National

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

The Federal Ministry of Education has announced the full digitisation of the authentication and evaluation of academic credentials, marking a major shift toward automated public service delivery.

In a press release dated April 15, 2026, the Ministry said the new system is part of ongoing efforts to improve transparency, strengthen data management, and enhance efficiency in the education sector.

Under the new arrangement, all applications for credential authentication and evaluation will be processed exclusively online through the Ministry’s official verification portal. Applicants are required to register, upload necessary documents, and follow the outlined procedures digitally.

The Ministry also directed applicants to request their awarding institutions to send academic transcripts directly from official email addresses to the designated verification channel for processing.

It emphasized that physical visits to its offices for credential verification are no longer necessary, as the entire process has been automated.

According to the statement, the transition is expected to reduce processing time, simplify procedures, and improve the credibility of academic credential verification in Nigeria.

The statement was signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations.

By Muhammad Abubakar

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has distanced itself from an incident involving the alleged discrimination against a hijab-wearing candidate at the Esther Oshikoya CBT Centre in Ibadan.

In a statement shared on his verified social media account, JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, Fabian Benjamin, said the Board became aware of the incident during its routine monitoring of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) screening process on Thursday.

According to him, the situation occurred during the first session of the examination day and was traced to an “overzealous” ad hoc staff member who acted in violation of established guidelines. He stressed that the action was neither authorised by JAMB nor part of the official procedures at the centre.

Benjamin noted that the Board immediately intervened, directing that no candidate wearing a hijab should be asked to remove or alter it under any circumstances. He added that the staff member involved had been cautioned accordingly.

“JAMB respects the religious beliefs and customs of all Nigerians,” he said, assuring candidates that their rights to religious expression, including mode of dressing, remain protected.

The Board further disclosed that all ad hoc personnel across examination centres have been re-briefed on proper screening procedures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Nigeria’s military has suffered another devastating loss after a senior army officer was killed in a coordinated attack by Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State.

Colonel I.A. Mohammed, Commander of the 242 Battalion, died when his convoy was ambushed by fighters in the Moguno area, near the town of Boron. According to military sources, the troops were reinforcing a military camp under attack when their formation was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED), followed by heavy gunfire from insurgents hidden along the route.

Several other soldiers also lost their lives in the attack. Casualty figures have not been officially released, but a military source confirmed that the death toll includes the commanding officer and other ranks.

Colonel Mohammed’s death marks the fifth loss of a top-ranking military officer in Nigeria in 2026 alone — all within the first four months of the year. The repeated targeting of senior commanders has raised urgent questions about operational security and the resilience of the military’s command structure in the northeast counterinsurgency campaign.

As of press time, the Nigerian Army has not issued an official statement, but an internal security briefing described the incident as a “well-planned ambush with high-grade explosives.”

The insurgency in Borno, which has persisted for over a decade, continues to exact a heavy toll on both combatants and civilians, despite repeated government claims that Boko Haram has been largely defeated.

By Muhammad Abubakar

The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) on Monday disowned viral social media reports alleging that it had directed Muslims to embark on prayers for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing the claims as false and provocative.

In a strongly worded press statement, the Council said the reports, traced to anonymous and unofficial online platforms, were “misleading and unsubstantiated,” warning that they could incite tension and draw the organisation into partisan politics.

“At no time did the Council issue any such directive or threat regarding the conduct of elections,” the statement said.

Reaffirming its non-partisan stance, the SCSN said it remains committed to justice, equity, and peaceful coexistence and will not be used for political manipulation.

However, the Council restated its earlier position that the INEC Chairman should either resign or be removed from office, citing concerns over what it described as prejudicial dispositions against Islam and Muslims. It maintained that its stance was rooted in the need for neutrality and integrity in public office.

The Council urged the public and the media to disregard unofficial statements and rely only on its authorised communication channels.

The statement was signed by the Secretary General, Malam Nafi’u Baba-Ahmad, and issued on April 13, 2026.

The academic and Islamic communities in Nigeria are celebrating a significant milestone as Dr. Bashir Aliyu Umar has been officially elevated to the rank of Full Professor of Hadith at Bayero University, Kano (BUK).

The promotion, recently ratified by the University Council, recognizes decades of rigorous scholarship, prolific research, and a profound commitment to the preservation and teaching of Prophetic traditions.

Professor Umar, a globally respected authority in Islamic jurisprudence and Hadith sciences, currently serves as the President of the Supreme Shari’ah Council of Nigeria (SSCN) and the Chief Imam of the landmark Al-Furqan Mosque in Kano.

