News

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Mr Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi as the Acting Accountant General of the Federation (AGF).

His appointment is effective immediately following the pre-retirement leave of the incumbent AGF, Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein.

In announcing Madein’s successor, President Tinubu ensures a seamless transition in the administration of Nigeria’s treasury and consolidates the implementation of the present administration’s treasury policy reforms.

As a career civil servant and the most senior director in the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF), Mr Ogunjimi brings over 30 years of extensive experience in financial management across the public and private sectors.

He has held significant positions, including Director of Funds at the OAGF and Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

A chartered accountant, certified fraud examiner, chartered stockbroker, and chartered security and investment specialist, Mr Ogunjimi’s academic qualifications include a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Accountancy and a Master’s in Finance and Accounting.

In a remark on the appointment, President Tinubu expresses his confidence in Mr. Ogunjimi, saying, “The Office of the Accountant General of the Federation is pivotal to our nation’s treasury management operations.

“Mr Ogunjimi’s wealth of experience and notable competence will ensure the continued effectiveness of this vital institution as we advance our economic reform agenda.”

President Tinubu commends the outgoing Accountant General of the Federation, Dr. Madein, for her dedication and selfless service to the nation.

After reaching the civil service’s statutory retirement age, Dr Madein is retiring effective March 7, 2025.

By Anwar Usman

The operatives of the Nigerian Navy Ship-Delta Gunboat Team have seized and arrested a barge and two trucks loaded with suspected stolen crude oil at the Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority Jetty in Warri, Delta State.

Commodore Abba Muhsin, Commander of NNS-Delta, handed over the intercepted barge named ‘Barge Oghenekome’ and the two trucks to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in Warri on Tuesday.

The arrests, which took place on Thursday, November 7, 2024, followed credible intelligence, according to Commodore Muhsin, represented by the Executive Officer, NNS-Delta, Commander Ayi Ekpo Archibong.

The EFCC team, led by Superintendent Abdullahi Nuhu from the EFCC Benin Zone Directorate, received the exhibits on behalf of the anti-graft agency.

The commodore described the operation as part of a series of actions under Operation Delta Sanity of the Nigerian Navy and Operation Delta Safe of the Defence Headquarters.

He explained, “These arrests highlighted our commitment to eliminating illegal oil theft and related criminal activities from our operational areas.

“NNS-Delta remains resolute in its coast guard functions to support nation-building, and we are grateful for the collaboration from all government agencies and the good people of Delta State whose contributions have been instrumental to our efforts.”

He issued a serious warning to those involved in crude oil-related illegalities, urging them to cease such activities and embrace a new pat

By Anwar Usman

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund, an intervention agency set up by the Federal Government, projected on Tuesday, that the beneficiaries of student loans may hit an estimated 2.1 million.

This was disclosed by the managing Director of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, at the inauguration and induction of members of the SERVICOM unit and committee in Abuja.

His projection comes one week after data obtained from NELFUND showed that it has disbursed over N104bn to 613,734 students from Nigerian tertiary institutions since the program kicks off.

The disbursed funds comprises institutional fees paid directly to the institutions of applicants and upkeep loans paid directly to the account number provided by the applicants.

While addressing journalists in Abuja, Sawyerr explained that with the admission of about 400,000 new entrants this year, the Fund may be expecting its total number of registrants to reach 2.1 million students.

He further explained that, “For the people we are responsible for in tertiary institutions that are government-owned such as polytechnics, universities and colleges of education and the bulk of students who will be coming in for the next session, we have estimated our commitment today to these people is somewhere in the range of 2.1m.”

However, when asked if the Fund would also address the plight of the over 20 million out-of-school children in the country, Sawyerr dismissed the notion.According to him, the loan scheme is strictly for students in tertiary institutions in line with the building principles and law.

He added, “When you look at the Act that set up NELFund, it is very specific that it is for tertiary education. So, while we recognise that there may be 20 million out-of-school children in Nigeria, the law only instruct us to address those who are studying or about to start the course of tertiary institutions owned by the Federal Government and sub nationals.”

On the other hand, the National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of SERVICOM, Mrs Nnenna Akajemeli, called for teamwork and cooperation among the inductees to make the student loan process a seamless one for the beneficiaries.

SERVICOM is a Federal Government initiative to promote effective and efficient delivery in ministries, departments and agencies to ensure customer satisfaction and manage performance.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has felicitated with the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, on the occasion of his 62nd birthday.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya praised the Senate President’s exemplary leadership, describing him as a statesman whose commitment to the progress of the legislative arm of government has been both impactful and inspiring.

