Corruption threatens to “derail” global cooperation to tackle climate change, graft watchdog Transparency International warned in a report on Tuesday.

Its “Corruption Perceptions Index” for 2024 showed that many countries involved in climate action — either as hosts of the United Nations climate summits or because they are most at risk from rising temperatures — scored poorly or worse than before.

“Corrupt forces not only shape but often dictate policies and dismantle checks and balances,” Transparency International CEO Maira Martini said in a statement.

“We must urgently root out corruption before it derails meaningful climate action.”

Graft could see funds intended to tackle global warming diverted to other ends and weaken the implementation of environmental regulations, the group said.

The annual report assigns countries with a greater perceived risk of public sector corruption a lower score on a scale from zero to 100.

Brazil, for example, the host of this year’s UN COP 30 climate talks, received a score of 34, its lowest-ever rating.

The convener of the previous summit for international climate action, oil-producing Azerbaijan, scored just 22.

Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates, which appointed the head of the state oil firm to chair the COP it hosted in 2023, had a relatively better score of 68.

The report also highlighted declining scores in wealthier countries, which have often taken a leading role in talks, including Canada (75), New Zealand (83) and the United States (65).

Corruption in these countries “undermines global progress the most,” the report said.

“These nations hold the greatest responsibility to lead on ambitious climate goals, reduce emissions at scale, and build resilience worldwide,” it said.

Among the countries most exposed to climate change were also some of those with the worst scores on the index, such as South Sudan (eight), Somalia (nine), and Venezuela (10).

“Marginalised people usually have fewer options for adapting to extreme weather and pollution, leaving them most in need of government support,” the report said.

The report said one solution would be to have better “metrics and frameworks for climate transparency and accountability” to track progress and ensure proper fund use.

The Federal Government has hiked the processing fees for new private universities to N25m, a memo issued by the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu said on Monday.

The previous processing fee was N5m.

The Commission said the move was part of its efforts at repositioning private universities in Nigeria to better meet the needs of the citizenry and for better coordination of the development of the Private University Education sub-sector of the Nigerian University System.

It also said it has identified the need to review the guidelines for the establishment of private universities.
The memo read, “This is to ensure that newly established private universities are positioned to meet the challenges of the 21 Century. Pursuant to the above and in line with the directive of the Honourable Minister of Education, the National Universities Commission hereby informs Promoters of proposed Private Universities in particular and the general public as follows:

“The Commission hereby suspends further processing of; All inactive applications including those of private open universities (i.e. those that have not made progress on their applications or made submissions to the Commission for upwards of two years), and applications at the stage of submission of Letters of Intent only.

“The Fee for purchase of Application Forms for the Establishment of a Private University is hereby reviewed from One Million (N1,000,000.00) Naira to (Five Million (N5,000,000.00) Naira; the Processing Fee for Application for the Establishment of a Private University is hereby reviewed from Five Million (N5,000,000.00) Naira to Twenty-Five Million (N25,000,000.00) Naira.

“The NUC will convey the reviewed Processing Fee of Twenty-Five Million (¥25,000,000.00) Naira to applicants that have purchased Application Forms only. They are also expected to effect payments within a period of thirty (30) working days or risk forfeiture of their pending applications.”

After months of negotiations, unions and producers in Germany have agreed on collective bargaining rules for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in film and television production.

The agreement was announced by the German producers’ alliance, the services union Verdi, and the actors’ union BFFS on Monday.

The Verdi union said the new regulation was intended to ensure that digital replicas of actors are not used without their consent.

In the future, the consent of the actors would be required and they would be entitled to remuneration.

The agreement, intended to supplement the industry’s collective agreement, would come into force on March 1.

It would initially apply until June 30, 2026.

It regulates so-called generative AI, which learns patterns from training data and makes new content with the help of algorithms.

The spokesperson for the board of the producer’s alliance, Björn Böhning, believed that the AI collective agreement sets a benchmark.

“For the first time, an industry in Germany has set itself rules for the use of generative AI, and we can be proud of that,’’ he said.

Verdi board member Christoph Schmitz-Dethlefsen added that the agreement meant more protection and cooperation, enforcing the duty of transparency and the idea of financial compensation.

The collective agreement is to be evaluated every six months and, according to Verdi, would become the basis for regulations on the use of generative AI in other areas of the film industry.

