FG Approves N50,000 Uniform Fee for WAEC, NECO Exams
By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
The Federal Government has approved a new uniform registration fee of Fifty Thousand Naira (N50,000) for the Senior School Certificate Examinations (SSCE) conducted by both the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO).
The approval was conveyed in a letter dated March 31, 2026, from the Office of the Director of Senior Secondary Education at the Federal Ministry of Education, addressed to the National Examinations Council.
According to the letter signed by Mr. Adeniji Ibrahim, Director of Senior Secondary Education, the decision followed a meeting of Examination Bodies held with the Honourable Minister of Education, where the need for an upward review of examination fees was extensively discussed.
During that meeting, the Minister directed that both WAEC and NECO should adopt a uniform fee structure for the conduct of their SSCE examinations. The newly approved fee of N50,000 applies to both examination bodies.
The directive, which takes immediate effect, mandates that all relevant stakeholders be informed of the new fee regime. The letter concluded with warm regards from the Honourable Minister to all parties concerned.
This development comes amid growing concerns over the rising cost of education in Nigeria, with stakeholders expected to weigh in on the implications of the new fee structure for students and parents nationwide.
Sadio Mane Retires from International Football After Senegal’s World Cup Exit
By Muhammad Abubakar
Senegal captain Sadio Mane has announced his retirement from international football following his country’s dramatic 3-2 extra-time defeat to Belgium in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 34-year-old ends a remarkable 14-year international career with 132 appearances and 55 goals for the Lions of Teranga. Widely regarded as one of Senegal’s greatest footballers, Mane played a key role in transforming the national team into one of Africa’s strongest sides.
His greatest achievement came when he inspired Senegal to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title, cementing his place in the country’s football history. Throughout his international career, Mane was known for his leadership, consistency, and match-winning performances.
His retirement marks the end of an era for Senegal, with fans paying tribute to a player whose contributions helped elevate the nation’s status on the world stage.
Makinde Thanks Tinubu, Security Agencies Over Rescue of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers
By Sabiu Abdullahi
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and security agencies following the rescue of schoolchildren and teachers who were abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The victims regained their freedom on Friday after spending 56 days in captivity. Security operatives from the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police carried out the rescue operation.
Speaking during a telephone interview with Channels Television shortly after the victims were freed, Makinde described the development as a great relief for the state.
He said, “It is such a big relief for all of us. Just right now, I am overjoyed and can hardly say much.
“I use this opportunity to say a big thank you to all the service commands, the police, DSS, military and, of course, the president for pushing for their release.”
The abduction occurred on May 15 when armed men attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, Esiele, and LA Primary School in Ogbomoso, all located in Oriire Local Government Area.
The incident forced the Oyo State Government to close schools in four local government areas as security agencies intensified efforts to secure the victims’ release. The kidnapping also sparked protests in different parts of the country, where citizens demanded the safe return of the pupils and teachers.
Three days after the attack, Makinde disclosed that one of the abducted teachers had been killed while in captivity.
President Tinubu also welcomed the successful rescue and praised the military, the DSS, and the police for their efforts. He said the operation brought an end to more than 50 days of uncertainty for the victims and their families. He also commended the security agencies for rescuing the victims without collateral damage.
The president further praised the Oyo State Government for its cooperation with the Federal Government throughout the operation. He directed emergency response agencies to work with the state government to provide medical treatment and other forms of assistance to the rescued pupils and teachers.
Tinubu also pledged that his administration would ensure justice for the victims and for the family of the teacher, Oyedokun, who lost his life during the abduction.
Makinde Thanks Tinubu, Security Agencies Over Rescue of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers
By Sabiu Abdullahi
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and security agencies following the rescue of schoolchildren and teachers who were abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The victims regained their freedom on Friday after spending 56 days in captivity. Security operatives from the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police carried out the rescue operation.
Speaking during a telephone interview with Channels Television shortly after the victims were freed, Makinde described the development as a great relief for the state.
He said, “It is such a big relief for all of us. Just right now, I am overjoyed and can hardly say much.
“I use this opportunity to say a big thank you to all the service commands, the police, DSS, military and, of course, the president for pushing for their release.”
The abduction occurred on May 15 when armed men attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, Esiele, and LA Primary School in Ogbomoso, all located in Oriire Local Government Area.
The incident forced the Oyo State Government to close schools in four local government areas as security agencies intensified efforts to secure the victims’ release. The kidnapping also sparked protests in different parts of the country, where citizens demanded the safe return of the pupils and teachers.
