The federal government has called for collaboration with the South African government to ensure the certification of geologists and other professionals in Nigeria.

This appeal was made by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, during her opening remarks as co-chair of the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) Ministerial Meeting, held Monday in Cape Town, South Africa.

Ojukwu highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two nations since the BNC’s inception in 1999.

She encouraged participants to approach discussions with enthusiasm and mutual trust to strengthen bilateral ties.

Addressing the need for collaboration, Ojukwu stated: “We are seeking collaboration with South Africa in capacity development in the area of certification of geologists and other professionals.”

She disclosed that Nigeria had prepared Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for South Africa’s consideration, aimed at enhancing the global competitiveness of Nigerian mining professionals.

“This project holds a lot of promises for the future of Nigeria-South Africa relations,” she added.

The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to fostering stronger partnerships with South Africa for mutual benefits.

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has expressed deep concern over the sharp decline in moral values globally.

Adeboye made this known during the church’s monthly thanksgiving service at the RCCG’s Throne of Grace, the national headquarters in Ebute-Metta, Lagos, on Sunday.

He said the pastor was arrested for addressing those in attendance at a programme “Ladies and gentlemen.”

Speaking on the topic “My Father’s House” Adeboye highlighted the increasing moral decadence in the world.

He urged Christians to remain steadfast in their faith, emphasizing that the end times are near.

“The end is nearer than you think,” he warned. “Things are getting worse, and this is a wake-up call. One of my pastors abroad was arrested, and his offence was simply addressing a gathering as ‘ladies and gentlemen.’ Some people reported him for discrimination, asking, ‘What about those who are neither ladies nor gentlemen?’”

Pastor Adeboye also recounted another troubling anecdote about a woman who referred to her dog as her husband during a discussion.

“She was asked about her husband, and she replied, ‘I took him to the vet before coming. He doesn’t talk.’ When asked who her husband was, she described a very handsome dog. Brethren, we are closer to the end than ever before,” he said.

He admonished Christians to take their faith seriously, urging them not to be swayed by the world’s moral decline.

“Those of you already in Christ, take this matter seriously. Do not let anyone weaken your stand. God is holy. Those still playing church—singing, clapping, and enjoying things without genuine commitment—remember, Jesus is coming back. The devil wants to harvest you, but you must not give him the opportunity. I want to see you in my Father’s house,” he emphasized.

Pastor Adeboye also reflected on the moral uprightness of earlier generations, noting their reverence for God and commitment to His commandments.

“In the olden days, people feared God, lived morally upright lives, and followed His commandments. Let us strive to return to that path,” he urged.

Nollywood actress Princess Chineke has made a surprising career shift, trading her script for a soldier’s uniform.

The former beauty queen who represented her state in the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) pageant and modeled for several television commercials, billboards and runways, has joined the U.S. Army.

Princess Chineke’s decision to enlist has shocked many of her fans, who remember her for her captivating performances on screen.

Some of her works include; Battleground, Forever in Me, Last Flight to Abuja, Super Story, Papa Ajasco, Tales of Eve, Ada Mbano, To Love a Sister, Amaonyebuoneye, Give it Up, Masters at War, Give it Up, 2broken, Airline Bases, Mmeso, Royal Maid, Professor Johnbull, Ay show Skit etc.

However, the actress who was also former Miss UNIBEN has expressed her passion for serving her adopted country.

“I love the prestige that comes with the American military,” Princess Chineke said. “As a citizen of this great country that has done so much for me, I feel it’s my turn to give back. God bless America.”

This makes her the first Nollywood actress to join the U.S. Army.

Tension gripped residents early Monday morning as a fire broke out at a market in the popular Trademore Estate, located along Umar Musa Yar’Adua/Airport Road in Abuja.

The cause of the fire remains unknown at the time of this report.

An eyewitness, Tosin Adeleke, told our correspondent that chaos erupted around 4 a.m. when the blaze engulfed the shops.

According to Adeleke, shop owners rushed to salvage what they could from the inferno.

Efforts to determine the extent of the damage and the source of the fire are ongoing.

He said: “It is sad. We are not certain about the cause of the fire, but an electrical fault cannot be ruled out.

“Efforts were made to contact both the Federal Fire Service and the Federal Capital Territory Fire Service, but the situation was intense”.

