FG approves N4bn for 10 million vulnerable Nigerians
The Federal Government has approved N4 billion for conditional cash transfers to no fewer than 10 million vulnerable households in the country. The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwada announced this on Thursday while speaking at the launch of the 2025 Nigeria Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) at the United Nations House in Abuja. According to him, the initiative aimed at addressing the nation’s growing humanitarian challenges. The minister said the programme will assist at least 10 million displaced households, focusing on the most vulnerable members of society. The cash transfers are scheduled to begin in February and run through April, targeting families affected by displacement, particularly in the Northeast. Announcing the initiative, Professor Yilwada stated, “We are prioritising women, especially widows, pregnant women, and those with disabilities. The experiences of displaced women, particularly those with pregnancy or disability are especially challenging. We understand these vulnerabilities and will continue to support those who are most in need. “The President has approved the Ministry’s plan to begin paying conditional cash transfers to 10 million displaced households between February and April. This initiative aims to support those most in need, particularly vulnerable families affected by displacement.” N2 BILLION FOR INTEREST-FREE LOANS TO FARMERS In addition to the cash transfer programme, the government has approved N2 billion for interest-free loans to farmers in rural areas to enhance food production and self-sufficiency. “Additionally, the government has allocated N2 billion to provide interest-free loans to farmers in rural communities,” Yilwada noted. “These loans will range from N300,000 to N400,000 per household, helping farmers access necessary resources and linking them to market opportunities.” He further highlighted additional relief measures, saying, “A N4 billion provision has been approved to support vulnerable groups through cash transfers, targeting families affected by natural disasters and other crises. These interventions are part of the government’s broader strategy to alleviate poverty and provide relief to those in urgent need.” IDPS TOP PRIORITY The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees, and affected communities nationwide. He explained that the HNRP was developed through extensive consultations and designed to address the humanitarian needs of conflict-affected regions, including Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe. The minister concluded. “We are combining the efforts of humanitarian, developmental, and peace-building platforms to ensure long-term resilience and sustainable solutions for these communities.”
NANS rejects 50% telecom tariff hike, issues 72-hour ultimatum to NCC
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly opposed the recent 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs announced by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), labelling the decision as “inconsiderate and unjustifiable.” In a statement issued on Wednesday, NANS condemned the hike, warning that it would exacerbate the economic challenges already faced by Nigerians, particularly students. Oladimeji Uthman, the Clerk of the Senate at NANS National Headquarters, called the tariff increase “abnormal,” especially in the context of the nation’s current socio-economic difficulties. The association emphasised that the move would only make it harder for students to access affordable internet, deepening the digital divide and hindering efforts to bridge the educational gap in the country. NANS has given the NCC and the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy a 72-hour ultimatum to reverse the decision or face a nationwide protest. “This decision is highly inconsiderate, and it is unjustifiable given the already strained economic conditions faced by the average Nigerian,” the statement read. The association acknowledged the operational difficulties faced by the telecommunications sector, including inflation and rising costs, but insisted that these challenges should not be passed on to students or the general public. NANS urged both the NCC and the ministry to seek alternative solutions that prioritise affordability and accessibility. In a direct call to action, NANS demanded immediate dialogue with the NCC, the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, and other relevant stakeholders to discuss a more equitable approach. “We call for a fair and balanced approach that puts the welfare of Nigerian students and citizens first,” the statement stated. Should the NCC fail to address their demands within 72 hours, NANS has pledged to organise peaceful, nationwide protests. These protests will involve student leaders, unions, and civil society organisations, and will not only demand the reversal of the tariff hike but also advocate for more extensive consultations before policies affecting the public are enacted. “NANS remains committed to peaceful advocacy and dialogue, but our patience is not without limits,” Uthman added, stressing the association’s determination to protect the future of Nigeria’s youth. The group also called on well-meaning Nigerians, civil society organisations, and youth groups to join the movement, underscoring the importance of ensuring that policies impacting education and the welfare of young Nigerians are fair and inclusive. “The future of Nigeria depends on the quality of education and opportunities available to its young people. We will not allow policies that threaten this future to prevail,” Uthman concluded.