Parliamentary workers in Abia on Monday commenced an indefinite strike over the state government’s non-implementation of legislative financial autonomy.

The workers, operating under the aegis of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), barricaded the entrance to the assembly complex.

They barred people from entering the premises and hung the union’s banner, with the inscription of the strike notice at the main entrance gate.

The state chairman of the association, Sunday Kalu, told journalists that the action was in compliance with the directive from PASAN’s national body.

Mr Kalu said the strike followed the expiration of the ultimatum issued on November 19, 2024, and January 30, over the non-implementation of financial autonomy, consolidated legislative structure (CONLESS), and administrative autonomy.

He said the union went on a warning strike in 2023 but later suspended it after negotiation with the government, adding that nothing had changed to date.

“The government constituted a commission after much demand, but it is not functioning,” he said.

According to Mr Kalu, the implementation of the financial autonomy is in line with section 121 of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

“But up until now, we are still begging the executive to pay our salary and allowances.

“We have a service commission that is supposed to give us our administrative autonomy, but the commission is somehow handicapped.

“The file of every worker in the House has been moved to the office of the head of service.

“Our activities are being stalled; we can’t get our promotions, and as a civil servant, one can’t do anything with their file.

“The same thing applies to financial autonomy and CONLESS, but all our efforts to make the government listen to us have failed,” Mr Kalu said.

The Nigeria Governors Forum, the Conference of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly, and the PASAN national executive had, on November 20, 2023, signed a memorandum of understanding.

Part of the agreement was the full implementation of financial autonomy of the state assemblies and CONLESS, beginning in January 2024.

The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed the suit by Governor Siminalayi Fubara seeking to remove 27 State House of Assembly members on the grounds of their alleged defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress.

Justice Uwani Abba-Aji delivered the judgment following the dramatic withdrawal of the appeal by Mr Fubara through his lead counsel, Yusuf Ali.

Mr Fubara, in the notice for withdrawal of the case, informed a three-man panel of justices of the court that events have overtaken his suit and that the lawmakers are their friends.

The request to withdraw the contentious suit was not opposed by the Rivers States House of Assembly and its speaker, Martin Amaewhule.

Mr Olanipekun, however, demanded outright dismissal of the suit on the premise that parties had filed and exchanged their brief arguments and thus joined issues with each other.

He argued that the proper order to be made in the circumstances is the dismissal of the case, which the court agreed with.

Following no objections from the parties, the apex court dismissed it and awarded N2 million each against Mr Fubara to be paid to the House of Assembly and Mr Amaewhule.

Addressing journalists shortly after the dismissal of the suit, Ken Njemanze said the coast has finally been cleared for the 27 lawmakers to take over the House of Assembly fully.

Mr Njemanze said all steps taken by Mr Fubara in the absence of the 27 lawmakers, including the presentation of the 2024 and 2025 budgets to only four lawmakers, have become a nullity.

The Court of Appeal had, on October 10, 2024, dismissed Mr Fubara’s appeal on the same matter.

The Federal High Court, Abuja Division, presided over by Justice James Omotosho on January 22, 2024, also nullified the passage of Rivers State’s N800 billion 2024 budget by four members of the House of Assembly.

The court had described the bill’s passage by the four lawmakers, led by Ehie Edison, as an aberration and illegality.

It consequently ordered Mr Fubara to re-present the budget to the Martins Amaewhule-led Assembly.

The suit filed by the 27 members of the assembly, loyal to the former governor of the state and FCT minister Nyesom Wike, got the blessings of the lower court.

Listed as defendants of the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1613/2023 are the National Assembly, the Senate, the House of Representatives, and the clerk to the National Assembly. Others include Mr Fubara, Mr Edison, the Rivers State Civil Service Commission, and the inspector general of police.

Mr Omotosho, while ruling on an ex parte motion by the 27 legislators, issued an interim order restraining Mr Fubara and his agents from obstructing the pro-Wike legislators from carrying out their constitutional duties.

He also restrained the governor from removing/redeploying the clerk of the Assembly and withholding funds meant for the assembly, pending the determination of the substantive suit.

The governor had also prevented the pro-Wike legislators from sitting by demolishing a part of the assembly complex and withholding funds for legislative functions.

