Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) yesterday unveiled former All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and academic, Professor Festus Uwakhemen Asikhia, as its candidate for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senatorial seat for the 2027 general election.

The candidate pledged to pursue legislative reforms aimed at improving gover-nance, eliminating multiple taxation, and strengthening democratic institutions in the nation’s capital.

At the unveiling ceremony in Abuja, the party’s National Chairman, Dan Nwanyanwu, expressed confidence in Asikhia’s candidacy, describing him as a politician with integrity and the capacity to effectively represent FCT residents in the National Assembly.

Nwanyanwu said the ZLP had remained stable because of its adherence to internal democracy, constitutional provisions and the rule of law, adding that the party was prepared to offer Nigerians a credible alternative in the 2027 elections.

He said Asikhia’s emergence reflects the party’s commitment to presenting candidates with the competence and character required for public office.

“He is an honourable man. He has character, integrity, and content. He is somebody we can trust,” Nwanyanwu said.

The ZLP chairman also argued that electoral success would ultimately depend on the choices made by voters rather than the number of political office holders aligned with any particular party.

He maintained that political defections should not be interpreted as a measure of public support, stressing that citizens would determine the outcome of the elections through the ballot.

Speaking after his presentation, Asikhia unveiled what he described as a legislative agenda designed to address longstanding governance challenges in the FCT.

He identified overlapping institutional responsibilities as one of the major obstacles confronting residents, noting that many citizens often struggle to determine whether issues affecting them fall under the authority of the FCT Minister, Area Councils, or the senator representing the territory.

According to him, the uncertainty has weakened accountability and slowed responses to public concerns.

To bridge the gap, Asikhia said he would establish a Senatorial Liaison Office to coordinate engagement between residents and government institutions across the six Area Councils.

He also promised to sponsor legislation that would clearly define the constitutional responsibilities of the FCT Senator and the FCT Minister, arguing that clearer institutional roles would improve governance and accountability.

“Good governance thrives when roles are properly defined. The people deserve to know who is responsible for what and where accountability begins and ends,” he said.

The professor further pledged to address what he described as the burden of multiple taxation on residents and businesses operating within the Federal Capital Territory.

He cited situations in which property owners pay tenement rates to Area Councils while also paying ground rents to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), saying legislative action is required to eliminate overlaps and ensure fairness.

According to him, residents and businesses should not bear additional financial burdens arising from administrative ambiguities.

Beyond governance reforms, Asikhia expressed concern over developments affecting Nigeria’s democratic process, particularly legal disputes involving political parties.

He said constitutional safeguards relating to political competition and party participation should be respected, adding that confidence in democratic institutions depends on adherence to due process and the rule of law.

While reaffirming confidence in the judiciary, he stressed the need to preserve public trust in judicial processes and strengthen constitutional democracy.

He also called for an electoral environment in which political parties compete freely, and voters determine election outcomes through credible polls.

“Nigeria belongs to all of us. Political parties should be allowed to compete freely, candidates should be subjected to lawful electoral processes, and the electorate should determine who governs them through credible elections,” he said.

The unveiling marks the formal commencement of the ZLP’s campaign to position itself as a stronger contender in the FCT ahead of the 2027 general election, with the party projecting governance reforms and institutional accountability as key pillars of its campaign.

Sunday Okobi

A group, the Media Anti-Corruption Initiatives (MACI), has flayed the gradual return of gridlock in Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre, especially on the roads leading to the nation’s seaports in Apapa, Lagos.

MACI, which is known for its advocacy in the maritime sector of the economy, in a statement issued and signed by its Chairman, Captain Adamu MsheIia, and made available to ������Ƶ yesterday, expressed dismay that articulated trucks and other vehicles have taken over the entire space, making it difficult for the prompt clearance of goods in the seaports.

The non-governmental organisation (NGO) observed that from Coconut Bus Stop on the Apapa-Oshodi expressway and from Constain Bus Stop on the Ijora Causeway,  vehicles, especially tankers, are parked indiscriminately on the port corridor. 

According to him, “The situation is not different in other entry and exit points into the port city.

“To say the least, the poor traffic situation in the port corridor in recent times has resulted in the loss of valuable man-hours and added to the cost of doing business in the country and the astronomical prices of commodities in the market. 

“This is not unconnected with the fact that consignees and other players in the cargo supply chain, including importers, exporters and clearing agents, eventually add to the additional costs of clearing consignments to the final consumers. This is understandable. The bottom line of any business venture is profit.”

He added  that “as if this is not enough, the port corridor is filthy with debris, waste and garbage littering virtually everywhere. This is an eyesore and should not be allowed to continue, especially now that the federal government has been intensifying efforts to woo investors to invest in the economy. 

“The campaign to bring in foreign investors has been very loud since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was elected more than three years ago.”

He  noted that following the development, “MACI is making the following demands: ‘Immediate resolution of all the issues that are responsible for the gradual return of gridlock to the nation’s seaports. Evacuation of the garbage and waste that has constituted an eyesore in the port corridor. Address the challenges that have been identified as the root cause of the ills that are plaguing the free flow of traffic in and out of Apapa forthwith.”

He added: “We want to place on record that if these issues are not promptly addressed, we will not hesitate to take further steps to make sure that those concerned do the needful by living up to their roles and responsibilities.”

Segun James 

As part of efforts to ensure effective quality delivery of products to customers in Lagos, Itel, the Chinese phone and other digital product manufacturer, has opened 16 new service stores in Lagos.

The stores, known as itelHome, becomes Nigeria’s largest one-stop digital home appliance retail chain centre in the country. 

Speaking at the simultaneous opening of the stores in Lagos, itel’s Projects Operation Manager, itel, Ms Janet Ayegba,  said that the itelHome will manage, besides smart phones, a chain of smart home appliance brand.

According to Ayegba, with the simultaneous opening of the new stores, the total number of itelHome stores in Nigeria has reached 112, thereby becoming the largest one-stop digital home appliance retail chain brand in Nigeria.

Speaking on behalf of all ItelHome owners, the Managing Director of Ololo Communication, Mr Bernard Amari, said that Itel products have been the most reliable, hence he was dealing strictly on Itel products before becoming an ItelHome owners.

For many consumers, itelHome is not only a retail store but also a one-stop shopping platform that can meet the needs of home technology and quality life. 

At itelHome, consumers can not only buy smartphones and digital accessories but also choose from other appliances, and various small household appliances.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Wednesday confirmed that the names of its presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, and his running mate, Rotimi Amaechi, have been uploaded to the portal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, in a statement on X, described it as another step towards the 2027 general election.

Abdullahi wrote, “We are pleased to announce that we have successfully uploaded the names and particulars of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar (GCON), and our Vice Presidential Candidate, Rotimi Amaechi (CON), to the nomination portal of the @INECNigeria.

“This marks another important step in our preparations for the 2027 general election and our commitment to offer Nigerians a credible alternative built on competence, unity, and national renewal.”

A group of serving senators, serving members of the House of Representatives and governorship aspirants of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Kwara State,has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene in what they described as a deepening crisis threatening the future of the party in the state.

In a joint resolution issued, the party stakeholders expressed unwavering loyalty to President Tinubu and pledged their full support for his re-election bid in 2027, while commending his administration for what they described as unprecedented economic stability and the solid foundation laid through the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The stakeholders, however, warned that despite the progress at the national level, the APC in Kwara State was facing internal challenges that could undermine its electoral fortunes if left unresolved.

According to the resolution, the political coalition that gave birth to the “Otoge” movement, which ended decades of political dominance in the state, has allegedly been weakened under the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

The group accused the governor of failing to provide inclusive leadership, alleging that many party leaders, loyalists and stakeholders who contributed to the party’s electoral success had been sidelined from both government and party affairs.

They further claimed that the situation had resulted in a weakened party structure, loss of public confidence and growing fears that candidates associated with the governor could face rejection by voters in the 2027 general elections.

“The APC’s base in Kwara State has been eroded, the opposition is becoming resurgent, and there is widespread apprehension that any candidate associated with the governor will be rejected by the electorate,” the resolution stated.

The stakeholders also alleged that Governor AbdulRazaq had lost the moral and political authority to determine the future direction of the party in the state.

