News Rider

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa The Japanese Government has donated Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment to 15 Federal and State Colleges of Education (COEs).  Funded by the Government of Japan through UNESCO-IICBA, the project is designed to address pressing educational challenges confronting many countries in West Africa, including low educational attainment, high rates of out-of-school children, learning poverty, gender inequality, and the shortage of qualified teachers. The initiative targets six West African countries and seeks to accelerate progress toward achieving educational goals through gender-responsive and conflict-sensitive education systems. It also focuses on strengthening teacher professional development, improving the capacity of teacher training institutions, and leveraging digital technologies to enhance teaching and learning outcomes. To this end, the Federal Government has concluded plans to handover...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has disclosed that the removal of fuel subsidy by his administration saved the country from imminent bankruptcy and laid the foundation for the gradual recovery of the nation’s economy. He spoke on Friday when he hosted state governors who came to celebrate with him, the Sallah and the third anniversary of the administration.  In attendance were the Governors of Lagos, Nasarawa, Jigawa, Sokoto, Kebbi, Taraba, Niger, Ekiti, Delta, Ondo, Edo, Adamawa, Benue, Enugu, Ogun, and Kogi States, as well as the deputy governors of Borno and Kano.  President Tinubu acknowledged that the decision to remove the subsidy and restore economic stability. "It was challenging at the time, but we survived. We face litigation and accusations. We survived them. Instead of bankruptcy,  Nigeria has survived. The economy has recovered. It is growing. Agriculture is booming. "Today I was watching some clips of the Sokoto -Badagry axis. I...

Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) Bishop Prof. Stephen Adegbite has hailed President Bola Tinubu’s purposeful leadership, as he celebrated the third year anniversary on May 29, 2026. Tinubu was sworn-in on May 29, 2023, as the 16th President of Nigeria at the Eagles Square Abuja, amid pomp and pageantry. His first major assignment was the removal of fuel subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), which gulped Nigeria $850 million monthly as revealed by the Nigerian Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).  News Rider reports that in the last 17 years, from 2005 to mid- 2021, the Federal Government spent over N13. 697 trillion on the payment of subsidy, just as the Organisation of Petroleum Countries (OPEC) pegged the country's daily import of petrol and diesel at 465,000 barrels per day.  Adegbite, who disclosed this in his congratulatory message to commemorate the third-year anniversary, noted that Tinubu has demonstrated purposeful le...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja  Alhaji Ashafa Ajibola Erogbogbo  President Bola Tinubu has sent warm greetings to an elder statesman and retired aviation supervisor at Shell Company Nigeria Limited, Alhaji Ashafa Ajibola Erogbogbo as he marked his centenary birthday on May 28. A statement e-signed by Tinubu in Abuja, indicated that reaching 100 years is a remarkable milestone, a rare blessing, and a reward for a life of discipline, dedication, integrity, and selfless service to humanity and the nation. He joined Erogbogbo's family in giving glory to God for his century-long journey and his contributions to national development, particularly through his service years at Government Printing Press, Nigeria Customs and Excise and later Shell Company Nigeria Limited.  "In all the places where you worked, you demonstrated professionalism, diligence, and a commitment to excellence. "Your role as a respected community leader in Ikorodu, Lagos State and mentor is widely acknowl...

By Bayo Onanuga, Abuja  President Bola Tinubu With politicking intensifying ahead of the January 2027 election, opposition politicians have escalated their campaign of misinformation and calumny to diminish the impact and achievements of this administration over the last three years. Two years ago, when the administration was struggling to deal with the unintended consequences of its historic reforms, the campaign would have made sense. But not anymore, as the administration can rightly claim bragging rights for what it has achieved against all odds and why the international community is applauding it for putting Nigeria irrevocably on the path of growth and development. The impact of the three-year-old government is best felt at the subnational level - state and local levels. States that hitherto were unable to pay salaries by May 2023, with months of unpaid obligations to their workers and pensioners, are now doing so with ease and dreaming big about infrastructure. I...

