National

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

President Bola Tinubu has appointed former INEC chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, as his adviser and coordinator forthe Presidential Livestock Reforms. This was announced by Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga. 

Jega was the INEC chairman from 2010 to 2015 and previously co-chaired the Presidential Livestock Committee alongside Tinubu.

In July, Tinubu established a new Ministry of Livestock Development to address the farmers-herders crisis, based on the recommendations of the National Livestock Reforms Committee. 

Jega, 68, is also a member of the International Elections Advisory Council and chairs the Governing Council of Sa’adatu Rimi University of Education in Kano State. 

Jega’s appointment aims to support ongoing livestock reforms in Nigeria.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In a decisive move, the Nigerian National Assembly (NASS) has suspended Senator Natasha for six months following recommendations from the Ethics and Public Petitions Committee.

The suspension, which takes effect from March 6, comes after the senator stood up for her rights during a Senate session.

The committee has mandated that Senator Natasha must submit a written apology before she can resume her duties.

Additionally, her office will remain locked throughout the suspension period, and she is barred from entering the NASS complex. Her salaries, allowances, and security details have also been suspended for the duration of her penalty.

Furthermore, Senator Natasha is prohibited from representing herself as a senator in both local and international media during her suspension.

This development has sparked widespread debate, with critics labeling the punishment as excessive and indicative of deeper governance issues in the nation.

As Africa’s most populous black nation, Nigeria continues to grapple with political controversies, and this incident has further fueled discussions about transparency and accountability in its leadership.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has responded to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) regarding four northern states’ decision to close schools until after Ramadan.

Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi are among the states involved. These states announced the closure of schools until the end of the Ramadan fasting period.

The Director of MURIC, Professor Ishaq Akintola, accused CAN of interfering in Muslim matters and Islam. He argued that this indicated that CAN wants to speak on behalf of both Christians and Muslims, which he believes is inappropriate.

MURIC called on CAN to focus on its own affairs and refrain from commenting on matters that are not of concern to it.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Brigadier-General Nafiu Olakunle, a distinguished artillery officer from Ileogbo in the Aiyedire Local Government Area, Osun State, has been appointed the new Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

This prestigious appointment has brought pride to the people of Ileogbo, Iwoland, and Osun State and marks a significant milestone in the nation’s progress. 

Brigadier-General Olakunle is recognized for his unwavering commitment to national service, exemplary leadership, and dedication to the country’s development.

With his appointment, many expect Brigadier-General Olakunle to drive positive changes within the NYSC and reinforce its vital role in uniting and empowering Nigeria’s youth. 

His leadership is anticipated to enhance the NYSC program’s contribution to fostering national unity and progress.

This achievement represents not only a personal triumph for Brigadier-General Olakunle but also a significant moment for the Osun State community.

By Uzair Adam

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Saturday, March 1, as the first day of Ramadan.

He made the declaration in a nationwide broadcast, stating that the Sultanate Council’s moon sighting committee had received credible reports from traditional rulers and religious leaders across the country confirming the sighting of the new crescent.

The Sultan urged Muslims to dedicate themselves to worship during the holy month and use the period to pray for Nigeria and its leaders.

He also called for peaceful coexistence among citizens and encouraged wealthy individuals to support the less privileged in observing the fast with ease.

While praying for God’s guidance and wisdom for the nation’s leaders, he emphasized the importance of unity and compassion during Ramadan.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

Former Vice President and PDP Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has voiced serious concerns over allegations of sexual harassment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. 

Atiku emphasised the need for a thorough and transparent investigation into these claims, stating, “The Nigerian Senate represents the voice of the people, and its leadership must uphold the highest standards of integrity and respect.” 

Atiku stressed that as a powerful figure, the Senate President is expected to demonstrate exemplary character.

Highlighting the detrimental impact of sexual harassment on women’s advancement, Atiku called for credible actions from Nigerian leadership to address these allegations and assure safety in governance for female legislators. 

“This matter will send a strong message about Nigeria’s commitment to justice and inclusion,” he remarked, urging for an environment where every citizen can work without fear.

The political landscape now awaits the Senate’s response as the nation watches closely for accountability and integrity in leadership.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), Prof. Salisu Shehu, has called for the assistance of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in addressing rising crime and insecurity, particularly the recurring theft incidents threatening the safety of the Council’s office.