Political parties disagree on INEC’s role in conducting bye-elections
Major political parties in Nigeria have weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding the conduct of bye-elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). On Wednesday, they insisted that INEC should continue to oversee bye-elections to fill legislative vacancies resulting from resignations or deaths. The Labour Party (LP) and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) rejected the suggestion made by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr. Femi Falana, that INEC should cease conducting bye-elections. Instead, they argued that political parties should internally decide who replaces an elected official in the event of death or resignation. Falana, in a recent statement, proposed that since votes belong to political parties, the replacement of a deceased or resigned candidate should not necessarily require a bye-election. This proposition, however, was met with resistance from the LP and NNPP, who emphasised that the electoral process should remain transparent and in line with democratic practices. While the All Progressives Congress (APC) called for wider consultations on the matter, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) supported Falana’s view, advocating for political parties to handle vacancies internally. During a consultative meeting with political party leaders in Abuja on Wednesday, INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, expressed concern about the financial burden posed by the increasing number of bye-elections in the country. Yakubu highlighted that 23 legislative vacancies had occurred since the inauguration of the current national and state assemblies in June 2023. He noted that some bye-elections have even led to additional elections, further straining the commission’s resources. Yakubu called for legislative reforms to adopt more cost-effective methods of filling such vacancies, noting that other countries have implemented more efficient systems. He also stressed that the commission had been advocating for such reforms for the past nine years and would continue to push for improvements in the electoral process. Labour Party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, disagreed with Falana’s suggestion, arguing that bye-elections are essential to ensuring that representatives align with the electorate’s interests. He explained that allowing political parties to fill vacancies without an election could lead to a situation where representatives are chosen based on the highest bidder, rather than public support. Similarly, the NNPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, expressed concerns over the idea, stating that bypassing bye-elections could undermine the democratic process. On the other hand, PDP Deputy Publicity Secretary Ibrahim Abdullahi supported Falana’s recommendation, suggesting that allowing parties to fill vacant positions could save INEC significant expenses. Meanwhile, APC National Publicity Director, Bala Ibrahim, called for broader consultation on the issue, proposing that a decision should be made based on the majority’s wishes. He also suggested exploring alternatives to ensure elections are decided on the first round, thus reducing the need for reruns and saving costs. As the debate continues, it remains clear that political parties are divided on the best way forward, with the cost and logistical challenges of bye-elections remaining a central concern.
Couple escapes death after container falls on their jeep in Lagos
A couple narrowly escaped death on Wednesday evening when a container fell on their Lexus Jeep at the Toyota bus stop on the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, Lagos. The incident occurred around 6:35 PM, prompting a swift response from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service. According to Margaret Adeseye, the Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the agency received a distress call and immediately mobilised to the scene. Upon arrival, they rescued the couple, both adults, from the wreckage of their vehicle. The accident occurred when a 20-foot container, being carried by a Mack Trailer, accidentally fell onto the rear side of the moving Lexus Jeep. “The couple, a 45-year-old male and a 37-year-old female, were trapped in the vehicle, but fortunately, they were rescued unharmed,” Adeseye stated in a release on Thursday. The trailer, which was transporting two containers, had been in motion when the container fell onto the vehicle. The quick action of passers-by and emergency responders helped to free the couple. In addition to the couple, the trailer driver also escaped without injury and was later given trauma therapy to ensure his well-being. Adeseye confirmed that after the rescue operation, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) cleared the wreckage from the road, while the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) managed the traffic situation. Support from the Nigeria Police Ilasamaja Division helped to ensure the safe conclusion of the operation. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by loose containers on busy roads and highlights the importance of rapid emergency response in ensuring the safety of road users.
