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.

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.