FG Engages Stakeholders to Relaunch National School Feeding Programme Estimated N900 Billion to N1 Trillion Needed Annually – Minister

Emmanuel Daudu

The Federal Government has taken a decisive step toward revamping the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme (NHGSFP) by convening a high-level stakeholders’ engagement focused on funding, implementation, and strategic partnerships under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The meeting, held at the Federal Secretariat in Abuja, was led by the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Tanko Yusuf Sununu.

Addressing participants, Dr. Sununu estimated that between N900 billion and N1 trillion will be needed annually to feed pupils in grades 1 to 3 across Nigeria, with plans to deliver three nutritious meals weekly.

He stressed that while government appropriations remain critical, the programme’s scale and impact will depend on multi-source funding and strong collaboration among public and private stakeholders.

National Coordinator and CEO of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), Associate Professor Badamasi Lawal, outlined key funding prospects including presidential support, international donor contributions, and 5% of recovered repatriated funds.

He urged stakeholders to contribute their technical expertise and strategic resources to strengthen the programme.

“As stakeholders, your contributions are essential in realizing the Sustainable Development Goals especially those focused on hunger eradication, quality education, and poverty alleviation,” Dr. Badamasi said. “This initiative speaks directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda offering inclusive, people-centered solutions to national challenges.”

Dr. Badamasi further noted that the revamped NHGSFP will enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability while supporting smallholder farmers, boosting school attendance, and stimulating local economies through demand for locally sourced produce.

The event concluded with a presentation by the National Programme Manager, Dr. Princess Aderemi Adebowale, who unveiled the Enhanced NHGSFP Platform marking a fresh chapter for the programme’s scale-up and long-term sustainability.

FG Launches Inter-Ministerial Committee for 2025 Youth Innovation Boot Camp

Maryam Aminu

In a bid to bolster innovation, entrepreneurship, and strengthen bilateral ties under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Federal Government has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Planning Committee for the 2025 Youth Entrepreneurial and Innovation Alliance (YEIA) Boot Camp.

The initiative, organized in partnership with the Bangladesh Business and Technology Forum, was officially unveiled at a ceremony held at the Federal Ministry of Youth Development headquarters in Abuja.

Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, described the Boot Camp as a “dynamic platform” aimed at nurturing creativity, see building entrepreneurial capacity, and fostering collaboration among young innovators from Nigeria and Bangladesh.

“The primary goals of the Boot Camp are to facilitate high-level engagements between public and private sector stakeholders, mobilize investment, and equip our youth with relevant skills and global exposure,” Olawande said, adding that the program aligns with the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda by strengthening bilateral cooperation and attracting investments in emerging technologies.

The Minister also urged committee members drawn from various ministries and strategic sectors to ensure Nigeria’s participation is impactful and reflective of the nation’s innovative potential.

He encouraged them to approach their responsibilities with diligence, creativity, and collaboration.

Representing the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, the Acting Director of Enterprise Development and Promotion, Mr. Mike Ugwuogu, highlighted the significance of the upcoming event, which will be hosted in Bangladesh.

He noted that the Boot Camp will bring together young innovators, startup founders, and changemakers from across the globe, providing Nigerian youth with opportunities to showcase their talents and engage with international counterparts.

President of the Nigeria-Bangladesh Business and Technology Forum, Mr. Bob Achanya, described the initiative as a strategic platform to connect youth, policymakers, and the private sector.

He reaffirmed the forum’s commitment to empowering over 10 million young people through mentorship, training, and entrepreneurial opportunities geared toward sustainable economic growth.

The Ministry reiterated its dedication to creating an enabling environment for youth development while positioning Nigerian youth as key players in global innovation and enterprise.

2025 Hajj: Tour Operators Pull Out, Accuse NAHCON of Exploitation and Overreach

Maryam Aminu

In a bold move signaling growing discontent within Nigeria’s Hajj industry, three licensed private Hajj operators Travel Express Ltd (Abuja), An-Noor Air Services and Tours Ltd (Kano), and Positive Trends Travel and Tours Ltd (Kaduna) have jointly announced their withdrawal from the 2025 Hajj exercise, citing long-standing concerns over the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON)’s practices.