The Governor noted that the Senate President’s extensive political career, spanning decades, has been defined by uncommon commitment to public service and a passion for uplifting the Nigerian people.

“On behalf of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, as well as the government and people of Gombe State, I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating a distinguished leader and patriot. Your steadfast commitment to nation-building and good governance is admirable. As Senate President and Chairman of the National Assembly, your visionary leadership has fostered legislative harmony and significantly advanced our democracy,” Governor Inuwa Yahaya remarked.The Governor commended Senator Akpabio’s remarkable achievements, particularly during his tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State, where his impactful leadership and infrastructural development left an enduring legacy.He prayed for the Senate President’s continued good health, wisdom, and strength to effectively discharge his responsibilities, urging him to sustain his commitment to Nigeria’s unity and prosperity.”Your commitment to legislative excellence and nation-building is exemplary. I pray that Almighty God grants you more wisdom and grace to serve the country with even greater vigour,” the NSGF Chairman added.

By Uzair Adam 

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has warned Nigerians about new banking malware that targets users worldwide through advanced phishing campaigns.  

In a statement released on Monday, NITDA’s Computer Emergency Readiness and Response Team described the malware, known as Grandoreiro, as a significant threat. 

It uses sophisticated techniques, including screen overlay attacks and remote device control, to steal sensitive information such as banking credentials and personal data.  

The agency explained that the malware is primarily distributed through phishing emails and fraudulent websites that trick users into downloading malicious software disguised as legitimate updates or documents. 

Once installed, it bypasses security measures, giving attackers unauthorized access to victims’ devices.  

NITDA cautioned that the malware could lead to financial losses and identity theft. 

To prevent such outcomes, the agency advised Nigerians to avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown emails.  

Additionally, the public is urged to download software only from trusted sources. 

This precaution can reduce the risk of accidentally installing harmful programs disguised as legitimate files.  

The agency also emphasized the importance of enabling multifactor authentication for online banking and financial accounts. 

This measure provides an added layer of security to protect sensitive information.  

Keeping antivirus software updated is another critical step recommended by NITDA. 

The agency also advised against using public Wi-Fi for financial transactions, as these networks are often vulnerable to cyberattacks.  

Lastly, NITDA urged Nigerians to regularly monitor their bank accounts for unauthorized activities, which can help detect and promptly address suspicious transactions.  

“Cyber threats like Grandoreiro are evolving, and users need to stay vigilant and adopt robust security practices to protect their information,” NITDA said in its statement.  

The agency called on the public to adhere to these security measures to safeguard their financial and personal data.

By Uzair Adam 

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized that the fight against corruption in Nigeria must begin with accountability at the highest levels of leadership to inspire public confidence and ensure effective governance.  

Speaking during a virtual interactive session tagged “Boiling Point Arena” on Sunday, hosted by a private radio station in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo asserted that leadership plays a pivotal role in combating corruption, which he described as deeply entrenched in Nigerian society.  

“The best way to fight corruption is by starting from the head. Leadership must set the example for transparency and integrity to achieve meaningful progress in this battle,” he stated.

Several private radio stations in Abeokuta broadcast the session, which focused on Obasanjo’s legacies and views on contemporary Nigeria.  

Highlighting the complex nature of corruption, Obasanjo likened it to a “babbar riga,” saying, “If you fold it on one side, it falls apart on the other side. 

It is not a one-day affair, nor is it limited to one regime. It must be a consistent and daily effort. Once any regime lets its guard down, corruption spreads.”  

The former president called for reforms in the recruitment and appointment of leaders, advocating for merit-based selections over political or tribal considerations.  

On leadership, he argued that only leaders ordained by God are likely to succeed, warning against self-made leaders or those installed through corrupt or malevolent means.  

“We must acknowledge that while some leaders are prepared by God, others may be made by Satan. The power of Satan is real, and it must not be underestimated,” he remarked. 

Obasanjo concluded by urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and committed to holding leaders accountable, stressing that corruption can only be curtailed with sustained effort and collective responsibility.

By Uzair Adam

Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) has launched a free cleft lip and palate surgery initiative for patients, courtesy of sponsorship by the Qatar Charity Foundation.

The Daily Reality gathered that the program was inaugurated on Sunday during an opening ceremony at the hospital.