Delivering judgment, Mr Omotosho had held that the four lawmakers’ passage of the budget and other actions taken while the November 30, 2023 order subsisted amounted to a nullity.

He said the governor acted like a tyrant in the manner the assembly complex was partially demolished and funds for legislative activities withheld.

The judge had issued an order restraining Mr Fubara from frustrating the assembly, led by Mr Amaewhule, from sitting or interfering in its activities.

He also described Mr Fubara’s redeployment of the clerk and deputy clerk out of the assembly as unlawful, stating that the action amounted to an affront on separation of power.

The judge ordered the clerk and the deputy clerk to resume office immediately and unhindered.

Apart from asking Mr Fubara to promptly release all monies standing to the credit of the assembly, he also ordered the inspector general of police to deploy his operatives to the assembly complex immediately.

The judge had also barred the National Assembly from taking over the assembly or accepting or treating any request by Mr Fubara on any matter affecting the legislature.

Sudan’s Foreign Ministry has announced plans for a return to civilian rule in the country.

The foreign ministry said this in a statement posted on X Monday after the national army gained ground in conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia.

A strategic plan for the post-war phase has been developed under the leadership of the de facto ruler Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan.

“The plan envisages forming a transitional government, appointing a civilian prime minister and initiating a national dialogue with political and civil society groups.

“The process should lead to free and fair elections,” it said.

The foreign ministry called on the RSF to lay down their arms if they wanted to participate in the political dialogue.

This includes the withdrawal of the militia from the capital, Khartoum, the state of West Kordofan and the region of Darfur.

The Sudanese Army recently reclaimed large areas of territory from the RSF in the greater Khartoum area.

The army says it has also been able to regain control in the states of Sennar, Gezira and the strategically important city of Umm Ruwaba in North Kordofan, thus securing important supply routes.

However, the RSF still retains the upper hand in the western regions of Darfur and West Kordofan.

The foreign ministry called on the international community, particularly the United Nations, the African Union and the Arab League, to support the strategic plan because “it represents a national consensus for restoring peace and stability in the country.”

The armed conflict in Sudan began in April 2023 and has involved bloody fighting between the army, led by al-Burhan, and the RSF militia of his former deputy, Mohammed Hamdan Daglo.

The UN says more than 12 million people have been displaced or fled to neighbouring countries to escape the fighting.

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested one Gbadebo Sodiq for allegedly breaking into a house and stealing property worth N373,000, in the Eleweran area of Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The spokesman for the command, CSP Omolola Odutola, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists on Monday.

According to Odutola, a report of a break-in was received on Saturday, and properties worth N373,000 were stolen.

“On February 7, 2025, at approximately 10:30 am, one Akeem Saka, male, residing at Eleweran, Abeokuta, reported to the station that his home had been burglarized.

“He stated that the thief or thieves entered his residence and stole One Infinix Smart 9 valued at N148,000, One Oppo F9 valued at N120,000, One small Techno phone valued at ₦30,000, and a bag containing N75,000”, the statement partly read.

Odutola disclosed that the complainant revealed to the detectives that he suspected his tenant, a female and that the Anti-Crime Section arrested two suspects, one Ewatooyin Adebayo and Mariam Atobatele, for questioning.

“The complainant suspected his tenant, who had been outside the premises on February 6, 2025, at approximately 10:30 PM. The Anti-Crime Section promptly initiated an investigation, leading to the arrest of two suspected individuals, Ewatooyin Adebayo, female and Mariam Atobatele, female, who were brought to the station for questioning”, she added.

According to the spokesperson, investigations revealed that one of the arrested suspects left the door unsecured, allowing Gbadebo to gain access to steal.

She further stated that Gbadebo admitted to the crime, and the phones were recovered.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that one of the arrested ladies did not properly secure the front door before leaving that night, which allowed one Gbadebo Sodiq male, of No. 3 Anobe Community, Somorin Obantoko, to access the house and steal the three phones.

“The actual thief was apprehended at Lafenwa while attempting to sell the stolen phones. The suspect has admitted to committing the crime, and the three phones have been recovered.

“The suspect is currently in custody, and the investigation is ongoing”, she stated.

Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, says the seeming fights among politicians are not real but only to entertain Nigerians.

