News

By Uzair Adam 

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intensified its efforts to combat drug trafficking, intercepting various consignments of illicit drugs and arresting several suspects in multiple states.  

The agency’s spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, disclosed in a statement on Sunday in Abuja that a 42-year-old building engineer was apprehended on December 2 at Okeyson Motor Park, Enugu, while attempting to collect three pressure machines from South Africa. 

Hidden inside the machines were 7.40kg of Loud, a synthetic cannabis strain.  

The shipment had initially arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, on November 29 and was tracked by NDLEA operatives to a logistics company warehouse. 

However, the point of collection was later changed to Enugu, leading to the suspect’s arrest during a follow-up operation.  

In another operation, NDLEA operatives in Adamawa intercepted a Siena vehicle abandoned by its occupants after noticing the agency’s patrol team on Hildi-Askira Uba Road. 

The vehicle contained 511,000 tramadol pills, which were recovered early on December 6.  

Similarly, in Ekiti State, two suspects were arrested along the Ise-Emure Road while transporting 108 jumbo bags of cannabis, weighing 1,323kg, in a J5 bus. 

The suspects reportedly planned to deliver the consignment to Ondo State for distribution in the North.  

In Oyo State, operatives seized 704kg of cannabis on December 6 at Idere Road, Igboora, while in Lagos, a 65-year-old grandmother was apprehended on December 6 at Odunfa Street, Lagos Island, with 20.6 litres of codeine-based syrup. 

Another man was arrested on Ogundana Street, Ikeja, with 4.7kg of cannabis and 1.3kg of tramadol.  

The NDLEA has also sustained its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign, conducting sensitization lectures in schools, workplaces, and communities across the country. 

Among the institutions visited were Government Girls College, Maiduguri, and Progressive Secondary School, Ado Awaye.  

NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retired) commended the agency’s operatives and lauded their efforts in drug supply and demand reduction, describing their achievements as vital to the agency’s mission to safeguard public health and safety.

By Uzair Adam

Vice President Kashim Shettima has commended Bayero University, Kano (BUK), for its commitment to delivering quality education and maintaining equitable admission practices over the years.

The vice president, represented by Dr. Nurudeen Zauro, Technical Adviser to the President on Development Finance and Financial Inclusion, gave the commendation while inaugurating the BUK Class of 2004 Reunion at the university’s Main Campus on Saturday.

He praised BUK for its longstanding reputation for unbiased admission policies, emphasizing that the university has consistently offered opportunities to students regardless of religious or ethnic backgrounds.

“The contributions of Bayero University, Kano, in providing quality education for all Nigerians and its track record of equitable admission policies are truly commendable,” Shettima stated.

Highlighting some challenges faced by marginalized groups, including women, he underscored the need for innovative interventions to address systemic inequalities.

He urged participants at the reunion to leverage their expertise, networks, and resources to foster impactful solutions.

Shettima added, “With every challenge comes an opportunity. Together, as ambassadors of this institution, we can develop groundbreaking strategies and drive meaningful change. That is the essence of today’s reunion.”

The vice president reiterated the Tinubu administration’s commitment to collaboration with private sector stakeholders to achieve sustainable development.

He stressed that government efforts alone could not unlock Nigeria’s full economic potential.

“This gathering highlights the pivotal role of future leaders and partners in ensuring the successful implementation of our initiatives. Let us seize this moment to exchange ideas, design innovative strategies, and explore emerging opportunities, particularly in technology, to create lasting impacts,” he noted.

Shettima called for collective efforts to define impactful roles, establish partnerships, and implement community-driven initiatives.

He urged attendees to support the administration’s vision and transform the outcomes of the reunion into tangible results aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“We remain committed to translating these discussions into actions that will benefit our communities and the nation at large,” he concluded.

By Uzair Adam

The Zone 16 Police Command has apprehended three suspects in Rivers State for alleged involvement in illicit drug activities and fraud.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by the command’s spokesperson, SP Gunn Emonena, operatives from the Zonal Financial and Cybercrime Unit, acting on credible intelligence, raided the Rumukparali community in the Obio/Akpo Local Government Area, leading to the arrest of the suspects.

The suspects—Billion Ndubuisi, Charles Amachree, and Martins Chinemike—reportedly confessed to impersonating Ryam Bill, a U.S.-based professional, and defrauding two victims, St. Andrea and Charlen Zielinsky, of $71,500.