Adeleke added that residents eventually reached out to the fire service team at Dunamis Church, who arrived at the scene around 5 a.m.

He said after two hours of battling the blaze, personnel from the Federal Fire Service stations at the EFCC and Sauka successfully extinguished the fire”.

Disquiet over the weekend gripped the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters after details emerged of how Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun has been victimising officers to shield members of a cartel notorious for hauling suspicious new banknotes from the Central Bank of Nigeria.

The interstate syndicate’s operation was disrupted after four inspectors identified a suspicious consignment at Abuja airport on August 26, 2023, Peoples Gazette heard from security sources briefed on the matter.

Five suspects were subsequently taken into custody, The Gazette learnt, leading to a weeks-long financial crimes investigation.

The suspects, who described themselves only as ‘contractors’ without elaborating, provided statements to the police detailing how long they have been in the tawdry business but without providing the identities of the CBN staff they worked with to move out the cash from the apex bank’s vault.

They told the police that they had been operating for years —even before the naira redesign in 2022— transporting cash notes from the CBN in Abuja to Lagos. The suspects, however, failed to state the purpose of the stacks of mint notes in their possession.

They had bundles of N500 and N200 notes going up to tens of millions of naira and were trying to load the money into a Lagos-bound aircraft at the domestic wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja in a way that further aroused the suspicion of security agents.

Just as the suspects were about to be charged, the IGP monitoring unit showed up to take over the case. The five suspects, including their ringleader Andrew Ejah, were extracted from AIG Zone 7 and subsequently released.

However, suspects refused to take back the money, claiming it had been depleted from N75 million to N32 million and that more than half of the money was gone. Their claims led the IG to arrest and detain the four police inspectors who carried out their arrest.

The first orderly room trial was conducted in December 2023, and the inspectors —Ekende Edwin, Esther Okafor, Patrick Nwande and Talabi Kayode — were exonerated given that the activities of the suspects were not only suspicious but their statements were also contradictory.

The first trial found the officers not guilty of the allegations of exhibit tampering, meaning there was no evidence the officers stole from the cash the suspects were transporting.

The trial also determined that there was no receipt documenting how much the suspects were transporting.

So, it was hard to rely solely on the suspects’ statements regarding the purported total sum and how much of it was claimed to be missing. The first trial outcome was on December 13 with reference number 7370/SPM/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.15/98.

The suspects provided a statement to the police stating that they got the money from the CBN vault but won’t be able to mention the person who handed over the cash to them from the CBN. Their statements, which no official of the apex bank could corroborate, led to the inspectors’ exoneration.

A spokeswoman for the CBN did not return a request seeking clarification as to whether or not the bank was aware of the operation of Mr Ejah’s gang.

Dissatisfied with the first trial’s outcome, Mr Egbetokun ordered a second trial, but the verdict remained the same. There was no sufficient evidence to link the alleged stolen funds to the inspectors.

The outcome of the second trial, released on February 20, 2024, was referenced 6350/SPM/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.11/105.

Still, the police chief appeared obstinate. Mr Egbetokun ordered a third orderly room trial, fuelling disquiet from the police hierarchy to the rank-and-file who wondered why the IGP was unwilling to accept the trial’s verdict, given they were his own men.

It was unclear why Mr Egbetokun did not back off the low-level police officers, particularly after two trials had cleared them of any wrongdoing.

His conduct has fuelled speculations about whether he has a stake in the matter and was ready to sacrifice his own junior colleagues to appease a cabal ruffled about the syndicate’s operations being busted.

That Mr Ejah, the suspects’ ringleader, admitted that their currency hauling activities have gone undetected for years even during the tenure of former President Muhammadu Buhari, indicates that there were powerful men of influence pulling the strings behind the scene.

Mr Ejah did not return a request seeking comments. It was unclear if he had a legal representative in the matter.

It would not be the first time the police chief had been accused of pandering to high-profile citizens. HEDA, an anti-corruption group, in April, rebuked Mr Egbetokun for withdrawing police officers attached to the Kano Public Complaints and Anti-corruption Commission.

The commission was investigating fraud allegations against APC national chair, Abdullahi Ganduje when the police officers providing security to the facility and officials were recalled.