To address the situation, they urged President Tinubu to undertake a comprehensive review of the APC crisis in Kwara, including the outcome of party primaries which they claimed were announced without elections.

They also called on the president and the party leadership to facilitate the emergence of a consensus governorship candidate through a transparent process that would consider competence, statewide acceptability and the ability to unite party members.

According to the resolution, such a candidate would be better positioned to rebuild confidence within the party and work harmoniously with all stakeholders ahead of the 2027 elections.

The group further demanded that the outcomes of National Assembly and State Assembly primary elections be reviewed to ensure that candidates reflect the state’s political realities while preserving legislative experience and institutional stability.

Despite their grievances, the stakeholders pledged to support whoever emerges through what they described as a fair and inclusive process, promising to deploy their political structures, resources and influence to secure victory for all APC candidates in the 2027 elections.

They concluded by expressing confidence in President Tinubu’s commitment to justice, fairness and democratic principles, urging him to act swiftly to prevent what they described as the imminent collapse of the APC in Kwara State.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Hundreds of youths of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) yesterday staged a protest in Abuja, demanding the removal of a Federal High Court Judge, Justice Peter Odo Lifu, over a ruling ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the party and four others.

The protesters, led by the ADC National Youth Leader, Hon. Balarabe Rufai, marched from the party’s national secretariat in Wuse 2 to the Federal High Court in Maitama, chanting, “Justice Lifu must go.”

They carried placards with inscriptions such as ‘Judiciary is not for sale’. ‘Save our democracy now. Don’t force Nigerians into chaos. ’ And ‘No to one-party state’.

The demonstrators insisted that the ADC must remain on the ballot ahead of the 2027 general election and vowed to continue their protest until the Judge is removed.

“No ADC, no election,” the protesters chanted.

Speaking with journalists during the protest, Rufai called on former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Ibrahim Babangida, Goodluck Jonathan and former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, to intervene, alleging that the country is being pushed towards a one-party state.

“With the way our judiciary is going in the hands of people like Justice Lifu, Nigerians will lose hope. And when people lose hope in the judiciary, there will be hopelessness. We are Nigerian youths. This is our country, and we do not want chaos,” he said.

Rufai also urged the Attorney-General of the Federation to intervene in the matter.

He said: “We are calling on the Attorney-General of the Federation to call Justice Lifu to order and ensure he is removed. The judgment against the ADC is not honourable at all.”

The ADC youth leader further disclosed that the party had petitioned the National Judicial Council (NJC), accusing Justice Lifu of continuing proceedings in the matter despite an order of the Court of Appeal staying further action on the case.

According to him, the party considers the Judge’s action a violation of judicial precedent and due process.

“The NJC has not acted on our petition. We have come here physically because what we are experiencing now is judicial banditry, and it must stop. When a judge proceeds after a higher court has stayed proceedings, that is judicial banditry. People like that should not be in the system,” Rufai added.

The ADC maintained that the court ruling threatens democratic participation and warned against any attempt to exclude the party from the 2027 electoral process.

The protest came amid growing political debates over party regulation and the role of the judiciary in Nigeria’s electoral system.

President Bola Tinubu has called on member states of the United Nations to incorporate the Preamble to the UN Charter into their national constitutions, saying the move would reinforce global peace, justice, human dignity and international cooperation.

Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, made this known on Monday during an informal meeting of the UN General Assembly at the UN Headquarters in New York ahead of President Tinubu’s participation in the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly scheduled for September.

Ambassador Ibrahim, who also chairs the Budget and Appropriation Committee (Fifth Committee) of the UN General Assembly, said the President believes that adopting the UN Charter Preamble in national constitutions would strengthen the shared values on which the United Nations was founded.

In a statement signed by his media office in New York, Ibrahim said, “President Bola Tinubu believes that incorporating the Preamble to the Charter of the United Nations into the constitutions of member states will serve as a permanent reminder of our collective responsibility to humanity and reinforce the universal principles of peace, justice, human dignity and international cooperation.”

The envoy said the proposal is aimed at deepening the commitment of member states to preserving international peace and security, protecting fundamental human rights, promoting justice and respect for international law, advancing social progress, and encouraging peaceful coexistence among nations.

Ibrahim also welcomed the continued commitment of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council-the United States, the United Kingdom, France, China and the Russian Federation-to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.

“The President’s proposal is designed to strengthen the collective resolve of all member states in advancing the ideals of the United Nations and ensuring that the values contained in the Charter remain central to national governance,” he added.

According to Ibrahim, the proposal received applause from delegates at the informal General Assembly meeting, reflecting broad support for initiatives that promote global solidarity and reinforce the founding principles of the United Nations.

He added that the proposal reflects Nigeria’s commitment to multilateralism and its support for a stronger, more inclusive and effective United Nations dedicated to promoting peace, sustainable development and shared prosperity across the world.

The Chairman, Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), Prof. Tunji Olaopa, has urged members of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations ( NIPR) to give attention to development communication to fix the country.

Olaopa made the call on Tuesday in Abuja during a meeting of public relations experts under the auspices of the Professional Platform of the Federal Capital Territory’s chapter of the NIPR .

In a goodwill message Olaopa delivered as a special guest on the occasion, he acknowledged the vital role of NIPR members in the success of corporations and governments.

According to Olaopa, development communication is unarguably a core component of any national change programme to reset Nigeria as it touches on national values remodeling and culture change.

He lamented that due to the culture of ‘something for nothing’ which supplanted what was a culture that valued national sacrifice as service and as deferred gratification up unto the mid-70s in Nigeria, before the onset of the era when the oil boom created a culture of entitlement, Nigerians have ceased to understand what development is all about.

Olaopa who said that he had shown interest in strategic and development communication for a long time commended Prof. Osita Ogbu of University of Nigeria for his seminal work Development As Attitude: How National Progress is Shaped by Leadership Philosophy and Citizens Orientation for addressing his concern so profoundly.

He said: “Let me observe from the outset by saying that I have more than a casual interest in your core competence as professionals and as an institute. Strategic and development communication, in my estimation, is core critical to delivering on my institutional reform model as public service change imperative and catalyst to national socioeconomic transformation .”

He decried a situation where government communication or what information officers do has been largely oriented to a denial of what people know as truth rather than communicating to build public trust .

He said that he was worried, as a reformer and change agent, about the expanding reputational risks and national de-marketing that the nation suffers through misplaced social media activism rooted largely in the recycling of ignorance as activism.

” With just smartphones and internet connection, virtually anyone can circulate information, whether true or false, to global audiences within seconds thus inflicting reputational damage that will take ages to correct .

“All of these are my challenges to the NIPR to rise up to raise the bar of practice and professionalism in our joint efforts to fix Nigeria”, he said.

In the same vein, a former Director of Public Affairs at the Nigerian Communications Commission ( NCC), Dr Tony Ojobo, urged public relations experts to recalibrate their strategic communication in the public sector.

Drawing from his experience at the NCC, he urged public relations practitioners to communicate with integrity in order to earn the trust of stakeholders such as the citizens .

According to Ojobo, the citizens are already aware that the government is faced with challenges and that what is required is a communication strategy that would assure them that the authorities are working on finding solutions.

As Cape Verde prepare to take on cup holders Argentina on Friday night in the Round of 32 of the ongoing World Cup in North America, football aficionados surprised at the good runs of the Blue Sharks have been told not to look any further.

Gelson Fernandes, FIFA Deputy Director in-charge of Members Associations, Regional Director – Africa, insisted yesterday that the massive support that Cape Verde has enjoyed from FIFA is what is driving the growth of the game in the country.

Fernandes is not new to Cape Verde. He understands the country like the back of his hands. He was born there before his parents moved to Switzerland aged just five years.

“FIFA’s support has been, and continues to be, essential for Cabo Verde; for its federation and for the broader development of football in the country.

“The federation is truly a role model, given the difficulties it has faced in the past and the natural challenges of organizing football across an archipelago, from logistics to infrastructure,” he noted.

Fernandes who scored Switzerland’s lone goal winner against Spain at 2010 World Cup in South Africa, before joining FIFA in August 2022, admitted that the world football body has worked closely with the Cape Verde Football federation  towards finding solutions to several issues.

