News

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reiterated his country’s commitment to achieving peace and stated that his country is prepared to negotiate as soon as possible. 

In a statement posted on social media, Zelenskyy emphasised that “nobody desires peace more than Ukrainians” and expressed his readiness to collaborate with U.S. President Donald Trump’s leadership to secure a lasting resolution. 

He proposed initial measures, including a prisoner exchange and an immediate ceasefire on aerial and naval assaults, contingent on Russia’s reciprocity.

Zelenskyy also acknowledged the critical role the U.S. has played in supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty, particularly highlighting Trump’s past decision to provide Javelin missiles. He stressed the importance of continued cooperation with Washington and expressed disappointment over a recent White House meeting that did not go as expected. 

Calling for constructive dialogue, Zelenskyy urged U.S. officials to work together to make things right and advance peace efforts.

The Ukrainian leader reiterated his country’s readiness to sign a security and mineral resources agreement at any moment. He described the deal as a step toward stronger security guarantees and expressed hope for effective implementation.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In a heartfelt tribute, President Bola Tinubu has honored former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 88th birthday, celebrating the elder statesman’s remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s development and his enduring role in the nation’s history.

President Tinubu reflected on Obasanjo’s pivotal moments in Nigeria’s journey, from receiving the instrument of surrender that ended the civil war in 1970 to leading the country as both a military head of state and a civilian president.

He praised Obasanjo’s selfless commitment to national unity, peace, and progress, as well as his critical reforms that shaped the lives of many Nigerians.

Beyond his time in office, Tinubu acknowledged Obasanjo’s continued influence as a global peace advocate and conflict resolution expert, highlighting his dedication to Pan-Africanism and good governance.

He also noted Obasanjo’s occasional controversial interventions, which have often served as a check on leadership and shaped public policies.President Tinubu expressed gratitude for Obasanjo’s immense contributions to Nigeria and Africa, praying for his continued strength and wisdom.

On behalf of the Nigerian government and its people, he extended warm congratulations to the former president, wishing him a happy 88th birthday.

“May the nation and Africa continue to benefit from your wisdom and knowledge,” He concluded.

By Farouk Jahun

In a significant demonstration of leadership oversight and community engagement, the Jigawa State House of Assembly conducted an official visit to Jahun Local Government to inspect ongoing and completed developmental projects. The visit aimed to assess the quality, impact, and progress of initiatives to improve residents’ lives.

Upon thorough inspection, the Assembly members expressed their satisfaction with the standard of work executed across various sectors. The projects, which spanned infrastructure, healthcare, education, and public amenities, were lauded for their quality and alignment with the needs of the local population.

Hon. Aminu Zakari, Member representing Gwiwa Local Government, who led the delegation, praised the Local Government Chairman, Hon. Jamilu Danmalam, for his dedication and commitment to community development. He highlighted the chairman’s proactive approach and strategic leadership, which have translated into tangible improvements for the people of Jahun Local Government.

“We are truly impressed by what we have seen today. The projects are not only well-executed but also thoughtfully designed to address key community needs. Chairman Jailu Danmalam deserves commendation for his vision and tireless efforts to uplift Jahun Local Government,” said Hon. Aminu Zakari.

The Assembly urged the local government to maintain the momentum and continue prioritising initiatives that promote sustainable development. They also reassured residents of their unwavering support and commitment to ensuring that government resources are used effectively for public welfare.

In his response, Chairman Hon. Danmalam expressed gratitude for the recognition and pledged to intensify efforts to foster progress and deliver more impactful projects. He acknowledged the collaboration between various stakeholders and emphasized that teamwork remains integral to achieving lasting development.

The commendation from the Jigawa State House of Assembly is a testament to Hon. Jamilu Danmalam’s hard work and commitment to improving the lives of Jahun Local Government Area residents. As the Chairman, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, ensuring that resources are utilised efficiently to drive meaningful development in the community.

The Jigawa State House of Assembly’s visit and subsequent commendation serve as a motivation for other local government chairmen to emulate Hon. Danmalam’s exemplary leadership and commitment to delivering quality projects 

The visit concluded with a renewed sense of optimism as both the legislative body and local government reaffirmed their shared mission of driving growth, enhancing infrastructure, and improving the quality of life for all citizens of Jahun Local Government.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has confirmed that former Comptroller General of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), David Shikfu Parradang, passed away in a hotel in Abuja.

Josephine Adeh, the Command’s spokesperson, stated that Paradang died after receiving a female guest in his hotel room.

She dismissed circulating reports suggesting that the former NIS boss was kidnapped and killed.

According to Adeh, “On March 3, 2025, at approximately 12:00 PM, Mr. Parradang arrived at Joy House Hotel, Area 3 Junction, driving a black Mercedes Benz.”

