National

By Anwar Usman

The Emir of Kano, Malam Muhammadu Sanusi II, has made it clear that he will not use his expertise to address Nigeria’s economic challenges simply because he is unwilling to assist the Tinubu administration.

As a certified economist and former CBN governor, Sanusi made this assertion while speaking at the 21st anniversary of Fawehinmiism with the 2025 Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture held today at the Lagos Airport Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos state.

He stated that “explaining the economic crisis would simply provide solutions to the lingering economic problems and pave the way for the proliferation of Nigeria’s economy.” 

While speaking, the Emir emphasised that despite being a good friend to the government, he would not offer any solutions that could help the administration achieve its goals. 

He criticised the Tinubu administration, stating they lacked credible and competent people who could explain the persistence of economic constraints on Nigerians.

He reiterated, “I’m not going to discuss any of the problems, let alone provide an insight to navigate this challenging period”.

Instead of offering solutions, Sanusi shifted the responsibility to the administration, saying, “It’s up to them to explain to Nigerians why their policies keep failing. He attributed the current economic woes to decades of unnecessary economic reforms.”

By Uzair Adam

The national electricity grid in Nigeria remains vulnerable to frequent collapses due to the government’s inability to repair a critical transmission line in the northern region, hindered by persistent insecurity.

Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, disclosed this during the 2025 budget defense session with the Senate Joint Committee on Power.

Adelabu emphasized the consequences of the damaged Shiroro-Kaduna-Mando transmission line, which has been out of service since it was vandalized in October 2024.

“The Kaduna-Shiroro-Mando line was one of two major lines transmitting power to the north. The other line, Ugwuaji-Makurdi, was also vandalized but has since been repaired.

“However, the Shiroro-Mando-Kaduna line remains down due to security challenges,” Adelabu stated.

He highlighted that the reliance on a single transmission line has left the grid fragile and prone to collapse under strain.

Adelabu further noted that while the government cannot entirely prevent grid collapses, efforts are focused on minimizing their frequency and ensuring rapid restoration.

He acknowledged the collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), led by Nuhu Ribadu, as crucial in combating vandalism, one of the sector’s most significant challenges.

The minister announced a proposed N2 trillion budget for the ministry and its agencies in 2025, with N229 billion allocated to the ministry itself.

He also unveiled a N700 billion allocation for the Power Metering Initiative (PMI), targeting the reduction of the metering gap by next month to enhance billing transparency and curb fraud.

“We are committed to reducing the restoration time after full or partial grid collapses and are working closely with security agencies to address the underlying issues,” Adelabu said.

In addition, the ministry plans to invest N36 billion in distributing transformers across the six geopolitical zones and has proposed the installation of solar lights and CCTV cameras on highways to monitor and deter vandals.

The security-focused proposal falls under a N200 billion sub-head in the 2025 budget.

The minister reaffirmed the government’s determination to secure critical infrastructure and improve power supply across the country.

By Anwar Usman

The Nigerian Immigration Service, Sokoto State Command, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening border security as part of its efforts to tackle the security problems posed by the emergence of the Lakurawa sect.

On Monday in Sokoto, the state Comptroller of the NIS, Mr Yusuf Bage, announced this during a courtesy visit from the leadership of the state Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.

Bage said the security problem posed by the Lakurawa sect is a new and evolving threat, especially in the state.

According to him, the Lakurawa sect members often enter the country through illegal routes.

”However, I want to assure the public that security agencies are ahead of them, and their activities will soon be curbed.”

He explained that one of the significant constitutional mandates of the NIS was to ensure effective border management, including oversight at airports and seaports.

To achieve this mandate, the NIS ensures proper identification of foreigners entering the country and closely monitors their movements and activities within communities.

He explains that the NIS had expanded its offices across the 23 local government areas to maintain visibility in all the state’s nooks and crannies.

He also highlighted the collaboration between the NIS, the Army, and other state security agencies to ensure the safety of citizens.

The comptroller also emphasized the importance of the media in supporting security efforts and pledged a mutual relationship between the NIS and journalists in the state.

The NUJ state Chairman, Mr Usman Binji, said the visit was to formally introduce the new leadership of the state council.

Binji reiterated the role of journalists in fostering collaboration with security agencies, stressing that the visit would reinvigorate the collaboration between the NIS and the NUJ to make Sokoto State safer.