During a search of their residence, the police recovered wraps of illicit drugs suspected to be hemp, two vehicles, two laptops, and 10 mobile phones. SP Emonena revealed that the suspects attempted to bribe the officers with $17,000 through an agent, but the offer was rejected.

“The money is registered and will be presented as evidence in court,” he said.

The Assistant Inspector General of the Zone, Adebola Hamzat, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to safeguarding lives and property within its jurisdiction.

He commended the officers for their professionalism and adherence to ethical standards.

The police, under the leadership of Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun, continue to prioritize citizens’ safety and security nationwide, the statement added.

By Habibu Maaruf Abdu

Kannywood actress and producer Rahama Sadau celebrated her birthday Saturday with an exciting announcement for her fans. She revealed on Instagram that her upcoming film, “Mamah,” will be screened at the prestigious Red Sea Film Festival in Saudi Arabia.

She writes: “Thrilled to announce that our film “MAMAH” will be screened at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Saudi Arabia! 🤭💃🏻 @redseafilm

“This is one great achievement as it marks the FIRST HAUSA MOVIE to be showcased at this prestigious international festival. A proud moment for us as producers and actors, and a huge leap forward for Kannywood as a whole. 🫶🏻🙌🏻”

Sadau, who recently appeared in a Bollywood film, is clearly inspired by Indian actors. These actors often use their birthdays to reveal exciting news to their fans, creating buzz and excitement around new projects. Sadau’s admiration for Indian cinema is evident, as she speaks fluent Hindi and cites Priyanka Chopra as her role model.

The actress also made history last year with her film Mati A Zazzau, which became the first Kannywood film to stream on Netflix.

The upcoming film, Mamah is co-produced by Abdul Amart and Rahama Sadau and directed by Toka Mcbaror.

It stars Adam Zango, Nafisa Abdullahi, Rahama Sadau, and Falalu Dorayi. 

The premiere is scheduled for December 9th, 2024, at 10:00 am at the Red Sea Culture Square, Cinema 4.

By Uzair Adam and Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has announced key appointments to the leadership of several federal agencies, including the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), the National Universities Commission (NUC), the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI), and the New Partnership for Africa Development (NEPAD).

The Daily Reality reports that among the appointments, Prof. Salisu Shehu has been named the Executive Secretary of the NERDC.

Prof. Shehu, a distinguished academic in educational and human psychology, is recognized for his instrumental role in establishing the School of Continuing Education at Bayero University, Kano.

He also served as the Vice-Chancellor of Al-Istiqamah University, Kano.

His extensive experience in education reform and administration is expected to drive innovation and transformation within the NERDC.

President Tinubu also appointed Prof. Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu as the Executive Secretary of the NUC.

Prof. Ribadu, an expert in veterinary reproduction, has previously served as Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Yola, and Sule Lamido University, Jigawa State.

For the National Coordinator position at NEPAD, the President selected Jabiru Salisu Abdullahi Tsauri.

Tsauri, who holds a Master’s in International Affairs and Diplomacy from Ahmadu Bello University, is a seasoned administrator with expertise in legislative and global affairs as well as democratic governance.

Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani was appointed as the Executive Secretary of the SMDF/PAGMI.

A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire, UK, Danfulani brings a wealth of experience from his roles in banking, business administration, and public service, including his tenure at the Central Bank of Nigeria and as a Commissioner for Commerce and Industry in Zamfara State.

The President expressed confidence in the appointees, highlighting their vast expertise and track record of excellence.

He urged them to bring renewed commitment and deliver results that meet the aspirations of Nigerians in their respective organisations.

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Government has alleged the involvement of the Federal Government in the recent blockade of the palace of Muhammadu Sanusi II, the 16th Emir of Kano, by security operatives.

The Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, expressed the government’s displeasure during a radio interview, condemning the move as an attempt to destabilize the state.

“We woke up to find the palace entrance sealed off by the police. When we inquired, they said it was an order from above.

“It’s evident that some people with Abuja’s backing are determined to disrupt Kano’s peace,” Bichi stated.

He noted that Kano remains committed to maintaining peace, warning against any attempts to provoke unrest.

Bichi further confirmed the Emir’s decision to accompany the newly appointed District Head of Bichi, Wamban Kano, Munir Sanusi, to assume his post.

Meanwhile, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, who led the Friday prayer at the Kano Central Mosque outside the palace, urged residents to remain calm and avoid violence.

“I caution against falling into the traps of those who seek to see Kano in turmoil. They desire chaos, destruction, and loss of innocent lives,” the Emir advised.