Professor Umar, a scholar-statesman whose elevation to Full Professor of Hadith at Bayero University Kano marks a pinnacle of academic excellence in the service of faith and society.

Professor Bashir’s journey to the peak of the ivory tower is viewed by many as a natural progression of a career spent bridging the gap between classical Islamic scholarship and modern academic rigour.

At BUK, he has been a pillar of the Department of Islamic Studies and Shari’ah, mentoring hundreds of postgraduate students and producing seminal works that analyze the authenticity and application of Hadith in contemporary life.

As the President of the Supreme Shari’ah Council, he has been a vocal advocate for justice, social reform, and the peaceful coexistence of Nigeria’s diverse religious groups.

Through his sermons at Al-Furqan Mosque, he has translated complex theological concepts into actionable guidance for the people, focusing on ethics, family values, and civic responsibility.

The rank of Full Professor is the highest academic honor bestowed by a university, requiring a “contribution to knowledge” that is recognized internationally. In the field of Hadith studies, this involves not just memorization, but the critical analysis of chains of narration (Isnad) and the contextual application of the text (Matn).

Colleagues at Bayero University describe the promotion as timely, citing his influence on the national curriculum for Islamic studies and his role in various international Fatwa committees.

The elevation of its leader is expected to bolster the intellectual weight of the Supreme Shari’ah Council of Nigeria. By rooting the Council’s advocacy in the highest levels of academic discipline, Professor Umar provides a robust framework for Shari’ah-based solutions to Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.

At Al-Furqan Mosque, congregants expressed joy at the news, noting that their Imam’s new title is a testament to the quality of “the University and the Pulpit” which the Sheikh has led for years.

Millions of Muslim faithfuls and even some non-Muslims are benefitting from the sermons, lessons and peace advocacy, especially on social justice as it relates to the vulnerable societies in Nigeria and beyond. His intellectual discourses were mainly on Islam, jurispuridence, peace, banking and finance as well as social justice.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a warning to Nigerians over a fraudulent social media account that is allegedly offering vehicles for auction.

In a statement released by the Service, it revealed that the attention of the agency had been drawn to the fake account, which is circulating online and misleading people with false claims of car sales.

The NCS dismissed the claims, stressing that it has no connection to the said account or the supposed auctions. It also clarified that the officer whose photograph appears on the platform is not involved in any vehicle sales on social media.

According to the Service, the account is a case of impersonation designed to deceive and defraud unsuspecting members of the public.

“The attention of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has been drawn to a fraudulent social media account currently circulating online, falsely conducting vehicle auctions.”

“The NCS wishes to state clearly that this claim is false and did not originate from the Service. The officer whose image is being used is not involved in any car sales on social media, and the account is an act of impersonation intended to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.”

The agency urged Nigerians to ignore such messages. It also advised the public not to send money to individuals behind the scheme and to report the account to relevant authorities for necessary action.

“Members of the public are strongly advised to disregard such messages, refrain from making any payments, and report the account for further action.”

The NCS further encouraged citizens to rely on its verified platforms for accurate information and updates.

“For reliable and factual information about NCS, please follow us on updates published through our official communication channels: Facebook: Nigeria Customs Service Instagram: @customsng TikTok: @customsng Threads: @customsng X: @customsng Website: www.customs.gov.ng”

By Uzair Adam

The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has condemned the killing of residents in Angwan Rukuba area of Jos, Plateau State, describing the incident as tragic and unacceptable.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the council’s Secretary General, Nafiu Baba Ahmad, expressed outrage over the attack and urged authorities to go beyond routine condemnations by taking concrete steps to end the violence.

The council said the recurring cycle of attacks followed by official statements of condemnation has become inadequate, stressing that safeguarding the lives and property of citizens remains the primary responsibility of government at all levels.

SCSN also noted that Islam places great value on the sanctity of human life irrespective of religious or ethnic identity, warning that the unlawful killing of any individual is a grave offence both morally and spiritually.

The council described the Angwan Rukuba attack as a likely premeditated and coordinated act aimed at provoking wider religious and communal tensions in an already fragile environment.

It also raised concerns about the possible involvement of well-funded groups, including foreign elements, in fueling violence through the proliferation of arms and support for violent networks.

According to the council, such actors exploit Nigeria’s socio-religious differences to weaken national unity and sustain instability for ulterior motives.

The council therefore called on the government to identify and decisively deal with both external sponsors and local collaborators through intelligence-driven operations and regional cooperation.

SCSN also expressed concern over the worsening security situation in parts of northern Nigeria, particularly in the North-East and North-West, where communities continue to face insurgency, banditry and mass killings.