“It is deeply troubling that law enforcement resources are being redirected away from combating corruption and instead appear to be utilised to obstruct investigations into high-profile individuals and undermine accountability,” the statement signed by HEDA and two other civil rights groups stated.

The groups advised the IGP to operate an independent security force void of interference from men of influence.

Still, Mr Egbetokun’s conduct and order of a third trial angered the police’s hierarchy, who could not fathom why the police chief seemed determined to throw the inspectors under the bus over the unsubstantiated claims of multimillion-naira cash transporters.

“The IG should have backed down, but he kept chasing the officers because he was offended they did their job,” a senior police officer told The Gazette under anonymity from Force Headquarters over the weekend. “We have reported him to the PSC because we cannot sit down watching an IG that is so blatantly corrupt to the point of punishing officers who should have been rewarded for doing the job they were tasked to do.”

“The IG was the one who exposed himself,” the top officer added. “He should blame only himself for this scandal.”

Mr Egbetokun did not immediately return comments on the matter. The police spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, has yet to respond to The Gazette’s enquiries as well.

It is unclear how the president will handle the situation because the IGP is his loyalist, whom he has known for years. Mr Egbetokun served as Mr Tinubu’s orderly during his time as governor of Lagos.

US President Joe Biden on Sunday issued an official pardon for his son Hunter, who was facing sentencing for two criminal cases, despite assurances that he would not intervene in his legal troubles.

“No reasonable person who looks at the facts of Hunter’s cases can reach any other conclusion than Hunter was singled out only because he is my son — and that is wrong,” the president said in a statement.

The move is sure to bring about fresh scrutiny over the independence of the US judicial system — especially at a time when incoming president Donald Trump has moved to appoint loyalists to the FBI and Justice Department himself.

The younger Biden was convicted earlier this year of lying about his drug use when he bought a gun — a felony — and has also pleaded guilty in a separate tax evasion trial, but had not faced sentencing.

Joe Biden, who is in the final weeks of his presidency before Trump takes office on January 20, had repeatedly said he wouldn’t pardon his son.

“I said I would not interfere with the Justice Department’s decision-making, and I kept my word even as I have watched my son being selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted,” President Biden said in Sunday’s statement.

“The charges in his cases came about only after several of my political opponents in Congress instigated them to attack me and oppose my election,” he added.

“I believe in the justice system, but as I have wrestled with this, I also believe raw politics has infected this process and it led to a miscarriage of justice.”

The pardon comes as criminal cases against President-elect Trump have stalled after a sweeping ruling on presidential immunity by the Supreme Court — all but ensuring Biden’s Republican rival will likely never see a jail cell, even after his landmark conviction for falsifying business records in May.

Troops of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, in conjunction with other security agencies, have announced a breakthrough in their ongoing war against economic sabotage in the Niger Delta.

The troops destroyed over 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries, 88 cooking drums, 20 boats and recovered 1.2million litres of stolen crude in their various operations in the region.

The Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, confirmed the arrest of 17 suspected oil thieves, interception of seven vehicles, discovery of six illegal connection points and destruction of five motorcycles used for perpetrating economic sabotage across the region.

Danjuma said in Bayelsa State, at an abandoned Oando wellhead situated in Okordia Forest, Yenagoa Local Government Area (LGA), 15 illegal refining sites were deactivated with over 755,000 litres of stolen crude as well as over 53,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) recovered.

He said around Biseni Forest in Yenagoa LGA, 12 illegal refining sites with over 34,000 litres of stolen crude as well 5,500 litres of illegally refined AGO were confiscated.

He said in Rivers State, around Kula I, general area in Akuku-Toru LGA, troops discovered one illegal connection on 36 inches Government pipeline, with three inches hose connected on it, used as a loading point by oil thieves.

He said: “This was in addition to a ground reservoir of 80 by 80 tarpaulin stocked with over 100,000 litres of stolen products recovered during the operations.

“The operation was also extended to Omoku, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, where an abandoned truck ladened with 35,000 litres of stolen crude stocked in a fabricated tank and concealed with bags of sawdust was uncovered.

“Relatedly, around Bakana and Buguma general area in Degema LGA, eight illegal refining sites with over 27,000 litres of stolen crude were confiscated.“

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a Brazil-based businessman, Ezeokoli Sylva, with 700 grams of cocaine in his stomach, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos.

Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, Femi Babafemi, said the discovery was made by their operatives at the airport when the suspect who has lived in Brazil for 35 years returned home.

According to the statement, the 59-year-old Ezeokoli was arrested last Friday at the E-Arrival hall of the Lagos airport upon his return from Sao Paulo, Brazil on Ethiopia Airlines flight via Addis Ababa.

When he was taken for a body scan, the result confirmed that the suspect had foreign objects concealed in his stomach.

Babafemi said as a result, he was placed under excretion observation during which he expelled 29 wraps of substances that tested positive to cocaine weighing 700grams.

The NDLEA spokesman said, according to the suspect’s statement, he claimed he operates an African store in Brazil where he sells provisions, shoes and clothes.

He said the suspect claimed he bought the illicit consignment in Sao Paulo to resell in Nigeria to raise substantial capital to boost his business.

He also said NDLEA officers of the Directorate of Investigation and General Investigation (DOGI), on November 26 intercepted two consignments containing cocaine and pentazocine injection going to the United Kingdom via a courier company in Lagos.

He said while the cocaine weighing 200grams was concealed in local fabrics, 40 ampoules of pentazocine injection weighing 110grams were hidden in cartons.

The statement reads: “In Kano, NDLEA operatives on Thursday, 28th November arrested three suspects: Jamilu Adamu, 38; Umar Musa, 32; and Bunu Ali, 27, with 2,000 ampoules of pentazocine injection and 3,135,000 pills exol-5 at Gadar Tamburawa, Zaria road.

“No fewer than 2, 120 kilogrammes of Ghanaian Loud, a strong strain of cannabis produced in Ghana were intercepted by NDLEA operatives at the Ilesan beach, Lagos on Thursday 28th November.

“A suspect, Onibogi Muftau was arrested in connection with the seizure while four vehicles that were to convey the shipments from the water front were also recovered.’’

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced the launch of its newly redesigned website that will start working today. The redesign, which promises enhanced features and functionality, was developed entirely in-house by the bank’s technology team.

In a statement yesterday in Abuja by its acting Director of Corporate Communications, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, the apex bank expressed its excitement about the innovation.

The statement said: “We are pleased to announce that the front-end design and back-end technology were created in-house.

“The new website operates on a contemporary Web API built on Microsoft.NET Core 8, the latest stable release. This upgrade is expected to improve user experience significantly by enabling faster and more seamless navigation.”

The revamped platform also introduces a variety of new content aimed at providing a more comprehensive understanding of the bank’s mandate

It boasts mobile responsiveness, ensuring compatibility with various web browsers and devices for ease of access.

The statement explained that public feedback played a critical role in shaping the redesign. “The bank is grateful for the feedback provided by the public, which served as a valuable guide for our redesign endeavours.”

We are committed to developing and enhancing the website to facilitate communication,” it said.

The CBN also urged the public to stay informed by following its official social media channels, which are now conveniently linked on the website’s homepage.

The launch of the redesigned website aligns with the CBN’s goal of improving transparency and fostering effective communication with stakeholders.

Users can explore the new features starting today at www.cbn.gov.ng.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged governments across African countries to deepen ties among their militaries to solve emerging security threats on the continent.

He said African leaders and the military owe the continent a sense of duty to ensure peace, security and stability.

President Tinubu spoke at the closing ceremony of the second edition of the Africa Military Games (AMGA) on Saturday night in Abuja.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu reiterated his unwavering commitment, as the Chairman of the Economic Community of African States (ECOWAS), to the security and stability of the region.

The Nigerian President noted that African militaries have, over the years, demonstrated the essence of unity and camaraderie that transcended borders and strengthened the ties that have made Africa one great family.

He said: “This grand event has more than just a display of athletic prowess. It has been a celebration of the enduring spirit of collaboration, the pursuit of excellence, and the unwavering resolve of our militaries to stand together.

“This final act of your grace surely invites each of us to reaffirm our commitment to pursue our shared interests beyond the fields of competition. The games we have witnessed are a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we unite, not just as soldiers but as guardians of a shared destiny.

