The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle has strongly criticized the recent denial of visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, and other members of the Nigerian delegation by Canadian authorities.
The delegation was en route to attend a significant event honoring Nigerian veterans in Canada when the refusal occurred.
Describing the incident as a serious affront to Nigeria’s national dignity and integrity, Matawalle emphasized that such treatment threatens the long-standing bilateral relationship between both nations.
“This is not merely a bureaucratic oversight; it is a blatant disregard for Nigeria’s status on the global stage,” he stated. “We cannot allow our country to be treated with such levity.”
The Minister called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the reasons behind the visa denial, stressing that Nigeria must respond decisively to safeguard its diplomatic reputation.
“We must not remain passive in the face of such disrespect. If no satisfactory explanation is provided, Nigeria must take a firm and assertive diplomatic stance,” Matawalle declared.
The refusal of visas to high-ranking military officials raises serious concerns about Canada’s approach to diplomatic engagements with Nigeria. While the specific reasons for the denial remain unclear, the incident highlights ongoing bureaucratic and political obstacles faced by Nigerian officials in international affairs.
Matawalle reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to upholding its dignity on the international stage, urging collective action to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Hon. Philip Agbese has strongly refuted allegations made by Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, who claimed Agbese was among those who demanded a $150 million bribe from the cryptocurrency firm.
In a statement released on Friday, Agbese described the allegations as “false and baseless,” asserting that he was never part of any meeting involving Binance executives regarding any financial transaction.
He emphasized that the leadership of the Committee on Economic and Financial Crimes had already taken legal action on the matter, and Binance had since apologized.
“Let it be on record that I am not a member of the Committee on Economic and Financial Crimes,” Agbese clarified.
“I visited my colleague, Hon. Peter Ankpanke, in his office while he was meeting with some visitors about an activity of his Committee. Hon. Peter Anakwe, another member of the Committee, was also present. I exchanged pleasantries and discussed Binance’s activities in general, but at no point did I make any demands.”
He further explained that he left the meeting before any discussions between Ankpanke, Anakwe, and Binance representatives took place. “I never saw those visitors again after that chance meeting and did not attend any subsequent meetings with Binance executives, the EFCC, or the DSS,” he stated.
Addressing claims about his involvement in cryptocurrency transactions, Agbese categorically denied ever using or owning a crypto wallet. “I have never used any cryptocurrency, so I could not have asked for funds to be credited to a non-existent wallet,” he asserted.
He also condemned Gambaryan’s allegations, stating that they were part of a broader attempt to undermine public officials.
“This is not the first time a foreign entity has made baseless accusations against me. Previously, there were claims that I worked for the past government and the Armed Forces to promote Nigeria’s agenda. These falsehoods reflect the desperation of those seeking to discredit nationalist public office holders,” he said.
Agbese has now issued a demand for Gambaryan to provide evidence linking him to the bribery claims or publicly retract his statement and apologize within seven days. “Gambaryan and his associate, who escaped from prison, should return to the EFCC and defend themselves instead of attempting to implicate me,” he stated. “If he fails to produce evidence, my legal team will take necessary action.”
The lawmaker urged all inquiries on the matter to be directed to the Committee on Economic and Financial Crimes rather than to him.
He added: “The fellow mentioned in his allegations that the Honourable members demanded for bribe from them and that it should be paid into their personal account.
“I want to state in my honour that I have no cryptocurrency account anywhere in the world. I have never transacted any business with any electronic currency since I was born and I challenge the accuser to supply the so-called crypto currency account belonging to me.”
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has announced the implementation of a monitoring mechanism to track the progress and challenges related to product adoption. This initiative will involve regular reports from each institute, detailing product usage, feedback, and obstacles encountered. The collected data will be used to drive continuous improvement.
According to the newly introduced policy, the initiative is expected to strengthen internal confidence, thereby enhancing the internal usage and validation of products. This, in turn, aims to make NASENI’s innovations more attractive for external markets, promote collaboration among institutes, and foster a culture of mutual support for innovation.
