call was made during a strategic meeting held in Abuja with Major General Garrick Harmon, Director for Strategy, Engagement, and Programs at the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), who is on his first official visit to Nigeria in his current role. The engagement took place at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters, Ship House.

According to Patience Ituke, speaking on behalf of the Director of Information and Public Relations, the Minister emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral defence cooperation, noting that Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace and security requires enhanced external support.

“Nigeria is dedicated to promoting regional peace and security; however, we cannot achieve this alone,” Matawalle said. “We require more robust support from the United States, particularly in intelligence sharing and capacity building, to effectively combat terrorism, insurgency, and transnational threats.”

In his response, Major General Harmon thanked the Minister for the warm reception and reaffirmed the United States’ readiness to bolster Nigeria’s security efforts.

He acknowledged that, though his visit was brief, the interactions were impactful and demonstrated the strong and evolving defence partnership between both countries.

Both parties agreed on the urgent need for deeper collaboration in addressing the region’s complex security landscape, reaffirming their commitment to a safer and more stable West Africa.

Nigeria to Deepen Support for UN Humanitarian Work – Defence Minister Badaru

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening humanitarian cooperation with the United Nations, with the Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, pledging enhanced support for ongoing UN operations across the country.

The pledge was disclosed in a statement signed by Pat Ndidi Ituke, on behalf of the Director of Information and Public Relations, following a courtesy visit by the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Malick Fall, to the Minister’s office at Ship House, Abuja.

Describing the engagement as “long overdue,” Minister Badaru emphasized the importance of renewed coordination and collaboration, particularly in areas critical to sustainable development such as health, water and sanitation, education, and livelihoods.

He noted the need to revive long-standing partnerships and build on past successes.

Reflecting on his time as a state governor, Badaru highlighted the benefits of inter-state benchmarking, crediting it for measurable improvements in development indicators, especially in access to water and healthcare services.

In his remarks, Mr. Fall praised the Minister’s leadership and expressed the UN’s commitment to working with both federal and state governments to strengthen humanitarian and development responses across the country.

Discussions during the meeting also covered the potential rollout of new service delivery models, enhanced collaboration between technical teams, and the integration of national security institutions into humanitarian programming for improved implementation.

FG Applauds RMAFC Chairman’s Leadership as Commission Sets Sights on Revenue Formula Review

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has commended the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, for his strategic leadership and commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s fiscal structure.

The commendation was made during the opening ceremony of the 2025 retreat for newly inaugurated Members of the Commission, held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

According to a statement by Maryam Umar Yusuf, mnipr, Head of Information and Public Relations at RMAFC, the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima represented by Ibrahim Natagwandu, Technical Adviser on Public Debt and Revenue Mobilisation described the retreat as timely and aligned with the administration’s vision for fiscal prudence and sustainable development.

“I commend the leadership of the Commission for initiating this engagement,” Natagwandu stated. “The Chairman’s proactive steps toward improving funding and enhancing data-driven decision-making are crucial to achieving effective service delivery.”

Cross session of attendees

Also present at the ceremony, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno Bassey, praised Dr. Shehu’s visionary leadership and reaffirmed the state’s support for the Commission’s efforts to deepen fiscal federalism and economic collaboration.

In a similar vein, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq represented by Razaq Fatai, Head of Data and Analytics emphasized the need for a revised revenue allocation formula reflective of present-day economic realities. “A just and balanced formula is vital for the delivery of democratic dividends across all levels of government,” he said.

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, represented by Barr. Imarha Ogehnenyerowo Ruben, commended RMAFC’s efforts to uphold transparency and fiscal discipline.

He assured the Commission of the Ministry’s support in navigating legal reforms necessary for its effective operation.

Senator Yahaya Abdullahi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Planning and Economic Affairs, lauded the Commission for its impact across federal, state, and local governments.

He advocated for stronger legislative backing to further empower RMAFC’s initiatives.

In his address, Dr. Shehu reiterated the Commission’s commitment to reviewing the revenue allocation formula and remuneration packages for political and public office holders.

He urged all tiers of government to diversify revenue sources through sectors like agriculture, tourism, and solid minerals.

“We are custodians of the fiscal soul of the Federation,” he declared. “It is our duty to leave a legacy defined by transparency, diligence, and innovation.”

The retreat concluded with a vote of thanks by the Secretary to the Commission, Engr. Joseph Okechukwu Nwaze, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, and stakeholders for their support and contributions to the dialogue on strengthening Nigeria’s fiscal governance.

TI Nigeria, CISLAC Boss Rafsanjani Backs Probe of NNPCL, Urges Comprehensive Oil Sector Audit

Maryam Aminu

The Head of Transparency International (TI) Nigeria and Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, has voiced strong support for a full-scale investigation into the operations of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

Speaking to Channels Television on the sidelines of the Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group (WBG) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington, D.C., Rafsanjani emphasized that a thorough audit of the NNPCL is essential for promoting transparency, enhancing accountability, and ensuring that oil revenues are properly managed for the benefit of Nigerians.

