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Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, has expressed optimism that Nigeria will ultimately secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Nigeria kept their qualification hopes alive on Tuesday with an emphatic 4-0 victory over Benin Republic in their final Group C fixture. Star striker Victor Osimhen bagged a hat-trick, while Frank Onyeka added the fourth goal to complete the rout.

Despite the dominant win, the result was not enough to earn Nigeria the automatic qualification spot, but it did confirm their place in the African playoffs.

South Africa’s Bafana Bafana sealed top position in Group C after a commanding 3-0 victory over Rwanda in their final group game, also played on Tuesday.

Speaking in the post-match presser, Troost-Ekong said: ‘Getting here wasn’t easy. We’ll take it one game at a time, and I believe we’re going to make it.

‘I’m proud to be part of this team, part of this family. The boys are playing just like they do for their clubs. We need to keep supporting them.’

Troost-Ekong acknowledged the struggles the team had faced in recent months, calling the playoffs qualification a hard-earned result.

‘It’s easy to celebrate now, but it’s been a tough journey. Many said it was impossible, but we kept believing.

‘We need to love the players for who they are and their efforts. We know when to work and when to relax.

‘We have an exceptional group and a big job ahead in Morocco.’

The Presiding Bishop, Victory International Church, Rehoboth Cathedral, Ibadan, Victor Adelakun, has called for what he described as a balanced, fair, and honest response between the government and university lecturers if there must be a lasting solution to the perennial strike in public universities in the country.

He spoke on Tuesday while fielding questions from reporters during a Press conference to announce events of activities to celebrate the 36th Anniversary of the Church, held at Wonder City, opposite Dominion University, Lagos Expressway, Ibadan.

The anniversary themed, ‘The glory of the latter house’, is slated for October 16th-19th, 2025.

Bishop Adelakun said the government must do beyond mere words and live by what it wants others to do in its bid to show sincerity.

He said, if the government is claiming paucity of funds to attend to the challenges facing public universities and the demands of the lecturers, such must also reflect in the lifestyle of those in public offices.

According to the National Vice President (Southwest), Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, if the political class would cut down on the cost of governance and benefits of political offices, it would be easy to persuade the university lecturers to also sacrifice for the development of the sector.

On the other side, he challenged the university lecturers to do more in terms of research that can make an impact on society, which he said can foster economic development and prosperity for both the institution and society at large.

Bishop Adelakun said, ‘If the lifestyle of those in government does not change, we will keep coming back to strike. A nation that will not educate its youth is a time bomb.

‘If the members of the National Assembly and those in elective positions will not slash their benefits, income, and perks of office, members of the Academic Staff Unions (ASUU) and others generally will not agree that there is no money to meet their demands because they can see that those in government are allocating monies for themselves.

‘How much has the government allocated to education? If the cost of governance is cut down, everyone will sit up and reason, but as long as the cost keeps increasing, they will also keep fighting for whatever interest they have.’

Apparently challenging the lecturers, the cleric who also doubles as the Chancellor, Dominion University said, ‘How many universities are still involved in research? Many of such should translate to an impact on the nation and its economy. The people in the academic sector need to wake up and do research of value to the institution and society.

‘With all the various departments and fields in the various schools, let it translate to an outcome that will benefit all.

‘Let’s balance it, we know those who are living large and asking others to live small. It won’t work. I believe ASUU members have facts on what those in government are spending and enjoying, and members of the society too can see.’

Speaking on the anniversary, the cleric said the Church has come a long way, from humble beginnings, which were despised by many, but have emerged to be a cynosure by the grace of God.

He said he would only be ungrateful if he didn’t acknowledge what God has done in the ministry in the last 36years, recounting the various challenges that the Church had faced and how God helped out.

He noted that, for the anniversary, God has only instructed the church to give him praise and worship, assuring that many wonders would be done in the lives of the people.

He said the event, a four-day ‘fearful praise’ and two mornings of ‘appreciation’ was instructed by God and would hold at the Wonder Hall at the Wonder City, as the main venue, while the Rehoboth Cathedral, Oluyole Estate, Ibadan, will be for virtual centre.

He also disclosed plans for the foundation laying ceremony of a 16,000 capacity mega city Cathedral, which would be completed within a year.

‘Anybody who is ungrateful will eventually be grounded. We have been on the journey for 36years and only the ungrateful will say God has not done anything.