Speaking during his 60th birthday thanksgiving service at St. Martins’ Catholic Church, Isan Ekiti, on Sunday, Fayemi downplayed the perception of animosity between political figures, emphasising that many of the supposed rivalries exist only on social media.

“So, all these things you read on social media are for your entertainment,” he said. “Many will wonder why Governor Segun Oni is here. During his birthday, I spent the entire day with him, and Governor Ayodele Fayose too would have been here without hesitation if he was around.”

He said irrespective of political political differences, Ekiti politcians are not enemies.

He said, “The vision we have always had is a state that will not be separated by political divide. We might belong to different political parties, but there is one party that we collectively belong to—that is the Ekiti Party, Ekiti Progressive Party—and our governor is carrying on with that.”

Reflecting on his journey, Fayemi said his 60th birthday was a moment of gratitude and rededication to service. “I am a product of grace, and I have so many reasons to be thankful to God at 60,” he said.

“I also want to thank our governor for making me proud. it could have been otherwise. Things could have gone awry, but he is also a product of grace and that is why in spite of the travails that one might experience in the world of politics, we have a very cordial relationship based on mutual love and mutual respect.”

Prominent Nigerians, led by President Bola Tinubu, celebrated the former governor and ex-minister for his contributions to governance.

Tinubu, in his tribute, commended Fayemi’s role in the 2013 merger of opposition parties that formed the All Progressives Congress.

“As a two-term governor, he (Fayemi) served the people amid severe economic challenges. There is no doubt that he made his mark in the governance of Ekiti State,” Tinubu stated. “Dr. Fayemi has exemplified service as an academic, author, administrator, and development expert. As he turns 60, I wish him continued health and fulfillment in the years ahead.”

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, described Fayemi’s 60th birthday as a celebration of “a life dedicated to service and excellence.”

He said, “The only thing I am going to say is to thank you for your support and for handholding me. Thank you so much for all you have done for Ekiti people, thank you so much for all that you have done for your mentees all over the world. I thank Erelu Bisi Fayemi and Folajimi for sharing you with us. We are proud of you, Ekiti people are immensely proud of your achievements; it has been 60 years of progressive impact.”

The event attracted dignitaries including the first civilian Governor of Ekiti State, Niyi Adebayo; former Governor Segun Oni; Deputy Governor, Mrs. Monisade Afuye; wife of the Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye; former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Prof. Modupe Adelabu; and former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Chief Oladokun.

Others present were former Minister of Education, Prof. Tunde Adeniran; Chairman, CAVISTA Holdings, Mr. John Olajide; Chairman, Afenifere Renewal Group, Hon. Wale Osun; APC Chairman in Ekiti State, Sola Elesin; serving and former members of the National Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, and members of the State House of Assembly.

Investigators have discovered the bodies of 28 migrants next to a detention facility in the desert in southern Libya.

The Libyan Attorney General’s Office discovered the grave north of the city of Kufra, where dozens of migrants had been detained, according to a statement issued Sunday.

Security forces freed 76 migrants from the facility.

A gang had presumably “deprived illegal migrants of their liberty, tortured them and subjected them to cruel, degrading and inhuman treatment.”

Kufra is located in south-eastern Libya in a desert area not far from the Egyptian and Sudanese borders.

The security situation in Libya remains risky after years of civil war.

Armed groups, some of which work with state agencies, operate criminal networks for human trafficking, in which migrants, refugees and asylum seekers are systematically exploited.

There are repeated reports of the most serious human rights violations, including unlawful killings, forced recruitment, forced labour and human trafficking for sexual purposes.

British King Charles paid tribute to Namibia’s former President Sam Nujoma, who died at the age of 95, saying his “lifelong commitment to freedom and democracy” was “inspirational” and his “contribution to history was immense.”

Mr Nujoma, who led Namibia to independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990 and served as its first president for 15 years, died on Saturday, President Nangolo Mbumba announced.

In a statement on Sunday evening, the UK monarch said, “My wife and I were profoundly saddened to learn of the death of former President Sam Nujoma today.

“President Nujoma’s contribution to history was immense, through his leadership of the long struggle for independence, and his subsequent service of 15 years as the Founding President of the Republic of Namibia.”

He explained that Namibia is a valued member of the Commonwealth and reflected on a visit his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, made to the country in 1991.

“I recall with particular gratitude how much Her late Majesty The Queen enjoyed Her State Visit to Namibia in 1991, hosted so graciously by President Nujoma,” the king said.