It paid tribute to security personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty, noting that their sacrifices should not be in vain.

The council extended condolences to the government and people of Plateau State, as well as the families of the victims, praying that they find strength and comfort in their time of grief.

It also urged religious leaders across all faiths to promote peace, restraint and mutual understanding among their followers, while encouraging citizens to speak out against individuals or groups that incite violence.

The council further called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident, stressing that security agencies must act professionally to ensure justice is served.

SCSN urged Nigerians to remain law-abiding, vigilant and united against forces seeking to divide the country, warning that the nation cannot continue on the current path of violence.

“The time for decisive action is now,” the statement said.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed support for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its decision to withdraw recognition from the rival factions of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

INEC had earlier stated that it would no longer recognise or relate with the two opposing groups within the ADC led by former Senate President David Mark and Nafiu Bala Gombe. The commission explained that its action followed a review of a recent Court of Appeal judgment. It added that it would maintain the status quo until the Federal High Court gives a final ruling on the matter.

As part of the decision, INEC also removed the names of executives loyal to Mark from its official portal. The move sparked criticism from members of that faction.

Reacting to the development, APC spokesperson Felix Morka said the crisis within the ADC was caused by the party’s internal actions. He dismissed claims that the ruling party played any role in the situation.

“INEC decision to de-recognise the David Mark executive was utterly self-inflicted. APC didn’t do that. You orchestrate the hijack of the ADC by that executive. We didn’t. They did,” Morka said.

He also accused the Mark-led group of failing to follow due process in taking control of the party.

“You come in with your parachutes; you take over the party without reference to the constitutional stipulation about succession and how leadership is ordered in that party. This is the consequence,” he added.

However, the ADC faction loyal to Mark has rejected INEC’s stance. The group alleged that the electoral body acted under external influence in taking the decision.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Germany has declined the nomination of former minister Femi Fani-Kayode as Nigeria’s ambassador, citing concerns over his past remarks and conduct, according to an exclusive report.

Recall that President Bola Tinubu had approved Mr Fani-Kayode’s appointment on March 6, assigning him to a Central European country as ambassador-designate. However, the German authorities rejected the nomination a week later, on March 13, 2026.

Officials in Germany based their decision on what they described as “erratic behaviour, controversial past statements, particularly his divisive ethnocentric, tribalistic, and religious fundamentalist comments in Nigeria”, which they said were “destabilising”.

The development followed a recent incident in Abuja where Mr Fani-Kayode reportedly clashed with the United Kingdom’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery. The disagreement occurred during a Ramadan dinner hosted by Senator Bashir Lado, the president’s special adviser on Senate matters.

Efforts to obtain Mr Fani-Kayode’s response were unsuccessful as of Sunday.

A senior government official, however, indicated that the former minister might be reassigned to South Africa in a similar diplomatic role.

Mr Fani-Kayode remains one of the high-profile figures nominated by President Tinubu for ambassadorial positions. He has, over the years, attracted attention for controversial public statements and social media posts.

In August 2020, he faced criticism after verbally attacking a journalist who questioned the source of funding for his nationwide tour. At a press briefing in Calabar, the reporter had asked, “Who is bankrolling you?” Mr Fani-Kayode responded by calling the journalist “stupid” and described the question as “insulting”. He later issued an apology following widespread backlash.

He was also involved in a public dispute with his estranged wife, Precious Chikwendu, over child custody.

In addition, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission had filed charges against him, including fraud, money laundering, and forgery spanning nearly two decades. However, between 2024 and 2025, courts dismissed the cases. The rulings cited the prosecution’s inability to establish a link between Mr Fani-Kayode and the alleged offences, which included claims of fraudulent receipt of N4.9 billion, laundering of N200 million and later N8 billion, as well as forgery of medical documents.

By Uzair Adam

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has congratulated residents of the state on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

This was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

Governor Yusuf described Eid-el-Fitr as a period for gratitude, reflection and renewed commitment to the values of faith, unity and compassion demonstrated throughout Ramadan.

He urged residents to celebrate the Sallah festivities peacefully and responsibly, cautioning against any actions that could disrupt the peace and stability of the state.

The governor stressed the need to sustain tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence among the people, regardless of their differences.

He also called on parents and guardians to guide their children to be law-abiding and to conduct themselves properly during the celebrations.

Governor Yusuf further encouraged residents to show kindness and support to the less privileged, in line with Islamic teachings, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

He also assured that adequate security arrangements have been put in place to ensure a hitch-free celebration across Kano State.