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The Bauchi State House of Assembly has passed into law a Bill to provide for the creation of 29 new additional Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Bauchi State, 2025.

The Bill was passed during the sitting of the Assembly on Tuesday, 27th October 2025, presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Y. Suleiman.

The Acting Deputy Clerk of the House, Musa Yerima, has forwarded the law to Senator Barau Jibrin, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review.

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He wrote:

‘I am pleased to inform you that the Bauchi State House of Assembly has passed into law a Bill to provide for the creation of 29 new additional Local Government Areas in Bauchi State, 2025.’

According to him,

‘The additional Local Government Areas listed in Schedule II to this Law are inchoate until such a time as the National Assembly shall pass an Act to make consequential provisions with respect to the names of the said additional Local Government Areas, as provided for under Section 8(5) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.’

Musa Yerima further explained:

‘The said Law is hereby forwarded to the Chairman, Joint Committee on Constitution Review, National Assembly, for further necessary action, please.’

While signing the document, he stated:

‘I, Musa Yerima, Acting Deputy Clerk to the Legislature of Bauchi State, hereby certify that this Law has been passed in accordance with Sub-section 3 of Section 100 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).’

He added:

‘This printed impression has been carefully compared by me with the Bill passed by the Legislature and found to be a true and correctly printed copy of the said Bill.’

According to Schedule II (2025 No. 45), the new Local Government Areas are: Balma, Bauchi East, Bauchi West, Beshongo, Bula, Burra, Chinade, Dagauda/Jalam, and Disina.

Others include Dogon Jeji/Jurara, Dass-West, Gadau, Galambi, Ganjuwa East, Girawa, Gololo, Gwana, Isawa, Jama’a, and Lame.

The remaining are Lere, Madara, Sade, Sakuwa, Saye, Udubo, Yankari, and Zungur.

The designated headquarters are: Nasaru, Women Centre, Miri, Beni, Bununu, Chinade, Dagauda, Disina, Dogon Jeji, Lukshi, Gadau, Kangere, Faggo, Gololo, Futuk, Isawa, Nabordo, Akuyam, Karkara, Lame, Lere, Madara, Sade, Sakuwa, Hardawa, Udubo, Yelwan Duguri, and Liman Katagum.

Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder that affects the brain’s ability to regulate the natural sleep-wake cycles of the body. Normal sleep is divided into two main types: non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. A normal sleep cycle alternates between NREM sleep and REM sleep every 90 minutes, with REM sleep first occurring after about 90 minutes and repeating four to five times through the night. Individuals with narcolepsy often fall into REM sleep unusually fast, often within 15 minutes of falling asleep.

People with narcolepsy may suddenly fall asleep during the day at inappropriate times and places, feel persistently tired and low on energy, experience disrupted or fragmented nighttime sleep, have difficulty concentrating and have a depressed mood. Individuals with narcolepsy are at an increased risk for conditions like hypertension, depression, anxiety disorders, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). If narcolepsy is left undiagnosed and untreated, it can substantially interfere with daily life, impair emotional well-being, and disrupt social interactions, thus impacting school, work, relationships, and social life.

What are the main symptoms of narcolepsy?

Narcolepsy usually begins in an adolescent, and symptoms typically begin to occur between the ages of 10 and 30, although narcolepsy can occur at any age. The symptoms of narcolepsy include excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), defined as the overwhelming and irresistible urge to sleep during the day (often described as sleep attacks) and is usually the first symptom of narcolepsy; cataplexy (seen in narcolepsy type 1), which refers to sudden loss of muscle tone, often triggered by strong emotions such as laughter or anger; and sleep paralysis, which means temporary inability to move or speak when falling asleep or upon waking. Additionally, individuals may experience hypnagogic or hypnopompic hallucinations, which are vivid dreamlike sensations when falling asleep or upon waking, respectively. Such hallucinations may include seeing a person, animal or shape. Narcolepsy type 1 can be distinguished from narcolepsy type 2 by the presence of cataplexy or low orexin (hypocretin) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Do you have data on the number of people affected by the condition in Nigeria and globally?

The overall prevalence of narcolepsy is estimated to be around 0.05 per cent of the general population, indicating approximately one in every 2,000 people worldwide, translating to about 3 million individuals globally. However, the actual prevalence of narcolepsy may be underreported and can be quite challenging because of lack of awareness, underrecognition and misdiagnosis.

In Nigeria, narcolepsy is considered an uncommon disorder. A hospital-based study reported a prevalence rate of 0.026 per cent, indicating that approximately 26 out of every 100,000 individuals are affected. Another study among final-year medical students found that 25.4 per cent of respondents reported narcolepsy as the most prevalent sleep disorder in their cohort.