He added, “His lifelong commitment to freedom and democracy, overcoming so much adversity on that journey, was truly inspirational.

“It is a testament to the legacy of Dr Nujoma that the Republic of Namibia, as a valued member of the Commonwealth of Nations, still maintains and embodies the values of peace and democracy, which its founding president so keenly promoted and protected.

“Our deepest sympathy and prayers are with the former First Lady, Kovambo Nujoma, their family, and the people of the Republic of Namibia at this dreadfully sad time.”

Nigeria has expressed its condolences to the government and people of Namibia over the passing of Sam Nujoma, the founding president of Namibia.

Mr Nujoma, a revolutionary leader and key figure in Namibia’s liberation struggle from South African rule, died on Saturday at the age of 95.

In a statement on Sunday, foreign affairs minister Yusuf Tuggar described Mr Nujoma as a towering figure in the struggle for liberation and unity of Africa.

“The revolutionary leader who guided Namibia to independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990 and subsequently served as its first president for 15 years reportedly passed away peacefully on Saturday night in the nation’s capital, Windhoek.

“The departed elder statesman was a visionary leader, a Pan-Africanist and a relentless freedom fighter who dedicated his life to the emancipation of Namibia from colonial rule.

“His unwavering commitment to justice, equality and self-determination not only shaped the destiny of Namibia but also inspired generations of Africans in the fight against oppression and injustice,” the statement said.

According to the statement, Nigeria shares in the grief of Namibians.

“We remember Nujoma as a true friend of Nigeria, steadfast ally in pursuing African solidarity and cooperation; his legacy as a freedom fighter and statesman will forever remain source of inspiration for the continent.

“Therefore, in this time of mourning, Nigeria stands in solidarity with the people of Namibia and reaffirms our commitment to strengthening bonds of friendship and partnership between our two nations. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” it stated.

Mr Nujoma, who had served as Namibia’s first democratically elected President from 1990 to 2005, prioritised national unity and implemented a policy of reconciliation that encouraged white Namibians to remain in the country and contribute to the economic growth.

The Abia State Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, has dismissed three officers for alleged conspiracy, abduction and extortion of unsuspecting victims.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, announced this in a statement on Friday.

The police spokesperson identified the dismissed officers as Jonas Nnamdi, James Daniel, and Ifeanyi Emeka.

Chinaka said Nnamdi was a sergeant attached to Police Area Command in Aba, while Daniel, a corporal, was attached to the Department of Operations of the police in Umuahia and Emeka, also a corporal, was attached to Eziama Divisional Police Headquarters in the state.

She said the three officers were arrested on January 29 after they were found to be armed with an electric baton, an assault rifle, and a Beretta pistol.

Chinaka added that the officers were apprehended alongside two other unnamed civilians by a divisional police officer in the Abayi Area of the state.

She said, “The officers allegedly conspired and hired a minibus, abducted some civilians along Port Harcourt Expressway, threatened and extorted them and thereafter demanded extra money from their families for their release.

“An investigation/orderly room trial was initiated by the (state police) command, and the investigation confirmed their involvement in the unprofessional conduct which is prejudicial to discipline and unbecoming of officers of the Nigeria Police Force, leading to their dismissal.

“Their official accoutrements have been retrieved by the command’s Provost, and they cease to be members of the force.”

The police spokesperson said the dismissed officers and their civilian accomplices have been handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department for prosecution.

Chinaka said the commissioner has reaffirmed the command’s zero tolerance for corruption and misconduct, assuring Nigerians that the command will not condone the activities of bad eggs in the force.

She added that the command remains committed to the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ensuring a professional, service-driven, and rule-of-law-compliant police force.

The European Union on Saturday said it is complementing the efforts of the Nigerian government to improve and strengthen democracy across the country by supporting programmes that build the capacity of young people in politics and governance.

Through the Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria Programme, the EU said it funds Yiaga Africa’s Constituency Office Internship Programme.

The 3-month programme according to a statement by the EU which started in December 2024, and is expected to end in February this year, provides an excellent opportunity for young individuals committed to democratic development and eager to deepen their understanding of legislative processes and effective constituency engagement, to gain hands-on experience in the operations of constituency offices and legislature-constituent relations.

