Author: Gabby

Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, has issued a firm directive that full immunization across the state is mandatory, labeling it a critical duty that cannot be ignored. He called on residents to prioritize protecting every child and preventing the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases.

Represented by Health Commissioner Dr. Murtala Muhammad Bagana during the launch of the 2026 World and African Immunization Week at the Primary Health Care Centre on Peter Sarki Road, Tunga, the governor emphasized that this year’s event marks a rallying cry for immediate action, not merely a ceremonial activity.

“Each vaccination saves a life and secures a future,” Bago said, in line with the theme “For Every Generation, Vaccines Work.” He highlighted the global success of vaccines in saving countless lives, eradicating smallpox, and nearly eliminating polio. These achievements, he noted, represent real stories of children who survived, families that stayed whole, and communities spared from agony.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to the campaign, confirming that all 25 local government areas are fully prepared. He assured residents that vaccines are free, safe, and effective, and urged parents and caregivers to ensure no child misses routine immunizations.

Chanchaga Local Government Chairman Dr. Mustapha Jibril, who previously served as Health Commissioner, challenged community leaders to actively combat false information and promote acceptance at the grassroots. He stressed that reaching the state’s target of vaccinating over 80% of children requires persistent efforts from the Ministry of Health and its partners, especially in remote areas. He pledged that all 25 local government chairmen would support the state’s health agenda to immunize every eligible child.

Grace Odeyemi, UNICEF’s Social and Behaviour Change Team Lead, delivered a goodwill message reiterating that vaccines are among the most powerful tools against childhood diseases. She confirmed UNICEF’s commitment to helping Niger State identify and reach children who have never received any vaccine.

Community members also shared positive experiences. Expectant mother Aisha Isa encouraged women to prioritize vaccination, stating that consistent antenatal care has given her guidance and confidence. Nursing mother Katumi Aliyu described how regular clinic visits have strengthened her trust in the healthcare system.

The Abia State Government has officially inaugurated boards for multiple sports federations under the State Sports Council, calling on members to transform the sector into a vital engine for youth employment, development, and economic prosperity.

During the ceremony held on Wednesday in Umuahia, Governor Alex Otti emphasized that revitalizing sports is a strategic move toward fostering youth development and social cohesion. Represented by Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu, Otti described the board inaugurations as a powerful instrument for empowering the state’s young population.

Otti highlighted the profound impact sports can have on Nigerian society, pointing out that it serves as an effective platform to engage young people, promote unity, discipline, teamwork, and resilience. He urged the newly appointed board members to leverage sports as a catalyst for positive change.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Nwaobilor Ananaba, stressed that the state government cannot bear the entire financial burden of sports activities alone. He called on association executives to be proactive and productive, warning that the era of merely existing on paper without tangible results is over.

Adding his voice, Abia State Director of Sports, Obioma George, noted that the government’s investment in the sports sector has already yielded dividends, with several coaches from the state now serving in national sports associations. He expressed confidence that the new boards will further elevate Abia’s standing in the sports arena.

The Nigerian government has officially set aside Friday, May 1, 2026, as a day off for the entire nation to honour the International Workers’ Day celebration.

Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement on Wednesday through a communiqué issued by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani.

In his message, Tunji-Ojo praised the country’s workforce for their unwavering commitment and industrious spirit.

The statement declared, “The Federal Government has designated Friday, 1st May 2026, as a public holiday in observance of this year’s International Workers Day.

“The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, conveyed this declaration on behalf of the Federal Government. He extended his congratulations to all workers across Nigeria for this year’s event.

“The Minister commended Nigerian workers for their diligence and dedication to the advancement of the nation. He emphasized that their contributions are vital to the country’s development and prosperity.”

The Adamawa State Government has officially announced the departure of two commissioners from the State Executive Council. Chief Felix Tangwami, who served as the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, and Tijjani Maksha, the Commissioner for Livestock and Aquaculture Development, have both stepped down from their positions effective immediately.

This development was made public on Wednesday during a meeting of the State Executive Council, which was chaired by Deputy Governor Professor Kaletapwa George Farauta at the Government House in Yola.

According to the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. James Iliya, the two former commissioners resigned in order to contest for elective offices in the upcoming 2027 general elections.

Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has officially designated Dr. Mohammed Goje to serve as the Acting Secretary to the State Government, effective immediately.

The announcement was made public through a statement issued on Wednesday by Mamman Mohammed, the governor’s media aide.

Prior to this appointment, Dr. Goje held the position of Executive Secretary at the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).

Governor Buni has called on the newly appointed official to fully commit himself to serving the state and enhancing the welfare of its citizens.

This decision follows the selection of former SSG Baba Malam Wali as Governor Buni’s preferred successor for the 2027 gubernatorial election.

The Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has urged the state government and security agencies to hold the Berom Youth-Moulders Association (BYM), the Berom Diaspora Coalition (BDC), and similar organizations accountable for any future attacks in local communities, particularly in Barkin Ladi and Riyom Local Government Areas.

In a counter-statement responding to allegations, MACBAN dismissed the claims by BDC as unfounded and provocative. During a press conference on Wednesday, BDC had called on authorities to designate the Mahanga community in Riyom LGA as a terrorist enclave, alleging it serves as a sanctuary for armed Fulani bandits and terrorists who launch attacks on villages and retreat there.

MACBAN, through a statement signed by its state chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, rejected these accusations, labeling them as baseless and likely to worsen tensions in the state. The association asserted that no Plateau community is currently occupied by herders and described the allegations as misleading.

Entitled “Rejection of baseless allegations and call for responsible public discourse,” the statement emphasized that the Mahanga community has remained peaceful with no evidence of harboring criminals. It noted that security operations in parts of Vom District in Jos South LGA and Fan District in Barkin Ladi LGA have uncovered illegal arms and weapons manufacturing, suggesting those areas should be the focus of security assessments.

MACBAN expressed concern that groups claiming to represent Berom interests, especially from the diaspora, are using rhetoric that fosters division rather than unity. It called on both the Plateau State and Federal Governments to monitor the activities and statements of BYM, BDC, and related groups, and to hold them accountable for any incitement to conflict or disruption of public peace.

“We urge all citizens of Plateau State to ignore these false and misleading claims and remain committed to peaceful coexistence. Dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law remain the only sustainable path to lasting peace in our dear state,” the statement concluded.

Frank Omorojie, an employee at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, has earned widespread praise after returning a lost wallet filled with cash and essential travel documents to its rightful owner. The incident took place on Wednesday at the Rwanda Air check-in counter in Terminal 2’s departure hall, where Omorojie spotted the misplaced item.

The wallet contained $1,700 in cash, a Nigerian passport, a British passport, and a credit card. According to airport insiders, the find initially sparked worries about tracking down the owner, but Omorojie wasted no time in turning it over to Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel.

Following standard operating procedures, the recovered belongings were recorded and handed to the Customer Service unit, which promptly made a public announcement to locate the passenger. Soon after, a Nigerian traveler who was set to fly to Kigali, Rwanda—and had already given up hope of ever seeing her items again—was joyfully reunited with everything, all intact.

Airport officials hailed the act as a shining example of professionalism and integrity, emphasizing that such conduct boosts public trust in airport services and staff behavior. In a brief comment, Omorojie stated, “I simply did what was right.” His gesture has since been applauded by coworkers and management, who view it as an outstanding model of responsibility and ethical service in the public sector.