“We (FIFA) work closely with Cabo Verde to find the best solutions: ensuring players have opportunities to compete, that championships can take place, and that knowledge is transferred; whether to referees or to those managing teams at every level. And it has worked.,” 

And of course, credit should go to the Cape Verde football federation for the judicious use of resources from FIFA.

“Cabo Verde has made strategic use of FIFA Forward resources to expand football infrastructure, strengthen competitive structures, and support national team development across the archipelago.

“In total, so far, we are talking about 17 different projects from the construction of artificial pitches in the Santa Cruz municipality on Santiago Island, which have benefited multiple teams in the region and created more opportunities for young people to play, to the renovation of the Adérito Sena Stadium on the island of São Vicente, and continued support for the national teams, including the Under-17s. These are concrete examples of the impact FIFA Forward can have on a federation”

 The FIFA official also stressed that the new World Cup’s 48-team format has also helped not only Cape Verde but other countries in Africa to record landmark feats of reaching the knockout phase of the Mundial.

“This World Cup cycle is already historic for so many African nations Cabo Verde, but also DR Congo, South Africa, and others reaching the knockout stages.

“It is creating lifetime memories for people, and on a personal level, I found it deeply emotional, because these successes reinforce the bond between those born outside their country of origin and the land of their parents.

“It strengthens that connection and makes it a source of even greater pride it’s beautiful to witness.

“For me, each time I witness the team playing at this World Cup is a new achievement. I am incredibly proud of everyone who worked alongside us to build this,” stressed Fernandes.

 He concludes that reaching the knockout stage “ brings real happiness, and naturally some pride, because of the work we put in and the impact FIFA has been able to have in a country like Cabo Verde.”

As Portugal prepare for their World Cup Round of 32 clash against Croatia,  former Portugal, Liverpool and Everton defender Abel Xavierbelieves his country possesses the strongest generation of players in its history and has every chance of challenging for football’s biggest prize.

Speaking to SuperSport, the former Liverpool, Everton and Portugal defender said the depth and quality available to Portugal gives them a genuine opportunity to compete with the world’s best.

“I believe Portugal have a great chance. If we are talking about both quantity and quality, Portugal currently has the best generation of players. I believe that if the coach sets up the team properly, considering the number of quality players available, Portugal can achieve the results needed to take them at least to the semi-finals,”  Xavier said.

Having represented Portugal during one of the country’s defining football eras, Xavier believes the current squad combines elite talent, experience and depth across every position. 

Yet for him, the tournament is about more than Portugal’s ambitions. At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo is contesting what is widely expected to be his final FIFA World Cup. After winning almost every major honour in club football and leading Portugal to UEFA European Championship glory, only the World Cup remains missing from his remarkable career. For Xavier, there could be no more fitting ending.

“Unfortunately, over the last few decades, two of the greatest players ever have emerged: Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. It has often felt like a personal competition between them as well.

“I honestly believe Cristiano wants to finish his career with a major trophy. I think the greatest trophy and the greatest privilege a player can have is winning something with their country. In my opinion, that is the ultimate prize.”

Despite backing Portugal, Xavier believes the expanded 48-team format has made this year’s tournament more open than ever before.

“I think this World Cup is unusual because there are more teams and more unpredictable situations can happen. If we talk about the physical strength of the African teams, for example, and the pragmatism and tactical discipline of some of the Asian teams, they can also surprise people. 

While Xavier believes traditional powers remain favourites, he says the gap is narrowing.

“The favourites, in my view, are those who have won the tournament before. We are talking about France, Brazil, Argentina and Spain. Then there is another group of teams that can surprise people, including Portugal and England. After that, there are other teams that can still disrupt the competition.”

Portugal face Croatia in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 on Friday at 12:00 am, Catch it  live on SS World Cup Central (DStv Ch. 202, GOtv Ch. 61). All matches continue to be available on DStv & GOtv. Xavier believes Portugal have the quality to make a deep run if they can capitalise on what he considers the country’s finest generation of players.

NBA superstar LeBron James is leaving the Los Angeles Lakers and will continue his career with another team.

James, 41, has spent the past eight seasons with the Lakers and helped the franchise win the 2020 NBA title.

He has played , 21, since 2024.

Media reports suggest the league’s all-time leading scorer is a target for the Golden State Warriors.

d: “LeBron James is one of the greatest athletes in history.

“We will always be grateful for his eight years with the Lakers – including the title he led us to in 2020, under the most difficult circumstances imaginable, and the countless records he broke in purple and gold.

“We wish him the best in his future, both on and off the court. He will always be a cherished member of the Lakers family.”

James averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds this season with the Lakers. The 22-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion is the all-time leader in games (1,622) and points (43,440).

He was selected with the first pick in the 2003 NBA Draft ⁠by his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers, where he spent seven seasons before announcing during a live TV special titled that he was leaving for the Miami Heat.

James then returned to Cleveland and in 2016 rallied the team from a ‌3-1 series deficit in the NBA ⁠Finals to stun Golden State and make good on his promise ⁠to deliver the Cavaliers their first championship.

He helped the Lakers win the NBA title in 2020, nine months after and his daughter Gianna were among nine people killed in a helicopter crash.

James Emejo in Abuja

Norrenberger Advisory Partners Limited (NAPL), said it has strengthened its position in the Nigerian capital market, executing transactions worth about N608.93 billion in the first half of 2026,.
The investment banking firm has continued to expand access to long-term financing for businesses across critical sectors of the economy under the leadership of its Managing Director, Oladipo Olakunle-Jinadu.
In a statement, the firm said it advised on, structured and participated in 20 capital market transactions during the six-month period, comprising 18 debt capital market deals valued at N540.76 billion and two equity transactions worth N68.17 billion.
The transactions spanned a wide range of sectors, including energy and gas infrastructure, oil and gas services, manufacturing, agribusiness, financial services, fintech, insurance, consumer goods, building materials and diversified conglomerates, underscoring the firm’s growing relevance in Nigeria’s capital market.
A major highlight of the period was the strong investor demand recorded across several of the transactions, with multiple issuances significantly oversubscribed, reflecting sustained confidence in well-structured investment offerings.
Among the standout transactions were Coleman Technical Industries Limited’s Commercial Paper, which achieved a 276 per cent subscription, Sycamore Integrated Solutions Limited’s issuance at 225 per cent, NGN Gram Limited at 200 per cent, VFD Group Plc at 181 per cent and Payaza Africa Limited’s Non-Interest Commercial Paper at 166 per cent.
Other successful issuances included GLNG Funding SPV Plc Series 4, which recorded a 147 per cent subscription, SG Holdings Limited and Homeport Limited at 133 per cent each, JohnVents Industries Limited’s Non-Interest Commercial Paper at 125 per cent and Sunbeth Global Concept Limited’s Non-Interest Commercial Paper at 113 per cent.
Olakunle-Jinadu said the firm’s execution capabilities were further demonstrated through its role as Lead Issuing House on VFD Group Plc’s N50.67 billion Rights Issue, which achieved full subscription following successful transaction structuring, investor engagement, regulatory execution and capital distribution.
He said the performance reflected its commitment to helping businesses secure efficient access to capital while supporting the continued growth and sophistication of Nigeria’s capital market.
With over a decade of investment banking experience, Oladipo had built a reputation for structuring complex debt and equity transactions across both the public and private sectors.
During his career, he had advised on sovereign bond issuances, commercial papers, equity offers and Shariah-compliant financing programmes, including the Federal Government’s Sukuk issuances and TajBank’s N10 billion Mudarabah Sukuk.
The company said it remains focused on expanding its advisory role to businesses seeking sustainable financing while contributing to deeper capital market development capable of supporting Nigeria’s long-term economic growth.

By ‘Lade Bandele

“How should a nation judge the performance of its health sector?”