The operators, in a detailed public statement, criticized the Commission for what they described as a sustained deviation from its statutory role, alleging excessive charges, lack of accountability, and attempts to monopolize both Hajj and Umrah operations.

“We have withdrawn from participating in the 2025 Hajj exercise to protest NAHCON’s continuous exploitation of tour operators and the Nigerian pilgrims they serve,” the operators stated. “Our decision is a stand against systemic injustice in the Hajj industry.”

According to the statement, tour operators paid approximately N2 billion to NAHCON in the last Hajj season through a combination of application fees, licensing charges, service levies, and bank guarantees. These include:

N300,000 application fee paid by over 250 applicants (over N75 million total),

N1 million licensing fee paid by 180 qualified operators (over N180 million),

$150 per pilgrim as a service charge, which was reduced to $100 in 2025 only after intense pushback,

A mandatory bank guarantee, raised from N20 million in 2024
N40 million in 2025.

The operators questioned the legality of dollar-denominated charges and challenged NAHCON to disclose how funds are utilized, claiming the Commission provides minimal or no services in return.

The group also raised alarm over NAHCON’s push to take control of the Umrah service market through the GiiL TMS project a technology-based platform they say is backed by foreign actors and threatens to reduce Nigerian operators to sub-agents.

They allege this move is being made without consulting the main stakeholders and could dismantle the private sector-led Umrah system in Nigeria.

The statement also spotlighted the recurring controversy over “Tent A” accommodations for VIP pilgrims. With less than ten days to the commencement of pilgrim arrivals, operators say there is no clarity on service delivery despite payments of 1,550 Saudi Riyals per pilgrim having already been deducted.

They accuse NAHCON of sidelining legitimate service providers and warn of a potential breakdown in service delivery.

In closing, the operators called on the Nigerian government to investigate NAHCON’s revenue model and mandate, demanding a return to the original vision of the Commission as a regulatory not revenue-generating agency.

They pledged to continue advocating for transparency, fairness, and dignity for Nigerian pilgrims.

“The Hajj system in Nigeria requires a complete overhaul. The time to act is now,” the statement concluded.

The operators hinted at an upcoming exposé that will name individuals both within and outside the Commission who they say have undermined reforms in the industry over the years.

Defence Minister Visits Plateau Community, Reaffirms FG’s Commitment to End Violence

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, H.E. Muhammad Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, on Sunday visited the Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State in the wake of recent violent attacks that claimed several lives and left many injured.

The Minister, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, was received by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation Safe Haven, Major General Folusho Oyilola.

During the visit, the Defence Minister offered prayers and condolences to grieving families, while also sympathizing with those injured in the attacks. “It is imperative that we put an end to the cycle of violence that has plagued this region,” he stated.

Badaru conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s deep concern over the ongoing security challenges in Plateau State. “Mr. President has directed that all perpetrators of these heinous acts must be brought to justice,” he said. “Security agencies, including the GOC and other operatives, have assured me of their unwavering commitment to this task.”

The Minister highlighted the federal government’s collaborative efforts with Plateau State authorities to establish long-term preventive structures aimed at restoring peace.

He emphasized the crucial role of community involvement, urging local leaders to engage actively in intelligence-sharing to support security operations.

“It is essential to recognize the ongoing efforts being made. While the geographical landscape is vast and the communities are dispersed, I am confident that through intelligence sharing, the involvement of community elders, persistent prayers, and the unwavering commitment of Mr. President, we will address the root causes of this crisis,” he concluded.

The Defence Minister’s visit underscores the federal government’s resolve to tackle insecurity in the region and bring lasting peace to affected communities.

Birthday Anniversary: UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu VC CUICI, USA Celebrates Amuda-Kannike SAN AsLegal ICON Clocks 66

UNESCO Laureate and Vice-Chancellor, Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc., USA, has congratulated a renowned Professor of Law, Professor Amuda-Kannike SAN as the legal ICON today celebrates his Birthday Anniversary in grand-style as Aremu applauded the renowned Professor for his great achievements as legal luminary, uncommon exploits and contributions to global legal sector development.

CUICI VC, World Distinguished Universities Research Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu made this known to the media today being on Saturday, April 19, 2025 in a press statement made available to some group of Journalists in Asaba, Delta State by Aremu’s Executive Assistant on Media, Publicity and Communication Matters, Comrade Sir Bieni Victor Emenike as Aremu wishes Amuda-Kannike SAN long life and prosperity.