He further stated that, “Our members are fully committed to supporting the security agencies in ensuring the safety of Nigeria’s territory.”

By Uzair Adam 

The Lagos State Police Command has exposed a new kidnapping tactic referred to as “Constructive Kidnapping,” where unsuspecting women are deceived by individuals posing as online friends or lovers.  

The Daily Reality gathered that this disturbing trend has led to the rescue of 16 women across the state. 

Additionally, the command intervened in a separate incident involving a 15-year-old girl who allegedly conspired with her boyfriend to fake her own abduction to extort ransom from her parents.  

Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olawale Ishola, provided insights into these cases during a briefing on the command’s operations between September 2024 and January 2025. 

He highlighted the cunning nature of the perpetrators, who establish trust online before luring their victims to Lagos with offers of money and luxury accommodations.  

The command reiterated its commitment to combating such crimes and advised the public to exercise caution when interacting with strangers online.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu expressed his condolences to the soldiers who lost their lives in an attack on a military base in Sabon Gida, Damboa, Borno State.

Members of the ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) group launched the attack at dawn on Saturday, using heavy military vehicles and motorcycles. The attack targeted the military base in Sabon Gari, located in Damboa Local Government Area, Borno State. They set the base on fire, including military vehicles, as confirmed by several military sources who requested anonymity due to restrictions on speaking about the matter.

Fighter jets dispatched from Maiduguri, located 100 kilometres (62 miles) away, retaliated against the attackers as they tried to flee.

In a statement released by the President’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed deep sorrow for the loss of six brave soldiers who died in the terrorist attack on January 4th. The President has ordered a full investigation to determine the cause of the incident and ensure that it serves as a lesson to prevent future occurrences.

“The actions taken by the military demonstrate our strength and readiness to confront threats and eliminate them for the safety of our country. This operation highlights our commitment to fighting terrorism and banditry and working towards a peaceful and secure future for all Nigerians,” the President stated.

Tinubu further expressed his gratitude and sympathy to the soldiers and other security personnel on behalf of the grateful nation. “Your dedication and sacrifice will not be in vain. We stand with you 100% in this fight against these threats,” he affirmed.

The Chief of Army Staff also commended the military’s swift and decisive response, particularly the air support, which successfully struck many of the terrorists and destroyed their equipment as they attempted to escape.

According to Tinubu, the airstrike resulted in the killing of several terrorists and the destruction of their resources. The President urged the military to take further steps to launch direct assaults on bandits and terrorist camps.

He emphasized that special attention should be given to the North-Western region, where these criminal groups continue to pose a threat to the lives and property of innocent rural communities.

Tinubu also called on Nigerians and the media to support the military’s efforts to restore peace and security in the country.

By Ishaka Mohammed

The Daily Reality earlier reported that the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) had included 20 Nigerian words in its latest update. Below are their definitions.

1. 419 (noun): Fraud (now usually perpetrated on the internet) involving requests for advance payment in return for a substantial share of a large amount of money, which ultimately is never given. Frequently as a modifier, as in 419 emails, 419 scams, etc.

2. abi (adverb): Used as a sentence adverb: clearly, obviously; of course. Also used interrogatively, at the end of a statement, to prompt agreement, approval, or confirmation: ‘isn’t that so?’, ‘am I not correct?’, etc.

3. adire (adjective, noun): Made of a type of fabric produced mainly in south-western Nigeria, featuring patterns obtained by applying indigo or other dyes using various resist-dyeing techniques; a type of fabric produced mainly in south-western Nigeria, featuring patterns obtained by applying indigo or other dyes using various resist-dyeing techniques. Also: the method of producing this fabric.

4. agbero (noun): Originally: a person (usually a boy or young man) who works as a tout, typically at car parks and bus stops, collecting money from passengers and drivers and ushering passengers onto vehicles. Later also (now chiefly): a person (usually a boy or young man), who obtains money or wins influence by engaging in criminal activity, such as extortion, theft, and drug dealing, often as a member of a gang.

5. area boy (noun): A person (usually a boy or young man), who obtains money or influence by engaging in criminal activity, such as extortion, theft, and drug dealing, often as a member of a street gang. Also: a person (usually a boy or young man) who works as a tout or enforcer.

6. cross-carpet: (verb): Of a politician: to move from one political party to another.

7. cross-carpeting (noun): The action or practice of a politician moving from one political party to another. Also: an instance of this.