‘From a congregation that was despised to the one that built the first Pentecostal Cathedral. We have reasons to praise God because when we started, many people were looking down on us.

‘If leadership is strong, there is hope. If leadership is selfless, there is hope. God asked us to give him four days of fearful praise and two mornings of appreciation’, he added.

The Resident Representative, United Nations Development Programme, UNDP, Ms. Elsie Atafuah has disclosed that Nigeria and UNDP have united to ignite a movement that reflects the country’s bold commitments to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2060.

This she said is also to conserve 30 percent of the land and marine ecosystems by 2030, noting that these targets are ambitious, but with the right partnerships and commitment, they are within reach, therefore they are not just launching a project but igniting a movement at both ends.

Atafuah who was represented by Chidimma Blessed disclosed this at the

Net Zero Nature Positive (NZNP) Project in Abuja, a bold global initiative funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and implemented in partnership with the United Nations Environmental Programme(UNEP), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and a coalition of national and international stakeholders, united in the commitment for climate action and nature restoration.

She said, ‘Nigeria and the UNDP are united in its commitment to climate action and nature restoration. We know too well that the urgency is real, climate change is already disrupting lives and livelihoods, biodiversity loss is accelerating, and vulnerable communities are bearing the heaviest burdens. The Niger Delta, especially Rivers State and Bayelsa stands at the frontlines of these challenges.

‘This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s National Agenda on climate change mitigation and adaptation, as championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, under his leadership, Nigeria is accelerating efforts to implement the revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), advance the Energy Transition Plan, and drive forward policies that promote climate resilience, green growth, and environmental justice, especially in the Niger Delta region’.

She assured that, through this project, they will work with state governments in Rivers and Bayelsa to integrate net-zero and nature-positive strategies into development planning. Support communities to champion restoration efforts that reflect cultural values and local wisdom. Partner with women’s cooperatives and youth networks by ensuring they are not only beneficiaries but leaders of the green transition.

As UNDP ‘we are committed to working side by side with our partners, the ministry of Environment, UNEP, the GEF, State governments, and local stakeholders to ensure this project delivers not just on global indicators, but also on the daily realities of farmers, fisherfolk, market women, youth entrepreneurs, and community custodians of nature’.

Speaking, the Director Planning Research and Statistics, and the GEF focal point, ministry of Environment, Mrs. Aneke Agnes Nkechi said, this marks a significant step in Nigeria’s collective journey towards the transition to a Net Zero and Nature Positive future by promoting ecosystem restoration, expanding access to clean energy and de-risking sustainable investments. The project will also support Nigeria’s vision in achieving the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), Nature Positive Commitment by 2030 and Net Zero emission target by 2026.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has urged his players to develop greater mental resilience after they suffered a shock 3-2 defeat by Japan in Tokyo on Tuesday, their first-ever loss to the Asian side.

The Italian emphasized the need to learn from the errors that led to the hosts’ stunning second-half comeback as he prepares his squad for next year’s World Cup in North America.

Ancelotti, who took charge in May following Brazil’s inconsistent World Cup qualifying campaign, has focused on building a team that is both adaptable and mentally robust.

Despite showing signs of progress in recent matches, Tuesday’s defeat highlighted areas requiring improvement and called into question the coach’s decision to field a heavily rotated side from Friday’s commanding 5-0 win over South Korea.

‘No, everything is not fine. When the team loses, we are upset, which is normal. Everyone is upset. I don’t like to lose, and neither do the players. We have to learn from this defeat, as we always do in football,’ Ancelotti told a press conference.

‘Until (Fabricio) Bruno’s mistake on the first goal, the game was well controlled. After that, the team fell apart mentally. That was the team’s biggest mistake,’ he said. ‘I don’t think the second half was bad overall, but the error had too much of an impact on the players.’

When asked if such mistakes could influence squad selection for the World Cup, Ancelotti dismissed the notion, instead focused on the team’s collective response.

‘Individual mistakes do not affect a player’s presence in the team. What we have to evaluate is the team’s reaction after the first mistake, which was not good because we lost a little of our balance on the pitch, our positive thinking. It’s a good lesson for the future,’ he said.

Brazil’s next fixtures are friendlies against Senegal and Tunisia in November, to be played in England and France respectively.

