House of Reps Deputy Chief Whip, Onanuga dies at 59
The House of Representatives Deputy Chief Whip, Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, popularly called Ijaya, is dead. Onanuga, who represented the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency of Ogun State passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, after a brief illness. This was confirmed in a statement by the House Spokesperson, Akin Rotimi. According to him, Onanuga, born on December 2, 1965, was a dedicated public servant, a visionary leader, and a passionate advocate for her constituents. She was first elected to the House in 2019 on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). During that tenure, she served as Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development in the 9th Assembly, where she championed policies to empower women and advance social welfare. Re-elected in 2023, she was appointed Deputy Chief Whip of the 10th Assembly, a role in which she demonstrated exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to legislative discipline, particularly during parliamentary sittings. “Affectionately known as ‘ Ijaya,’ Rep. Onanuga’s intellect, passion, humility, and drive for excellence earned her admiration among her colleagues and constituents alike. Her impactful contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape reflected her passion for creating a better society and her tireless dedication to public service. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, associates, the Government and People of Ogun State – particularly the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North constituency – and the entire membership of the National Assembly. ”As we mourn the loss of this vibrant and committed lawmaker, whose life was devoted to improving the lives of Nigerians – especially her constituents – her legacy of service and dedication will continue to inspire future generations. “Funeral arrangements will be announced by her family in due course. May her soul rest in perfect peace, and may her legacy continue to inspire generations to come. Onanuga was the fifth lawmaker to pass away in the tenure of the 10th House of Representatives.
Why do over 51% of Nigerians want to japa?
Nigeria, a West African country with the largest population on the continent, ranks fifth among the top 10 African nations with the highest number of citizens willing to migrate to other countries. According to a survey conducted by Gallup, 51% of Nigerian citizens expressed interest in leaving the nation. Several factors contribute to citizens or residents of a country deciding to emigrate. These factors often include poverty, poor governance, corruption, inadequate remuneration, insecurity, and other socio-economic challenges. One of the most significant impacts of emigration on the home country is the loss of skilled labour, commonly referred to as “brain drain.” This phenomenon occurs when highly educated and talented individuals, such as doctors, engineers, and IT professionals, leave their country for better opportunities. Nigeria’s Brain Drain Crisis Nigeria’s brain drain, particularly in the healthcare sector, is alarming. The scarcity of qualified professionals has been exacerbated by the large exodus of medical experts. On March 11, 2024 Vanguard reported that 16,000 doctors had left Nigeria over the past five years. This emigration of professionals is colloquially referred to as “Japa” in Nigeria. A Nigerian doctor attending to a patient. Source: TheCable. While Nigeria’s brain drain is significant, other African countries are facing similar challenges. A survey conducted by Gallup revealed that 76% of Liberian are interested in emigrating, followed by Sierra Leone (75%), Ghana (65%), and the Democratic Republic of Congo (54%). In the same survey, Comoros recorded 48%, Togo 45%, Eswatini 45%, Guinea 44% and 32% in South Africa, while the general desire to migrate is relatively low in South Africa, 69% of job applicants are willing to leave the country for better opportunities. Additionally, 45% of employed individuals with over 10 years of experience are inclined to relocate abroad. Ghana follows a similar trend, with many citizens seeking better opportunities in countries like the United Kingdom and the United States. In 2019, 161,082 Ghanaians emigrated to the United States, while 124,093 relocated to the United Kingdom. These patterns highlight how highly qualified and experienced job seekers are increasingly inclined to move abroad, leading to a critical brain drain of local talent. Source: Business Day Nigeria Experts’ Perspectives Stephen Olakunle, a public affairs analyst and head of operations at Limebric Consults in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, called on the government to be more proactive in addressing these issues. “The federal government in Nigeria needs to up its game by making life comfortable for citizens,” he said. He identified the rising cost of living, economic instability, and insecurity as significant factors driving emigration. Olakunle warned that without immediate action, Nigeria risks losing its best talents across various sectors, potentially hindering economic and developmental progress. Paul Matthew, a public policy expert and popular radio commentator in Osun State, advised emigrants to ensure their reasons for leaving are genuine and to follow legal migration paths. He noted, “Everyone has reasons to exit the country. However, in attempting this, it is important to journey through the right path. The effect of this is that the country, at some point, will require