Ogun varsity student arrested for stabbing colleague over noise dispute
A 25-year-old Business Education student at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Koya Ayodeji, has been arrested by the Ogun State Police Command for allegedly stabbing a fellow student during an argument over noise. The incident occurred on Tuesday at approximately 11:50 PM, when Ayodeji reportedly attacked 21-year-old Ayobami Ajayi, a 3rd-year Mass Communication student, in their university dormitory. According to police reports, the altercation began after Ayodeji accused Ajayi of causing a disturbance with loud noise coming from his room. The suspect, who was reportedly under the influence of drugs, allegedly confronted Ajayi and asked him to lower the volume. When his request was ignored, Ayodeji allegedly picked up a knife and stabbed Ajayi in the lower abdomen. The spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command, Omolola Odutola, confirmed the details of the incident, stating that Ayodeji had been behaving strangely before the confrontation. “Ayodeji was under the influence of hard drugs at the time of the attack,” Odutola said, adding that the suspect had been arrested and that a toxicology screening would be conducted to confirm his condition. Ajayi was immediately rushed to the Ogun State University Teaching Hospital in Sagamu, where doctors have since reported his condition as stable. The police also recovered a blood-stained knife from the scene of the attack, which has been marked as evidence for further investigation. The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and additional updates will be provided as more information emerges. This incident follows a troubling pattern of violence at the university. In September 2024, a 200-level Philosophy student at OOU, Ayomide Adeleye, was arrested in connection with the kidnapping and murder of Christianah Idowu, a 300-level student at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. As the investigation into the stabbing continues, the Ogun State Police have vowed to ensure justice is served in this latest case.
NDLEA seizes over 339,000kg of drugs in 2024
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Tincan Island Port Strategic Command in Lagos has made significant strides in curbing drug trafficking, seizing 339,576.91kg of illegal substances and arresting 38 drug suspects throughout 2024. Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju made the announcement during a press briefing in Lagos on Thursday, revealing the extensive operations carried out by the command over the past year. The drugs seized included a wide range of substances, with the largest haul being Codeine at 305,323.37kg. Other significant seizures included Tapentadol (13.37kg), Tafradol (11,230.8kg), and Benzhexol (5,888.8kg). Cannabis Indica amounted to 3,601.25kg, Methamphetamine 83.3kg, Cocaine 56.39kg, and Heroin 23kg. The estimated value of the drugs seized is approximately N134.2 billion. Ofoyeju highlighted that the command’s efforts have led to 12 convictions, with 26 cases currently pending in the courts. He emphasised the vital role the NDLEA plays in the seaport, stating that these operations have significantly disrupted drug supply chains while promoting public health and safety. “These operations have not only disrupted drug supply chains but have also significantly promoted public health and safety,” Ofoyeju said. He noted that the command’s vigilance was evident in a January 2024 operation where narcotic drugs, firearms, and ammunition were discovered in a single container. The Commander further stressed that the NDLEA would continue to protect the nation from the severe impact of drug-related crimes, including kidnapping and murder, which are often aggravated by the distribution of narcotics. “We are committed to ensuring that drugs and arms do not reach criminals, as this would contribute to peace and security across the country,” he added. Ofoyeju also emphasized the NDLEA’s mandate to foster legitimate commerce while eliminating criminal activities that threaten economic growth. He assured the public that the Tincan Island Port would remain under close surveillance to prevent any future penetration by drug trafficking cartels. In recognition of outstanding service, Ofoyeju announced the establishment of an annual award for the best-performing officers of the command. This year, six officers and a journalist from This Day Newspapers were honoured for their contributions. The event also marked the public launch of the first edition of the Tincan Strategic Command’s quarterly newsletter, an initiative aimed at enhancing transparency, celebrating successes, and keeping stakeholders informed about the command’s efforts and upcoming initiatives. The continued efforts of the Tincan Island Port Strategic Command underscore the importance of tackling drug trafficking and its associated crimes in Nigeria, as the NDLEA remains resolute in its mission to protect the nation’s security and public health.