‘This and the next international break are testing periods, and we will continue testing in November,’ Ancelotti said. ‘The team played very well against Korea, well in the first half today, and very poorly in the second half.

‘In the World Cup, we have to strike a balance. We must learn from our mistakes. It was a good lesson tonight. I think we need to find balance in what we do. It’s a process.’

ADEREMI: Dear Omobola, my name is Aderemi. The reply of PTAD to my complaint which was published on the March 12, 2O25 was correct. Truly PTAD called me and asked me of my account details. My caller said that the account did not reflect my name. He also asked for some other information but I was unable to provide as my documents were not with me and I didn’t know them offhand. He promised to call the next day but he has not called back.

PTAD: Dear Mr, Aderami, kindly note that we placed several calls to you, but were unable to get through as your phone was not answered. You can reach us via 02094621700 for clarification and resolution. Thank you.

RUFIANA: Good day, I am Rufina. My complaint is about short payment of my pension arrears since two years ago

PTAD: Dear Mr. RUFIANA, please send your verification slip to our email [email protected] to enable us to investigate and respond further. Thank you.

ANONYMOUS: Good day, I have been complaining of deduction of N9000 from my pension allowance since September last year. Kindly use your office to rescue me from this situation. l have written several times for correction to no avail why.

PTAD: Dear PTAD PENSIONER, please send your verification slip to our email [email protected] to enable us investigate and respond further. However, note that PTAD obtained a directive for the re-implementation of the CPA based on grade level in line with the clarification from the NSIWC before implementing the new 20 per cent / 28 per cent increment as applicable. The CPA which was as a result of the minimum wage approval in April 2019 was implemented in May 2021 based on pay-band application with subsequent payment of 24 months arrears covering from April 2019 to April 2021. It is, therefore, instructive to mention that arrears reconciliation arising from the re-implementation of the CPA based on grade level is set aside pending further directive.

The clarification from the NSIWC which revised the implementation of the CPA to Grade level was taken into cognisance and accordingly implemented on the payroll before the application of the new pension increment of 20-28 percent as applicable which will take effect from September 2024.

Further to the above, the Executive Secretary gave directive to pay the 20per cent/ 28 per cent pension increment arrears to ONLY the pensioners whose monthly pension have been correctly computed and implemented as per the August payroll.

In line with the directive of the Executive Secretary, the Department reviewed the August 2024 pension payroll to ascertain that only pensioners who are on their correctly computed monthly pension are paid the 20 – 28% pension increment arrears and thereafter identified and excluded the following categories of pensioners:

Pensioners on the payroll with inherited monthly pension and whose monthly pension entitlement is yet to be computed to date;

Pensioners on the payroll with inherited monthly pension but whose monthly pension entitlement have been computed but not yet implemented;

Pensioners on the payroll with monthly pension figure that appears to be higher than the maximum monthly pension for their Grade Level.

OJO: Dear Omobola, I am one a Heritage bank customer at Ado Ekiti. I am one of those who were not paid their pension since May. I sent a message to you with all my particulars. Please, I am waiting for your help. Ojo from Ado Ekiti.

PTAD: Dear Mr. Ojo we are not in receipt of your new bank statement from UBA as we discussed with you and your daughter on the phone. Thank you.

Three prominent African women have been announced as headliners for Women in Leadership Dinner to take place in Lagos.

The event, organised by The Peak Performer Africa will feature the First Lady of Kwara State, Prof. (Amb.) Olubukola Abdulrazaq; the Special Adviser on Policy Coordination, Public Servant, Campaigner, Hadiza Bala Usman; and a Corporate leader, Olatowun Candide-Johnson.

The dinner forms part of the Peak Performer Festival (TPP Fest) 2025, on November 17 in Lagos. It is expected to bring together women leaders from Africa to discuss the evolving dynamics of power, creativity, and purpose-driven leadership.

With the theme: ‘No More Shrinking – How Women Can Unleash Untapped Creativity and Market Growth with 21st-Century Intelligence,’ the event will explore how women can leverage emotional, artificial, communication, and relational intelligence to strengthen leadership and drive economic growth on the continent.

Founder, Dr. Abiola Salami, said the gathering will challenge limiting narratives about women in leadership and encourage bold, intelligent participation in governance and enterprise.

”No More Shrinking’ is not just a slogan; it is a rallying cry for women ready to rise beyond fear, reclaim their power, and lead intelligently,’ he said.