their services, which may come at a cost.” Diaspora Remittances: A Double-Edged Sword While brain drain is often viewed as a loss, emigration also brings significant economic benefits through diaspora remittances. These funds, sent back home by emigrants, play a vital role in supporting local economies, improving living standards, and contributing to national GDP. Diaspora Remittances: A Global Perspective Country Diaspora remittances % of GDP Nigeria $25 billion 4.5 Egypt $28 billion 6.2 Morocco $7 billion 3.5 Kenya $2.5 billion 2.5 Philippines $34 billion 8.5 Mexico $38 billion 2.5 India $79 billion 3.1 Source: World Bank. For example, in Egypt, diaspora remittances account for 6.2% of GDP, significantly supporting the country’s economic stability. Similarly, Nigeria’s $25 billion in remittances provides substantial relief and development opportunities. Non-African countries like the Philippines (8.5% of GDP) and Mexico (2.5% of GDP) also benefit from their diaspora populations. India leads globally with $79 billion in remittances, contributing 3.1% to its GDP. In addition to economic contributions, remittances often fund education, healthcare, and entrepreneurial ventures, creating a ripple effect of development in home countries. Governments can further enhance the value of diaspora contributions by implementing policies that encourage investment and financial inclusion for emigrants. Conclusion Emigration presents a dual challenge and opportunity for Nigeria and other African nations. While brain drain leads to a loss of skilled labor, diaspora remittances significantly bolster local economies. Addressing the root causes of emigration—poverty, poor governance, and insecurity—will be critical in retaining talent. At the same time, optimizing policies to support and engage diaspora communities can help harness their contributions for national development. Emigration is not merely about the movement of people; it is also about the transfer of resources, ideas, and opportunities. Managed effectively, it can be a powerful driver of economic growth. By Michael Damilola Read Also:You’re key to Nigeria’s development” – Tinubu tells governors Read Also: 2025: Tinubu’s reforms will unlock Nigeria’s economic potential – First Lady
Father of abducted 5-year-old boy seeks help, suspect feigns madness to evade arrest
Alhaji Idris Adamu, the father of an abducted five-year-old boy, Mohammed Naziru, who was kidnapped by an unknown woman in the Iwaya area of Lagos, has cried out for help for the safe return of his son following the arrest of the woman. The incident occurred on January 10, when Naziru and his 8-year-old sister were heading home after attending Jumat prayers at a mosque in the Iwaya area of Lagos. The father of Naziru has expressed concern over the whereabouts of his son after the apprehension of the suspect by police from the Sabo Division. The woman claimed to have lost her sanity immediately after arriving at the police station. The father of Naziru explained, “I got a call at about 1 pm last Friday, informing me that my son had been kidnapped. I rushed to the house and found a mob descending on her. I begged them not to kill her because her death wouldn’t bring my son back. I reported the matter to the Sabo Police Division, and they brought a vehicle to convey her to the station. But because of the crowd that besieged the police station, the police took the woman to SCID. “I prayed fervently every day for the safety of my son and for the woman to be arrested. Indeed, God heard my prayer. The woman walked into the community, covering herself with a hijab, and was identified. Immediately she sighted my wife, she started running, and when she was caught, she said she wasn’t the one who kidnapped our son without being asked. “The woman is not mad; she is only pretending. When she was apprehended, we found some pieces of paper in her possession where she wrote an address where they should keep the boy and the injection they should give to him to put him to sleep. She also wrote down many telephone numbers on some sheets of paper found in the multi-colored purse that was found with her. “All I want is my son. She should tell us where she kept him so that we can go get him before any harm befalls him.” Read Also: 36 kidnapped victims rescued in Kebbi The 40-year-old man questioned why the arrested woman, who had braids during her arrest, later appeared disheveled, looking as if she hadn’t combed her hair in months. He urged detectives at the SCID to act quickly and uncover the truth to help find and rescue his son. The Kidnapping Game A report revealed that before kidnapping Naziru, the suspect had wrapped herself in a hijab to disguise herself, pretending to observe Jumat prayers in the mosque. Approaching the two siblings, she handed over a N500 note to Naziru’s elder sister to buy yogurt for N150 while holding the younger brother. When Naziru’s sister returned, she could not find her brother and the lady. On January 13, after a fruitless search by community members, the 8-year-old girl later identified the suspect, who took to her heels but was eventually caught by the angry mob. Vanguard reported that when police heard about the incident, they swiftly arrived at the scene to pick up the suspect from the angry mob. Due to the agitation of the angry mob, she was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). However, detectives revealed plans to take the woman to a psychiatrist to evaluate her mental health. Additionally, a man who initially claimed to be her father when the mob attacked her was taken into custody but later released.