Bauchi gov, Bala Mohammed slams Wike over media comments
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has issued a strong rebuke of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, following what he described as disparaging remarks made by Wike in a recent media interview. In his statement, Governor Mohammed accused Wike of stirring division and creating drama, following the latter’s criticisms of him and his role as Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum. The statement, which was released by Mohammed’s Media Adviser, Muhktar Gidado, on Thursday, lambasted Wike’s comments as “disjointed” and “bombastic,” with the Governor accusing the Minister of being prone to “contradictions” and “grandstanding.” “We have taken note of the latest disjointed and bombastic media chat by Chief Nyesom Wike,” the statement began. “In his characteristic fashion, Wike launched into yet another tirade, filled with contradictions, grandstanding, and an unsettling display of shifting loyalties that seem to change with the political winds.” Governor Mohammed further expressed his disappointment in Wike’s remarks, which he said lacked substance and clarity. He contended that Wike’s recent outbursts were an attempt to distort facts and undermine the very party that had supported his political career, the PDP. “Chief Wike’s rise in politics is a direct result of the opportunities provided by the PDP,” the statement continued. “Ironically, he now seems intent on tearing down the very foundation that supported his ascent.” The Governor also accused Wike of betraying the principles of loyalty and integrity that should guide political alliances. Mohammed expressed concern that Wike’s “transactional” approach to politics – where personal ambitions take precedence over party loyalty – was becoming more apparent. “Unlike Wike, who thrives on drama and divisiveness, Sen. Bala Mohammed has always approached politics as a platform for serving the public good, rather than as a stage for self-serving theatrics,” the statement added. Governor Mohammed also took aim at Wike’s tendency to form political alliances based on convenience, labelling him as opportunistic and unreliable. According to the statement, Wike’s inconsistent political behaviour has alienated even his closest allies. “Wike’s behaviour exposes him as a fair-weather friend and an inconsistent ally – traits that drive away even those who once stood by his side,” the statement concluded. The ongoing feud between the two PDP members highlights the growing tensions within the party, as both politicians continue to navigate their differing political ambitions and loyalties.
Up to one in 12 in London is an illegal migrant
Government ‘must do more on deportations’ as new estimate suggests more than 1m people are illegally living in UK London is home to as many as 585,000 illegal migrants, equivalent to one in 12 of the city’s population, according to a previously confidential report. There is mounting concern over the failure to control Britain’s borders and the pressure that places on public services such as schools and the NHS. The use of illegal migrants in the black economy, working in roles such as food delivery drivers, is also a concern. Despite this, no official figures on the scale of the problem are provided by the Home Office. The new estimate has emerged in a study commissioned by Thames Water, obtained by The Telegraph under freedom of information-style laws for the environment. In total, there are estimated to be more than one million illegal migrants in the UK, with 60 per cent of those in the capital. The report suggests most illegal migrants arrived in the UK on work, study or visitor visas and then overstayed. Migration experts suggested that the figures could be an underestimate as some of the underlying data dates from 2017, before the surge in migrants crossing the Channel. On Tuesday, the Home Office confirmed 1,000 migrants had crossed so far this year, following 38,816 in 2024, the second highest total on record. Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, said the figures in the report were “deeply alarming”. “Having lost control of illegal immigration over the Channel, the Labour Government must now urgently start deporting far more illegal immigrants,” he said. “It is totally unacceptable to have these numbers of illegal immigrants in the UK. The law needs to be looked at so that spurious human rights, modern slavery and asylum claims cannot be used to delay or prevent removals of illegal immigrants.” Alp Mehmet, chairman of think tank Migration Watch, said: “A population underestimate on this scale has colossal implications for utility and local authority planning. Utilities, housing, the NHS, GP surgeries and schools will all come under severe pressure, further risking community cohesion.” The Telegraph has previously revealed accusations that the NHS is giving undocumented migrants priority for appointments and at A&E, as the health service continues to