The VC who appreciated God for adding another year to Prof Amuda-Kannike’s age, then commended the Nigerian born Professor of Law as one of Nigeria’s finest Senior Advocate for his great, positive impacts, legacy in the field of Constitutional & International Jurisprudence which he said Amuda-Kannike had left great footprints in the global legal sector. UNESCO Laureate who then prayed to God to give Amuda-Kannike SAN more wisdom, understanding and sound health. That God continue his hands of protection, bless him the more so that he can continue to be a great blessings to Nigeria, Africa and the world at large.

The statement by UNESCO Laureate reads in parts: “Today is a remarkable day of celebration as a king rejoices in the lord. I wish you happy birthday Anniversary as you celebration today! My prayers for you Prof Amuda-Kannike is long life, prosperity and abundant blessings to you and your family, in the name of Almighty Allah, Amen!!”

“Prpf Amuda-Kannike, indeed you are a great blessing to Nigerian people, Africa and the entire world. You possesses the 21st Century skills for global legal sector education. I wish you a glorious, happy and prosperous Birthday Anniversary Celebration my brother and friend SAN!! Prof Amuda-Kannike, I say a big congratulations to you once again as you mark your auspicious Birthday Anniversary Celebration today in Grand-style”.

“Amuda-Kannike SAN is a Distinguished Educator, Professor of Law, legal ICON and astute administrator who received NOUN’s Law Graduates Special Awards on his contributions to their struggle for the admission of the University to Nigeria Law School. He started his Legal practice with a Legal firm, E.C. Ukala, (SAN) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

“I, UNESCO Laureate & VC CUICI, USA uses this medium to commend you, Prof Abiodun Amuda-Kannike (SAN), Professor of Jurisprudence, Public & International Law on your recent KWASU, Melete 14Th Inauguration Lectures as delivered by you under the distinguished Chairmanship of the Ag. Vice Chancellor, Prof Shaykh Lugman Jimoh on 8th May, 2024. Prof Amuda-Kannike (SAN) Life Fellow of International Chartered World Learned Society is a global legal luminary with expertise in Jurisprudence and international law, an exceptional world educator who had contributed to global legal sector development through uncommon research”.

“I commend you for advancing solutions to the technicalities of Jurisprudence, the Rule of Law as regards the dilemma of Nigerian constitution. I must commend your recent research that provided deep understanding of Jurisprudence and Rule of Law Technicalities. The rule of law means equality before the law. All institutions,

“I urge you to use your expertise towards preferring solutions to the technicalities of Jurisprudence, the rule of law as regards Nigerian constitution for best possible reforms in the legal sector. No doubt, you have contributed to the development of Law Faculty, Departments in Nigerian Universities. I Congratulate you today as you mark your Birthday Anniversary in Grand-style. I commend your continuous love for education and rendering of more service to humanity which is still part of you as a great man and humility personified”.

UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu submitted some of the proposals to VC Minaret Int’l University Ikirun Osun State Nigeria

As part of effort to Set Up Quality Assurance in the First newly approved established Minaret University Ikirun Osun State Nigeria owned by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community world wide,
UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu has submitted some proposals to Professor Abdul Rahman Abdullah
The Vice Chancellor,
Minaret International University in Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria, which is a pioneering faith-based institution that combines Islamic principles with modern education. Established by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, it’s the first university globally owned by this Ahmadiyya Muslim community world wide, Here’s what we know about the university ¹ ²:

  • Founding: The foundation-laying ceremony took place on March 9, 2021, in Ikirun, with attendees from across Nigeria and beyond.
  • Approval: The university was recently approved by President Bola Tinubu on March 3, 2025, after rigorous accreditation processes by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

MINARET UNIVERSITY TAKE-OFF PROGRAMS

Faculty of Science and Computing

(1) Department of Computing

  • B.Sc. Computer Science 
  • B.Sc. Cyber Security 
  • B.Sc. Data Science 
  • B.Sc. Information Technology  Faculty of Management and Social Sciences 

(1) Department of Accounting and Economics 

  • B.Sc. Accounting 
  • B.Sc. Economics 

(2) Business Administration, Management and Marketing 

  • B.Sc. Business Administration 
  • B.Sc. Marketing 
  • B.Sc. Logistics and Supply Chain Management 

Philosophy: The institution aims to produce well-rounded graduates who are job creators, ethical leaders, and global citizens, integrating moral discipline, practical entrepreneurship training, research excellence, and community service.