In a statement signed by Mr. Olusegun Ayeoyenikan Director of Information, NASENI on 10th February 2025, he said the key anticipated outcomes include the development of an External Commercialization Model, ensuring successful internal integration serves as a foundation for external adoption. Additionally, the initiative is expected to enhance Product Development, leveraging feedback to ensure products meet high standards before market introduction.
This policy aligns with NASENI’s commitment to fostering innovation, strengthening internal structures, and positioning its products for broader market acceptance.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria have intensified their operations against terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities across the country, leading to the neutralization of over 150 terrorists and the arrest of hundreds of suspected criminals.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, disclosed this during a media briefing, emphasizing that the military’s sustained offensives have significantly degraded terrorist activities nationwide.
According to Major General Kangye, in the past six weeks alone, troops neutralized 75 terrorists and arrested 138 suspected criminals in coordinated operations across multiple theaters.
He noted that joint efforts with security agencies and hybrid forces also resulted in the rescue of 46 kidnapped victims and the disruption of criminal supply chains, particularly those involved in arms smuggling and oil theft.
Providing an update on security operations in the South-South region, Kangye stated that the military foiled oil theft operations valued at approximately ₦646 million.
He detailed that troops successfully seized 497,152 liters of stolen crude oil, 142,000 liters of illegally refined diesel (AGO), and 4,075 liters of petrol (PMS).
Additionally, he reported the destruction of 42 illegal refining sites and the recovery of various arms, vehicles, and communication equipment used by oil theft syndicates.
The Defence Spokesperson further revealed that 65 members of Boko Haram and ISWAP including 12 men, 19 women, and 34 children surrendered to troops of Operation Hadin Kai in the past week.
“In counterterrorism operations, our forces neutralized 22 insurgents, arrested 13 others, and successfully rescued 34 kidnapped victims in coordinated clearance missions across Gwoza, Konduga, Damboa, and Mafa,” he added.
Kangye also highlighted the seizure of 12 AK-47 rifles, RPGs, ammunition, and aircraft engine components from a previously unidentified crash site.
Furthermore, he disclosed that 18 ISWAP collaborators were apprehended in Borno and Yobe States, with items including arms, mobile phones, and ₦58,980 in cash recovered.
Speaking on military advances in the North-West under Operation Fasan Yamma, Kangye confirmed that 58 terrorists were neutralized, while 11 others were arrested.
He highlighted key breakthroughs, including:
Weapons Recovery: 31 AK-47 rifles, RPGs, and thousands of rounds of ammunition were seized.
Rescue Missions: Troops freed 16 kidnapped victims during operations across Katsina, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Sokoto States.
Notorious Terrorist Arrested: Security forces apprehended a terrorist kingpin, Muhada Muhammadu (Yellow), along with four others, recovering ₦2.45 million in the process.
Kangye also provided insights into operations under Operation Whirl Punch, stating that security forces successfully carried out raids in Kogi, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye during the briefing
Raid on Insurgent Camp in Kogi: Troops arrested eight criminals and seized two locally made revolvers and ammunition.
Illegal Mining Crackdown in Nasarawa: 51 individuals involved in illegal mining were arrested, and security operatives confiscated gold, lithium, and mining equipment.
Troops intercepted a kidnapped victim who had escaped captivity and provided security support.
In the North-Central region, troops of Operation Safe Haven and Operation Whirl Stroke recorded further successes:
Arrests & Seizures: 51 violent extremists were captured, and security forces recovered three AK-47 rifles and ammunition.
Hostage Rescues: Troops rescued 11 kidnapped individuals in Plateau State, while multiple criminal suspects linked to violent attacks were apprehended.
Summarizing military efforts across all theaters of operation, Major General Kangye stated that in recent weeks, the Armed Forces: Neutralized 151 terrorists, Arrested 313 suspects, including gunrunners and oil thieves, Rescued 107 kidnapped victims, Seized over 60 AK-47 rifles, RPGs, and thousands of rounds of ammunition and Destroyed multiple illegal refineries and criminal hideouts
Kangye reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian military to dismantling terrorist networks, securing national assets, and restoring peace across the country.