battle to bring down waiting lists. Richard Tice, the deputy leader of Reform UK, said: “One in 12 people in London are here illegally, probably working illegally using taxpayer-funded public infrastructure and services. It is totally unacceptable. “It’s another reason why we need to properly control our borders.” The report for Thames Water, by Edge Analytics, demography and data experts at Leeds University, aimed to quantify the “hidden” and “transient” users of their services to enable them to better meet demand. It based its analysis on academic estimates of illegal migrants nationally including the respected Pew Research Center in the US, the London School of Economics, Office for National Statistics data and other research. It then used National Insurance registrations for non-EU foreign nationals over a nine-year period to estimate the number of “irregular” migrants in each London borough. For the whole of London, it produced a range of 390,355 illegal migrants at its lowest to 585,533 at its highest, with a median figure of 487,944. With an estimated population of 7,044,667, that would mean up to one in 12 of the capital’s population is an illegal migrant. When other areas outside London covered by Thames Water are included such as Henley, Guildford, Reading, Swindon and Newbury, the range for the number of illegal migrants rises to between 415,568 and 623,351. Home Office fails to keep track The Home Office does not publish any comprehensive data estimating the number of illegal migrants in the UK. Only since 2018 has it produced figures on the number of illegal Channel migrants reaching the UK. However, there have been unofficial estimates by insiders over the years. In 2019, David Wood, a former director general of immigration enforcement, said illegal immigration was “probably” running at around 150,000 a year. The report cites Home Office calculations that between 150,000 and 250,000 foreign nationals fail to return to their home country each year. It also cites estimates by Migration Watch that there is a net addition to the population of 70,000 irregular migrants a year owing to visa overstayers, illegal arrivals and failed asylum seekers. The report notes that there are an estimated further 165,000 legal migrants who are working illegally in the UK economy. However, these were not included in the overall calculation by the researchers because they were officially recorded users of water utilities so not part of the “hidden” total of “irregular” migrants. A Thames Water spokesman said: “Water companies have a regulatory obligation to undertake a ‘water balance’, which includes understanding how much water our customers use on a per-person basis, and how it is distributed across our supply area. “Analysis to estimate ‘hidden and transient’ populations is carried out by an independent firm of consultants, who draw from publicly available sources including census, surveys, and published academic research. Thames Water played no part in the writing of the report and the conclusions drawn are those of the independent firm that carried out the research.” A Home Office spokesman said: “This Government is strengthening global partnerships and rooting out the criminal gangs who profit from small boat crossings which threaten lives. “We have also removed 16,400 illegal migrants in just six months, the highest figure in half a decade, making it clear that those who arrive illegally will be returned.” Home Office sources said the underlying data were out of date and there was no officially recognised way of measuring how many illegal migrants are in Britain. By Sam Ashworth-Hayes , Charles Hymas Home Affairs Editor Read Also:US ICE arrest over 300 immigrants on first day of raid
Trump’s call for lower oil prices to end Russia, Ukraine War
Come make your product in America, and we will give you among the lowest taxes of any nation on Earth – Donald Trump President Donald Trump has called on Chinese President Xi Jinping to leverage China’s influence to help end the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. Speaking via video link at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Trump stated that China holds significant power over the conflict and revealed that he had discussed the issue directly with President Xi during a recent phone conversation. “Hopefully, China can help stop the war between Russia and Ukraine. They have a great deal of power over that situation, and we’ll work with them,” Trump said. He added, “I mentioned this during our phone conversation with President Xi, and hopefully, we can work together to bring this to an end.” China, however, has been criticized for its indirect support of Russia through the continued importation of Russian oil and its alleged provision of components used in the manufacturing of missiles. Lower Oil Prices as a StrategyTrump also proposed lowering global oil prices as a strategy to undermine Russia’s war efforts. He urged Saudi Arabia and OPEC countries to reduce oil