What is the difference between narcolepsy and epilepsy?

Narcolepsy and epilepsy are two distinct neurological disorders, though they may sometimes be confused because both can cause sudden episodes that disrupt normal activity. Narcolepsy is a disorder of sleep regulation. Consciousness or awareness is not lost unless the person falls asleep. In contrast, epilepsy is a disorder of abnormal brain electrical activity defined by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. Consciousness or awareness is often impaired or lost in epilepsy, depending on the type. Furthermore, tests to confirm narcolepsy are totally different from those for the diagnosis of epilepsy.

What causes narcolepsy, and is it genetic?

Narcolepsy is believed to result from a combination of genetic predisposition, autoimmune processes, and environmental factors. Narcolepsy can be caused by loss of brain cells that produce hypocretin (orexin), a chemical that keeps you awake and regulates REM sleep. It is thought to involve an autoimmune process triggered by infections or environmental factors (toxins or psychological stress) in genetically susceptible individuals. Genetics also plays a role, but it is not purely inherited.

Secondary narcolepsy is a type of narcolepsy that develops when the hypothalamic region of the brain is damaged. This damage may result from conditions such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, brain tumours, or other disorders affecting the hypothalamus. Although relatively uncommon, such damage can increase the risk of narcolepsy.

How is narcolepsy diagnosed, and what tests are used?

The diagnosis of narcolepsy is based on the patient’s sleep history and symptom review, sleep logs, as well as overnight sleep studies and multiple sleep latency tests (MSLT). The overnight sleep study measures brain waves, breathing, heart rate and movements. The Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) measures how quickly a person falls asleep during the day and whether REM sleep occurs abnormally early.

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine’s International Classification of Sleep Disorders, narcolepsy type 1 is distinguished by sleepiness plus cataplexy and a positive multiple sleep latency test (MSLT), or sleepiness plus hypocretin (orexin) deficiency in the CSF. Narcolepsy type 2 requires sleepiness and a positive MSLT, the absence of cataplexy and normal hypocretin (orexin) levels in the CSF. And the hypersomnia and/or MSLT findings must not be better explained by another sleep, neurologic, mental, or medical condition or by medicine or substance use.

A positive Multiple Sleep Latency Test indicates that a person falls asleep unusually quickly during the day and often enters rapid eye movement (REM) sleep earlier than normal (in less than 15 mins). Normally, most people take at least 10 to 20 minutes to fall asleep, and they don’t usually go straight into REM sleep during a nap. Specifically, the test is considered positive when the average time it takes to fall asleep across five scheduled daytime naps is less than eight minutes, and the person enters REM sleep in at least two of those naps. This pattern suggests abnormal sleep regulation and is strongly associated with narcolepsy.

What treatments are available for narcolepsy, and how effective are they?

The treatment of narcolepsy focuses on managing symptoms rather than curing the condition, as there is currently no definitive cure. Management typically combines medications, lifestyle adjustments, and supportive measures. Medications are the mainstay of treatment. Stimulants are often prescribed to improve alertness and reduce excessive daytime sleepiness. In more severe cases, stronger stimulants like amphetamines or methylphenidate may be used, though they require close monitoring due to potential side effects.

For cataplexy, sleep paralysis, and hallucinations, sodium oxybate and pitolisant are considered first-line medications and are quite effective. Antidepressants may also be used to help control cataplexy and related symptoms.

Alongside medication, lifestyle adjustment strategies also play an essential role. Patients are encouraged to maintain regular sleep schedules, take short planned naps during the day, and avoid situations that may trigger sudden sleep episodes. Good sleep hygiene, including limiting caffeine or alcohol before bedtime and creating a restful sleeping environment, is also important. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques may further improve overall well-being. Education and support are equally valuable. Patients and their families benefit from understanding the condition and its impact on daily life. Workplace or academic accommodations, such as flexible schedules or nap breaks, can greatly enhance functioning. Support groups and counselling can also help individuals cope with the psychological and social aspects of living with narcolepsy.

There is no established cure for narcolepsy. It is usually a lifelong condition, but symptoms can be controlled much more effectively now than in the past with medications, lifestyle changes and supportive measures.

Are there any potential complications or medical problems associated with narcolepsy?