Three days after the attack, Makinde disclosed that one of the abducted teachers had been killed while in captivity.
President Tinubu also welcomed the successful rescue and praised the military, the DSS, and the police for their efforts. He said the operation brought an end to more than 50 days of uncertainty for the victims and their families. He also commended the security agencies for rescuing the victims without collateral damage.
The president further praised the Oyo State Government for its cooperation with the Federal Government throughout the operation. He directed emergency response agencies to work with the state government to provide medical treatment and other forms of assistance to the rescued pupils and teachers.
Tinubu also pledged that his administration would ensure justice for the victims and for the family of the teacher, Oyedokun, who lost his life during the abduction.
Zamfara Begins Distribution of 72,000 Bags of Fertiliser to Farmers
By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Zamfara State Government has launched the distribution of 72,000 bags of fertiliser and other agricultural inputs to farmers across the state to support food production during the 2026 wet farming season.
The distribution exercise was inaugurated by Governor Dauda Lawal on Friday at the Trade Fair Complex in Gusau, the state capital.
The governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, said the programme involves the distribution of more than 120 truckloads of fertiliser and other farming materials.
According to him, the intervention includes 72,000 bags of fertiliser, 200,000 litres of herbicides, 100 crop residue crushers, 100 grass choppers, and 100 feed milling machines. The government also distributed improved pasture seeds, 20 motorcycles, and 20 mobile phones to agricultural extension workers.
Speaking at the event, Lawal described agriculture as the foundation of Zamfara’s economy. He also reaffirmed his administration’s determination to strengthen the sector.
He said, “Today’s event marks another significant milestone in our commitment to revitalising agriculture, strengthening food security, creating sustainable livelihoods, supporting our farmers, and repositioning Zamfara State as a major contributor to Nigeria’s agricultural economy.”
The governor noted that Zamfara has extensive arable land and a large population that depends on farming, livestock production, and trade for their livelihoods.
He said his administration is working to move the state’s agricultural sector beyond subsistence farming through the adoption of technology and improved market access.
Lawal said, “Our goal is to restore and expand Zamfara’s farming legacy by shifting from subsistence to productive, tech-driven, market-orientated agriculture.
“We aim to unlock farmers’ potential through improved inputs, mechanisation, irrigation, extension services, climate-smart methods, and market linkages. This will make Zamfara a leading Nigerian agricultural hub.”
The governor also stated that improved security in parts of the state has enabled many farming communities to return to their fields. He added that the government will continue to provide the support and infrastructure required to sustain agricultural activities.
Lawal further said the state has strengthened collaboration with the Federal Government, development partners, and international organisations through programmes such as FADAMA III, NG-CARES, SPIN, ZACADEP, the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) programme, and projects supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
According to him, these initiatives have provided thousands of farmers with improved seeds, fertilisers, agrochemicals, irrigation facilities, farm equipment, and modern agricultural practices.
He added that the fertilisers and other farming inputs will be shared across Zamfara’s 147 political wards in its 14 local government areas. Each ward will receive 340 bags of fertiliser, while every local government area will receive 8,000 litres of herbicides.
Aisha Yesufu Challenges FG to Release CCTV Footage of Oyo School Kidnappers
By Sabiu Abdullahi
Human rights activist Aisha Yesufu has called on Nigerian authorities to release CCTV footage that could identify those responsible for the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State.
Yesufu made the demand in a post on her verified X account on Saturday. Her comments came after the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, criticised the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, over an alleged violation of parking regulations at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
Keyamo had asked Obi to apologise to airport authorities and pay a ₦25,000 fine for the alleged breach.
The exchange followed recent remarks by Obi, who claimed in an interview that the Federal Government, led by the All Progressives Congress (APC), was targeting him. He also alleged that he has continued to face intimidation and harassment.
Reacting to the development, Yesufu questioned the government’s priorities and urged security agencies to focus on more pressing security concerns.
She wrote, “Pathetic cowards! Let them bring out the CCTV of the kidnappers that took away children in Oyo or of the ones that have been terrorising citizens.
“Majoring in the minor is all they are freaking good at.”
Journalist Zainab Sadiq Released After Public Outcry
By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
Ms. Zainab Sadiq has been released from detention following sustained public pressure and high-level legal interventions, her supporters confirmed Saturday.