He urged citizens to continue providing timely intelligence to security agencies to aid the ongoing fight against insurgency and organized crime.
In a significant step toward advancing aviation education and professional training, the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Abuja, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ATOM Aviation Training Services, a leading aviation training institution based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The MoU, signed on February 12, 2024, establishes a collaborative framework aimed at enhancing aviation training, resource sharing, and capacity building for industry professionals.
The signing ceremony brought together key officials from both institutions. The ATOM Aviation delegation, led by CEO Sheikh Mohammed Al-Memari, alongside Quality Manager Raed Al Batayneh and Training Manager Ibrahim Al Hazaimeh, warmly received the AAAU team, which was headed by Registrar Dr. Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, Director of Professional Training Programmes Mr. Aliyu Tata Azare, Public Relations Officer Ms. Sa’adatu Usman, and Mr. Anas Aliyu.
During the meeting, both teams engaged in in-depth discussions on knowledge exchange, skill development, and access to cutting-edge aviation technologies.
The partnership is expected to expand opportunities for AAAU students and professionals to gain specialized training and global industry exposure.
Following the MoU signing, the AAAU delegation toured ATOM’s state-of-the-art training facilities, gaining firsthand insights into the institution’s advanced simulators, modern training infrastructure, and industry-focused curriculum.
This visit reinforced the potential for collaboration in curriculum development, research initiatives, and professional certifications.
This partnership aligns with AAAU’s vision to position itself as a leading center for aviation and aerospace education in Africa, equipping the next generation of aviation professionals with world-class skills and expertise.
It also supports Nigeria’s broader goal of strengthening its aviation sector through international partnerships and technological advancements.
With this agreement, AAAU and ATOM Aviation Training Services are set to transform aviation education, create new learning opportunities, and contribute to the sustainable growth of the global aviation industry.
The Federal Government has declared 2025 as a year of consolidation, as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration builds on the significant progress made since assuming office.
The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammed Idris, made this announcement at a Ministerial Press Briefing in Abuja, highlighting key achievements over the past 19 months.
“This inaugural briefing for 2025 serves as a moment of reflection on how far we have come and the transformative strides we continue to make under President Tinubu’s leadership,” Idris stated.
The Minister outlined notable milestones across governance, economy, security, and infrastructure.
Economic and Fiscal Reforms
Fuel Subsidy Removal: Ending the subsidy has saved Nigeria hundreds of billions of Naira annually, redirecting funds to critical sectors.
Foreign Exchange Stability: The Electronic Foreign Exchange Matching System (EFEMS) has stabilized the forex market, cleared billions in backlog payments, and improved investor confidence. The Naira recently hit an eight-month high in the official market.
Oil and Gas Investment Boom: Nigeria attracted over $5 billion in Final Investment Decisions (FIDs) in 2024, making it Africa’s top investment destination in the sector.
Electricity Sector Reforms: The 2024 Electricity Act enables state governments to develop and regulate their electricity markets, expanding power access.
Local Government Autonomy: A Supreme Court ruling in July 2024 granted local governments financial independence, with an Inter-Ministerial Committee ensuring implementation.
Targeted Social and Economic Interventions
Students Loan Fund (NELFUND): Over 169,000 students have received N32.8 billion in tuition and upkeep support.
Regional Development: New Development Commissions have been established for the North-Central, South-East, and North-West regions, alongside the creation of a Federal University of Environmental Technology.
Healthcare Investments: The Federal Executive Council approved $1.07 billion from the World Bank for health programs, including targeted subsidies for cancer patients.
Passport Processing Reforms: Over 200,000 international passport backlogs were cleared within three weeks in 2024.
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Expansion: The government has invested over $450 million in developing Nigeria’s CNG value chain to reduce dependence on petrol.