  • Leadership: Professor Abdul Rahman Abdullah, formerly of Babcock University, has been appointed as the pioneer Vice Chancellor.
  • Support: The university has received support from stakeholders, including the Osun State Government, NUC, traditional leadership of Ikirun, and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community worldwide.

Some notable events and figures associated with the university include ³ ²:

  • CUICI VC’s Support: The First African UNESCO Laureate Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu, Vice-Chancellor of Crown University International Chartered Inc.in USA which is teaching and research Hospital Campuses are located in Santa Cruz Province Argentina South America Spain and Brazil with official constituent Campuses at government regulated universities world wide and online operations has promised support for the university’s mission and vision.
  • Osun State Government: Governors Rauf Aregbesola, Adegboyega Oyetola, and Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke have played significant roles in the university’s establishment.
  • Community Involvement: The Ikirun community and Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria: and globally have been instrumental in bringing the university to fruition.

Concerned Christian Youths Forum Condemns Benue, Plateau Killings, Commiserate With The People

The Concerned Christian Youth Forum stand in vehement and outright condemnation of the ongoing carnage in Plateau and Benue states. This relentless onslaught against innocent civilians by lawless bandits is an affront on natural justice and a gross violation of the sanctity and dignity of human life.
This human carnage must stop. The perpetrators of these atrocious acts must be brought to justice. All innocent and peace-lobing people of this nation must enjoy the safety and security they deserve.

The Government must take swift and decisive action to arrest these barbaric attacks, and ensure that the affected communities receive the support and assistance they require to heal and rebuild. The time for action is now.

While we commend the effort of our security agencies, we ask that they redouble their effort to nip this menace in a bud.
To the gallant men and women of our security agencies, we extend our utmost gratitude for your tireless dedication and sacrifice in the service of our nation. Your courage and commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of our citizens are an inspiration to us all.

Despite the formidable challenges that you face, we implore you to continue to work with unwavering determination to eradicate this existential threat, not just to communities under attack, but to the corporate existence and survival of our dear nation. The safety and well-being of our people, being constitutionally committed you as a sacred duty, must be guaranteed at all times.
Together, let us summon the strength and courage to swiftly bring this crisis to an end.

God Bless The Federal Republic of Nigeria

James Paul Adama
Convener, Concerned Christian Youth Forum
Abuja Nigeria.

RMAFC Chairman Reaffirms Support for Local Government Autonomy

Maryam Aminu

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, has restated the Commission’s firm commitment to financial autonomy for local governments across Nigeria, calling grassroots governance a cornerstone of national development.

Dr. Shehu made the statement during a courtesy visit by the Director General of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Barr. Evan Enekwe, who led a delegation to the RMAFC Headquarters in Abuja.

“We have always been on record as a Commission that strongly advocates for Local Government financial autonomy,” Dr. Shehu said. “The recent Supreme Court judgment affirming this autonomy is a victory not just for ALGON but for the nation. Development truly begins at the grassroots, and without empowered local governments, our national aspirations will continue to lag.”

He announced plans to re-establish a committee of Commissioners drawn from each state to liaise with stakeholders and support the implementation of the Supreme Court’s ruling. “We will continue to advocate and talk to stakeholders to see this through,” he added.

Dr. Shehu also pledged the Commission’s support for ALGON’s initiatives, including its upcoming National Sustainable Grassroots Development Conference scheduled for April 29–30, 2025.

L-R: Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu and Barr. Evan Enekwe

In her remarks, Barr. Evan Enekwe expressed appreciation for the Commission’s longstanding position on local government empowerment. “Increased revenue allocation to local governments is not just necessary it is urgent,” she said. “Financial autonomy and improved funding will accelerate development at the grassroots. We thank RMAFC and other progressive institutions for championing this cause.”

She also emphasized the need for lasting reforms in revenue sharing. “For over 20 years, the conversation has remained the same, and it is time for real change,” she said.