Salami noted that the three headliners represent distinct strands of women’s leadership – from governance and diplomacy to corporate innovation.

Prof. Abdulrazaq, who also serves as Director of the Economic, Consular and Legal Department at Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is Chairperson of the Nigeria Governors’ Wives Forum and has a background in diplomacy and academia.

The Women in Leadership Dinner is one of several events leading up to the 2025 edition of TPP Fest, which aims to highlight and strengthen transformative leadership across Africa.

For Usman, she is currently the special Adviser on Policy and Coordination to President Bola Tinubu and Central Delivery Coordination Unit (CDCU) representing systemic reform, governance excellence, and women in public leadership.

On the other hand, Candide-Johnson is the Founder of GAIA Africa, representing executive presence and authentic leadership.

‘Together, they represent the powerful blend of strategy, creativity, governance, and global influence that defines the next era of African female leadership,’ emphasized Abiola.

The Women in Leadership Dinner is designed as a high-impact experience that blends storytelling, strategy, and sisterhood. It is part of the larger TPP Fest 2025, a two-day festival celebrating peak performance, leadership excellence, and innovation across Africa.

The festival’s four flagship events include The CEO Forum – TITLE: Taming the Invisible Toll of Leadership Expectations; The Women in Leadership Dinner – No More Shrinking; The Emerging Leaders Summit – GRIT: Grow, Rise, Innovate, Thrive; and The Peak Performer Awards Gala – Recognizing Africa’s Exemplary Leaders Across Sectors.

The dinner will also unveil insights from Salami’s forthcoming book, ‘No More Shrinking: A Powerful Story for Women Who Are Done Playing Small’. It will provide attendees with strategic networking opportunities and tools to elevate their leadership influence and impact.

Adding his voice, the Chairman of TPP Fest 2025, Mr. Yinka Adebayo, emphasized the strategic importance of women’s leadership in Africa’s economic evolution:

‘Africa’s competitiveness in the global marketplace depends on how effectively we harness the intelligence, creativity, and resilience of our women.

‘The Women in Leadership Dinner provides a vital platform to connect corporate, civic, and creative powerhouses who are shaping the continent’s next phase of inclusive growth.’

TPP Fest is Africa’s premier leadership and performance gathering – a convergence of CEOs, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and creatives shaping the continent’s next growth chapter.

The Festival empowers leaders to achieve sustainable excellence through emotional intelligence, strategic innovation, and transformative collaboration.

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has been nominated the consensus candidate by the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the June 20, 2026 election.

The party took the decision after the only opponent cleared to contest the primary with him, Atinuke Oluremi Omolayo, withdrew from the race.

Two other aspirants – Mr. Kayode Ojo and Abimbola Olajumoke – were disqualified for failing to meet nomination requirements.

With the latest development, the direct process planned for the October 27 primary, will now become the consensus option.

In this case the governor will need mere voice affirmation to confirm his candidacy.

The ruling party conveyed it decision to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with a letter send on Monday to the electoral agency.

The partly reads: ‘Two aspirants were cleared to contest the primary election scheduled to be held on 27th October 2025 through the Direct Primary mode. The cleared aspirants are Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and Mrs. Atinuke Oluremi Omolayo.

‘The party has, however, received a letter from Mrs Atinuke Oluremi Omolayo, one of the two cleared aspirants, conveying her voluntary decision to withdraw from the contest.

‘In her letter, Mrs. Omolayo expressed her endorsement of Governor Biodun Abeyomi Oyebanji as the consensus Candidate and affirmed her support for any consensus arrangement adopted by the party in nominating as flag bearer, in accordance with the Electoral Act 2022 and the constitution of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

‘Consequently, in view of Mrs. Omolayo’s voluntary withdrawal and the endorsement of a consensus arrangement, the party is compelled by law with Section 84 (11) of the Electoral Act to change the mode of the Primary Election from Direct Primary to Consensus.’

The party then said that in pursuant to Section 84(11) of the Electoral Act, the nomination congress has been scheduled to hold by 10 a m on Monday, 27th October 2026 at Ekiti State Pavilion, New Iyin Road, Ado Ekiti to ratify the only remaining cleared aspirant.

The party in the letter also announced an amended schedule of activities and timetable for ratification of the consensus candidate and invited the electoral body to monitor the relevant activities as required by law.