Ruben Amorim’s first signing arrives for Man Utd medical
….As INEOS transfer strategy takes shape following Dan Ashworth exit Manchester United are on the verge of completing the first signing of the Ruben Amorim era as INEOS’ transfer strategy takes shape. ·Leon in Manchester to complete his medical·Teenager set to become Amorim’s first signing·Will join the club in July 2025 ·WHAT HAPPENED? 17-year-old Paraguayan left-back, Diego Leon has arrived in Manchester ahead of his medical. The club are then expected to formally announce their first signing of Amorim’s tenure at Old Trafford, according to Fabrizio Romano. The young left-back will join from Paraguayan top division side Cerro Porteno. United have agreed to pay a transfer fee of £3.2 million ($4m) plus up to £3.6m ($4.5m) in add-ons. THE BIGGER PICTURE After completing these formalities in Manchester, the teenager will head back to Paraguay and will only return to England in July 2025 to link up with the first team. Leon’s signing gives shape to INEOS’ long-term transfer vision, with the club restructuring after the shock exit of sporting director Dan Ashworth towards the end of 2024 just months after joining from Newcastle. ·DID YOU KNOW? United have been on the lookout for a new left-back due to the injury issues of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia over the past 18 months. They are bringing in a talented full-back who could solve those issues in the future. Amorim has also been linked with a reunion with some of his old Sporting CP players at Old Trafford, as well as Portugal international Nuno Mendes. WHAT NEXT FOR MAN UTD? Amorim’s side will aim to get back to winning ways on Thursday when they lock horns against Southampton at Old Trafford in a Premier League clash.
EPL: Iwobi scores twice, surpasses Kanu’s appearance record
Alex Iwobi etched his name further into Nigerian football history on Tuesday with a stellar performance against West Ham United, despite his team’s 3-2 defeat. The versatile midfielder scored a brace, showcasing his attacking prowess and contributing significantly to Fulham’s fightback. More importantly, this milestone saw Iwobi surpass legendary Nigerian striker, Nwankwo Kanu to become the Nigerian player with the second-most Premier League appearances of all time. With 274 appearances, Iwobi now trails only Shola Ameobi (293) on the list of Nigerians with the most appearances in the English top flight. Furthermore, Iwobi climbed the ladder of Nigeria’s all-time leading goalscorers in the English Premier Leaague. Premier League Appearances: Shola Ameobi: 293Alex Iwobi: 274Nwankwo Kanu: 273Aiyegbeni Yakubu: 252John Obi Mikel: 249 His two goals against West Ham brought his tally for the Super Eagles to 29, surpassing Obafemi Martins (28 goals) and placing him seventh on the list. While the result may not have gone Fulham’s way, Iwobi’s individual brilliance and historical achievements provide a significant moment for Nigerian football. Current Top Nigerian Goalscorers in the English Premier Leaague: Yakubu: 95 goalsKanu: 54 goalsEfan Ekoku: 52 goalsShola Ameobi: 43 goalsKelechi Iheanacho: 42 goalsPeter Odemwingie: 36 goalsAlex Iwobi: 29 goalsObafemi Martins: 28 goals. This achievement solidifies Iwobi’s status as one of the most successful Nigerian players in Premier League history.