Infrastructure Development
Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria has become a hub of construction activity, with major projects receiving significant funding:
Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway – N1.334 trillion
Access roads to the Second Niger Bridge – N470.9 billion
Over 8,000 terrorists and bandits neutralized and 8,000 kidnapped victims rescued in 2024.
A Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell was established in partnership with the UK’s National Crime Agency to combat abductions.
Food Security and Agriculture
The newly established Ministry of Livestock Development is driving agricultural reforms, leading to lower grain prices and unlocking multi-billion-dollar opportunities in livestock farming.
2025 Budget: A Focus on Growth and Stability
President Tinubu’s N54.2 trillion “Budget of Restoration” prioritizes:
Security – N4.91 trillion
Infrastructure – N4.06 trillion
Education – N3.52 trillion
Health – N2.48 trillion
Minister reiterated that these reforms are strengthening Nigeria’s economy, improving fiscal capacity, and enhancing citizens’ quality of life.
“We are witnessing a transformation one that renews hope for all Nigerians, regardless of age or background,” he concluded.
The Federal Government has inaugurated the Young Adolescent Technical Working Committee, a specialized body aimed at addressing the developmental and health needs of young people across the country.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to youth health under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He emphasized that the well-being of young people is crucial for them to fully benefit from various empowerment and development programs initiated by the administration.
“Health is not merely the absence of disease but a complete state of mental, physical, and social well-being. I am pleased that this committee will focus on critical issues such as mental health, substance abuse, HIV, HPV, and non-communicable diseases,” Olawande stated.
He urged committee members to implement their plans promptly, ensuring swift action on key initiatives.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olubunmi Olusanya, represented by the Director of General Services, Mr. Wale Joseph, encouraged the committee to intensify efforts in executing its mandate.
He highlighted the importance of a healthy youth population, describing the initiative as timely and essential for the nation’s future.
The committee is expected to drive policies and programs that will enhance health services for young adolescents, ensuring that their voices and well-being remain a priority in national development efforts.
In a bid to enhance collaboration and ensure seamless operations, the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, has held an interactive session with Commissioners, management, and staff at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
The engagement provided an opportunity for the staff to meet the newly appointed Commissioners and reinforce the Commission’s commitment to teamwork and efficiency. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Shehu emphasized the importance of cooperation, urging staff to extend the same level of support and dedication they had shown to their predecessors.
“The purpose of this gathering is to introduce you to the new Commissioners and to encourage a spirit of collaboration. I urge every staff member to work closely with them both returning and newly appointed to ensure the smooth continuation of the Commission’s work,” he stated.
Acknowledging the resilience and dedication of the Commission’s workforce, Dr. Shehu commended their unwavering commitment despite challenges over the years.
He reaffirmed his belief in teamwork as a driving force for success, urging everyone to contribute meaningfully toward achieving the Commission’s mandate and supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda.
“Your dedication, perseverance, and goodwill have been instrumental in keeping the Commission moving forward. I encourage you to remain steadfast in your duties so we can continue delivering on our objectives,” he added.
The Chairman also motivated staff to aspire for greater career growth within the Commission, reinforcing the potential for advancement through hard work and dedication.
“Every staff member has the potential to rise through the ranks whether as a Commissioner, Secretary, or even as Chairman. Hard work is recognized and rewarded, and I urge you to remain committed to excellence,” he affirmed.
A cross section of federal commissioners and staff of the Commission at the occasion
Speaking on behalf of the Commission’s Secretary, Engr. Joseph Okechukwu Nwaeze, the Director of the Inland Revenue Department, Mrs. Udodirim Okwongu, praised the Chairman and Commissioners for their exemplary leadership.
She noted that their guidance had continued to inspire staff to give their best in service to the nation.
Federal Commissioners at the event also underscored the importance of teamwork, emphasizing that collective effort is vital for the Commission to fulfill its mandate.
In the same vein, directors of various departments pledged their unwavering support to the leadership while reaffirming their dedication to the Commission’s objectives.
The interactive session ended on a high note, with staff members expressing their appreciation for Dr. Shehu’s leadership style and reiterating their commitment to advancing the Commission’s mission.