Public life has an odd way of allowing the loudest questions to eclipse the most important ones. A claim is made, a rebuttal follows, familiar positions harden, and attention gradually drifts from the matter under discussion to the argument surrounding it. Before long, the debate acquires a life of its own, and the original subject begins to disappear beneath the weight of opinion.
Something of that sort has entered recent discussions about Nigeria’s health sector.
Public scrutiny is neither an inconvenience nor an intrusion. It is one of the disciplines by which democratic societies hold themselves accountable. Governments should expect it, and those entrusted with public institutions should never shrink from it. Confidence in public administration is sustained not by official assurances but by a willingness to submit claims of progress to public examination. Scrutiny asks what has changed, what has resisted change, where institutions have grown stronger and where they continue to fall short.
Few areas of government deserve that discipline more than health. Almost everyone, at some point in life, will depend upon a nurse, a primary healthcare centre, an ambulance, a vaccine or a hospital whose competence may determine whether anxiety gives way to reassurance or to grief. Health is one of the few places where government ceases to be an abstraction and becomes something profoundly personal.
Across contemporary public health thinking there is remarkably little disagreement about how health systems should be judged. Strong systems are distinguished less by the number of initiatives they announce than by the institutions they leave behind. The World Health Organization frames that proposition in terms of governance, financing, workforce, service delivery and resilience. Put simply, a health system earns public confidence by delivering better care, more consistently, to more people than before.
Those standards alter the terms of the present discussion. They shift attention away from personalities and towards performance; away from political exchanges and towards institutional capacity. The question is no longer whether a minister has attracted criticism or praise. Public office has always attracted both. The more consequential inquiry is whether the institutions responsible for protecting life are becoming stronger, whether they inspire greater public confidence than before, and whether the ordinary experience of seeking healthcare is steadily improving.
Those are the questions worth asking. They are also the standards against which Nigeria’s present reforms should be judged.

Looking at the Record
Measured against those standards, the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative is best understood not as a collection of programmes but as an attempt to correct a structural weakness that had frustrated health reform for decades. Financing, planning, service delivery, workforce development, disease surveillance and accountability too often advanced in parallel rather than together. Individual interventions produced important gains, yet the system itself changed far more slowly.
The Health Sector Compact was designed to address that fragmentation. Adopted by the Federal Government, the thirty-six states, the Federal Capital Territory and development partners, it established a common framework for planning, financing, implementation and accountability. The Sector-Wide Approach translated that commitment into operational discipline, aligning governments and partners behind shared priorities, common performance measures and collective accountability. In a federation as large and complex as Nigeria, that alignment is itself a significant reform. Strong health systems are strengthened not simply by introducing new programmes but by enabling institutions to work towards common objectives.
The results are becoming visible where Nigerians encounter the health system most often. Revitalisation has commenced in 4,161 primary healthcare centres, with 3,158 already completed. Functional primary healthcare facilities have increased by 59 per cent, while more than 14,000 now meet nationally defined functionality standards. More than 8,000 facilities receive direct financing through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund, complemented by investments in solar power, water supply, essential medicines, equipment and digital performance monitoring. Taken together, these reforms point to a primary healthcare system that is becoming more reliable, more functional and more trusted than it was only a few years ago.
The same trajectory is evident in maternal and child health. Across the 172 Local Government Areas covered by the Maternal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative, maternal mortality has fallen by 17 per cent and newborn mortality by 10 per cent. More than 40,000 women have received free Caesarean sections through the National Health Insurance Authority, while over 4,000 women living with obstetric fistula have undergone restorative surgery. Antenatal attendance has increased, skilled birth attendance has risen by more than 30 per cent, and over 300,000 pregnant women have been identified and linked to care. These figures represent more than programme outputs. They reflect lives saved, families spared avoidable loss and growing confidence that childbirth need not carry the risks it once did.
Prevention provides another measure of progress. More than 17 million girls have received protection against cervical cancer through HPV vaccination. Over 102 million children have been vaccinated against measles and rubella, while almost 800,000 have received the malaria vaccine. Nigeria has sustained its wild polio-free status through successive nationwide vaccination campaigns and became the first country in Africa to deploy the Mpox vaccine. During recent outbreaks, millions more Nigerians were protected against diphtheria, cholera and cerebrospinal meningitis. Together, these developments point to a health system placing increasing emphasis on preventing illness rather than merely responding to it.
The reforms are equally changing the economics of healthcare. Approximately twenty-two million Nigerians are now covered by health insurance, around six million more than in 2023, while more than ₦70 billion has been channelled through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund to strengthen frontline services and expand care for vulnerable populations. For too many families, illness has historically brought not only suffering but financial hardship. A system that reduces both is delivering social protection as well as healthcare.
People remain the foundation of every health system. More than 78,000 frontline health workers have received additional training. Nearly 20,000 doctors, nurses, midwives and other professionals have been recruited into federal tertiary hospitals, while states are being supported to recruit over 19,000 skilled birth attendants. Two cohorts of the National Health Fellows Programme—774 young professionals in each cohort, representing every Local Government Area—are already supporting implementation across the federation and have delivered more than 1,500 community improvement projects. The reform is therefore investing not only in today’s workforce but in the leadership that will sustain tomorrow’s health system.
The same long-term perspective is evident elsewhere. NEMSAS is strengthening emergency medical response through better referral systems and ambulance networks. More than 500 infrastructure and equipment projects have been completed across federal tertiary hospitals, while new oncology centres are expanding access to specialised cancer care. Through the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain, MEDIPOOL, expanded clinical research and incentives for local pharmaceutical manufacturing, healthcare is also becoming an instrument of industrial development, investment and national resilience. Commitments of €1 billion from the European Investment Bank and US$1 billion from Afreximbank reinforce that ambition.
No single statistic proves that a health system has been transformed. Health reform is cumulative. Yet these developments point in the same direction: a system that is becoming better coordinated, better financed, more capable and more responsive than it was only a few years ago. That is the record against which the present reforms should be judged.

Leadership and Institutions
Evidence can demonstrate that institutions are changing. It cannot, by itself, explain how change was organised, sustained or given direction. That is where leadership enters the story.
Institutional reform rarely announces itself. More often, it becomes associated with the people entrusted with leading it. That is inevitable. Leadership attracts responsibility, responsibility attracts scrutiny, and scrutiny often settles upon individuals even when the work itself is institutional. Yet institutions outlast those who lead them. They remain the enduring measure of public stewardship.
The reforms now underway in Nigeria’s health sector illustrate that distinction. Their significance lies not in any single programme, but in the attempt to bring planning, financing, service delivery, workforce development, emergency preparedness and accountability within a common framework. The evidence suggests a health system that is becoming more coherent than before. That coherence is itself one of the reform’s most significant achievements.
It is also one reason health has occupied such a central place in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Few areas of public policy touch the lives of citizens more directly. A stronger health system saves lives, relieves physical suffering, protects families from financial hardship, strengthens human capital and restores confidence in public institutions. It reaches into every community and every stage of life. For an administration committed to improving the everyday welfare of Nigerians, health offers one of the clearest opportunities to translate policy into lived experience.
Seen in that context, the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative becomes more than a health-sector reform. It is one of the administration’s principal instruments for advancing the broader objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda. Revitalised primary healthcare centres, expanded financial protection, stronger emergency response systems, investments in the health workforce, local pharmaceutical manufacturing and more resilient public institutions are not separate ambitions pursued in parallel. They are different expressions of the same governing philosophy: that development is measured ultimately by improvements in the lives of citizens.
It is within that wider framework that Professor Muhammad Ali Pate’s stewardship should be understood. As Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, his responsibility has been to translate that vision into an institutional programme capable of being implemented across a complex federation. The proper measure of that stewardship is not the volume of public debate surrounding it, but whether the institutions emerging from the reform are becoming stronger, more coherent and better able to serve Nigerians than those that preceded them.
That is the standard by which leadership should be judged. It is also the standard by which this administration’s health reforms will ultimately be remembered.