8. eba (noun): A kind of dough made with boiled cassava meal, typically shaped into balls, forming a staple food in parts of West Africa.

9. Edo (noun; adjective):  A member of a people inhabiting the ancient Benin Kingdom in present-day southern Nigeria; of or relating to the language of the Edo, a member of the Benue-Congo branch of the Niger-Congo language family; designating this language.

10. gele (noun): A West African head-tie originally worn by Yoruba women, typically consisting of a stiff piece of fabric printed with designs in bright colours, which can be tied or wrapped around the head to form various shapes.

11. jand (noun; verb): A foreign country; a country other than one’s own; to travel overseas, esp. in search of further education, employment, or economic opportunity.

12. janded (adjective): Designating a person who has travelled overseas; of, relating to, or characteristic of such a person. Also: characteristic of or coming from a country other than one’s own; foreign.

13. japa (noun; verb): The emigration of Nigerians to other countries (esp. those in Europe or North America) in search of further education, employment, or economic opportunity; to leave Nigeria for another country (esp. one in Europe or North America) in search of further education, employment, or economic opportunity. Also more generally: to escape, to flee. 

14. Kanuri (noun; adjective): A member of a group of African peoples principally inhabiting north-eastern Nigeria, with some populations in Niger, Chad, Cameroon and Sudan; of or relating to the language of the Kanuri.

15. kobo (noun): Also in extended use: a very small amount (of money); usually in negative constructions, as in not a kobo, not worth a kobo, etc.

16. Naija (adjective; noun): Of, belonging to, or relating to Nigeria or Nigerians; a native or inhabitant of Nigeria, or a person of Nigerian descent.

17. suya (noun): In Nigerian cookery: a dish consisting of thinly sliced pieces of spiced meat grilled or roasted on a skewer, usually sold by street vendors and eaten as a snack.

18. yahoo (noun): Fraud perpetrated on the internet, esp. involving requests for advance payment for services or products that are ultimately never provided. Usually reduplicated, as yahoo yahoo.

19. yahoo boy (noun): A person (esp. a man) who commits fraud on the internet.

20. yarn dust (verb): to talk nonsense.

The history, pronunciation, example sentences and other details about each word are available at https://www.oed.com.

By Uzair Adam 

The China Development Bank (CDB) has approved a €245 million ($254.76 million) loan to fund the Kano-Kaduna railway project in Nigeria.  

In a statement released on its official website on Tuesday, the bank confirmed that the financial package is intended to ensure the smooth continuation of the railway’s construction. 

The statement read, “China Development Bank has recently granted a loan of €245 million ($254.76 million) to the Kano-Kaduna railway project in Nigeria, providing financial support for the smooth progress of the project.”  

The 203-kilometre standard-gauge railway line will connect Kano, a major commercial hub in northern Nigeria, to the federal capital, Abuja. 

Once completed, the railway will enhance regional connectivity, offering residents a safer and more efficient mode of transportation.  

In addition to improving mobility, the project is expected to drive economic growth by promoting industrial development along its corridor. 

It will also generate significant employment opportunities during its construction and subsequent operations.  

The Kano-Kaduna railway is recognized as a key cooperation project under the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. Construction is being executed by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, with financing from the CDB.  

Previously, the project was slated for funding by the China Exim Bank, which later withdrew its financial commitment. The CDB subsequently stepped in as the new financier.  

The bank reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating closely with the Nigerian government to ensure timely disbursement of funds and effective management of subsequent project phases.  

“Going forward, [the CDB] will closely coordinate with Nigerian partners to ensure the smooth disbursement of subsequent loans and effective post-loan management,” the statement added.  

President Bola Tinubu had earlier assured Nigerians that the broader Ibadan-Abuja-Kaduna-Kano railway project would be completed satisfactorily. 

The Federal Government has allocated N44.4 billion this year to complete the Abuja-Kaduna Railway project, the Lagos-Ibadan railway, and other rail infrastructure initiatives.  

Meanwhile, the Foreign Minister of China, Wang Yi, is expected in Abuja on Wednesday for an official visit. 

During his stay, Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China, will engage in discussions to further strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and China.

By Ado Sunusi Sabongida

The recent appointment of Prof. Salisu Shehu as the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sparked a wave of excitement across the education sector. This significant development underscores Prof. Shehu’s unwavering dedication and substantial contributions to the advancement of education in Nigeria.