President Bola Tinubu My fellow compatriots, Three years ago, you entrusted me with the sacred responsibility of leading our beloved nation at a defining moment in our history. I accepted that responsibility, fully aware of the magnitude of the challenges before us, but also deeply confident in the resilience and potential of the Nigerian people. Today, on the occasion of the third anniversary of our administration, I speak to you not only as your President but also as a fellow citizen who understands the sacrifices many families have made in recent years and shares your hopes for a better Nigeria. When this administration assumed office, our nation faced profound economic and structural difficulties. Mounting fiscal pressures, unsustainable fuel subsidies, declining revenues, exchange-rate distortions, rising debt-servicing costs, insecurity in several parts of the country, energy supply constraints, and declining public confidence in institutions all threatened our progre...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja   Engr David Umahi The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi has sought divine intervention for President Bola Tinubu's re-election,  describing him as a leader deeply committed to addressing Nigeria’s challenges and moving the nation forward. He made the request while hosting leaders and members of the Muslim community in Ebonyi State at his residence in Abakaliki as part of activities marking the Eid-el-Kabir celebration. The minister said that the gathering is in the spirit of unity, and peaceful coexistence that has continued to define Ebonyi State over the years. According to him, Muslims from different ethnic backgrounds including Igbo, Hausa, and Yoruba extraction have always been part of the annual Sallah celebration hosted by him and his family. "Every year during Sallah, we have always invited the Muslims. Sometimes, we join them with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to celebrate because I strongly believe that we are worshi...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) FCT Chapter has sought improved access to menstrual hygiene products, and elimination of stigma surrounding menstruation. Chairperson, NAWOJ FCT, Comrade Bassey Ita-Ikpang disclosed this on Thursday in commemoration of 2026 World Menstrual Hygiene Day, with the theme: "Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld".  World Menstrual Hygiene Day is observed annually on May 28, with special focus on creating a period-friendly world without stigma or barriers. It is also dedicated to breaking taboos and raising awareness about the importance of good menstrual hygiene management (MHM).  Ita-Ikpang insisted that menstrual health remains a critical issue affecting the dignity, confidence, education, and overall well-being of millions of women and girls, especially those in underserved communities. She was emphathic that no girl should miss school, feel ashamed, or suffer discrimination simply because of a ...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja President Bola Tinubu displaying the Certificate of Return alongside his wife, Sen Remi Tinubu in Abuja recently. Ahead of the 2027 general elections, President Bola Tinubu has promised to consolidate economic reforms, secure progress, and strengthen the foundation of a modern Nigeria in the second term. This was even as he polled a total of 10,999,162 votes after the nationwide collation of results on Sunday, emerging the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).  He spoke after receiving the certificate of return and the party's symbolic flag from the APC chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, as the torchbearer in the upcoming election. Addressing the party faithful at the International Conference Centre Abuja, Tinubu announced his acceptance of the presidential nomination, with humility and gratitude to the members.  "In accepting this nomination, I renew my commitment to serve our nation with even greater determination...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja The Nigeria Police has requested for logistics support to reposition the Highway Patrol Unit given the recent nationwide surge in theft and vandalism of vital road infrastructure.  Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu made the plea during a courtsey visit to the Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi in Abuja.  The discussions focused on improving security around major road projects, deepening inter-agency cooperation, and advancing national developmental objectives. Disu praised the minister for transformating the road sector, describing roads as vital links of national unity, economic growth, social interaction, and public safety. According to the IGP, roads not only connect communities but also create employment opportunities, stimulate commerce, and contribute to crime reduction by expanding economic activities for citizens. He stated that the visit was aimed at reinforcing collaboration and synergy between the ministry and the N...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja   President Bola Tinubu As Nigeria celebrates children's day, President Bola Tinubu has remembered with nostalgia children taunted by insecurity, even as dozens are still held in captivity by terrorists.  Recall that as of May 15, 2026, about 40 to 46 person's, including students and a principal, were kidnapped from two secondary schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.  Multiple reports indicated that a teacher was beheaded during the attack, while the captives have been tortured to induce ransom pressure. Also on May 15, armed men attacked three schools in Borno State, abducting over 50 children, many between the ages of two and five. Below is President Tinubu's message to children: "On this Children’s Day, I celebrate every Nigerian child. I celebrate the child who is excelling in school. I celebrate the child who is learning a trade. I celebrate the child living with disability and still pressing forward with courage. ...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to use the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir to deepen the values of tolerance, generosity, and peaceful coexistence. Tinubu, who spoke after performing the congregational prayers at Dodan Barracks in Lagos on Wednesday, urged citizens to shun ethnic divisions and all forms of hatred that undermine national unity. He was joined in the prayers by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, former Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola, Oba of Lagos Rilwan Akiolu, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and other dignitaries. President Tinubu said that the sacred occasion remains a profound reminder of obedience, sacrifice, love for humanity and total submission to the will of Almighty Allah, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim. "We thank Almighty Allah for making us witness another year of Eid-el-Kabir. We thank Him for His mercy, an...