Narcolepsy can lead to a range of complications and comorbidities that affect both physical and mental health. Individuals with the condition are more likely to experience disrupted nighttime sleep, which can contribute to chronic fatigue and difficulty concentrating during the day. The sudden sleep attacks and cataplexy episodes associated with narcolepsy increase the risk of accidents, particularly while driving or operating machinery. Epidemiological data suggest that individuals with narcolepsy have a three- to fourfold higher likelihood of involvement in motor vehicle accidents. People with narcolepsy also face a higher risk of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and attention deficit disorders. Additionally, there is an increased risk of obesity and metabolic disorders, as the condition can interfere with normal appetite regulation and physical activity. Cardiovascular problems such as hypertension and having abnormal heartbeats are also more common, possibly linked to disrupted sleep patterns.

What safety precautions can be taken to prevent accidents or injuries related to sudden sleep attacks?

Several safety precautions can be implemented to prevent injuries. When driving, it is advisable for people with narcolepsy to avoid driving when sleepy or during periods of drowsiness, and some may need to consider alternative transportation options. Engaging in safety measures at work, particularly in roles involving heavy machinery or operating vehicles, is essential, and employers may provide modified duties or allow scheduled naps for affected employees. Environmental adjustments, such as keeping living and working spaces well-lit, removing tripping hazards, using supportive furniture, and non-slip mats and handrails, can further minimize injury risks. The affected individual can also use alarms or reminders to stay alert.

Are there ongoing research studies or clinical trials for narcolepsy treatments in Nigeria?

Currently, there are no ongoing research studies or publicly registered clinical trials on narcolepsy treatment in Nigeria. Most narcolepsy research and clinical trials are concentrated in Europe, the U.S., and Japan. In Nigeria, narcolepsy awareness and diagnosis are still quite limited. Despite these limitations, some case reports have been published highlighting the challenges of diagnosing and managing narcolepsy in resource-limited settings. Likewise, a study conducted at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital examined sleep problems among psychiatric outpatients, focusing on hypersomnia and narcolepsy. The findings indicated a higher prevalence of these conditions compared to the general population, underscoring the need for improved diagnostic practices.

How true is it that narcolepsy only affects sleep, or do individuals with the condition just need to sleep more?

This is a common misconception about narcolepsy. Narcolepsy is not about needing more or extra sleep. Individuals with narcolepsy already sleep normal or even longer hours, but they remain excessively sleepy and persistently tired because the brain’s ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles is faulty, and no specific or extended periods of sleep can fully relieve the sleepiness. Furthermore, symptoms such as cataplexy, sleep paralysis, and hallucinations demonstrate that narcolepsy affects more than just the sleep duration.

How best can families and groups support individuals with narcolepsy?

Families and support networks play a crucial role in helping individuals with narcolepsy manage the condition and maintain quality of life. Offering empathy and emotional support is crucial, as narcolepsy is often misunderstood as laziness or oversleeping. Encouraging open communication allows the person to express their needs, limitations, and experiences without fear of judgement. Practical support includes helping establish structured daily routines that accommodate regular sleep and short naps and assisting with safety measures, such as avoiding driving during periods of sleepiness or ensuring safe environments at home and work.

Families can also help monitor symptoms and treatment effectiveness, supporting adherence to prescribed medications or behavioural strategies. Social support is equally important. Friends and colleagues can reduce stress and embarrassment by fostering inclusive environments and accommodating the person’s unique needs. Educating themselves about narcolepsy helps families recognize triggers, reduce stigma, manage fatigue, and respond appropriately to sudden sleep attacks or cataplexy episodes.

Is it true that it is a risk factor for schizophrenia and poor cardiovascular health?

Yes, narcolepsy has been linked to an increased risk of certain health problems, including schizophrenia and cardiovascular issues. It is associated with poor cardiovascular health. People living with the condition often experience sleep fragmentation and metabolic changes, which can contribute to obesity, high blood pressure, and increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Additionally, the excessive daytime sleepiness and irregular sleep-wake cycles can negatively influence lifestyle habits, further raising cardiovascular risks. People with narcolepsy have been associated with a higher risk of developing psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia-like psychosis, depression, and anxiety. This connection is thought to arise from overlapping disruptions in brain chemistry, particularly involving neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which affect both sleep regulation and mental health.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration over the recent revocation of presidential pardons earlier approved for some convicted individuals, including persons found guilty of serious crimes such as drug trafficking and kidnapping.

Atiku described the move as an act of ‘acting before thinking.’

In a statement issued on Wednesday evening, signed by Phrank Shaibu, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication to former Vice President, described the President’s decision to cancel the pardons as ‘an act of shame, not wisdom,’ accusing the government of being reactive and lacking foresight.

‘Once again, Nigerians have witnessed a government that doesn’t lead – it reacts,’ he said.