“Indeed, I am elated to witness not only to showcase the possibilities we can achieve when we stand together but also the strength that comes with our unity. This platform has provided an extraordinary opportunity for me to participate, exchange ideas, and explore innovative solutions to our shared challenges.

“Sporting activities, such as these, are not just recreational. They are a road to achieving optimal physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Quality is essential to navigating the complex and volatile environments in which we operate today. Let me take this moment to reaffirm the resolve of this administration to rid our nation of security threats and violent crimes.

“As Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States, I reiterate my unwavering commitment to stabilising solutions and extending their efforts across the continent. This is a duty we owe our people. But to succeed, we must deepen ties across our nations and foster a robust sense of camaraderie among our troops.”

The President hailed the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, and the local organising committee for the remarkable event.

“Through your professionalism and discipline, you have shown that you are not only military personnel but also extraordinary sportsmen and women. The smooth and hitch-free conduct of these games is a testament to your collective excellence, a shared achievement for all Africans to celebrate.

“To our esteemed delegates, I thank you, on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for making the sacrifices to leave your comfort zones and travel to Nigeria for this significant event. Please, convey our warm regards to your commanders-in-chief, service chiefs, and families,” President Tinubu said.

Musa had said the AMGA, with the theme: Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports, was a “powerful demonstration of how sports can bridge boundaries, foster friendship and strengthen bonds among the Armed Forces of Africa”.

He added: “This year’s edition, featuring participants from 20 nations, is a testament to the increasing solidarity and collaboration among African military forces.

“The athletes have showcased not just their physical prowess but also their dedication, discipline and determination, qualities that define the military ethos. Importantly, I am delighted to note that no casualties were recorded during this event, a testament to the fitness, preparedness and professionalism of our athletes.

“This remarkable outcome underscores the discipline and training that are hallmarks of our military institutions again across Africa.

“I commend every participant for their commitment to excellence, whether on the field, track or court. Each of you, by donning the colours of your nation, has upheld the values of honor, resilience and unity.”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart France today for South Africa to co-chair the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) with President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Scheduled for tomorrow, the session will be preceded by a ministerial meeting today at the South African Parliament Building in Cape Town.

The session is expected to build on commitments made during the two leaders’ last engagement on June 20, 2024, in Johannesburg.

Deliberations at the event will be conducted through eight working groups focusing on critical sectors, including trade, defence, banking, energy, and migration.

Special Adviser to the President, Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga said in a statement yesterday that Tinubu and Ramaphosa will engage in substantive talks on a wide range of issues of mutual interest, including bilateral, regional, and international matters.

President Tinubu, who is currently wrapping up a state visit to France, will lead a high-powered delegation comprising governors, ministers, and senior government officials to the conference.

The two presidents will assess the progress made since the 10th BNC session in Abuja in late 2021 and chart a roadmap for further collaboration.

The BNC, established in 1999, has been pivotal in fostering diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and South Africa.

Officials of both nations are expected to sign a Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) during the session.

Tinubu will return to Nigeria after the conclusion of the BNC.

The statement by Onanuga reads: “President Bola Tinubu will leave France on Monday for Cape Town, South Africa, to co-chair the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission alongside President Cyril Ramaphosa.

“The presidential BNC, scheduled for Tuesday, December 3, will be preceded by a ministerial meeting on December 2, 2024, at the South African Parliament Building in Cape Town.

“Presidents Tinubu and Ramaphosa will engage in substantive talks on a wide range of issues of mutual interest, including bilateral, regional, and international matters.

“Building on the commitments from their June 20, 2024, meeting in Johannesburg shortly after President Ramaphosa’s inauguration for a second term in office, the two leaders will review the progress achieved since the 10th session of the BNC held in Abuja from November 29 to December 1, 2021.

“The 11th session of the BNC will feature deliberations across eight working groups, each focusing on a specific area of mutual interest.

“These include political consultations, consular and migration, banking and finance, defence and security, manufacturing, social sector, mines and energy, and trade and investments.

“At the high-level meeting, officials of both countries will sign several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements.

“The Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission was established in 1999 to further strengthen the ties of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

“The first session at the Heads of State level was held in October 2019 in Pretoria.

“The BNC provides a platform for sustaining high-level dialogue and promoting cooperation in critical areas such as diplomacy, economy, trade, security, and other areas of mutual interest.