Speaking at the event, the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, Dr. Abdurrahman Abba Shehe, disclosed that the first phase of the program aims to provide surgeries for 200 patients, with plans to eventually benefit 1,000 individuals.

Dr. Shehe reiterated AKTH’s dedication to offering quality healthcare to underserved communities. He further revealed that the hospital had sought additional support from Qatar Charity Foundation to address the rising incidence of cardiac diseases, particularly among children in Northern Nigeria.

“We have many children suffering from cardiac problems in this region, and we are hopeful that Qatar Charity will extend their assistance to this area as well,” Dr. Shehe said.

The Qatar Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Ali Ghanem Al Hajri, highlighted the foundation’s commitment to improving healthcare access in Nigeria, noting, “We are dedicated to collaborating with AKTH to sponsor treatments for patients with various medical conditions as part of our ongoing efforts to uplift vulnerable communities.”

One of the beneficiaries, Sahura Ismail, expressed gratitude on behalf of the patients, stating, “We are deeply thankful to the Qatar Charity Foundation for their kindness and generosity.”

This collaboration between AKTH and Qatar Charity Foundation signifies a vital step in enhancing healthcare access for Northern Nigeria’s underserved populations, with prospects for expansion into other critical medical interventions.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has taken a significant step towards resolving the long-standing issue of delayed certificate release for students from Kano State who graduated from Near East University in Cyprus.

In a recent Facebook post, Governor Yusuf revealed that he met with the university’s management in Lefkosia, Cyprus, to discuss the matter.

The governor’s meeting with the university focused on finding a solution to the overdue release of academic certificates for students who graduated between 2015 and 2019.

Many of these students, including graduates of Medicine, Nursing, and other critical courses, have been unable to obtain their certificates due to the non-payment of tuition fees by the previous administration.

Governor Yusuf expressed his satisfaction with the fruitful discussion with the university, which has paved the way for settling the outstanding liabilities.

He noted that this situation has caused a significant setback for the affected students and the state, which is in dire need of professionals in these fields.

The governor reaffirmed his commitment to prioritising education and welfare for the people of Kano State.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

Ghanaians have voted out the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the presidential election on 7 December 2024. The party’s candidate, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has conceded defeat to former President John Dramani Mahama of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

The NPP’s downfall is attributed mainly to Ghana’s economic woes. Under its leadership, the country has experienced its worst financial crisis in decades, marked by skyrocketing food prices, rampant unemployment—particularly among the youth—soaring living costs, and an overwhelming debt burden.

Although no party in Ghana has ever won a third consecutive term, many observers and analysts believe the NPP was punished for failing to alleviate citizens’ economic hardship. Despite criticisms of Mahama’s previous tenure—characterised by a weak economy, allegations of corruption, and widespread power outages—Ghanaians have opted for his return. Mahama has promised to chart a new course for the nation – though politicians are like that!

What makes Ghana’s December 7 presidential election particularly striking is that even supporters of the NPP welcomed their party’s defeat. This unusual occurrence reflects the extent of the economic challenges faced by Ghanaians—challenges they claim are unprecedented in recent generations.

Ghana’s presidential election result sends a strong message and serves as an early warning to Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). For the majority of voters, particularly the masses, what truly matters are tangible results: affordable food, reduced living costs, and economic relief. They care little for figures, statistics, reforms, or long-term projections if their immediate needs remain unmet.

Nigerians today face similar struggles: soaring food prices, escalating petrol costs, and crippling transportation fares. These same issues that brought down Ghana’s NPP threaten to undermine Nigeria’s APC, which is already losing sympathy in its traditional strongholds, especially the North. However, the APC still has time to take stock, address these challenges, and implement meaningful changes.

Ghana’s ruling NPP’s defeat is a stark warning to Nigeria’s APC. When the economy fails, so does the people’s trust. Voters, particularly those struggling to meet their basic needs, will not hesitate to hold governments accountable at the ballot box. 

Rising food prices, high living costs, and unemployment are not just economic indicators—they are everyday realities that define the quality of life for ordinary citizens. If the APC fails to address these pressing challenges and provide visible, immediate solutions, it risks suffering a fate similar to Ghana’s ruling NPP. 

The Ghanaian experience highlights a universal truth: no amount of political rhetoric or long-term promises can outweigh the frustration of citizens whose daily struggles remain unresolved.

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja, zaymohd@yahoo.com.

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.