‘This U-turn is not an act of wisdom, it’s an act of shame. If Nigerians had kept quiet, would convicted drug lords and kidnappers be walking free today under the President’s blessing?’

Atiku also questioned how the initial list of pardon beneficiaries was compiled and approved, demanding accountability from those involved in the process.

‘Who compiled the list? What criteria justified freeing kidnappers and drug offenders? Where was the Attorney-General when this absurdity was cooked up?’ he asked.

He argued that the episode reflects a recurring pattern of poor decision-making by the Tinubu administration – one in which, according to him, policies are announced without proper consideration and later reversed following public backlash.

‘This pattern has become too familiar – announce the unthinkable, watch the country erupt, then hurriedly reverse course as if governance is a game of trial and error,’ he said.

The statement further stated that a presidential pardon should represent justice and mercy, not a reward for impunity.

‘A presidential pardon is not a social experiment. It is a sacred constitutional power meant to reflect justice, mercy, and national interest – not to reward impunity or test public patience,’ he said.

Atiku called on the federal government to publish the full list of individuals who were initially recommended for clemency, including details of their offences, to ensure transparency.

‘If the President truly means well, let him publish the list of all those who were meant to benefit from this scandal. Let Nigerians see the names, the crimes, and the hands that signed off on this reckless indulgence,’ he said.

He concluded that the government’s reversal was merely an attempt at ‘damage control.

‘Until then, this cancellation is nothing but damage control – too little, too late,’ the statement added.

The Federal Government has declared that by 2027 the use of chalkboards for teaching of children in schools across the country will be totally eliminated, promising to ensure that all schools in Nigeria have smart boards in line with the global best practices.

Minister of Education, Dr Olatunji Alausa, gave this indication in Abuja, during a ministerial roundtable meeting, reaffirming the commitment of the current admission of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu towards bridging the digital divide across the education sector in Nigeria.

He also disclosed that beginning from 2026; the annual school census would be fully digitalised.

The minister also revealed that over 60,000 tablets have been distributed to schoolchildren in Adamawa, Oyo, and Katsina states under the Airtech (Amazon Web Services) and BESDA programmes, with an additional 30,000 devices expected soon.

He said: ‘We’ve also launched a smart board, two weeks ago,’ he said. ‘Our goal is that by 2027, every school in Nigeria will have a smart board.

‘This is how we can cascade high-quality education to every child, irrespective of where they live, their background, or their parents’ social status.’

Alausa explained that the deployment of interactive smart boards would gradually replace traditional chalkboards in public schools, enabling a more dynamic, engaging, and technology-driven classroom experience.

He noted that the devices would allow teachers to integrate multimedia, digital textbooks, and real-time interactions into lessons, helping students to not only listen but also explore, engage, and participate actively in the learning process.

Alausa also disclosed that the government is focusing on evidence-based intervention while emphasising the importance of data for effective planning and targeted intervention in addressing the challenges in the education sector including the menace of out-of-school children syndrome.

He raised concern over the alarming rate of school dropouts across the country, revealing that about 24 million pupils who enrolled in primary schools failed to advance to senior secondary level.

He said data from the digitised Nigeria Education Management Information System (NEMIS) platform showed that out of 30 million pupils captured from 21 states, only six million progressed to senior secondary school.

According to him, statistics from NEMIS revealed a disturbing trend that poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s educational development and long-term human capital growth.

‘The information we’re seeing on that digital platform is scary,’ Alausa said. ‘From the 21 states that have uploaded their data, we have about 30 million children in primary schools.

‘From primary to Junior Secondary School (JSS 1), that number drops between 10 and 20 million children.

‘We can’t find them. Then, from Junior Secondary to Senior Secondary, another four million have disappeared. It’s scary. However, now that we can see the data, we can start looking at evidence-based interventions and monitor outcomes,’ the minister said.

He stressed that the high dropout rate between primary and senior secondary levels underscores the need for targeted interventions to retain children in school, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Alausa explained that the biometrics of every schoolchild is being uploaded on the digitised platform to enable tracking and data-driven policy implementation.

‘It’s not manual anymore. Paper will be taken out completely,’ he stated, noting that the Ministry plans to integrate West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) data into the system.

He expressed appreciation to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) for its technical support and to President Bola Tinubu for providing financial and political backing for the initiative.

Executive Secretary of Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Aisha Garba, said the commission had embraced and incorporated technology 100 per cent in its operations and delivery of basic education including teaching processes in classrooms and the ongoing digitalisation of all public schools.