The Questions That Remain
No health system is ever finished. New diseases emerge. Expectations rise. Demographic pressures change. Resources remain finite. The measure of reform is therefore not whether every problem has been solved, but whether a country has become better equipped to confront the problems that remain.
That is why the present debate should not end with competing claims. It should end with a clearer standard of judgment. Where reforms fail, the record should say so. Where institutions weaken, citizens are entitled to demand answers. Where public resources produce little public value, scrutiny should be unrelenting. But where the evidence points in the opposite direction—towards stronger primary healthcare, wider financial protection, safer motherhood, more effective prevention, a better prepared workforce and institutions that function with greater coherence—those gains deserve to be recognised as part of the national record.
Perhaps the most constructive consequence of recent public debate is that it has encouraged more Nigerians to look beyond assertion and examine the evidence for themselves. Democracies are strengthened when governments are required to account for their stewardship through facts, and when criticism is held to the same standard. Public scrutiny performs its highest service not by amplifying opinion but by demanding proof.
That returns us to the question with which we began: How should a nation judge the performance of its health sector?
Not by the volume of political disagreement it generates. Not by the prominence of the personalities associated with it. But by whether it leaves behind stronger institutions, healthier citizens and greater confidence that public service is improving everyday life. That is how governments are remembered.
That is how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in health will ultimately be judged.
That is the standard by which Professor Muhammad Ali Pate’s stewardship should be assessed.
And that is how history renders its verdict.

‘Lade Bandele, a public affairs analyst, writes from Abuja.

By Ondaje Ijagwu

As Mr Tunji Bello marks his 65th birthday on July 1, there is a natural temptation to measure his public life by the offices he has held, the policies he has championed or the regulatory milestones achieved under his leadership. Yet those who have worked most closely with him often tell a quieter story, one found in meetings, conversations and decisions that have gradually reshaped the culture of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC). It is a story less about the exercise of power than about the judgement required to exercise it fairly.

When Bello resumed as Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in July 2024, he could easily have disappeared into the familiar rituals of a leadership transition: routine briefings, files awaiting signature and meetings with senior officials. Instead, before settling into his office, he walked through the Commission. He stopped in departments, greeted members of staff and introduced himself to the people who would be expected to translate policy into daily work. It was not a choreographed tour for photographers or a symbolic courtesy destined for the next day’s newspapers. For everyone who witnessed it, it was an unhurried effort to understand the institution through the people who animated it.

Only afterwards did he take his seat behind the executive desk. His first address to the staff reinforced the same impression. “I have been well received,” he said. “I am confident that I am in the midst of people who can accomplish more.” He spoke less about himself than about the Commission’s obligation to ordinary Nigerians.

“We need to expand our reach. Nigerians need to feel us. How can we be of assistance to the ordinary consumer?… We need to do more market surveillance.”

Many chief executives spend their opening days defining authority. Bello appeared more interested in defining purpose. The emphasis was not on the office he had assumed but on the institution he believed the Commission should become. One that remained close enough to consumers and markets to respond with credibility.

At a recent meeting, the discussion had turned to staff transfers, one of those routine administrative matters. Operational needs had to be balanced. Managers pondered where officers should be deployed across the Commission’s network of zonal and state offices to maximise efficiency.

Then an unexpected question altered the tone of the discussion. “If someone has stayed for up to ten years in one of the Commission’s zonal offices,” Tunji Bello asked, “doesn’t that simply mean the staff must have built a family out there that should not be disrupted?”

For a moment, the conversation paused. The point was not that transfers should never happen. Public institutions cannot function without movement, and leadership sometimes requires difficult decisions. His intervention simply widened the frame through which the issue was being considered. Behind every transfer file was a family that had found its footing in a particular city, children settled into schools, spouses whose own careers had become rooted, ageing parents accustomed to familiar routines and communities that had slowly become home. The Commission’s operational needs remained important, but they were no longer the only consideration.

That brief exchange revealed something official communiqués seldom capture. Bello appeared to approach administration with the conviction that institutions are communities of people as much as systems of process. Efficiency mattered. So did fairness. Leadership required holding both in balance.

Management meetings came to reflect a culture in which ideas were tested, alternative opinions encouraged and disagreement treated as part of sound decision making rather than as a challenge to authority. Although the Executive Vice Chairman retained ultimate responsibility, colleagues recognised that outcomes were genuinely shaped by contributions made during discussions. People contribute more honestly when they know they are expected to think rather than merely agree. That culture of participation would become one of the defining features of Bello’s leadership.

Listening, however, is only the beginning of leadership. Institutions are ultimately judged by whether their decisions reflect the breadth of experience within them.
One of the quieter changes under Bello has been the steady widening of participation in the Commission’s internal governance. Heads of zonal and state offices now participate in management meetings, ensuring that operational realities from across Nigeria help to shape discussions at headquarters. Separate engagements between management and field leadership have also been introduced, creating a direct forum for practical challenges to be discussed without unnecessary bureaucratic layers. Distance from Abuja no longer necessarily means distance from decision-making.

The same philosophy has informed professional development. Local and overseas training opportunities are now distributed more broadly across the organisation, with officers from zonal and state offices participating alongside colleagues at headquarters. Younger officers have gained opportunities that previously appeared beyond reach, while experienced personnel continue to receive specialised development suited to their responsibilities.

The objective is not equal distribution for its own sake. It is the recognition that institutions grow stronger when knowledge and opportunity circulate widely.

Practical support has accompanied these structural changes. Operational vehicles have been provided, strengthening field activities, while increased operational funding has significantly enhanced the capacity of outstation offices. Institutional assignments have also been distributed more evenly across the Commission.

The same attentiveness extends to staff welfare. When the recent conflict in the Middle East drove up fuel prices and increased transportation costs, Bello approved the procurement of brand new staff buses to support employees’ daily commute.

These measures alleviated immediate hardship while providing longer-term support. They reflected an understanding that people are better able to serve institutions when institutions remain attentive to the practical burdens they carry into work.

That understanding became even more evident in moments beyond administration. When a member of staff lost a spouse, Bello led the management team on a condolence visit and remained personally present throughout events connected with the funeral. No regulation required such involvement. It simply reflected an understanding that institutions are communities whose responsibilities do not end where personal grief begins.

The same spirit was quietly visible during the Commission’s May Day celebration. Rather than remaining apart from the event, Bello sat among members of staff and visiting union officials, narrowing the customary distance between management and workforce.

The day’s most revealing moment came when a senior national union official reviewed the document prepared by the Commission’s union representatives. Expecting the familiar catalogue of complaints, he instead found acknowledgements of welfare improvements, administrative reforms and management’s responsiveness.
The significance lay not in the absence of disagreement, for every healthy institution has differences of opinion. It lay in the confidence that concerns are always heard, discussed and addressed.

Outside the Commission, it appears in engagement with markets, insistence on transparency and the pursuit of fair competition as a practical safeguard for ordinary Nigerians. The settings differ. The underlying instinct does not.

Public institutions are often judged by the visibility of their leaders. Their enduring strength, however, is more accurately measured by the confidence of the people who work within them. Do they believe they will be heard? Do they believe opportunities are genuinely open? Do they believe difficult decisions will be weighed carefully? Do they believe authority exists to strengthen the institution rather than merely to remind everyone where it resides? Those are questions no annual report can answer.

Yet they often determine whether institutions merely function or genuinely endure.
As Tunji Bello marks his 65th birthday, many will rightly assess his public life through the offices he has held, the policies he has advanced and the regulatory achievements recorded during his stewardship of the FCCPC. Those achievements deserve their place in the public record. There is, however, another measure. It is found in the culture a leader leaves behind.

Leadership often reveals itself in moments too small for headlines. A question asked before a transfer is approved; a decision to widen opportunity rather than preserve privilege, a visit to a grieving colleague after official duty might reasonably have ended, a conversation with market leaders before the first sanction is imposed. None of these moments changes a country overnight. Together, however, they change something just as important. They change the way people experience institutions.

Perhaps that is the true weight of fairness. Not that it is proclaimed, but that it is practised so consistently, in decisions both large and small, that it gradually becomes the culture itself. If that becomes the enduring legacy of Tunji Bello’s leadership, it will also be the finest tribute to a public life still in service, and a fitting reflection as he marks his 65th birthday.

*Ijagwu is Director of Corporate Affairs, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission.

•  APC is one big family, we’ll work as a team, Danladi tells co-aspirants 

Leadership of the Kwara State All Progressive Congress (APC) on Tuesday presented the party’s nomination form to its gubernatorial candidate and Speaker, Kwara House of Assembly, Hon. Yakubu Salihu Danladi.

Speaking during the presentation ceremony in Ilorin, Chairman of the party, Prince Sunday Fagbemi, said it was imperative for his executive organ to present the winner the nomination form to fill and submit to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), following the ratification of his victory at the primaries by the APC National Headquarters.

