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.

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”.