The journalist’s freedom came after weeks of advocacy by Nigerian civil society organizations, legal practitioners, and international human rights groups. Key figures in the campaign included prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN; Musikilu Mojeed of the International Press Institute (IPI); Barrister Marshal D. F. Abubakar; and rights activist Adeyanju Deji.
Amnesty International Nigeria, the Takeitback Movement, and coalitions of journalists and civil society organizations also played pivotal roles in securing her release.
“This victory demonstrates the power of collective action,” said a statement from the coalition that campaigned for her freedom. “When people of conscience unite against repression, justice prevails.”
Supporters have hailed the development as a significant moment for press freedom in Nigeria. Sadiq’s case had drawn international attention to concerns over media intimidation and arbitrary detention in the country.
Further details about the terms of her release were not immediately available.
All Abducted Ogbomoso Pupils, Teachers Regain Freedom, Presidency Confirms
By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Presidency has confirmed that all the pupils and teachers abducted in Orire, Ogbomoso area of Oyo State have regained their freedom.
The announcement came on Friday through the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who disclosed that security agencies rescued the victims.
However, the Presidency did not provide details of the operation that led to their release.
“Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo have been rescued by our security agencies,” Onanuga wrote in a post on X.
The abduction had raised concerns among residents and attracted national attention. Authorities are yet to release additional information on the rescue operation or the condition of the victims.
Tinubu Retains Shettima as Running Mate for 2027 Presidential Election
By Sabiu Abdullahi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has retained Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election after submitting the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential nomination forms.
The development formally confirms that Tinubu and Shettima will once again fly the APC’s presidential ticket in the next general election.
The president’s Special Adviser on Political Affairs, Ibrahim Masari, announced the development and submitted the nomination forms on behalf of Tinubu during a brief event held at the Continental Hotel in Abuja.
The event attracted several senior figures of the ruling party, including Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma, who led APC governors to the occasion.
Members of the APC National Working Committee (NWC), the party’s caucus in the National Assembly, members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), as well as other party leaders and stakeholders, also attended the event.
Tinubu had initially nominated Masari as a placeholder running mate in June 2022 while the party concluded consultations on its vice-presidential candidate. He later selected Shettima as his substantive running mate ahead of the 2023 presidential election.
The submission of the nomination forms officially marks the beginning of Tinubu’s campaign for a second term in office on the platform of the APC, with Shettima remaining his running mate.
Nigerian Military Arrest Chadian Woman Allegedly Transporting Drugs, Alcohol to Terrorists in Borno
By Sabiu Abdullahi
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have arrested a 48-year-old Chadian woman who was allegedly transporting illicit drugs, alcoholic drinks and other prohibited items to terrorist groups operating in the Lake Chad Islands.
The arrest took place on Thursday during a search operation along the Maiduguri–Monguno road in Borno State, according to a statement issued on Friday by the Acting Military Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Mohammed Goni.
Goni said soldiers stopped a suspicious vehicle heading towards Kwatan Doron Baga in Kukawa Local Government Area, where they apprehended the suspect.
“The suspect, identified as Mrs Rachael Samuel (48), a Chadian national from Kelo in Chari-Baguirmi Province, Republic of Chad, was arrested while conveying the prohibited items,” the statement said.
He added that preliminary investigations suggested the items were meant for locations within the Lake Chad Islands, an area where terrorist groups are known to operate.
Security operatives recovered seven compressed bundles of suspected Cannabis sativa weighing about 30 kilogrammes, two 10-litre containers of hydromercuric chloride, popularly called “Suck and Die”, one carton containing 48 bottles of dry gin and 61 bottles of herbal alcoholic beverages. The military said the seized items have an estimated street value running into millions of naira.
Other items recovered include a mobile phone, two Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards, personal belongings and cash.
The military said the suspect remains in custody, while the recovered exhibits have been secured ahead of their transfer to the appropriate law enforcement agency for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Goni said the operation reflects the determination of Operation Hadin Kai to block supply routes that sustain terrorist activities. He explained that intelligence reports have consistently indicated that terrorist groups depend on illicit drugs and intoxicants to stimulate fighters, reduce fear and support violent attacks.
“By intercepting the consignment before it reached its destination, the troops have disrupted another critical aspect of the terrorists’ support network,” the statement added.
“The Theatre Command commends the vigilance and professionalism of the troops and assures the public that operations against terrorists and their collaborators will continue relentlessly.
“The public is encouraged to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies in support of ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the North East.”