“Before now, we have conducted the primaries. There have been winners for the House of Assembly, House of Representatives, the Senate and the gubernatorial, but the National Headquarters of our party said we should not announce,” he said.

“The National Working Committee of our party has gone through all the processes, especially those that have complaints. People who had complaints have ventilated their complaints to the Appeal Committee who have equally gone through them. So, NWC has come out with the candidates. And It is now our duty to give them the forms to fill so that they will be uploaded to the INEC portal. This is what we have done in the office.

“The one that we are unveiling here today is that of the gubernatorial candidate, who is Rt. Hon Yakubu Salihu Danladi. So, on behalf of the National Chairman of our party, I am handing this form over to our candidate.” 

The presentation attracted wild applause from party elders, stakeholders, lawmakers, cabinet members, and thousands of supporters 

Danladi, in his remarks, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the leadership of the party both at the national and state levels for their support and trust to fly the flag of the party in the 2027 general election.

He also thanked the co-contesters for their participation and promised his readiness to carry them along.

“We thank God Almighty, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the national chairman of our party. We also thank the leader of the party in the state, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the state executives and other major stakeholders of the party,” Danladi said. 

“There are reconciliations going on already as is usual with party primaries. Sixteen of us who contested know that a winner must emerge and a winner has emerged and it is now left for us to carry everyone along and we will definitely do that.

“By His grace, APC is one family, and we are going to be more united and much stronger. We thank all Kwarans. We will not disappoint you and God Almighty will guide us.”

The brief event was attended by members of the state House of Assembly, cabinet members, party executives elders, and women groups.

The , Global North London ������Ƶ School (GNLBS), United Kingdom, and the University of East London, have proposed a strategic academic partnership aimed at delivering internationally recognized undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, enhancing academic standards, and creating sponsorship opportunities for outstanding students.

The Director of Communications, Public Affairs and Protocol of NWUS, Abdallah el-Kurebe, in a statement on Tuesday, said the proposed collaboration, contained in a document dated May 22, 2026, and signed by the Director of Studies at GNLBS, Dr. Julius Ayodele, seeks to align Northwest University’s academic offerings with UK qualification standards while equipping students with globally competitive skills and credentials.

The proposed undergraduate programmes include Bachelor of Science degrees in ������Ƶ Administration and Management, Health and Social Care Management, Law, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT), each carrying 360 credits.

The collaboration is expected to promote curriculum innovation, research partnerships, student exchange programmes, faculty development and professional training opportunities.

Responding, the Vice-Chancellor of the Northwest University, Sokoto, Prof. Mukhtar Umar Bunza’ said: “Northwest University, Sokoto, welcomes this proposed collaboration as a significant step towards advancing our vision of providing globally competitive education.

“We believe that partnering with Global North London ������Ƶ School will open new opportunities for our students and staff, strengthen our academic programmes, and enhance our international profile. If successfully implemented, this initiative will contribute meaningfully to human capital development in Sokoto State and Nigeria at large.

“On behalf of the Founder and Chairman of Council, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko; the management and staff of the Northwest University, Sokoto, the proposal from the Global North London ������Ƶ School as defined above, is hereby considered and await further details and commitment for the actualization of the proposal for mutual benefit.”

University of East London

In a related development, Northwest University, Sokoto, has also strengthened its internationalisation drive by advancing a separate academic collaboration with the University of East London (UEL), United Kingdom, in the field of Computer Science and Information and Communications Technology (ICT).

The initiative was facilitated by Dr. Bilyaminu Romo, an Assistant Professor at the University of East London and one of the many beneficiaries of the educational empowerment programme of Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, which has sponsored numerous young people from Sokoto State to pursue higher education and specialised training within Nigeria and abroad.

Leveraging his expertise in Computer Science and ICT, Dr. Romo initiated the proposed technical partnership to foster academic cooperation between Northwest University, Sokoto and the University of East London. 

The collaboration is expected to promote joint research, faculty and student exchanges, curriculum development, capacity building and knowledge transfer in emerging digital technologies.

The initiative is also intended to complement Senator Wamakko’s long-standing investment in youth empowerment, education and community development by creating additional opportunities for students and academic staff to benefit from international exposure, cutting-edge research, and global best practices in information technology.

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, has directed improved safety management during the planning and implementation of air operations to prevent unintended casualties, following concerns arising from recent safety incidents and hazard reports.

He said the reports underscored the need to strengthen risk assessment, procedural compliance, supervision, maintenance discipline, human factors management and reporting practices across the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

Speaking at the First Nigerian Air Force Safety Review Board (SRB) meeting for 2026, Aneke stressed that the Service must reinforce its commitment to proactive safety management rather than rely on reactive responses to incidents.

According to him, “The purpose of this Safety Review Board meeting extends beyond reviewing statistics and reports; it is to critically analyse underlying trends, identify systemic deficiencies, and develop practical solutions to prevent future mishaps.

“The value of this meeting will be reflected in the quality of recommendations generated and the effectiveness of their implementation within our units and formations.”

The Air Chief noted that the NAF operates in a complex and demanding security environment that requires sustained professionalism, mission readiness and decisive air power.

He said operational success could only be achieved by embedding safety into every stage of planning, decision-making and execution.

He added: “Operating within a complex and demanding security environment, the Nigerian Air Force must maintain high levels of professionalism, mission readiness and decisive air power effectiveness.

“While fulfilling our constitutional duties and strategic objectives, it is imperative to recognise that operational success depends fundamentally on safety being an integral component of the processes of planning, decision-making, and execution. This was a consideration made earlier during my maiden SRB in December 2025.”

Aneke also commended branch chiefs, air officers commanding, commandants of NAF Professional Military Education Institutions, directors, command evaluation officers, air component commanders, commanders at all levels and unit safety officers for promoting safety awareness and implementing preventive measures throughout the Service.

He further praised the superintendent of standards and evaluation for raising safety standards within the NAF.

https://meet.google.com/call?authuser=0&hl=en&mc=KAIwAZoBFDoScGludG9fZTVvbjYzbnkxaGM2ogE7GgIQADICUAA6AhABSgQIARABWgIIAGoCCAFyAggBegIIAogBAZIBAhABmgEEGAEgAKIBAhAA4gECCACyAQcYAyAAKgEwwgECIAHYAQE&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmail.google.com&iilm=1782826679306

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The Katsina State Government, in partnership with the Safe Space Humanitarian Initiative (SASHIN), has unveiled a programme aimed at preventing deaths from cervical cancer among women across the state.

The initiative, christened, ‘One-Stop Katsina Cervical Cancer Screening Programme’, seeks to promote early detection, timely treatment and increased awareness of cervical cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women.

Unveiling the programme on Tuesday at the Government House, the First Lady of Katsina State, Hajiya Zulaihat Dikko Radda, said it was designed to provide cervical cancer screening and treatment support for 500 women across the state.

She said the 500 eligible women will undergo comprehensive screening while participating in scientific studies involving HPV DNA testing through Liquid-Based Cytology, vaginal microbiome analysis and genetic research.

She disclosed that women diagnosed with pre-cancerous cervical lesions during the exercise would receive sponsorship from her office for treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina.

As a member of First Ladies Against Cancer, the governor’s wife reaffirmed her commitment to promoting cancer prevention, early diagnosis and improved access to quality healthcare services for women throughout the state.

While noting that no woman should lose her life to a disease that is largely preventable through early detection and timely treatment, the first lady described the initiative as a landmark intervention in the fight against cervical cancer.

She urged women to take advantage of the opportunity and appealed to husbands, religious leaders, traditional rulers and community stakeholders to support efforts aimed at encouraging participation in the programme.

Earlier, a renowned cancer researcher from the University of Miami, Prof. Sophia Hilary George, described the One-Stop Katsina cervical cancer screening initiative as a transformative model that could accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer across Africa and beyond.

She noted that the One-Stop model shifts healthcare delivery from reactive crisis management to proactive prevention by reducing waiting times and ensuring immediate access to treatment for eligible patients.