Commissioners of the RMAFC also voiced their support for stronger collaboration with ALGON. Hon. Rakiya Tanko Ayuba Haruna (Kebbi State), recalled her work at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), where she co-authored a policy paper on strengthening local governance. Similarly, Hon. Ismail Mohammed Agaka (Kwara State), lamented the erosion of local government powers by state governments, stating, “Today, most local governments exist only in theory. Their powers have been hijacked by governors.”

Other members of the ALGON delegation included Salawu Nuhu Ozigi, FCA (Director of Finance and Accounts), Lawal Ibrahim (Director, Admin & Human Resources), Obiora Orji (Head of Media and Publicity), and Lateefa Isah (Principal Consultant on the Sustainable Grassroots Development Programme).

NSIPA Urges Staff to Leverage Technology for Improved Social Interventions

Emmanuel Daudu

The National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), Associate Professor Badamasi Lawal, PhD, has called on staff members participating in a digital training workshop to embrace technology as a tool for enhancing the delivery of social investment initiatives across Nigeria.

Speaking at the opening of a three-day training organized by NSIPA’s Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP) in collaboration with Frontier Systems Limited, Dr. Lawal underscored the importance of digital transformation in achieving the agency’s mandate.

The event, held at the Federal Secretariat in Abuja, was themed “Improving Beneficiary Outcomes with Digital Solutions.”

“This training marks not only the beginning of a new learning initiative but also a renewed commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusive development,” Dr. Lawal stated. “At NSIPA, our mandate is clear: to deliver impactful, evidence-driven social interventions that uplift the lives of millions of Nigerians, particularly those in vulnerable populations, in alignment with Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”

He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 8-point agenda includes the implementation of social welfare programmes to reduce poverty and support the nation’s most vulnerable citizens.

Highlighting the role of GEEP in driving financial inclusion, Dr. Lawal stressed the programme’s commitment to empowering petty traders, artisans, smallholder farmers, women, and youth.

He pointed to the GEEP Dashboard as a cornerstone of this effort a digital tool that enables real-time tracking, analysis, and management of beneficiary data.

“Behind every data point on the dashboard is a real individual a mother, trader, farmer, or young entrepreneur relying on NSIPA to deliver hope and opportunity,” he added.

Also speaking at the workshop, Mrs. Ifeoma Chukwumbah, Acting Head of GEEP, reaffirmed the programme’s mission to expand access to financial support through initiatives such as TraderMoni, MarketMoni, and FarmerMoni. These initiatives, she noted, have already impacted millions by providing capital and support for sustainable livelihoods.

Mrs. Chukwumbah said the training is part of efforts to enhance transparency and efficiency across NSIPA’s interventions. “This training reflects our commitment to utilizing data and digital tools to better serve our beneficiaries,” she said. “It will build our digital capacity and equip us to deliver, monitor, and evaluate our interventions more effectively.”

The workshop is expected to empower NSIPA staff with the technical know-how and digital tools necessary for better programme implementation and improved outcomes for beneficiaries nationwide.

Defence Minister Meets With Service Chiefs On National Security Strategy

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, held a high-level operational briefing today with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Service Chiefs at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Abuja to assess and address the current national security situation.

The session provided a comprehensive review of the security challenges facing various regions of the country, including the North East, Plateau State, North West, North Central, and South East areas grappling with insurgency, banditry, and communal unrest.

The Armed Forces presented updates on ongoing operations, intelligence coordination, inter-agency collaboration, and resource deployment efforts.

Special attention was given to Borno and Plateau states, where security concerns have remained acute. Discussions yielded actionable strategies aimed at restoring peace and stability in those regions.

Badaru reiterated his commitment to working closely with the Armed Forces to develop and implement effective, sustainable strategies to overcome Nigeria’s multifaceted security threats.

He also reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s steadfast support for the military, emphasizing the need for intelligence-driven, proactive, and community-focused approaches to defence.

“This operational briefing has given me deeper insight into the realities on the ground and highlighted the tremendous efforts of our armed forces,” the Minister said. “We are determined to support our gallant troops with the tools and policies required to win the fight against insecurity and ensure every Nigerian lives in safety and dignity.”

The meeting marks a continuation of the Ministry’s drive to align strategic defence operations with national security priorities and constitutional mandates to protect lives and property.