“This year’s meeting is particularly significant as it coincides with the 25th anniversary of the commission, a testament to the enduring friendship and cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa.

“President Tinubu will be accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising state governors, ministers, and senior government officials.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, has said the Federal Government will today roll out a malaria vaccine initiative to combat the disease in states with its high prevalence.

The minister restated the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR), an emerging global health threat.

Pate said this in a video media briefing uploaded on the ministry’s X (formerly Twitter).

The minister emphasised the pressing need for the intervention, considering that Nigeria accounts for 27 per cent of global malaria cases and 31 per cent of malaria-related deaths.

He said: “This week marks another important step forward for our country as Nigeria, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, begins to roll out the malaria vaccines, starting with all local governments in Bayelsa and Kebbi states. Our determination to end malaria is not predicated on the mobilisation of this important vaccine alone.

“We are aligning all levels of government to adopt preventative measures to safeguard lives and ensure treatment is available for those who need it.” Pate highlighted key initiatives aimed at tackling malaria, including collaboration with the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) and the establishment of the Advisory Group on Malaria Elimination in Nigeria (AMEN).

“Earlier this year, we identified strategic actions to combat malaria and accelerate its elimination, including the development of a costed plan that explicitly details trade-offs,” he said.

The minister explained that the reforms are meant to improve malaria case management and ensure the affordability and availability of treatments through partnerships with global initiatives, like the Affordable Medicines for Malaria venture.

“In addition, we are retraining Nigeria’s frontline health workforce to enhance testing, treatment, and community awareness,” he said.

Pate lauded the support of development partners, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Global Fund, and the Gavi Alliance.

The minister recalled that AMEN recently held its inaugural meeting in Abuja, chaired by Emeritus Professor Rosa Leki.

He described AMR as a significant threat to global health security, adding: “AMR occurs when microorganisms evolve and become resistant to antimicrobial medicines, posing a serious challenge to life-saving treatments.”

In a testament to Nigeria’s progress, the minister also announced that the country had been selected to host the fifth Global High-Level Ministerial meeting on AMR in 2026.

“Nigeria will welcome member-states as the host nation of this biannual meeting, taking a global leadership role in advancing the One Health approach to AMR prevention and research.

“The real work now begins. With the commitment of all stakeholders, I am confident that under the bold leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we will make significant strides in building a healthier, safer Nigeria that plays its part in African and global health security,” he said.

The Lagos State government has announced traffic diversion on Marina bridge for repair work from December 4, 2024, to February 25, 2025.

The Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, said this in a statement on Sunday in Lagos.

Mr Osiyemi urged motorists to use alternative routes during the repair works.

“Motorists from Apapa inward Lagos Island are advised to go through Costain roundabout to link Eko Bridge and connect Lagos Island for their desired destinations.

“Alternatively, from Apapa, motorists may link Ijora 7up through Marina Bridge to access the ramp to connect Ijora Causeway Access Road through Ijora Oloye to Ijora Causeway to link Eko Bridge and connect Lagos Island for their desired destinations.

“Motorists from Apapa, inward Ijora Causeway/Iddo, inward Ijora Causeway/Iddo are advised to link Costain Roundabout to Eko Bridge and connect Ijora Causeway to access the ramp through the U-turn to link Iddo for their desired destinations.

“Alternatively, from Apapa, motorists can also link Ijora 7up through Marina Bridge to access the ramp to link Ijora Causeway Access Road through Ijora Oloye to connect Ijora Causeway to Iddo for their desired destinations,” he said.

He said that for this period, motorists on the other side from the Costain roundabout would have to navigate through traffic inbound Apapa.

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, in a major cabinet reshuffle, has sacked the pioneer Commissioner for Internal Security, Samuel Aruwan.

This was contained in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Ibrahim Musa, on Saturday in Kaduna.

DAILY POST reports that the immediate past governor of the state, Nasir El-Rufai, appointed Aruwan in 2019 as the first Commissioner for Internal Security when the ministry was created.

Before his deployment to the security ministry, Aruwan was the Senior Special Assistant to the governor on media from 2015 to 2019.

Earlier in October, the Code of Conduct Tribunal, CCT, asked the state government to suspend Aruwan and three others for alleged breach of trust.