Waldorf Knoll’s recent inter-house sports event has received high praise from the National Sports Commission (NSC) for aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s grassroots sports development program. According to NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, the school’s event demonstrates a clear commitment to identifying and nurturing young talents across Nigeria
Dikko who doubled as the Chairman of the event hailed the way Waldorf Knoll organized the inter-house sports adding that it will make it easy for the Commission to identify talents scattered around Nigeria. He therefore promised the Commission supports to make it better than what it is
“So the Inter-house sports happening here today clearly speaks and aligns with our objective. I have been coming here even before I became the Chairman of National Sports Commission, so, it is something that is deep and is in my heart I am not just here for the fun of it. So, I will use that position to advance it to make it much more better and to create more advocacy that we need that will align with this vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“In fact, what we did was to set up Committee between National Sports Commission and the Federal Ministry of Education to see how we can work together and identity talents.
“In the meeting we had we the Vice Chancellors, Directors, Provost is to put them on alert that we now have to fucus on the sport and already we have seen the outcome for example we have got letters from University of Jos who have presented themself to us as the Center of Excellence for North Central. They are now focusing on setting up national courses of sports. There will be Degree Courses of sport activities to align with other international schools, so that they can be friendly to them.
The Federal Government has officially unveiled the Renewed Hope Youth Strategic Blueprint to donor agencies, signaling a major step toward harnessing Nigeria’s vast youth potential to drive economic transformation.
Speaking at the donor engagement meeting, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, emphasized the critical role of young Nigerians in shaping the nation’s future.
“With over 70% of our population more than 130 million falling within the youth age bracket, Nigeria has a unique advantage for socio-economic transformation,” he said.
The Minister acknowledged that while this demographic strength presents opportunities, it also comes with challenges.
He stressed that strategic investments, innovation, and partnerships with donors would be key to overcoming obstacles and creating a thriving environment for young people.
Addressing the issue of youth unemployment, Olawande highlighted the impressive strides made by the current administration.
“The youth unemployment rate has dramatically decreased from 12.55% in 2020 to 5.84% in 2023, demonstrating the effectiveness of targeted policies and initiatives. However, despite this progress, it slightly increased to 6.5% in the second quarter of 2024. This underscores the need for sustained collaboration and investment in youth-focused programs,” he noted.
He called on donor agencies to recognize both the achievements and the need for continued efforts, emphasizing that innovative programs and skills development initiatives are critical in ensuring young people thrive in today’s competitive job market.
The Minister further underscored the importance of strengthening government institutions, including the Federal and State Ministries of Youth, the NYSC, and the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC), through organizational reforms and capacity-building. He stressed that these institutions must evolve to meet the demands of the 21st century and serve as platforms for impactful youth development policies.
He also urged donors to support initiatives that reshape youth behavior and mindsets, particularly in an era dominated by social media and digital technology. With Nigeria’s population projected to hit 350 million by 2050, Olawande warned that the youth could either become a valuable global human resource or a burden to society if not properly equipped.
The Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande (3rd Right), The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Youth Development, Hon. Yemi Adaramodu (Middle), and the Permanent Secretary, Olubunmi Olusanya (1st Left) at the Donor Engagement meeting with different agencies.
Key donor agencies at the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to supporting youth development initiatives in Nigeria.
Dr. Osubor Gregory, a representative of the African Development Bank (AfDB), highlighted the organization’s unwavering dedication to empowering young people through innovative programs.
The African Development Bank is determined to ensure that every project directly benefits youth, fostering their growth and potential for a brighter future,” he stated.
Similarly, Ibrahim Suraju, representing the Islamic Bank, commended the Ministry’s commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development.
“The Islamic Bank is dedicated to supporting initiatives that enhance skill development, promote capacity-building, nurture entrepreneurship, and drive innovation. These elements are not just important they are essential catalysts for sustainable economic growth,” Suraju said.
The engagement marked a significant milestone in forging partnerships between the government and donor agencies to advance youth-focused policies and unlock Nigeria’s economic potential.
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