Obasa paid for overstepping his bounds, Gen Olarewaju mocks ex-Lagos Speaker
A former Minister of Communications, Major General Tajudeen Olanrewaju (retd.) has reacted to the impeachment of the former Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, attributing it to his political overreach. In a statement released by the Media Office of the De Renaissance Patriots Foundation, Olanrewaju stated that Obasa’s political downfall was the result of his actions while in office. The general stated, “Karma is both action and the consequences of that action; it is cause and effect simultaneously because every action generates a force of energy that returns to us in like kind. “There is nothing unfamiliar about the Law of Karma. Everybody has heard the expression, ‘What you sow is what you reap.’” Accusing Obasa of exceeding his political limits and miscalculating his power, Olanrewaju described Obasa’s actions as a misstep in seeking more control in Lagos State, stating that the former Speaker had overstepped his boundaries in various ways. “The choices the former Speaker Obasa made while on his exalted seat were that he overstepped his political boundary in many ways. “Politicians, while playing their political ping pong game of arrogance and seeking more power in search of a dynastic crown, particularly in Lagos State, ignored the slippery ground,” Olanrewaju explained. The ex-minister also criticised Obasa’s rumoured Lagos governorship aambition, calling it a major political blunder. He compared Obasa’s actions to the mistakes of ancient rulers, claiming his attempt to break into the gubernatorial race was ‘an unpardonable harakiri.’ Recalling his past advice to Obasa, Olanrewaju disclosed that he warned the former Speaker against pursuing a third term and emphasized that leadership should be given to a Lagos indigene at the right time. “I remember that I warned the Speaker-to-be Obasa a few years ago not to contest for the Speaker’s position for the third time. That he should yield the post to an indigene, knowing that it was the right time for an indigene to be the Speaker. “Obasa is an Ogun State indigene. Constitutionally, you cannot claim two states of origin, but wonders never end in Lagos State’s power matrix,” Olanrewaju stated. Olanrewaju further attributed Obasa’s downfall to his disregard for political accountability and his failure to listen to advice from both internal and external critics. “His fall from power could be ascribed to undignified political correctness and mean-spirited attempts to silence critics both within the establishment and external forces. Obasa bluffed everyone and pushed aside all commonsensical appeals to him,” he added. The former minister concluded by stressing the need for leadership roles to prioritize the indigenous population of Lagos State, calling for a shift towards indigenous leadership for better governance. “The lessons to be learned from this authoritarian political action is to give power to the IBILE indigenous people of Lagos State, who can manage themselves better and more successfully. Who knows who is next? A stitch in time saves nine,” the retired general warned.
Don’t put Mohbad’s brother in trouble, late singer’s mother warns Yomi Fabiyi
Mohbad’s tragic death sparks tension as his mother, Mrs. Abosede Aloba, and actor Yomi Fabiyi clash over claims about the cause of the singer’s death. The conflict unfolded during a press conference Fabiyi held on Wednesday at Radisson Blu, Ikeja, Lagos, to demand justice for the late artist. Fabiyi accused Mohbad’s younger brother, Adura Aloba, of messaging him on Instagram with information about the cause of the singer’s death. This allegation, however, was firmly denied by Mrs. Aloba, who defended her younger son. Mother defends son amid allegations In an emotional outburst during the press event, Mrs. Aloba rejected Fabiyi’s claims, stating that Adura had no knowledge of Mohbad’s death. She accused Fabiyi of trying to tarnish her family’s reputation and jeopardize Adura’s safety. “They killed Mohbad, and now you want me to lose his brother unjustly,” she declared, visibly shaken. “Adura knows nothing about his brother’s death. Do not implicate my son.” Mrs. Aloba lamented the pain of losing her son, expressing how deeply Mohbad’s death has affected her. “If Mohbad were alive, I wouldn’t be here with you,” she said. “They took my precious gift, and I won’t let them take Adura too.” Dispute over alleged messages Fabiyi insisted that the Instagram message he received came from Adura’s account. He claimed the content of the message, rather than the sender’s identity, was his primary concern. “I have nothing against Adura or Mohbad,” Fabiyi said. “But if it was Adura’s handle that sent me the message, would you want me to ignore it?” The actor argued that he acted in good