“Eliminating cervical cancer is no longer merely a scientific aspiration. We have the tools, the expertise, the partnerships and, most importantly, the political will and community leadership required to make it a reality,” she stated.

Presenting an overview of the programme, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, Dr. Fatima Abubakar Rasheed, said the programme would improve early detection of cervical disease. 

She added that it would reduce loss-to-follow-up through linkage navigators, generate multi-modal data and strengthen health systems and information scale-up.

Kuni Tyessi  in Abuja

The Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Sonny Echono, has challenged Nigerian scientists to develop the country’s first indigenous vaccine against Lassa fever.

Echono made the call Tuesday in Abuja during the presentation of findings from a TETFund-sponsored Mega Research Project on Lassa Fever conducted by the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO), Benue State.

He described Lassa fever as a persistent public health threat and said vaccine development remains the most effective strategy for controlling infectious diseases.

“What is the shortest route towards developing a vaccine? How can we ensure that the burden on our people is reduced? Every year, thousands of Nigerians die from Lassa fever. How can we reduce this burden?” Echono asked.

The TETFund boss requested practical recommendations on how the Fund could support efforts to accelerate vaccine development. “What is the fastest path, and how can TETFund support that drive so that we can achieve direct benefits and direct impact on the lives of Nigerians?” he asked.

Echono said the findings would be forwarded to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and the Federal Ministry of Health, adding that validation could strengthen the case for establishing a vaccine development centre in Nigeria.

“We will escalate these findings to the relevant authorities, including the NCDC and the Federal Ministry of Health. If we receive the validation, we expect, it will strengthen our case for establishing a vaccine development centre in Nigeria,” he said.

FUHSO’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Francis Aba Uba, said the project was funded by a N250 million TETFund Mega Research Grant awarded about four years ago. 

He said the research generated data on the epidemiology, diagnosis, management and control of Lassa fever and also upgraded the university’s laboratory infrastructure and trained young scientists.

Prof. Uba urged TETFund and the Federal Government to designate FUHSO as a National Centre of Excellence in Infectious Diseases Research.

Principal Investigator, Prof. Joseph Okopi, said Nigeria bears the highest global burden of Lassa fever, with between 5,000 and 10,000 deaths recorded annually.

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja 

The World Bank-supported HOPE Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity–Governance (HOPE-GOV) programme, domiciled in the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, is set to disburse $27 million as performance-based incentives to states which successfully achieved the Year Zero Disbursement-Linked Results (DLRs).

The Federal Government, in collaboration with the World Bank implements the HOPE-GOV programme, a $500 million credit facility designed to improve financial and human resource management in basic education and primary healthcare.

Speaking in Abuja Tuesday during a retreat for commissioners, permanent secretaries, and directors of budget and planning in the 36 states and the FCT, National Coordinator of the HOPE Governance programme, Dr. Assad Hassan, said the disbursement was based on the findings and recommendations of the Interim Independent Verification Agent (IVA).

The IVA assessed the performance of states in meeting the Year Zero Disbursement-Linked Indicators (DLIs).

He listed the Year Zero Disbursement Linked Results as DLR 2.1, which relates to states’ adoption of comprehensive guidelines for preparation and submission of consolidated work plan for State Basic Education budget by March 31, 2025, a statement issued by the Communications Officer, 

HOPE Governance Programme, Joe Mutah, said.

The DLR 2.2 relates to states’ adoption of comprehensive guidelines for preparation and submission of consolidated work plan for the state primary health care budget by March 31, 2025 and DLR 2.3 – local governments adoption of harmonised budget guidelines/chart of accounts.

Hassan added that Disbursement Linked Result (DLR) 4.1 focusses on publication of Financial Year 2025 Citizens Budget for Basic Education and Primary Health by  February 28, 2025 by the participating states.

He said for Disbursement Linked-Result (DLR) 2.1, Bayelsa, Borno, Kano, Kebbi and Yobe States are to receive $1.5 million each.

For DLR 2.2, Bayelsa, Borno, Kano, Kebbi and Yobe States are to be incentivised with $1.5 million each.

According to Hassan, Adamawa, Bayelsa, Borno, Delta, Gombe, Kano, Plateau, Taraba and Yobe States are to receive $500,000 each for achieving DLR 2.3.

While on DLR 4.1, he said, Abia, Plateau, Bayelsa, Borno, Edo, Ekiti, Enugu, Imo, Jigawa, Kano, Kebbi, Kogi, Nasarawa, Ondo and Yobe States would be receiving $500,000 each. 

He explained that other participating states were not eligible for the incentives because they either published the required guidelines after the March 31, 2025 deadline, failed to meet most of the stipulated criteria, or did not publish the required results on their official state websites.

The national coordinator identified several challenges that hindered the achievement of the results by many participating states. 

These, he said, included the inability to establish institutional coordination mechanisms thereby undermining institutional ownership and sustainability.

He also stated that the Interim Verification Agent is currently working to conclude the second phase of verification of Year Zero by July 2026. 

Hassan noted that the overall objectives of the HOPE Governance Programme are to maximise the utilisation of federal and state funds at facility level for primary health care (PHC) and basic education; promote transparency and monitoring of inter governmental transfers and expenditure for the two sectors and strengthen execution of coordinated annual plans for PHC and basic education. 

Others are to strengthen accountability of primary healthcare and basic education expenditure and close staffing gap by hiring and deploying teachers and priority PHC workers across the states. 

The national coordinator said the programme has commenced preparations for the implementation of capacity-building action plan to provide hands-on technical support to help states achieve the programme results. 

The HOPE Governance Programme is a $500 million World Bank-supported initiative aimed at increased availability and effectiveness of financing for basic education and primary health care delivery; engendering transparency and accountability in financing the two sectors and improving recruitment, deployment and performance management of basic education teachers and PHC workers by federal, state and local governments.

Industrialist and Chairman of Oranto Petroleum Ltd, Prince Arthur Eze, has offered scholarship to 50 undergraduate students of Northwest University, Sokoto (NWUS), beginning from the 2026/2027 academic session. 

A statement by the university’s Director of Communications, Public Affairs and Protocol, Abdallah Elkurebe, revealed that the offer, contained in a letter dated May 8, 2026, said the scheme is designed to support intelligent but financially challenged students who have the potential to excel academically and contribute to society.

According to the letter, the first phase of the programme will cover students enrolled in full-time degree programmes across different faculties of the university. 

The scholarship will pay either tuition or tuition and accommodation, depending on the arrangement approved by the university and the sponsor’s office.

The Group Chairman said beneficiaries will be selected based on academic merit, financial need and good character. 

He also said the scholarship would continue throughout the duration of the chosen degree programme, provided students maintain good academic standing and discipline.

The businessman asked the university’s scholarship committee to recommend qualified candidates and said his office would work with the institution to finalize selection and disbursement. 

He described the partnership as part of efforts to help develop Nigeria’s next generation of leaders and professionals.

In the letter, Eze also expressed respect for the university’s founder, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, praising his contributions to education in Nigeria.

“I wish to express my deep respect for the Founder of the University, Distinguished Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko. His tireless contributions towards the advancement of education in Nigeria have opened doors for countless young people and strengthened the nation’s future. It is a privilege to support and build upon the foundation he has laid,” the chairman said.

Reacting to the development, Vice-Chancellor of Northwest University, Sokoto, Prof. Mukhtar Umar Bunza, expressed profound appreciation to Eze for the generous scholarship offer, describing it as a timely and transformative intervention that will ease the burden on deserving students and expand access to quality higher education.

“As we received this great offer with all sense of gratitude, we would like to assure the Group Chairman, ORANTO Petroleum of the University’s commitment, and judicious utilzation of the scholarship award only to students who merited it, as succinctly explained in the letter of offer,” he added.

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The Federal Government will phase out the policy separating Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) from Senior Secondary Schools (SSS) after data showed more than 20 million pupils dropped out before reaching the senior secondary level.

Minister of Education Dr Tunji Alausa, announced the decision Tuesday in Abuja at the inauguration of the UBEC Ministerial Implementation and Monitoring Committee.

Alausa said the “disarticulation policy,” which required JSS and SSS to operate separately with different principals and facilities, has not met its objectives. 