According to PR Nigeria, on November 8, Mr. Aruwan’s trial involved six charges centred on alleged false asset declaration involving omission and refusal to declare his accounts with certain Nigerian banks prior to his deployment to the security ministry.

In his place was appointed James Atung Kanyip as the new Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs.

Other commissioners appointed by the governor are Ibrahim Mohammed as the new Commissioner for Finance; Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed as Commissioner for Finance; Barde Yunana Markus as Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs; Farida Abubakar Ahmed as Executive Director (Radio), Kaduna State Media Corporation (KSMC); and Vitus Azuka Ewuzie as Senior Special Assistant, Legal Matters.

Others are Francis Damina as Senior Special Assistant, Research and Documentation; Victor Mathew Bobai as Senior Special Assistant, Public Affairs; Abdulmutallib Isah as Senior Special Assistant, Special Duties; and Abdulhaleem Ishaq Ringim as Special Assistant, Economic Matters.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has paid a working visit to the Lagos Central Food Security Systems and Logistics Hub at Ketu-Ereyun, Epe axis of the State.

The hub which is still under construction is said to be the largest of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Sanwo-Olu’s visit was disclosed via a post he shared on his X handle on Saturday, November 30.

The post reads: “Today, I paid a working visit to the ongoing Lagos Central Food Security Systems and Logistics Hub at Ketu-Ereyun, Epe, Lagos.

“This hub will be the largest of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa, aimed at regulating food production, providing massive storage, ensuring food preservation, controlling food prices, and so much more.”

An Israeli air strike in southern Gaza has reportedly killed five people, including members of the humanitarian organization World Central Kitchen, WCK.

The Israel Defense Forces, IDF, stated that the attack targeted an individual allegedly involved in the October 7 attacks on Israel.

The incident occurred in the city of Khan Younis, where a white vehicle carrying WCK staff was struck.

Images from the scene show the car partially burned-out with its roof caved in and windows shattered.

Inside a nearby mortuary, charred belongings, including a laptop, clothing, and an ID badge bearing the WCK logo, were displayed.

The Palestinian news agency, Wafa, identified the five killed as Palestinians, three of whom were WCK employees, including the charity’s Gaza kitchen director.

However, IDF claimed the strike targeted a “terrorist” linked to the October 7 attack on Nir Oz kibbutz but acknowledged no direct evidence tying him to a specific abduction attempt.

IDF described the vehicle as “unmarked” and not involved in transporting humanitarian aid. It has called for an investigation by WCK and international organizations into the hiring of workers allegedly connected to terrorist activities.

World Central Kitchen expressed profound sorrow, confirming its staff’s deaths and announcing a pause in its Gaza operations.

“At this time, we are working with incomplete information and urgently seeking details,” the organization said, adding it had “no knowledge” of any staff’s ties to the October 7 attacks.

This marks the second fatal incident involving WCK workers this year.

In April, seven WCK staff were killed in an Israeli strike on an aid convoy, leading to widespread criticism and subsequent IDF accountability measures.

The Sokoto State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has suspended its planned strike over the implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage.

The state NLC chairman, Comrade Abdullahi Aliyu Jungle, disclosed this during a press briefing over the weekend.

He revealed that the new wage, set to take effect in January 2024, will benefit genuine council workers and teachers across the state.

Speaking after a meeting with the union’s executives at the NLC Secretariat in Sokoto, Jungle expressed the branch’s support for the agreement reached with the state government.

He emphasized that the implementation of the minimum wage aligns with the broader goal of fostering development in the state.

“The state branch of the NLC support the implementation of N70,000 announced by the state government effective January 2025.

“We will also assist the state government in the process of implementing the minimum wage even it means conducting screening and verification to ensure only genuinely employed workers benefit from the new minimum wage of N70, 000 “, Aliyu Jungle stressed.

The Chairman further urged workers in the state to exercise patience while expressing confidence in the state government commitment to unveiling more beneficial welfare packages for its workforce .

“We are optimistic that more other welfare packages are coming to workers in the state”, he added.

It will be recalled that governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto had at the presentation of the state proposed budget for the 2025 fiscal year to the state Assembly, announced January 2025 as the effective date for the implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage for workers in the state.

