Category: News

The political landscape in Jigawa State continues to shift as two prominent figures from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have officially crossed over to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Governor Umar Namadi welcomed the defectors, Alhaji Sani Haru Babura and Alhaji Mustapha Sule Tankarkar, at the Government House in Dutse, along with their supporters and local party structures.

Governor Namadi described the move as a significant political milestone, noting that these individuals had remained loyal to the PDP for 28 years before deciding to switch allegiance. He attributed their decision to growing confidence in the APC’s leadership and vision for the state.

The governor emphasized the strong grassroots influence of the new members, stating that their arrival would further strengthen the party’s dominance in Jigawa. He declared that the APC is now the leading political force in the state and urged others to join the movement.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Babura and Tankarkar cited Governor Namadi’s leadership style, fairness, and commitment to development as reasons for their departure from the PDP. They pledged to mobilize support for the APC and work towards its success in upcoming elections.

In a proactive move to address the impending flood threats, communities across Jigawa State that are highly susceptible to flooding have rolled out new measures to lessen the effects of the expected heavy rains in 2026.

This initiative follows warnings from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which identified 15 local government areas in the state as high-risk zones for flooding this year.

Residents in frontline areas within Hadejia, Auyo, and Miga Local Government Areas have formulated a Community Emergency Response Plan (CERP). This plan is designed to safeguard lives, livelihoods, and property during crises.

The development of these response frameworks was spearheaded by the Nigerian Red Cross Society and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), with backing from the European Union Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid. The plans were officially handed over to community leaders during a stakeholder gathering in Auyo Local Government Area.

The targeted communities face recurring seasonal floods that frequently ruin farmland, force families to relocate, and disrupt economic stability.

The new blueprint specifies critical actions to be taken prior to, during, and after flood events. These include readiness strategies, emergency response protocols, early recovery steps, and demobilization procedures.

According to stakeholders, the documents are intended to equip local populations with the necessary tools and procedures to reduce risks, safeguard property, and preserve lives in the crucial initial hours following a disaster.

During the event, Muhammad Bala Sanusi, the Director of Planning at the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), spoke on behalf of the agency’s Executive Secretary. He emphasized that this effort would significantly lower the impact of flooding throughout the state.

Sanusi pointed out that Jigawa has made notable advancements in flood mitigation relative to prior years, thanks to deliberate actions by the state government.

He noted that part of this commitment includes setting up Local Emergency Management Committees in all 27 local government areas, along with Ward Emergency Management Committees, to guarantee prompt responses during emergencies.

Additionally, Sanusi revealed that the state government has set aside over N300 million for acquiring emergency relief supplies.

He further stated that rolling out the Community Emergency Response Plan in flood-prone local governments across the nation would bolster disaster readiness and mitigation initiatives.

Sanusi called on the public to support government efforts by refraining from dumping trash in drainage channels, culverts, and other practices that could worsen flooding.

The Central Bank of Nigeria has been instructed by a Federal High Court in Osogbo to provide reasons why funds in connection with a N100.1 million judgment debt should not be released to cover liabilities owed by the Nigeria Police Force and other parties.

Justice Adefunmilola Demi-Ajayi issued the directive on Wednesday following an ex parte application filed by the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) and its chairman, Hasim Abioye.

The applicants sought enforcement of a November 2025 judgment that awarded damages against the police and other defendants. That ruling mandated the payment of N100 million in damages plus N100,000 in costs for actions taken against the electoral body before the February 22, 2025, local government polls in Osun State.

During the fresh proceedings, the applicants’ lawyer, I.T. Tewogbade, argued that the judgment sum remains unpaid. The court granted a garnishee order nisi, directing the apex bank to show cause why funds from accounts held with it, including those in the Treasury Single Account, should not be used to satisfy the debt.

Justice Demi-Ajayi ruled that the bank must appear to justify why the money should not be released. The initial judgment had declared the police’s sealing of OSSIEC offices and arrest of its staff unlawful, with no legal basis for interfering in the electoral process.

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.