prices, which would cut Russian energy revenues significantly. “I was surprised to learn that if oil prices dropped, the Russia-Ukraine war could end almost immediately,” Trump said. In 2024, Russia earned an estimated £89 billion from oil and gas exports, making energy sales a critical source of funding for its military operations. With 47% of its crude exports going to China and 37% to India, Russia has continued to benefit from energy trade despite Western sanctions. The Russia-Ukraine conflict has had far-reaching consequences globally, including in Nigeria. As one of the world’s largest wheat importers, Nigeria previously sourced 26% of its wheat from Russia and Ukraine. The war disrupted these imports, leading to soaring food prices and worsening food insecurity. Additionally, Nigeria’s economy has been affected by rising global commodity prices, although the country has benefited from increased liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to European countries seeking alternatives to Russian gas. During his address, Trump criticized the Biden administration’s green energy policies, calling them a “green new scam.” He announced plans to boost fossil fuel production in the U.S., emphasizing the importance of coal as a “backup” energy source to stabilize manufacturing. Trump also addressed international trade, taking aim at the European Union for what he described as unfair tariffs and environmental regulations. He proposed new tariffs on products imported into the U.S., while encouraging businesses to manufacture domestically. “Come make your product in America, and we will give you among the lowest taxes in the world,” he said. Read Also: Trump threatens Russia with tariffs, sanctions over war with Ukraine Read Also: DOGE sued minutes after Trump took office Read Also: How Trump redefined political norms, left America divided
Chris Wood commits future to Nottingham Forest until 2027
Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood has signed a new contract that will keep him at the City Ground until 2027. The New Zealand international has been in scintillating form this season, netting 14 goals in 22 Premier League appearances to help Forest climb to third in the standings. Wood initially joined Forest on loan from Newcastle United in January 2023, completing a permanent transfer in June of the same year. In just two years, he has become Forest’s leading Premier League goalscorer, surpassing Bryan Roy’s record of 24 goals in December. Speaking about the extension, the 33-year-old expressed his excitement about continuing his journey with the club.“I’m very excited and very happy to have it completed and done,” Wood said. “I saw the ambition when I first arrived. The owner and his family have big dreams for this club, and they’ve backed it for years. Playing in front of our incredible fans is always a pleasure. Here’s to a few more years together.” Wood’s previous deal was set to expire at the end of this season, but his new contract reflects the club’s commitment to rewarding his remarkable contributions. A Role Model On and Off the Pitch Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis praised Wood’s impact, describing him as a symbol of the club’s ethos.“He epitomises everything it means to wear the Garibaldi red — hard work, fighting spirit, and the attitude to never give up. He is a winner and a role model for everyone at the club. We are thrilled to reward his dedication,” Marinakis said. Wood was named Forest’s first-ever Premier League Player of the Month in November, becoming the first player from New Zealand to achieve the honor. His performances have inspired the team in their bid to return to European competition for the first time since 1995-96. The Nuno Espirito Santo Effect Wood’s form has flourished under the guidance of manager Nuno Espirito Santo, who was appointed in December 2023. Remarkably, 25 of Wood’s 29 Premier League goals for Forest have come during Nuno’s tenure. This season, Forest are unbeaten in eight league games and remain the only team to beat leaders Liverpool, securing a memorable 1-0 victory at Anfield in September and drawing 1-1 in the return fixture. Currently six points behind Liverpool and six points clear of fifth-placed Manchester City, Forest are well-positioned in the race for a Champions League berth. Wood’s extension follows a similar deal signed earlier this month by centre-back Murillo, as Forest continue to build a squad capable of challenging for silverware and European glory. A Legacy in the Making Chris Wood’s 30 goals in 65 appearances across all competitions have cemented his status as a fan favorite and a vital cog in Forest’s resurgence. With his new contract in place, the striker is poised to add to his legacy at the City Ground as Forest aim to rekindle the glory days of their European dominance in 1979 and 1980. Fans will undoubtedly be eager to see what the future holds for Wood and Nottingham Forest as they push for a return to Europe’s elite stage.