THIS week, Nigeria’s Green Chamber, the House of Representatives, proposed a bill seeking to amend the 1999 Constitution to allow for the creation of additional local government areas (LGAs) in Benue State. The bill, which passed the second reading in the House, is sponsored by the member representing Oju/Obi Federal Constituency of Benue State, Honourable David Ogewu. According to Ogewu, the proposed amendment will enhance grassroots governance by bringing government closer to the people. He contended that Benue, with its vast land mass and growing population, required more local councils for equitable development and efficient administration. According to him, the bill, once passed into law, will pave the way for the creation of additional councils in Benue, particularly within his constituency.

Ordinarily, it ought to be positive news that local governments are being created, but Nigeria’s peculiar situation easily undercuts any optimism. Ideally, the LGAs ought to be a creation of the states under which they are meant to operate, bringing development to the doorstep of the people who are supposed to fund them and, therefore, determine their trajectory. However, in its supposed desire to accelerate development, Nigeria’s military government created states and local governments, which it whimsically listed in the constitution as the third tier of government, taking its accustomed centralisation of governance and its processes to yet another level. Since the return to civil rule, there have been attempts by states to create additional local governments, but none of such attempts have been ultimately fruitful. The Nigerian Constitution recognises 774 councils and to come into effect, any new LGs will have to secure the buy-in of both chambers of the National Assembly, as well as two-thirds of the state assemblies in the existing 36 states.

Beyond the question of council creation, however, is the lingering question of functionality. To all intents and purposes, the extant local councils are mere caricatures. With the exception of a few states, including Lagos, they are not delivering on any developmental objectives. The roads they are supposed to control are in an atrocious state, they are not building primary schools or equipping primary healthcare centres and, indeed, most Nigerians do not even know the names of the chairmen and councillors, if any, in their local governments of residence. The councils are in a comatose state and there is criminal neglect of the essence of local government administration. Instead of delivering good governance at the grassroots, the councils are mere conduits for funneling the resources that should be deployed to open up the rural areas, alleviate poverty, create jobs, encourage agro-allied industrialization and reduce rural-urban drift, into private pockets.

In July last year, there was a lot of optimism in the polity as Nigeria’s apex court, the Supreme Court, ruled that funds allocated to local governments from the Federation Account should be paid directly to the councils instead of the previous practice of paying such allocations to the State Joint Account for Local Governments. Since paying them through states had not worked, it said, justice demanded that LG allocations from the Federation Account be henceforth paid directly to the councils. By that ruling, the Supreme Court barred governors from toying with LG funds. It also outlawed the use of caretaker committees to run the affairs of local governments. Significantly, it ordered direct allocation of funds to only local governments with democratically elected chairmen and councillors, adding that states must conduct elections to access the funds from the Federation Account.

As we noted, however, in as much as it is the right of the councils to control their own money, it is also important to ensure that the Supreme Court’s decision did not merely replace one inefficient and corrupt system with another system that is reckless and devoid of accountability. We added that even though the decision would debar governors and Houses of Assembly from dissolving elected local government councils since payment of allocation from the Federation Account would not be made to unelected officials at the local government level, it did not adequately address some fundamental issues. For instance, it did not address the situation where State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECS) persistently conduct sham elections to declare the candidates of the ruling party as winner of all seats at the local government level, and neither did it address the lopsided distribution of LGs across the country based on the creation of local governments by past military governments to satisfy sectional and personal interests. We have not been persuaded to change our view that there is a need for a wider debate on how to achieve a workable system of local government administration that respects local government autonomy and institutes democratic and accountable governance at that level.

Under the alleged chokehold of governors, the councils are being denied their statutory powers, rights and authority. This is nothing but brazen subversion of the constitution. They must have all the powers granted them by the law. Having functional councils will address the avalanche of failures that the current arrangement represents. The councils ought to be the fulcrum for rural development and economic growth, but they remain castrated. This has to change, even if it means enacting fresh legislation. Deliberately rendering them impotent is not only wicked and insensitive, but it also shows the disdain that Nigerian leaders have for the common people who should have confidence that their well-being and welfare are a central concern of government even at the most basic level.

The debate about Nigeria having a national carrier has been ongoing for years, with proponents arguing that it would boost the country’s economy and enhance its global image, while opponents claim that it would be a costly venture prone to mismanagement.

Recent government moves to revive the idea have reignited the discussion, with many wondering if Nigeria can finally get it right this time around.

A national carrier would contribute significantly to Nigeria’s GDP, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth. It would also project Nigeria’s image globally, enhancing its prestige and influence.

Additionally, it would improve air connectivity, facilitating trade, tourism, and business travel. Some argue that a national carrier would also provide a strategic advantage, enabling Nigeria to participate in international aviation negotiations and agreements.