faith, believing the message could help uncover the truth about Mohbad’s death. He also expressed frustration over the controversy surrounding his intentions. “When I saw the message, I thought you wanted to help your brother,” he said. A Phone sale adds complexity The situation took another twist when it was revealed that a man named Damola had purchased Adura’s phone. This revelation raised questions about the authenticity of the messages sent to Fabiyi and further complicated the dispute. Mrs. Aloba disclosed that Damola had used Adura’s phone to send the controversial message. “He confided in me and even apologized when I confronted him,” she said. “He admitted he didn’t expect the situation to escalate.” Family torn by tragedy The loss of Mohbad at just 26 years old has left his family reeling. The singer passed away on September 11, 2023, in Lagos, leaving behind a grieving mother and a younger brother now caught in the crossfire of public scrutiny. Adding to the heartbreak, police arrested an unlicensed nurse on September 19, 2023. The nurse, who allegedly administered a tetanus vaccine to Mohbad shortly before his death, is under investigation. Public and private grief Mrs. Aloba criticized individuals exploiting her son’s death for personal gain. “This was how they started with Promise (Mohbad),” she said. “Nobody knows the pain I’m going through. Imole would not stay silent if he knew what killed his brother.” Her words highlighted the emotional toll the tragedy has taken on her family. She also emphasized the importance of seeking justice without further harming those left behind. Call for justice Fabiyi, however, maintained that his actions were driven by a desire for justice. He argued that ignoring the message would have been irresponsible. “If someone collects money under false pretenses, would you want me to keep quiet?” he asked. The actor called for a thorough investigation into Mohbad’s death, urging authorities to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable. Painful road ahead The clash between Mrs. Aloba and Fabiyi reflects the broader struggle to find answers and closure. As investigations continue, the family and the public await clarity on the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s untimely death. In the meantime, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the impact of loss and the complexities of seeking justice in the face of grief. Read Also: My life improved after Mohbad’s death – Father
Controversial whistleblower, Mahdi Shehu arrested again
For the second time in as many months, Kaduna-based activist and political commentator, Mahdi Shehu has been arrested by security personnel, believed to be from the Department of State Services (DSS) again. According to Daily Trust, Mahdi was picked up by plainclothes security operatives at his clinic in Unguwar Dosa around 11:00 a.m. Till press time, there has been no official statement from security agencies regarding the arrest of the Kaduna-based activist and political commentator. Also, the activist’s son, Buhari Mahdi stated that they had not been able to establish contact with his father. “We don’t know if it was an arrest or an invitation. But they (DSS) picked him up at his clinic in Unguwar Dosa, Kaduna, around 11:00 a.m.,” he said, declining to provide further details. NEW DAILY PRIME reports that the activist was arrested in December 2024, and charged in court for sharing a misleading video on his social media handle, claiming the planned establisment of a French military base in Nigeria, which Authorities denied. The Kaduna State High Court later granted him bail on January 9, 2025, setting the amount at ₦3 million and requiring two prominent clerics as sureties. The development comes few days after he broke his silence on his current travail. In a series of tweets at the weekend, Shehu appreciated his supporters for their concern, support, and prayers. “During my arrest, detention, and incarceration spanning 12 days, I have a duty and obligation to thank the following classes of people. Those who were genuinely worried, concerned, supportive, and prayerful. I felt your prayers, and they served the purposes they were meant for. “Those who were happy and celebrative. I am thanking you because you emboldened me and served as a seasoning to my world view. You occupy that row in a stadium who celebrates any club that is winning for that day. “Those who sat on the fence. This class, though, neither concerned, prayerful, supportive, nor celebrative, yet offer their silence or indifference as pond for those willing to come for combative fishing. One day, they will belong somewhere, either as victims or villains, willy-nilly,” Shehu had said. He also apologised for his inability to respond to over four million messages across various social media platforms and handles.