The barricade by security operatives, including police and DSS, reportedly aimed to prevent the Emir from traveling to Bichi or attending a meeting with economists on proposed tax reforms.

The incident has drawn mixed reactions, with some viewing it as interference in traditional affairs, while others see it as a political maneuver.

By Uzair Adam

In response to the global circulation of the newly identified XEC COVID-19 variant, now detected in 29 countries, the federal government has instructed chief medical directors and medical directors of tertiary hospitals nationwide to activate heightened surveillance systems.

The Daily Reality gathered that the directive emphasizes the need for vigilance in identifying COVID-like symptoms among patients.

This directive was communicated through a circular dated December 5, 2024, and bearing reference number DHS/INSPDIV/017/VOL.1/46. Signed by Dr. O. N. Anuma, Head of the Teaching Hospital Division, the letter highlighted the variant’s demonstrated growth advantage over other strains, prompting concerns about its potential public health implications.

Titled “Letter of Conveyance in Respect of the Newly Detected XEC COVID-19 Strain,” the circular stated, “I am directed to inform you of a newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant, which has been reported in Australia and has already spread to 29 countries globally.

“You may wish to know that this variant has shown a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health.”

The government urged hospital committees to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to enhance data sharing and monitoring protocols.

The letter also stressed the importance of timely communication between stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Health, to ensure effective response measures.

Dr. Anuma concluded the directive by reaffirming the permanent secretary’s commitment to supporting the health sector in mitigating risks associated with the new variant.

By Anwar Usman

Not less than 45,689 applicants are conducting the Computer-Based Aptitude Test on Saturday (today) as part of the recruitment process to secure employment at Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.

The aptitude test, currently taking place at the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society Centenary Resource Centre in Maitama, Abuja, and various other testing centres across Nigeria, marks the second stage of the rigorous recruitment process that began earlier this year.

Previously, on July 25, 2024, the company announced openings for new entrants.

In a statement, Olufemi Soneye, the NNPC spokesperson, said the recruitment would be for various positions across various departments within the energy company and interested applicants to visit the NNPC careers page for application instructions.

However, in a new post on its official Facebook handle on Saturday to update the public on the process, the national oil firm emphasized that only the most qualified candidates will be selected for employment at the end of the exercise.

The post read, “As the Computer-Based Aptitude Test for NNPC Ltd.’s recruitment begins today at various centres across the country, 45,689 applicants compete in a transparent and inclusive recruitment process.”

The NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, who visited the centres, promises a smooth, transparent, fair, and credible process.

“As an equal opportunity employer, NNPC Ltd. has made special provisions to ensure that applicants with disabilities can take the test without any hindrance.

“Kyari reiterated that only the most qualified candidates among the 45,689 applicants will be selected for employment”.

The daily reality gathered that this may be the major recruitment exercise since the NNPC fully transformed into a limited company in 2022.

By Uzair Adam 

Atsi Kefas, the sister of Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas, sustained injuries after being accidentally shot by a police escort during an attack by gunmen on Thursday.  

According to reports by Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focusing on the Lake Chad region, the incident occurred along Kente Road in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State. 

Our reporters gathered that Atsi and the governor’s mother, Jumai, were travelling together when their convoy was ambushed.  

In an attempt to repel the attackers, a police officer providing escort for the family mistakenly shot Atsi Kefas.  

Troops quickly intervened, rescuing the victims and evacuating Jumai and Atsi Kefas from the scene via an air ambulance. 

Atsi was immediately taken to a hospital for treatment, although her current condition remains unknown at the time of this report.  

Security forces recovered the vehicle used by the assailants, along with an empty magazine and passenger luggage left behind by the attackers.

By Uzair Adam  

Troops of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) under Sector 4 in Diffa, Republic of Niger, intercepted 174 Nigerian men attempting to cross into border communities in Niger.  

The suspects, stopped at Gueskeru, a strategic border town linking Yobe State to Niger, claimed they were travelling to the Lake Chad region for fishing activities.  

However, concerns were raised about the porous nature of the borders, often exploited by terrorist groups such as Lakurawa, notorious for attacks on border communities.  

In a statement, MNJTF spokesperson Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba noted that allowing such a large group of able-bodied men to access terrorist-prone areas could threaten regional security.  

The suspects are currently undergoing profiling and questioning to determine their motives and ensure they do not pose a security risk.  

The MNJTF noted its commitment to counterterrorism, civilian protection, and regional stability.  

It called for enhanced border vigilance and greater collaboration among troop-contributing countries to tackle cross-border terrorism effectively.