“He checked into the hotel, paying a sum of Twenty two thousand naira (N22,000) for one night’s stay. Shortly thereafter, he directed the hotel room attendant to escort a female guest who had come to visit to his room.”

“This lady left the hotel premises around 04:00 PM of the same day.” She added that Paradang did not leave his room after the guest’s departure.

Around 4:00 AM on March 4, a military officer who was his friend visited the hotel out of concern for his welfare. The officer, alongside the hotel receptionist, found Paradang lifeless in a chair.

Adeh explained that the Durumi Police Station was informed, and officers quickly arrived at the scene, secured the area, and gathered evidence.

“The body has been transferred to the National Hospital for necessary procedures, and hotel staff are currently cooperating with Police investigations,” she said.

The police have urged the public to disregard false information regarding the circumstances of his death.

By Hassana Abdullahi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Shamsedeen Babatunde Ogunjimi as the new Accountant General of the Federation, effective March 7, 2025. He will take over from Oluwatoyin Madein, who is set to retire on the same date.

Ogunjimi, 57, has over thirty years of experience in financial management. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and a Master’s in Accounting and Finance from the University of Lagos. 

Ogunjimi is also a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria.

Before his appointment, Ogunjimi served as Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Finance and later as Director of Funds in the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation. He was appointed Acting Accountant General in December 2024.

President Tinubu expressed confidence in Ogunjimi’s ability to uphold professionalism and transparency in managing Nigeria’s public finances.

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 Uzair Adam

The death toll from Sunday’s stampede during an almsgiving exercise at Shafa Holdings Company Plc in Bauchi has risen to seven, the police confirmed on Monday.

The police spokesperson in the state, SP Ahmed Wakil, said three additional women lost their lives following the incident that occurred at about 10:20 a.m. on Jos Road, where the company was conducting its annual Zakat exercise to support the less privileged.

A medical doctor at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) confirmed that two of the women died while receiving treatment, while another passed away at home after being taken away by her family.

Wakil assured that further details would be made available as the investigation continues.

A witness, Laraba Saleh, said several other individuals, including women and children, sustained injuries during the stampede.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a notorious 59-year-old drug baron, Ogbonnaya Kevin Jeff, at his hideout in Lagos after 17 years on the run.

The arrest followed an Interpol red notice and intelligence from South Korea’s National Intelligence Service.

NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) disclosed that Jeff, a key figure in an international drug trafficking syndicate, had been smuggling illicit drugs worth billions of naira into South Korea.

His arrest on February 12, 2025, led to the recovery of multiple passports, Korean visas, and illicit substances at his residence.

Jeff, who previously served a one-year prison term in South Korea in 2007, continued his operations remotely, recruiting couriers and laundering drug proceeds through electronics imports.

He is wanted in South Korea for multiple drug trafficking offences, with two arrest warrants issued by the Seoul Central District Court in 2024.

Marwa reaffirmed NDLEA’s commitment to dismantling drug networks and ensuring Nigeria is not a haven for drug cartels.

By Anas Abbas

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has issued a firm ultimatum to the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states.

The Christian body also called for the immediate reversal of their recent directives that mandate a five-week closure of schools in observance of Ramadan.

In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, CAN President Daniel Okoh, expressed strong disapproval of the policy, and reiterated its potential to exacerbate the ongoing educational crisis in these states, which already account for 44% of Nigeria’s out-of-school children.

CAN condemned the decision as discriminatory and a violation of the rights of non-Muslim students, warning that legal action would be pursued if the directive is not rescinded.

“Education is a fundamental right and the foundation of progress. Closing schools from nursery to tertiary levels for such an extended period disrupts academic schedules and jeopardizes the educational futures of millions of students,” Okoh stated.

He further criticised the lack of transparency in the decision-making process, noting that it failed to involve consultations with key stakeholders, including Christian leaders, educators, and parents.

“Policies that affect diverse populations Muslims, Christians, and others must be shaped through transparent and inclusive dialogue with all relevant parties, including parents, educators, religious leaders, and school proprietors,” he added.

As the situation unfolds, CAN remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for equitable educational opportunities for all students in Nigeria.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Armed bandits in Niger State, Nigeria, have launched a daring raid, impersonating officials from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The criminals targeted the White Hill Hotel, located in the Chanchaga Local Government Area, where they abducted ten individuals.

Reports indicate that the assailants, disguised in EFCC uniforms, disabled the hotel’s CCTV surveillance system before storming the building.

They then proceeded to forcibly take the ten people from their rooms.

The state police command has confirmed that an investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Authorities are working to track down the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of the victims.