In a gesture of goodwill and support, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulated Alhassan Yahaya on his election as the President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Yahaya emerged victorious during the 8th Triennial National Delegates Conference held in Owerri on November 27, 2024.

In a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President also commended the Union for conducting a peaceful and orderly election, which saw Yahaya assume leadership alongside other newly elected executives.

In his message, President Tinubu described Yahaya’s overwhelming victory as a reflection of the confidence NUJ members have in his leadership abilities.

Highlighting Yahaya’s extensive experience, particularly his tenure as Deputy President of the NUJ, the President expressed optimism about the positive impact the new leadership would have on the nation’s media landscape.

President Tinubu underscored the vital role of the press in national development, urging the NUJ to approach its constitutional responsibilities with a renewed sense of patriotism.

He called on the new leadership to prioritize addressing malpractices in the industry while upholding the ethics and principles that define responsible journalism.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to a free and independent media, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and the press in fostering democracy and achieving social equity.

The President expressed hope that Yahaya’s tenure would mark a period of ethical growth and constructive engagement within the media sector, ultimately strengthening its role as the Fourth Estate of the Realm.

Concluding his message, President Tinubu wished Yahaya and his team success in their mission to advance journalism and contribute to building a just and equitable society.

Former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, has announced his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing a shift towards nonpartisan endeavors.

His decision was detailed in a letter dated Friday, November 29, and addressed to the PDP Ward Chairman in Obosi, Anambra State.

In his resignation letter, Chidoka reflected on his journey within the PDP, highlighting his role as a founding member and his contributions to shaping the party’s ideological and strategic direction.

He expressed gratitude for the opportunities to serve as the Federal Road Safety Corps Marshal and as a senior cabinet minister, roles through which he contributed to national development.

However, Chidoka stated that his current focus is on the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership, a nonpartisan think tank committed to evidence-based policy recommendations.

He explained that the Centre’s mission necessitates a neutral stance, prompting his decision to step away from partisan politics.

Chidoka reiterated his commitment to good governance, national unity, and evidence-driven public service while leaving the PDP with respect and gratitude.

Recall that Chidoka recently criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over alleged irregularities in the conduct of the Edo election.

Speaking on “Politics Today” on Channels Television, he described the election process as a “sham,” accusing INEC of inflating voter numbers and tampering with results in favour of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to Chidoka, accredited voter numbers were artificially increased, while PDP votes were reduced during collation, alleging that APC votes were illegally augmented.

He claimed that the true results indicated the PDP candidate, Barrister Asue Ighodalo, as the rightful winner.

A herbalist identified as Ismail Usman has sustained a life-threatening injury while testing a self-made ‘bulletproof’ charm.

The incident occurred at the
Kuchibuyi village in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja on November 23.

Usman was said to have picked a locally fabricated gun after he had fortified himself with the charm he had prepared and shot himself in the stomach.

Unfortunately, the charm failed to protect him, leaving him severely injured.

Confirming this in a statement on Saturday, the FCT police command spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, said the police received a distress call from a resident on the incident.

She said officers from the Byazhin Division arrived at the scene and rushed Usman to Kubwa General Hospital.

Adeh added that due to the severity of his injuries, he was later transferred to Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital, where doctors are working tirelessly to save his life.

She said, “A distress call from Shandam Michael reported a shocking event involving Ismail Usman, a local herbalist known for his unconventional methods. In a misguided attempt to test the effectiveness of a self-made ‘bulletproof’ charm, Usman shot himself in the stomach with a shotgun.

“Unfortunately, the charm failed to protect him, resulting in life-threatening injuries. Officers from the Byazhin Division responded swiftly, arriving at the scene to find Usman in critical condition. He was quickly transported to Kubwa General Hospital for emergency treatment and later transferred to Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital for further care.

“In the aftermath, police conducted a thorough search of Usman’s home, recovering the homemade gun and an array of charms used in his reckless experiment. ”

Adeh said Usman would face charges for unlawful possession of firearms and attempted suicide, which violates Section 231 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria.

She said, “Investigations are ongoing, and Usman is expected to face charges for unlawful possession of firearms and attempted suicide under Section 231 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria.

“Commissioner of Police FCT, CP Olatunji Disu, condemned the incident, highlighting the dangers associated with illegal firearms.”