According to the Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Zissimos Vergos, the EU believes that a thriving democracy is built on responsible leadership and active citizen engagement.

“Young people, therefore, play very significant roles in developing Nigeria’s democracy by actively participating in the electoral and governance processes, and contributing to guidelines, policies, and frameworks that ensure free, fair, credible, and transparent elections.

“Furthermore, by placing these interns in the constituency offices of lawmakers, the programme not only offers them the chance to understand the legislative process, but provides an opportunity for them to engage with lawmakers, contribute meaningfully to policy discussions, and be part of constituency engagement.”

“Hence, it is important to provide platforms for these young and vibrant minds to actively engage and be a part of the country’s governance process. The time for making excuses is over. The moment people start making excuses not to act ethically, democratic institutions are undermined. Rather than criticising democracy, we must focus on ethical decisions that shape its practice,” he said.

Highlighting the impact of the programme in strengthening the relationship between lawmakers and their constituencies, Yiaga Africa’s Programme Manager, Yetunde Bakarei, said, “The Constituency Office Internship Programme encourages youth participation in the democratic process, ensuring that young people are involved in shaping policies that affect them.

“We would like to say thank you to the EU for the support that we receive that enables us to do the work that we do, which allows us to deploy young people to constituency offices. This wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the EU and the young people who continue to apply and take advantage of opportunities like this.”

One of the interns, Olaiya Oluwadamilola, while expressing passionately about how the programme has shaped both her professional and personal life, said, “This internship has not only enhanced my communication skills and boosted my confidence, but it has also inspired me to give back to my community and pursue a career in politics.”

Salihu Gode, another intern, praised the EU’s vision for inclusive governance and harped on the importance of mentorship, which she believes is essential for her career development and political ambition.

“With the skills and knowledge I’ve acquired, I’m confident that I can drive meaningful change in my community and contribute to Nigeria’s democratic growth,” she said.

Gode also expressed her commitment to empowering women and promoting female participation in politics—an area the EU actively supports.

A federal judge has temporarily blocked President Donald Trump’s administration plan to dismiss roughly 2,700 employees of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

On Friday, Judge Carl Nichols of the U.S. District Court in Washington granted some requests sought by the largest U.S. government workers’ union and an association of foreign service workers who are suing to stop the Trump administration from closing the agency.

The one-week injunction granted by Mr Nichols, nominated by Mr Trump during his first term, will prevent the government from going ahead with their plan to put 2,200 USAID workers on paid leave starting from Saturday.

He also ordered the reinstatement of 500 others who had already been furloughed.

According to Reuters, it also barred the administration from relocating USAID humanitarian workers stationed outside the United States.

Mr Nichols said in his ruling noted that the unions made a “strong showing of irreparable harm” if the court did not intervene, noting he would consider a longer-term pause on the plan after a hearing scheduled for Wednesday.

However, he rejected the unions’ request to order the reopening of USAID buildings and restore funding for agency grants and contracts.

“The major reduction in force, as well as the closure of offices, the forced relocation of these individuals were all done in excess of the executive’s authority in violation of the separation of powers,” Karla Gilbride, a lawyer for the unions, said at a court hearing earlier on Friday.

The University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State, has upgraded its universal laboratory to improve service delivery and efficiency to benefit both patients and the public.

UCH’s Public Relations Officer, Funmi Adetuyibi, stated this in a statement on Friday. She stated that the laboratory now operates with a 24-hour uninterrupted power supply.

Mrs Adetuyibi explained that the stable power supply reflected the hospital’s commitment to its core principle – “patients’ comfort and staff welfare.” This ensures a more efficient healthcare experience.

According to her, this upgrade is part of UCH’s broader efforts to enhance medical services, improve diagnostic accuracy, and provide world-class healthcare to its patients.

Established in 2012, the universal laboratory integrates haematology, chemical pathology, and molecular biology units under one roof. This ensures a faster turnaround time of one hour or less.

The laboratory offers services such as complete blood counts, coagulation profiles, general chemistry, hormonal assays, immunoassays, and infectious disease testing.

It operates round the clock, serving emergency departments and external clients.

“This recent upgrade supports UCH’s goal of providing prompt and effective diagnostic services. The hospital remains dedicated to delivering precise and reliable results in a conducive environment,” Mrs Adetuyibi said.