    President Bola Tinubu I extend warm felicitations to our Muslim brothers and sisters across Nigeria and worldwide as they celebrate the glorious Eid-el-Kabir, the Festival of Sacrifice. We give glory to Almighty God for preserving our lives to witness this important celebration once again. Eid-el-Kabir reminds us of the enduring virtues exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim—faith, obedience, and the willingness to sacrifice for a higher purpose. This sacred festival calls on all Muslims, and indeed all Nigerians and the whole of humanity, to embrace sacrifice, selflessness, unity, and compassion for our fellow human beings. One central lesson of Eid-el-Kabir is the call to show mercy and compassion, regardless of race, ethnicity, or creed. There is no greater example of duty and devotion than Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to offer his only son, Ismail, as a sacrifice to Allah. As a nation, we are on a journey of reconstruction and renewal. The reforms we have undertak...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja The International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) and Journalist Assistance Network (JAN) have condemned the Russian Ministry of Justice for designating the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) as an undesirable organisation. IWMF is the only global organisation built to serve the holistic needs of women and nonbinary journalists. The designation — used to ban foreign human rights and civil society organizations from operating in Russia — demonstrated mounting efforts by the Kremlin to suppress press freedom. CPJ’s designation was announced on April 28, less than one month after the organization’s statement of support following the IWMF’s 'undesirable' listing. The cascading effect sent a chilling message that Russia is deliberately targeting press freedom organisations to suppress free speech and silence dissent. "Russian journalists deserve access to the resources, aid, and opportunities from CPJ and other international press freedom o...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja Ministry of Work has stated that no nation can attain meaningful progress without substantial investment in critical infrastructure, linking it to the foundation of economic growth and sustainable national development.  The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works, Mr. Rafiu Olarinre Adeladan disclosed this at the 2026 International Civil Service Conference in Abuja. He described infrastructure as a key driver of economic transformation, noting that the present administration prioritised infrastructure and transportation as central pillars of national development. According to him, countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and South Africa have continued to achieve significant economic advancement through deliberate and sustained investments in roads, railways, power, and other essential infrastructure. He explained that infrastructure plays a strategic role across all sectors of the economy, including agriculture, tra...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja Committed to eradicating transborder network, President Bola Tinubu has praised the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for busting illicit drugs worth $360 million.  The remarkable achievement was recorded through dismantling Nigerian-Mexican drug syndicate and a highly sophisticated multi-million-dollar illegal drug production network in the country, courtesy of NDLEA and its staff.  Chairman of the agency, Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd) had on Wednesday announced the major drug bust following a massive operation spanning weeks of intelligence gathering and meticulous planning by NDLEA operatives in collaboration with international partners. President Tinubu said: "This successful operation, which led to the arrest of foreign nationals, local kingpins and other collaborators, as well as the seizure of chemicals and illicit drugs valued at over $360 million, demonstrates exceptional professionalism, courage, and unwaveri...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo The Federal Government has declared Wednesday, May 27 and Thursday, May 28, 2026, as public holidays to mark this year’s Eid-el Kabir celebration. Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Magdalene Ajani made the declaration in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.  She quoted the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo as saying that the declaration affirmed the Federal Government’s profound respect for the faith and spiritual heritage of millions of Nigerian Muslims who will join the global Islamic community in observing the sacred occasion. While conveying the warm felicitations of the government to the Muslim faithful at home and in the diaspora, the minister said that the festival holds deep spiritual significance grounded in sacrifice, obedience, and compassion. He enjoined Nigerians to utilise the two-day holiday for prayer and sober reflection, asking for divine guidance as the country navigates its path towards sustained p...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja  Engr David Umahi Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi is in talks with the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda over plans to showcase President Bola Tinubu's infrastructure scorecard before the National Working Committee of the party. The infrastructure achievements under the Renewed Hope Agenda will focus on the giant strides in road and bridge construction nationwide; projects that have continued to attract commendations and positive reactions from Nigerians across different sectors. Umahi commended the APC national chairman for introducing an engagement process where ministers appear before the national working committee on live telecast to account for the progress and gains made by the administration. He praised the national chairman for the successes recorded so far and the peaceful conduct of the party’s primaries, as well as the inclusive disposition of the national working committee in ensuring that as...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja Moved to enforce regulatory compliance, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has shutdown the business premises of two prominent real estate developers in the Federal Capital Territory, Ochacho Real Estate and TI’Bilon Construction and Facility Management Company. The enforcement action follows the persistent refusal of both companies to comply with official compliance notices previously issued by the commission. FCCPC had written notices to the developers, mandating them to hand over housing units to consumers who had fully paid for their properties but were left stranded without their homes.  For flouting the orders, the sealed offices will remain shut indefinitely until both organisation's fully fulfill their outstanding obligations to the affected consumers. The commission’s action was taken pursuant to Section 150(4) of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA), 2018, which empowers the FCCPC to ...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja    President Bola Tinubu The Presidency has refuted claims that President Bola Tinubu seeks to carry out constitutional amendments that will lead to the renaming of Nigeria to the United States of Nigeria and abolish Sharia Law in the Northern region.  Describing the viral story as fake, the Presidency wondered why the story cited anonymous sources. This was even as the Presidency linked the story as part of the dubious plot by some desperate politicians to create disaffection in the country, stir up a political crisis, and heat the polity ahead of the general elections.  Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga enjoined Nigerians to ignore the viral story in its entirety because the purveyors of the fake news are agents of destabilisation and merchants of disorder.  He said: "President Tinubu has no plan whatsoever to send any bill code-named Project True Federation to the National Assembly by ...

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has sealed a factory in Kano State, Fortune Rice Mills Limited for non-compliance with extant environmental regulations. The enforcement exercise led by the North West Zonal Director, Dr. Mudashiru Raheem followed investigation of public complaint against the facility, bordering on dust emission and offensive odour despite notices of compliance concerns issued by NESREA. But an investigation by the zonal office which established violation of the National Environmental (Air Quality Control) Regulations 2014, and National Environmental (Food, Beverages and Tobacco Sector) Regulations 2023, led to the sealing of the facility on Monday, 18 May 2026. The Director General of NESREA, Prof. Innocent Barikor expressed deep concern over the reckless attitude of facilities toward the health and well-being of the citizens and environment.  While issuing an order to seal the facility, ...