News

By Uzair Adam

The Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) has raised concerns over a critical shortage of Air Traffic Controllers (ATCOs) in the country, calling for urgent recruitment and training.

Speaking at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, NATCA President Amos Edino highlighted excessive workloads, prolonged duty hours, and mounting stress among ATCOs, warning that these factors are affecting performance and overall well-being.

He noted that due to manpower constraints, controllers often work beyond the standard two-hour shift, with some enduring continuous shifts of four to five hours.

He also pointed out capacity limitations at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, which is responsible for ATCO training.

Edino urged the government to review the salary structure to align with international standards and implement a comprehensive healthcare package to address occupational health risks.

He further lamented poor working conditions in control towers, including non-functional elevators that force controllers to climb over 250 steps daily.

On Air Traffic Management (ATM), he emphasized the urgent need to upgrade the Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON) system, which has exceeded its 10-year operational lifespan and is now nearly 20 years old.

He stressed that resolving these challenges would secure Nigeria’s place among the top global air traffic control systems.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

HardFacts Studios has announced the upcoming premiere of The Bitter Feminist, a docudrama series that addresses the challenges faced by women in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. 

Set to debut at the iRep Festival in Lagos in March 2025, the series, created by Daniel Chukwuemeka and Ijeoma Chinonyerem, centres on Ringret, a young woman from Northern Nigeria who endured rape and forced marriage.

Co-creator Ijeoma Chinonyerem stated, “This project is significant for us. It’s about giving [a] voice to women whose stories often go unheard and challenging narratives perpetuating inequality.”

The five-episode series illustrates the lives of women identifying as feminists, highlighting their resistance to traditional gender roles. Through impactful storytelling and candid interviews, The Bitter Feminist addresses critical issues, including misogyny, child marriage, and consent. 

Directed by Priye Diri and produced by Isaac Newton Akah, the series promises to empower viewers and stimulate meaningful conversations about gender inequality.

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 Uzair Adam

The crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan has been sighted in Saudi Arabia, the moon sighting committee announced on Friday evening.

The Daily Reality reports that with this confirmation, the holy month will commence on Saturday, March 1.

Observatories across the Kingdom, including those in Sudair and Tumair, confirmed the sighting of the moon.

This follows an earlier call by the Supreme Court on Thursday, urging Muslims to look for the crescent on Friday evening.

The court advised anyone who sights the moon, whether with the naked eye or binoculars, to report their observation to the nearest court or contact a local center for guidance on submitting their testimony.

Saudi Arabia’s moon sighting committee routinely monitors the skies ahead of Ramadan’s expected start date and encourages other Muslims to participate in the sighting process.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) has leveled serious accusations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation for rejecting his advances.

In an interview on Friday, the lawmaker claimed that Akpabio had punished her for refusing his sexual advances.

She further stated that she has evidence to support her allegations.

The controversy between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio escalated after the Kogi Senator discovered that her seat in the Senate had been changed without her consent.

This led to a heated argument between the two, resulting in Akpoti-Uduaghan being referred to the Senate’s Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for a disciplinary review.

The committee, headed by Senator Neda Imaseun (LP, Edo South), was tasked with reporting back within two weeks.

In a dramatic twist, Akpoti-Uduaghan has filed a N100.3 billion fundamental human rights suit against Akpabio.

During her interview, the senator also revealed that her husband is a witness to the events and has provided support to her claims.

These accusations have further fueled tensions within the Senate as many social media users in Nigeria have been debating about the issue.

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 Uzair Adam

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has suspended the Acting Head of Service and Permanent Secretary, Establishment, Salisu Mustapha, with immediate effect over alleged salary deductions and non-payment of some civil servants’ salaries.

A statement issued on Thursday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, confirmed that Mustapha has also been directed to step aside from his position as Permanent Secretary, Establishment, under the Office of the Head of Service, to allow for a thorough investigation.

To ensure smooth administration, the governor approved the appointment of Malam Umar Muhammad Jalo, the Permanent Secretary of REPA, as the new Acting Head of Service pending the outcome of the probe.

Governor Yusuf reiterated his zero-tolerance stance on financial malpractice, warning that anyone found culpable will face severe consequences.

Earlier on Thursday, the governor had issued a stern warning over the widespread complaints of salary underpayment and non-payment affecting state civil servants since October 2024.

In response, he inaugurated a seven-man committee led by Abdulkadir Abdussalam to investigate the issue.

The committee has been given seven days to uncover the root of the irregularities and submit its findings.

Mustapha was appointed Acting Head of Service earlier this month following the medical leave of the substantive Head of Service, Abdullahi Musa, who is currently receiving treatment in India.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Operatives from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Benin Zonal Directorate, have arrested 19 individuals linked to internet fraud in a series of operations across Benin City, Edo State, on Thursday, February 27, 2025.

The suspects were apprehended after credible intelligence suggested their involvement in various forms of cybercrime, which include romance scams, phishing, and identity theft.

The operation, which was carried out across different locations within the city, led to the recovery of several high-end items, including seven luxury cars, laptops, and mobile phones.

These items are believed to have been acquired through illicit online activities.

The suspects, whose identities have not been fully disclosed, are said to have made useful statements to EFCC investigators.

The arrested individuals are expected to face charges related to cybercrime and other fraudulent activities once investigations are concluded.

The EFCC has vowed to continue its fight against internet fraud and other financial crimes, urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious online activities.

As part of its ongoing efforts, the EFCC is also working on measures to track and dismantle criminal networks involved in cyber fraud across the country.

Recall that the commission has warned individuals involved in such illegal activities that they will face the full force of the law.

The EFCC further noted that internet fraud remains a top priority in its efforts to curb financial crimes and protect citizens from financial exploitation.

The suspects, currently in EFCC custody, will soon be charged to court for prosecution as part of the commission’s commitment to bringing fraudsters to justice.

The EFCC has also pledged to strengthen its collaborations with international agencies to combat cross-border cybercrime.