Singer Portable has made an emotional appeal to fans for prayers and support amidst a difficult situation with the authorities.

The government recently sealed his uncompleted building and hotel due to unauthorised development, detaining some of his customers and workers.

Portable expressed frustration, pointing out the irony of the situation, as he has been contributing to the community by helping to repair roads and provide streetlights.

To address the issue, he has canceled his upcoming show in London to focus on protecting his family and properties.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Portable wrote: “Zazuu Zeh. I need to protect my family and property first. London see you later, no he today man dey travel dey make money.

“Music is my way, if life dey, man go still go many places.
Eyin fans me all I need now is prayer and support. If you spoil me for who love me, you go dey die young. Make una sha support me. Make I dey free my people wey dey back, na help I dey help them.

“On God my glory go kill my enemy. I believe in God. Any disappointment is a blessing, Man no be God”.

The workforce of the U.S. Agency for International Development will be slashed to just a few hundred employees from the weekend onwards, U.S. media reported on Thursday.

According to the New York Times, the Trump administration plans to reduce the agency’s staff from over 10,000 employees worldwide to around 290, citing three sources familiar with the plans.

National Public Radio reported that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had been presented with a list of some 600 employees considered essential worldwide but ultimately exempted fewer than 300 from the staff cuts.

U.S. President Donald Trump had already frozen the agency’s funds in January pending an internal review, impacting a vast array of initiatives around the globe.

USAID is one of the largest aid agencies in the world and is responsible for doling out much of the U.S. government’s humanitarian assistance to developing countries and countries in crisis.

Mr Trump has repeatedly claimed it is run by “radical lunatics” seeking to hinder his America First foreign policy agenda.

This week, the U.S. government announced it would place many USAID employees on leave starting Friday night.

According to a statement on USAID’s website, all “direct-hire personnel” working anywhere in the world for the agency will be put on “administrative leave,” except employees in critical positions.

Those affected by the exemptions will be informed one day in advance, said the agency, which is under the acting leadership of Mr Rubio.

Around 10,000 people work for the agency, and two-thirds of them are outside the U.S.

Last year, the agency oversaw roughly $50 billion in development aid projects.

Governor Dapo Abiodun has described the passing of the Alaperu of Iperu-Remo, Oba Adeleke Idowu-Basibo, as a shocking and irreplaceable personal loss.

In a statement by his spokesman, Kayode Akinmade, Mr Abiodun called the late ruler, friend and confidant.

The governor said he was devastated by the sudden passing of the highly distinguished, revered, and beloved traditional ruler.

He added that Mr Idowu-Basibo’s reign brought peace and prosperity to Iperu-Remo, Ogun, and Nigeria.

“To say the least, Oba Adeleke Adelekan Idowu-Basibo was a paragon of excellence,” Mr Abiodun stated.

The governor noted that the late traditional ruler demonstrated excellence throughout his distinguished two-decade career at the customs service in Europe.

“His reign brought remarkable progress to Iperu-Remo in many areas, including infrastructure, economic advancement, and the expansion of peace and progress,” he added.

Mr described him as a man of great grace who carried himself with dignity and prioritised his people’s wellbeing.

“He will be sorely missed,” the governor said.

The Alaperu passed away on Thursday.

Military forces have begun a search-and-rescue operation following the abduction of former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brig. Gen. Maharazu Tsiga (retd.), by bandits in Tsiga village, Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The attack, which occurred around 12:30 a.m. on Thursday, reportedly lasted for three hours.

The bandits also killed one person and kidnapped at least nine others while ransacking homes and looting valuables.

Eyewitnesses said the assailants stormed the community, shooting sporadically to instill fear.

A resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, suggested that Gen. Tsiga was the primary target.

“From the look of things, General Tsiga was their target because none of his family members were kidnapped. He is living with his family there, but after they picked him, they also picked others alongside the general,” the source said.

The Katsina State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, said he had yet to be briefed on the incident but promised to provide updates once available.

“I am yet to be briefed on the facts of the reports. I’ll get back to you as soon as I get the details, please,” he said.

The Nigerian Army has since mobilised troops to locate and rescue the abducted general and other victims.

A senior military official familiar with the situation revealed that the Commander of the 17 Brigade, Brig. Gen. Babatunde Omopariola, personally led the search operation in the forested areas of the state

The source confirmed, “Brigade Commander, Brigadier-General Babatunde Omopariola, has been in the bush since the night of the incident.”