For instance, a national carrier would allow Nigeria to have a stronger presence in the global aviation market, enabling it to negotiate better terms and conditions for Nigerian airlines and passengers. It would also provide a platform for the country to showcase its rich cultural heritage and tourist attractions, promoting Nigeria as a destination of choice.

However, previous attempts, such as Nigeria Airways, failed due to mismanagement, corruption, and inefficiency. Establishing and maintaining a national carrier would require significant investment, potentially straining the country’s resources. The Nigerian aviation market is already competitive, with several private airlines operating successfully. They argue that the government should focus on privatizing existing assets rather than investing in a new national carrier.

Moreover, the failure of Nigeria Airways in the 1990s is still fresh in the minds of many Nigerians, with many questioning why the government would want to revive a failed concept.

Despite these challenges, the government remains committed to reviving the national carrier idea. In recent months, there have been several moves to establish a new national carrier, with the government reportedly exploring partnerships with private investors and airlines.

The government’s recent attempt to revive the national carrier idea has sparked debate, with proponents arguing that it would be a strategic move, while opponents claim that it would be a costly mistake.

However, a robust management structure, free from political interference, is crucial for success. A clear financial plan, including funding and revenue projections, is essential. A strong regulatory framework would ensure safety, security, and compliance. Collaboration with private airlines and investors could mitigate risks and ensure success.

One of the key challenges facing the government is how to ensure that the new national carrier is managed efficiently and effectively. This would require a robust management structure, with experienced professionals at the helm. It would also require a clear financial plan, with funding and revenue projections clearly outlined.

Another challenge is how to ensure that the national carrier is competitive in the market. This would require a strong regulatory framework, with safety, security, and compliance at the forefront. It would also require collaboration with private airlines and investors to ensure that the national carrier is able to leverage their expertise and resources.

Ultimately, the decision to establish a national carrier depends on careful consideration of these factors and a thorough analysis of the potential benefits and risks. The question remains: can Nigeria afford to have a national carrier, or would it be a burden on the country’s resources?

Some experts argue that Nigeria should focus on developing its aviation infrastructure, rather than investing in a national carrier. They argue that the country’s airports and air traffic control systems are in dire need of upgrade, and that this should be the priority.

Others argue that the benefits of a national carrier far outweigh the costs, and that it would be a worthwhile investment for the country.

As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Nigeria needs to get it right this time around. The stakes are high, and the country cannot afford to fail. With painstaking steps taken on the lane of prudence, careful planning, robust management, and a clear financial plan, Nigeria can finally have a national carrier that is a source of pride, rather than a burden on the country’s resources.

APM Terminals Apapa has donated vital medical equipment to the Simpson Primary Healthcare Centre in Ebute Metta, Lagos, as part of its ongoing commitment to improving maternal health and supporting its host communities through corporate social responsibility.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, the Chief Executive Officer of APM Terminals Nigeria, Mr. Frederik Klinke, expressed his delight at the initiative, describing it as a reflection of the company’s dedication to uplifting the living standards of communities where it operates.

He noted that APM Terminals has consistently supported the health sector by installing power systems and renovating health facilities in different parts of Lagos.

‘We are proud of the investment and the work done here to increase the survival rate of children, and I hope the community will maintain the equipment and put it to good use,’ he said.

The Terminal Manager of APM Terminals Apapa, Mr. Steen Knudsen, explained that the company’s corporate social responsibility focuses on three key areas: health, education, and the environment.

He highlighted that the donation to the Simpson Primary Healthcare Centre aligns with the United Nations Population Fund’s ’10 million Safer Births initiative’ launched by Her Majesty Queen Mary of Denmark during her recent visit to Nigeria in June 2025.

The Permanent Secretary of Lagos Health District IV, Dr. Abimbola Bowale, praised APM Terminals Apapa for the donation, describing it as a testament to what can be achieved when the public and private sectors work together.

‘Your decision to invest in Simpson Primary Healthcare Centre, Ebute Metta, is an act of visionary leadership. The community will benefit greatly, and this project should stand as an example for others to emulate,’ he said.

A coalition of environmental, agricultural, and public health experts has warned that the $2.5 billion investment deal between Brazil’s JBS S.A. and the Nigerian government could reshape the nation’s food and health systems in ways that threaten smallholder farmers, public health, and environmental stability.

Under the deal, JBS, the world’s largest meat processor, plans to establish six industrial-scale livestock farms across Nigeria: three poultry complexes, two beef facilities, and one pork plant in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Kaduna, Kano, Cross River, and Niger States.