Terrorism Financing: Police establish anti-money laundering units
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, has inaugurated Police Anti-Money Laundering Units. He appointed financial expert Hyacinth Edozie, along with officers holding the rank of Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs), to lead the units in all State Criminal Investigation Departments (SCIDs) nationwide. Egbetokun described this initiative as a strategic measure to bolster the police’s role in national security, particularly in combating financial crimes. He emphasised its significance in addressing the advanced methods employed by terrorist organizations and other criminal networks to finance their operations. The IGP reaffirmed that the establishment of these units highlights the police force’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding national stability by preventing and detecting illicit financial activities. READ ALSO: IGP warns against attacks on Police officers Additionally, he stated that the initiative strengthens the operational capacity of law enforcement agencies, particularly the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), in fulfilling its global oversight responsibilities to tackle security threats. As part of this renewed focus, the IGP revealed recent successes in apprehending individuals involved in financial crimes. On December 8, 2024, in Gwale, Kano, police operatives acting on credible intelligence arrested Nura Ibrahim and uncovered counterfeit currency worth N129.54 billion. The breakdown included 3,366,000 in counterfeit US dollars, 51,970 in counterfeit CFA francs, and 1,443,000 in counterfeit Naira. This operation led to the subsequent arrests of accomplices Muhammed Muntari and Usman Abdullahi. Similarly, on January 13, 2025, police operatives in New Karu, Nasarawa State, arrested a 53-year-old suspect, Ephraim Barde, in possession of $160,000 in counterfeit U.S. dollar notes. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of Barde’s activities and identify other collaborators. The IGP reiterated the police force’s commitment to combating financial crimes and ensuring a secure economic environment to enhance national security. READ ALSO: Why I’ll never let my children join Nigerian Army – 76-year-old veteran He emphasised that the establishment of the Anti-Money Laundering Units is a crucial step in this direction. He also urged citizens to actively support national security efforts by reporting suspicious activities related to counterfeit currency and financial crimes.
Lagos vaccinates 3.5 million children against measles, others
The Lagos State Government has revealed that no fewer than 3.5 million children were vaccinated against measles while 20.3 million residents received vaccination for yellow fever in 2024. The revelation was made known by Dr. Abimbola Bowale, the Supervising Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Healthcare Board, yesterday during a conference for November supplemental immunisation activities and the polio outbreak response. Reminiscing about the 2024 campaign held on 19 October, Dr. Bowale acknowledged that the campaign was a result of combined efforts and commitment from dedicated healthcare workers, partners, and Lagos people. He noted that the campaigner aimed to cover the gap in immunisation coverage and combat the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases in the state. Dr. Bowale said, “This is a comprehensive campaign targeting measles, yellow fever, and Human Papillomavirus (HPV), prioritising high-risk populations and leveraging innovative strategies to maximise impact.” “By focusing on both urban and remote communities, the campaign sought to achieve herd immunity, reduce disease transmission, and strengthen routine immunisation systems.” Read Also: Nigeria launches Mpox vaccination programme in Abuja While emphasising the state government’s commitment to protecting lives, he said that from 18 January to 22 January of 2025, there will be a polio outbreak response in all 20 local governments and 37 local council development areas to maintain the country’s polio-free status. The target venues to visit for the vaccine include residential homes, schools, churches, mosques, gated estates, and all public places. He said, “If we become complacent, the entire country is vulnerable to reinfection by the wild poliovirus, especially with a recent outbreak of wild polio-virus type 1 in Malawi and Mozambique. “Therefore, every state must maintain its zero WPV status and halt the transmission of circulating variant polio-virus type 2 (cVPV2) by conducting high-quality campaigns and improving routine immunisation coverage to ensure high population immunity as a deterrent against any reinfection of the wild poliovirus. Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser on Health, appreciated significant stakeholders and partners collaborating with the state government in the health sector for their unwavering support. The stakeholders include the World Health Organisation (WHO), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI), and community-based organisations.