“We have 20 million dropouts from primary school to JSS. Where are those students? We also found we have 80,000 public primary schools, and only about 15,000 junior secondary schools. That’s a one to eight ratio,” he said.

The minister said the imbalance has caused overcrowding in JSS facilities and left many senior secondary schools underutilised. He cited Kaduna and other northern states as examples.

“This disarticulation policy has failed. We will phase it out. We can’t be creating positions because we want to create a director level for people while we harm our education system. It’s about doing what is best for every Nigerian child.”

He added that the proposal to abolish the policy will be tabled at the next meeting of the National Council on Education.

The policy shift is aimed at expanding access and improving learning outcomes, Alausa said. He acknowledged past failures in addressing transition rates but stated: “This government will not fail. We are fixing it.”

At the same event, Alausa inaugurated a committee chaired by Prof. Rashid Aderinoye to oversee UBEC-funded Smart Schools, Bilingual Schools and Alternative Schools. 

The committee is mandated to ensure the projects are completed, handed over to states and opened for learning.

UBEC has invested in hundreds of such schools nationwide. 

The minister said many remain unfinished or have not admitted learners, describing it as a waste of public resources.

The Federal Government has urged African countries to accelerate African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) implementation to drive industrialisation, digital trade and shared prosperity.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, made the call at the 18^th meeting of the AfCFTA Council of Ministers Responsible for Trade, on Tuesday in Abuja.

Oduwole said that Nigeria would prioritise faster implementation by ensuring state parties move from commitments to concrete actions under the agreement.

According to her, African countries should move from AfCFTA commitments to concrete actions that deliver jobs, trade and economic growth.

“Africa must shift from negotiating agreements to ensuring AfCFTA delivers tangible benefits for businesses, producers, women, youths and more than 1.4 billion Africans.

“African countries should also strengthen regional value chains to increase trade in goods produced across the continent,” she said.

The minister also called for investment in digital public infrastructure, interoperable payment systems and trusted cross-border data flows to support digital commerce.

She advocated expanded access to finance through the AfCFTA Adjustment Fund and other mechanisms, especially for women-led businesses, youths and MSMEs.

The minister also urged member states to embrace emerging legal instruments, including electronic cargo documentation, to modernise trade, reduce costs and improve customs efficiency.

Oduwole pledged that Nigeria would work with all member states to ensure AfCFTA becomes Africa’s engine of growth, industrialisation and shared prosperity.

She noted that Nigeria had implemented major reforms since ratifying the agreement to maximise opportunities under the continental free trade arrangement.

According to her, Nigeria operationalised the AfCFTA coordination office and developed a national implementation strategy to drive whole-of-government execution.

“Nigeria also submitted its schedule of tariff concessions and specific commitments under the Protocol on Trade in Services.

“The country has well advancing digital trade as Co-Champion of the AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol through regulatory collaboration across African countries,” she said.

The Secretary-General of AfCFTA, Dr Wamkele Mene, said that negotiations on the agreement’s legal instruments had been concluded, shifting attention from legal frameworks to accelerated implementation across member states.

Mene said that the implementation was gaining momentum, with more than 10,000 certificates of origin issued under the agreement by the end of March 2026.

“Africa’s total trade is projected to grow by about 10 per cent in 2026, with intra-African trade expected to reach about 230 billion dollars,” Mene said.

The secretary-general urged member states to ratify outstanding protocols, establish national implementation committees and integrate AfCFTA into development plans and budgets.

He also called for sustainable financing of the AfCFTA secretariat, adding that predictable funding was essential to support implementation, industrialisation and Africa’s long-term economic transformation.

Speaking, the Outgoing Chairman of the Council of Ministers, AfCFTA, Dr Mohammed Saleh, urged African countries to accelerate implementation of the AfCFTA to unlock trade, investment and industrialisation across the continent.

According to him, African countries must speed up AfCFTA implementation to achieve stronger regional trade, investment and sustainable economic development.

Saleh called on AfCFTA state parties to remove trade barriers and fully implement the agreement to deliver tangible economic benefits.

He thanked Nigeria for hosting the meetings and praised its hospitality, while appreciating participating countries for their support in advancing continental trade negotiations.

He called on member states to work closely with national authorities to eliminate obstacles facing exporters and importers. (NAN)

• Says INEC nomination form raises questions on leadership, transparency

• Urges publication of candidates’ credentials to boost public confidence

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has challenged Nigeria’s political leaders to place the country’s mounting security and economic challenges above partisan political calculations, saying the nation’s survival should take precedence over the race for power.

Obi made the remarks after completing his nomination inquiry form at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja, an exercise, he said, prompted him to reflect on the quality of leadership required to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the spokesman of the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR), Idris Zekeri Jnr., the former Anambra State governor said some of the questions contained in the INEC form underscored the need for greater accountability and transparency in the country’s electoral process.

Writing on his verified X handle, Obi posed what he described as a fundamental question to Nigeria’s political class: “What truly should be our priority now as leaders of a nation?”

He said the question had become imperative considering the country’s current situation and the expectations of Nigerians.

Obi explained that while completing the INEC form, one of the questions that drew his attention was whether an aspirant had ever been adjudged a lunatic or declared to be of unsound mind.

According to him, the question inspired a broader reflection on the state of leadership in the country and whether political leaders were demonstrating the sound judgment required to confront Nigeria’s multiple crises.

The former governor said that at a time when insecurity, economic hardship and other national challenges continue to affect millions of Nigerians, leaders should be concentrating on finding lasting solutions rather than allowing political competition to dominate national discourse.

He argued that a leadership committed to the national interest would convene stakeholders across political parties and other critical sectors to collectively address what he described as existential threats confronting the country.

Obi maintained that safeguarding Nigeria’s future should rank above the pursuit of political advantage.

He also drew attention to another section of the INEC nomination form which asks prospective candidates whether they had ever submitted forged academic certificates to the electoral commission.

The NDC presidential candidate said the question raised broader issues about transparency in the electoral process and suggested that INEC should consider making public the academic credentials submitted by candidates seeking elective offices.

According to him, such a step would strengthen public confidence in elections and reinforce the principle that those aspiring to public office should be held to high standards of accountability.

Obi argued that openness regarding candidates’ qualifications would contribute to a more credible democratic process and reassure citizens that electoral rules were being applied fairly to all contestants.

He further stated that Nigeria’s current challenges required leadership driven by competence, integrity, capacity, compassion and a commitment to public service rather than politics centred on personal ambition.

“Our problems are too serious for politics as usual,” Obi said, reiterating his long-held position that governance should focus primarily on improving citizens’ welfare and addressing the country’s development challenges.

The former governor concluded his remarks by expressing optimism that meaningful reforms and responsible leadership could still transform the country.

The statement also disclosed that Obi’s name had been successfully retained on INEC’s server following the completion of the nomination inquiry process.

His comments come as political activities continue to gather momentum ahead of the next general election, with parties intensifying consultations, internal preparations and engagements with key stakeholders.

Although political alignments have increasingly dominated public discourse, Obi insisted that the worsening security situation, economic pressures and the need to strengthen public institutions deserve greater attention from those seeking elective office.

His intervention is expected to add to the ongoing national conversation about governance, electoral integrity and the standards expected of public office holders as preparations for the forthcoming elections continue.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has said Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) generated N203.61 billion from electricity consumers in April.

The company said this in its Commercial Performance Factsheet for April on its X handle in Abuja on Tuesday.

The factsheet showed that the 11 DisCos collected N203.61 billion out of total billings of N252.43 billion during the month in review.

It said the collection translated to a collection efficiency of 80.66 per cent, up by 1.07 percentage point in March.

According to the report, the DisCos received electricity worth N302.96 billion and billed customers N252.43 billion out of which N203.61 billion was collected.

It said that the figure represented a billing efficiency of 83.32 per cent, a slight decline of 0.57 percentage point from the previous month.

The report further said that the industry’s revenue recovery efficiency stood at 82.11 per cent, with the average actual collection of N102.13 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) compared to the allowed average tariff of N124.39/kWh.

It listed the top performers DisCos to include Eko, 102.09 per cent; Abuja, 89.77 per cent and Ikeja, 88.89 per cent.

The factsheet said that these DisCos stood out with the highest recovery efficiency levels for April. (NAN)