While the company promotes the initiative as a boost to food security and job creation, civil society groups said it risks deepening corporate control over Nigeria’s food system.

A new study by the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) and the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) found that industrial farming operations have had mixed outcomes in host communities. Nearly all residents surveyed, that is 96.7 per cent, confirmed the presence of large farms nearby, but two-thirds said the economic benefits did not meet their needs. About 60 per cent reported losing farmland or grazing areas, and a majority cited air and water pollution, flooding, and worsening health conditions.

Speaking during a media training on reporting of industrial animal farming in Nigeria, organized by Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) and Environmental Rights Action (ERA) in collaboration with Youth in Agroecology and Restoration Network and HEDA Resource Centre, Mariann Bassey-Olson, Deputy Executive Director of Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN), noted that the JBS deal demands rigorous oversight.

‘We must ask: where will the land come from, what environmental assessments have been done, and how will communities be consulted? These are not anti-investment questions; they are pro-accountability questions,’ she said.

In her presentation, she linked JBS to a history of environmental and human rights violations, including illegal deforestation in the Amazon, water contamination, and labour abuses. Analysts warn that replicating this industrial model in Nigeria could worsen pollution, deforestation, and antibiotic resistance while marginalising smallholder farmers who currently produce over 70 per cent of the country’s food.

Mayowa Sobo, Program Manager, HEDA Resource Centre, highlighted that the study found that jobs generated by large farms are mostly casual and low-paying, with average monthly wages as low as N30,000. Communities in Ogun, Nasarawa, and Oyo States also complained about exclusion from decision-making and compensation during land acquisitions.

Environmental degradation remains a recurring issue. ‘In Nasarawa, aerial spraying killed crops and polluted boreholes; in Ogun, residents complained of foul smells and contaminated water,’ Sobo noted.

Both groups urged the government to prioritise agroecology, local food systems, and farmer-led innovation to ensure sustainability. ‘The choices we make today will determine whether Nigeria’s food future remains in the hands of its farmers or is surrendered to multinationals,’ Bassey-Olson said, adding that true food sovereignty and security must be built from within.

Meanwhile, Abimbola Solagbade, a public health expert, has called for stronger policy coordination across human, animal, and environmental sectors, warning that global health and economic stability depend on integrated systems under the ‘One Health’ framework.

Presenting on ‘A One Health Perspective, Solagnade said the COVID-19 pandemic, Ebola outbreak, and the rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) show that health systems can no longer function in isolation.

‘The health of people, animals, and the environment is one and indivisible,’ Abimbola said, while noting that collaborative policies that connect these systems are essential for preventing future crises.’

According to him, more than 60 per cent of infectious diseases originate from animals, and pandemics have cost the global economy trillions of dollars. Poor animal welfare and environmental degradation, from deforestation and pollution to rapid urbanisation, are key drivers of disease emergence and food safety threats.

The study also highlighted that nearly five million deaths in 2021 were linked to drug-resistant infections, underscoring the need for preventive investments rather than reactive spending.

Abimbola urged governments to align national health strategies with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and to fund surveillance, research, and community education for sustainable health outcomes.

‘The One Health model provides a proven roadmap,’ he added. ‘It’s time for governments and businesses to treat public health, animal welfare, and environmental stability as interconnected parts of the same system.’

The former governor of Lagos State, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), has charged the 11,886 fresh graduates of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), now preparing for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), to embrace wherever they are posted as well as assimilate the people’s culture and traditions.

Delivering the school’s 40th convocation lecture on Wednesday, Fashola said, ‘There are gains therein because I was once like you. You will gain a lot.’

Fashola, who said that he still maintains the friendship he had during his youth service 38 years ago, advised the graduates to ignore whatever negative story is told of Nigeria.

‘We have a beautiful country in spite of bad labelling in certain quarters. You will surely confront Nigeria’s diversities – different foods, cultures, traditions and languages.

‘Work very hard because your lives really depend on it. Respect the spaces of your hosts by understanding the lines you should not cross, please do not abuse their hospitality; also, make friends with your colleagues during the NYSC exercise,’ he urged.

After the NYSC experience, the former minister for Works, Housing and Energy advised the fresh graduates to avoid arrogance and undue ego as they enter the real world.

‘After Service, there won›t be any more monthly allowance that was cushioning your financial pressure even as you search for the elusive jobs,’ he said, urging them to under this condition, stick to their close family members, saying: ‘they will push you back up when dejected.’

Fashola also urged them to shun relationships that flaunt unexplained wealth, saying that ‘there is no easy and fast money anywhere in the world that does not have consequences.’

He also advised the students to have the courage to shun any attempt that they would feel bad about presenting to the public.