During a visit to the Commissioner of Police (CP) of the FCT Command, Prof. Shehu emphasized the vital role the police play in ensuring the safety of NERDC’s operations, especially since the office is located on the outskirts of Abuja, making it more vulnerable to criminal activities. He appealed for enhanced security to protect lives and property at the NERDC headquarters.

“We need special attention and support to feel secure in our location,” Prof. Shehu stated, expressing concern over the vulnerability of the staff and office to security risks.

The Executive Secretary also brought up the recent case of stolen solar inverters, which is under investigation by the police. He urged that the case be thoroughly investigated and that the perpetrators be brought to justice, noting that past thefts within the Council remain unresolved. He expressed NERDC’s readiness to fully support the investigation to ensure accountability.

In response, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Criminal Investigation Department, DCP Aliyu Abubakar, welcomed the NERDC management team on behalf of CP Olatunji Disu, who was unavailable due to national duties.

He reiterated the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and the police in ensuring the security of lives and properties, and assured that the police would continue to work professionally to resolve the case and bring the culprits to justice.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

Nigeria and Saudi Arabia have signed a strategic agreement to enhance their participation in the global halal economy, valued at $7.7 trillion. The deal focuses on boosting halal trade, investment, and certification, fostering economic cooperation between the two nations.

Signed during high-level meetings, the agreement positions Nigeria as a key player in halal industries, including food, finance, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.

Saudi Arabia, a dominant force in the sector, will provide expertise and market access to support Nigeria’s expansion.

Officials believe the partnership will create jobs, enhance exports, and attract foreign investment, positioning Nigeria as a leading halal market in Africa.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) has inaugurated its Academic Planning Committee (APC) to enhance research and development within the institution.

The inauguration, which took place on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, was held at the Council’s headquarters in Sheda, Abuja.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary, Prof. Salisu Shehu, reiterated the pros of the committee.

He was quoted as stating that “the committee is a crucial committee of the Council to drive research and development activities.”

He noted that its formation would accelerate research progress and play a key role in advancing the Council’s mandate.

Prof. Shehu reminded members that NERDC serves as the think tank of Nigeria’s education sector and is expected to lead in educational innovations.

He urged also them to reposition both themselves and the Council to effectively fulfill their responsibilities, calling on the committee to develop impactful programmes and research agendas that would benefit both the Council and the country.

Expressing concern over financial constraints, the Executive Secretary stressed the importance of demonstrating expertise to attract more funding from the government and development partners.

In his closing remarks, Prof. Shehu appreciated the committee members for their commitment and urged them to stay motivated.

He advised them to contribute meaningful ideas, stating that he is open to “informed advice and quality suggestions and not gossips.”

Earlier in the meeting, Dr. Chima Egbujuo, Head of the Policy and Programmes Unit and Secretary of the Academic Planning Committee, provided an overview of the committee’s structure and responsibilities.

He explained that the APC comprises the Executive Secretary as the Chairman, alongside all Directors, Assistant Directors, and Chief Research Officers of the Council.

As an advisory body, the committee is expected to guide management on academic activities and initiatives.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders gathered at the party’s headquarters in Abuja for the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.

Armed security officers, including soldiers, in collaboration with other security agencies, barricaded all roads leading to the venue on Blantyre Street. Vehicle and pedestrian movement around the area was restricted, and journalists were denied access to the venue. 

However, APC spokesperson Felix Morka released a list of accredited journalists for the event on Wednesday morning.

Among those who arrived early for the meeting were members of the National Working Committee (NWC), state party leaders, former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari, Minister of Budget and National Planning Atiku Bagudu, and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu.

Governors from Edo, Benue, Ondo, Ekiti, Kaduna, Jigawa, Nasarawa, Yobe, Niger, Lagos, Kogi, Ogun, Imo, Deputy Governor of Ebonyi, and former governors of Kogi, Kebbi, Niger, Zamfara, and Plateau also attended.

Notable absentees at the NEC meeting included former President Muhammadu Buhari, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transport Rotimi Amaechi.

Party leader, President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas arrived at the meeting around 12 PM. The party’s national chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, presided over the meeting.

This was the first NEC meeting since Tinubu assumed office as president in May 2023, following a party high-level meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Some party stalwarts, including El-Rufai and former Deputy National Chairman of the APC Salihu Lukman, have expressed concerns about the ruling party’s lack of internal democracy.