As of press time, no official statements had been released by the Army, Police, or NYSC headquarters regarding the incident.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government has activated the toll-free 112 emergency number for Nigerians to report kidnapping and security threats.

The National Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Maj. Gen. Adamu Laka, announced the initiative as part of broader efforts to combat ransom-driven abductions.

“The Nigerian Communications Commission has facilitated an emergency response number—112. The NCTC calls on all Nigerians to report suspicious activities, crimes, kidnappings, among others, by calling the toll-free number 112, including the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell designated numbers that will be provided to members of the public,” Laka said.

He noted that while Nigeria recorded a 16.3% decrease in kidnapping incidents in 2024 compared to the previous year, the number of victims rose slightly by 0.27%. Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara states in the North-West were identified as the most affected regions, accounting for 13.8% of total incidents and 61.1% of recorded victims.

Laka explained that bandits, terrorists, cultists, and separatist groups continue to use kidnapping as a primary source of funding for illicit activities.

“In 2024, Nigeria recorded a 16.3 per cent decrease in incidents compared to 2023. However, the number of victims increased slightly by 0.27 per cent. Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara states in the North-West accounted for the highest prevalence, with 13.8 per cent of total incidents and 61.1 per cent of victims of the total recorded cases,” he said.

He stressed that despite government efforts, mass abductions persist, forcing agrarian communities to flee, disrupting food production, and driving up food prices. “The sustained payment of ransom fuelled the crime, as perpetrators exploited families’ fears to demand exorbitant sums,” Laka added.

The government has employed both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, including military raids, arrests of kidnappers, and destruction of hideouts. Looking ahead to 2025, Laka stated, “The government projects that kidnapping for ransom will persist in 2025 due to its financial incentives. To counter this, authorities aim to strengthen counter-kidnapping initiatives, expand efforts to the six geo-political regions, improve collaborations with the 36 state governments, reinforce public confidence in government protection to discourage ransom payments, and engage state governments to address unemployment and economic vulnerabilities that drive individuals to crime.”

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order seeking to ban transgender athletes from participating in women’s sports, in his latest move targeting transgender people since returning to office.

“From now on women’s sports will be only for women,” Trump said before he signed the order at the White House, surrounded by dozens of children and female athletes.

“With this executive order the war on women’s sports is over.”

Top Republicans including US House Speaker Mike Johnson and firebrand Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene were among those in the audience to watch the signing ceremony.

“We will defend the proud tradition of female athletes, and we will not allow men to beat up, injure and cheat our women and our girls,” Trump added to applause and cheers.

Trump’s order allows US government agencies to deny funds to schools that allow transgender athletes to compete on women’s teams.

“If you let men take over women’s sports teams or invade your locker rooms, you will be investigated… and risk your federal funding,” Trump said.

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), which regulates student athletics in colleges across the country, welcomed the order and said they would align to it “in the coming days.”

“We strongly believe that clear, consistent, and uniform eligibility standards would best serve today’s student-athletes instead of a patchwork of conflicting state laws and court decisions,” said NCAA president Charlie Baker in a statement.

“To that end, President Trump’s order provides a clear, national standard,” he said.

Trump also said he would now push the International Olympic Committee to change its rules on transgender athletes before the 2028 Los Angeles Games, and had ordered Secretary of State Marco Rubio to tell the IOC “we want them to change everything… having to do with this absolutely ridiculous subject.”

The IOC allows each international sports federation to set their own rules on the issue.

“Working with the respective International Sports Federations, the IOC will continue to explain and discuss the various topics with the relevant authorities,” an IOC spokesperson told AFP.

During the 2024 election campaign he repeatedly hammered Democrats on the divisive issue of transgender rights, capitalizing on a broader culture war over the topic.

One of Trump’s most successful attack lines against his election rival Kamala Harris – “Kamala Harris is for they/them. President Trump is for you” – targeted her support for trans rights.

His executive order Wednesday comes after the Republican-led House of Representatives in January passed a bill severely restricting transgender athletes from participating in girls’ and women’s sports.

As transgender people have become a more visible presence in the United States, sparking questions around gender norms and fairness, many conservatives have rallied around women’s sports.