He asked them to imbibe the attitude of saving at whatever level because their parents may no longer be there for them again, ‘always find opportunities in your difficulties,’ he said.

Speaking on the topic: ‘The Gen-Z Playbook: Navigating Work and the Real World,’ Fashola charged the students to stretch beyond limit, their uniqueness and natural talent in their future endeavours.

Also speaking, the pro-chancellor and chairman of the Governing Council of the institution, Mr Abiodun Aluko, appreciated President Bola Tinubu for the financial packages rendered by the National Education Loans Fund (NELFUND) to indigent students.

He thanked the president for approving the payment of the N50 billion academic earned allowances, ‘that had been a source of agitation since 2022, when it was first approved by the previous administration.’

The vice chancellor, Professor Abdulwahab Egbewole (SAN), in his presentation, titled ‘The Man is the Style, and the Style is the Man,’ said that 10 of the school’s academic staff were recently ranked among the most cited scholars on Google Scholar.

He also said that the varsity secured full accreditation status from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for 36 of its 37 programmes while one was granted interim accreditation. ‘This is a reflection of our commitment to academic excellence and institutional integrity,’ he stated.

The school graduated 11,868 with 316 First Class; 4,120 graduated with Second Class (Upper Division), 5,939 Second Class (Lower Division), 1,078 Third Class and eleven in Pass.

The ceremonies also included graduation of 175 MB; BS graduands, 94 (Nursing,) 40 (Optometry,) 36 (Veterinary Medicine) and 64 Physiotherapy graduands with also 13 Diplomas.

‘Higher Degrees to be awarded at this 40th Convocation Ceremonies are 1,520. Out of this, there are 182 Postgraduate Diplomas, 916 Master’s from various Faculties, 188 professional Master’s and 234 Ph.Ds,’ Egbewole listed.

Coronation Insurance Plc has seen its profit outlook dampened by persistent inflationary pressures and foreign exchange losses, despite strong top-line growth during the first nine months of 2025.

The insurer posted a 59.63 per cent decline in profit after tax (PAT) to ?3.71 billion for the period ended September 2025, compared with ?9.19 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2024. The steep drop in earnings was largely attributed to significant foreign exchange revaluation losses, combined with surging finance and operating costs.

A detailed breakdown of the company’s financial performance shows that Coronation Insurance incurred a foreign exchange loss of ?996.59 million during the review period. This marks a sharp reversal from the ?4.28 billion gain posted in September 2024, signaling the adverse impact of currency swings on insurers with dollar-denominated assets.

According to market analysts, the relative stability of the naira in recent months-driven by increased liquidity measures by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)-has not benefited financial institutions that had previously booked revaluation gains on their foreign currency assets. With the appreciation of the local currency, earlier gains have now eroded considerably, weakening bottom-line performance.

Further pressure on earnings came from a spike in finance expenses linked to insurance contract liabilities, which rose to ?3.87 billion in September 2025. Management expenses also surged by 176.63 per cent to ?6.75 billion, from ?2.44 billion recorded in the same period of 2024. Analysts say this reflects both the inflationary operating climate and the insurer’s expanded growth drive.

Despite the earnings setback, Coronation Insurance recorded strong revenue performance. Gross written premiums and related income rose 54.63 percent to ?51.17 billion, underscoring its growing influence as one of Nigeria’s leading bancassurance partners. The company continues to leverage strategic retail penetration and distribution partnerships to expand market share in both life and general insurance segments.

The insurer’s balance sheet remains resilient, supported by an increase in total assets to ?103.09 billion, from ?76.79 billion posted a year earlier. Shareholders’ funds also strengthened to ?44.81 billion, highlighting sustained capital adequacy and capacity to underwrite larger-ticket risks across diverse sectors.

Company leadership maintains that ongoing investments in technology infrastructure, product innovation and human capital development will enhance operational efficiencies and improve long-term value creation.

‘Coronation Insurance remains focused on building platforms that create long-term value, strengthening governance structures that inspire confidence, and investing in talent that powers our capacity to deliver sustainable growth,’ said CEO Olamide Sunmonu, reaffirming management’s commitment to navigate current macroeconomic headwinds.

Industry analysts note that insurance firms will need to continue adjusting their risk exposure and foreign asset portfolios as currency reforms evolve. While near-term pressures persist, stronger premium growth, stable capital buffers and improved investment income may offer a pathway to recovery in the quarters ahead.

As the insurance industry adapts to changing economic conditions, Coronation Insurance is betting on strategic transformation, digital innovation and a broader retail footprint to retain profitability and sustain growth momentum into 2026.