“It is a welcome development to have an audit of NNPCL,” Rafsanjani said. “However, we are advocating not just for a financial audit, but also for physical and process audits. Only a comprehensive, multi-layered review can uncover systemic weaknesses and chart a course for genuine reform and revitalization of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.”

He stressed that an effective audit must go beyond financial records to include verification of physical assets, such as pipelines and oil wells, and a review of internal processes to ensure operational efficiency and transparency in line with global best practices.

Despite reforms introduced under the Petroleum Industry Act and Nigeria’s participation in the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), Rafsanjani warned that the sector remains marred by inefficiency, mismanagement, and poor professionalism.

“There is no way we can continue like this. If we are serious about liberating the Nigerian economy, the oil and gas sector must be reformed and made truly productive for the people,” he said.

The anti-corruption advocate also called for structural changes at the ministerial level, recommending that the President relinquish the role of Minister of Petroleum Resources to ensure greater independence and oversight of NNPCL operations.

“For NNPCL to function as a genuine commercial entity, free from political interference, the President must relinquish the role of Petroleum Minister,” Rafsanjani said. “This will enable the company to operate independently and be subject to proper oversight from both the Presidency and the National Assembly.”

Rafsanjani acknowledged the strides made under former NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari, particularly the historic release of the company’s first audited financial statements in 43 years. The 2018 report revealed losses of N803.9 billion (approximately $2.2 billion) and marked an important step toward greater transparency.

He also recalled a previous audit initiated during the tenure of former Central Bank Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, which exposed major financial discrepancies at the then-NNPC. Unfortunately, Rafsanjani noted, those findings were dismissed by the National Assembly at the time.

Expressing hope for the current push for a full-scale audit, Rafsanjani urged that it be taken seriously and not disregarded, warning that genuine reform of the oil sector is vital for Nigeria’s economic future.

Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Youth Empowerment at 2025 UN ECOSOC Youth Forum

Maryam Aminu

Nigeria has once again demonstrated its strong commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development on the global stage, leading an active delegation at the 2025 United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum held at the UN Headquarters in New York.

Addressing a gathering of global youth leaders, policymakers, and development partners, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Olubunmi Olusanya, emphasized the critical importance of inclusive youth participation in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His speech spotlighted key areas such as education, employment, innovation, and climate action.

Olusanya outlined Nigeria’s strategic initiatives, including the newly launched National Youth Development Strategy 2024–2028, digital skills programs, green entrepreneurship schemes, and robust partnerships that are expanding opportunities for millions of young Nigerians.

“Nigeria’s youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow  they are the drivers of today’s innovation and resilience,” Olusanya said. “We remain fully committed to creating an enabling environment that empowers young people to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to national and global development.”

In addition to participating in the main sessions, Nigeria convened a high-impact side event in collaboration with UN agencies and regional youth organizations. Titled “Harnessing Youth Innovation for Climate Resilience and Green Jobs in Africa,” the event showcased youth-led climate solutions and facilitated dialogue between policymakers and young innovators across the continent.

The ECOSOC Youth Forum, a key platform for youth engagement in the UN system, continues to enable young people worldwide to contribute to shaping the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Nigeria’s active involvement this year reinforces its leadership in championing a sustainable, youth-inclusive future.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Olubunmi Olusanya, led a delegation to the 2025 United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum, held at the UN Headquarters in New York.

FG, Private Sector Partner to Launch Teenage Talent Reality Show

Maryam Aminu

In a bold move to harness the creative potential of Nigerian youth, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with RHO Sigma & Sons Limited to launch a national teenage talent reality show.

The agreement, signed by the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, at his office in Abuja, marks a strategic effort by the federal government to promote youth empowerment through entertainment, education, and creative expression.

The reality show, titled “Teenage Talent Hunt,” is set to debut later this year and will spotlight teenagers across Nigeria competing in categories such as music, dance, innovation, and visual arts.

The initiative aims to discover, nurture, and elevate a new generation of exceptional talents while providing mentorship and developmental support.

“This initiative is a testament to our belief in the extraordinary potential of our youth,” said Minister Olawande. “Through this reality show, we aim to provide teenagers with not just visibility, but also mentorship, resources, and opportunities to excel in their passions.”

According to the Ministry, the MoU outlines a robust partnership structure with RHO Sigma & Sons Limited focusing on content creation, talent discovery, and nationwide outreach.

The show’s format is designed to ensure inclusivity, with audition opportunities both in major cities and via online platforms.

Project Manager of the Teenage Talent Hunt, Professor Bolarinwa Bolaji, described the show as a visionary step towards engaging young Nigerians through innovative programs.

“We are proud to partner with the Ministry on this inspiring project. Beyond entertainment, this show will encourage creativity, confidence, and a culture of innovation among our youth,” he said.

The Teenage Talent Hunt is expected to complement broader national strategies focused on youth engagement, entrepreneurship, and cultural expression.