A Track Record of Excellence

Prof. Shehu’s impressive credentials speak volumes about his capabilities and commitment to educational reform. His previous role as Special Adviser on Social Reorientation Programs during the Isah Yuguda administration in Bauchi State showcased his ability to navigate complex educational landscapes effectively. Furthermore, his leadership as the National Coordinator of the International Institute of Islamic Thought (IIIT) Nigeria office and Secretary of the Nigeria Islamic Council under Sultan Abubakar Sa’ad (III) highlight his influence and dedication to promoting educational initiatives.

Visionary Leadership for a Brighter Future

As the pioneer Director of the Center for Continuing Education at Bayero University, Kano, Prof. Shehu introduced a range of innovative developments that enhanced the institution’s academic environment. His leadership style is characterized by a strong commitment to mentoring and fostering educational growth.

In his capacity as Vice Chancellor of Al-Istiqama University Sumaila, he has consistently sought to develop both academic and non-academic staff through seminars and symposia aimed at boosting their intellectual capacities.

Moreover, his recent appointment as a Shura Council member by Kano State Governor Engineer Abba Kabir Yusuf further attests to his tireless efforts in community development and his dedication to improving educational outcomes.

High Expectations as Prof. Shehu Takes Charge

With Prof. Shehu at the helm of NERDC, we can anticipate a new era marked by innovation and progress within the education sector. His extensive experience, combined with his passion for educational advancement, positions him as an ideal candidate to spearhead meaningful change. “Prof. Shehu will deliver more than expectations in the commission.”

A Bright Future Ahead for Education in Nigeria

The appointment of Prof. Salisu Shehu as Executive Secretary of NERDC is indeed a welcome development for Nigeria’s education sector. With his proven track record and steadfast commitment to educational excellence, Prof. Shehu is well-equipped to leave a lasting impact on the landscape of education in the country. As Nigeria continues its pursuit of educational advancement, Prof. Shehu’s leadership will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping a brighter future for education in Nigeria.

Sabongida writes from Kano State.

By Ishaka Mohammed

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has published its latest updates, featuring a collection of 20 words and phrases from Nigeria, Dr Kingsley Ugwuanyi, a consultant on Nigerian English for the OED, announced.

The Daily Reality can confirm that the dictionary has defined the words and phrases. However, while the majority of them (agbero, eba, japa, suya, etc.) were first published in December 2024, others (edo, kanuri, kobo, and yarn) were only updated with new meanings.

Dr Ugwuanyi, who played a significant role in the update, revealed that, in addition to drafting most of the words, he also provided their pronunciations. “When you explore the OED online and click on the pronunciations, you’ll hear my voice bringing these words to life,” he shared in a celebratory post on LinkedIn.

The newly added words reflect diverse aspects of Nigerian life, from everyday slang to cultural expressions. The list includes:

1. 419

2. abi

3. adire

4. agbero

5. area boy

6. cross-carpet

7. cross-carpeting

8. eba

9. Edo

10. gele

11. jand (noun, verb)

12. janded (adjective)

13. japa (noun, verb)

14. Kanuri

15. kobo

16. Naija

17. suya

18. yahoo

19. yahoo boy

20. yarn dust

Dr Ugwuanyi thanked Danica Salazar, the OED’s World Englishes editor, and the entire editorial team and encouraged Nigerians to share their favourite words from the list and suggest new ones for future updates.

Recall that the dictionary added 29 Nigerian words and phrases in 2020, and CNN reported that those were in addition to the at least 57 others already in the dictionary.

The Daily Reality is still compiling the definitions of the latest additions for easier access.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The leader of the Yoruba Self-Determination Group, Professor Banji Akintoye, has reiterated that the group will not back down from its pursuit of creating the Yoruba nation.

According to Akintoye, around 60 million Yoruba people, including those residing at home and abroad, support his cause for establishing the Yoruba nation as an independent country.

“We will not retreat. We must leave Nigeria, or our country will face serious problems.

“Don’t you hear our voices in the streets? The Yoruba nation is moving forward. There is no turning back.

“We are referring to the Yoruba people in Nigeria, who number about 55 to 60 million. We want to establish our own country. Nigeria will cease to exist if we establish our own nation. But if others want to continue to remain as Nigeria, that is fine,” he added.