It has been humbling and deeply fulfilling. The 10th House under Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON, has prioritised professionalism, openness, and responsiveness. We want to leave a legacy that addresses the trust deficit between Nigerians and their representatives in parliament by collectively giving meaning to our respective mandates. My role has allowed me to help project that vision, telling the story of a people-centred, reform-driven House.

Managing the balance between government communication and public accountability has been a learning curve. It requires strategic messaging that communicates legislative achievements, government initiatives, and civic opportunities to the public in a way that inspires trust and encourages engagement. The confidence of the Speaker, the collaboration of colleagues, the support of critical civil society partners, and the responsiveness of the public have made the work both challenging and immensely rewarding. It is a daily exercise in translating policy into accessible dialogue for citizens.

With the National Assembly recently resuming from the annual recess, what should Nigerians expect in terms of legislative priorities and productivity?

Nigerians should expect even greater productivity and focus. In the months ahead, we will prioritise constitutional and electoral reforms, as well as legislative efforts to address insecurity and accelerate economic recovery.

We aim to conclude over 87 constitutional amendment proposals before December, covering key areas such as devolution of powers, judicial reform, policing, and greater inclusion of women and people with disabilities. The ongoing amendments to the Electoral Act will further strengthen transparency, curb electoral violence, and make the process more inclusive and credible.

On security, we will push reforms that give states more control over community policing under federal oversight. Economic revival remains central.

Between June 2023 and mid-2025, the 10th House has considered over 2,263 bills, passed 237, and secured 50 presidential assents, making it the most productive House since 1999. Citizens can therefore anticipate a legislative season that is both reform-driven and responsive to national aspirations.

Looking at Ekiti, how do you assess the political landscape ahead of the 2026 governorship election, especially as Secretary of the Ekiti National Assembly Caucus?

The 2026 governorship election in Ekiti will be shaped by performance, continuity, and consolidation. Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) represents the evolution of our progressive tradition. He has been part of several administrations since 1999, serving under Otunba Niyi Adebayo from 1999 to 2003, and under Dr. Kayode Fayemi in both his terms from 2010 to 2014 and 2018 to 2022. Today, he leads with humility, competence, and inclusivity.

Governor Oyebanji has brought competence, character, and compassion into the political space. He has the endorsement of all living former governors, the National Assembly Caucus under the leadership of Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, traditional institutions, and party elders. That reflects inclusive leadership and consensus building.

It is unprecedented, the degree of consensus among critical Ekiti stakeholders who are solidly behind Governor Oyebanji’s second-term bid. In my opinion, Ekiti people know where we are going, but it remains necessary to fulfil the democratic ritual of politics and elections.

A section of the party has expressed reservations about the statewide endorsement of the government. How do you view this dissent?

Differences in perception and ambition are normal in politics. What matters is how they are managed. Governor Oyebanji engages all tendencies, showing empathy and carrying everyone along.

While a few people may dissent, it does not diminish the broader unity and confidence in his leadership. Ambition should not override collective interest. In Ekiti APC, belief in continuity and stability outweighs temporary disagreements.

In a healthy democracy, a few dissenting voices are expected. They enrich the conversation and reflect the freedom our party upholds. What truly matters is that the overwhelming majority remain united behind Governor Oyebanji’s vision and the mission of advancing Ekiti’s development. Democracy is about numbers, and in this case, the overwhelming support is undeniable.

What factors will guarantee a free, fair, and credible primary in Ekiti, and how confident are you in the structures put in place by the APC?

Three things matter most: transparency, inclusiveness, and adherence to party rules. The process set by our leadership has met these criteria. The National Working Committee, State Executive, ward structures, and Screening Committee are committed to a peaceful, credible, and participatory exercise.

The APC has also constituted a Reconciliation Committee to address post-primary grievances, showing maturity and readiness for unity. Ekiti people value order and fairness, and the APC has reflected those values. These measures show we are serious about entering the 2026 elections as a united, formidable family.

Voter registration and engagement often influence turnout. How is Ekiti ensuring there will be no apathy on election day?

Voter registration and civic engagement are crucial for meaningful participation. The Governor consistently encourages citizens to exercise their franchise and remain actively involved in governance. Collaboration between the state government, INEC, and civil society organisations has expanded registration campaigns, especially among youth and women.

Voter education drives are deployed through community platforms, traditional institutions, and youth organisations to ensure citizens understand the process and its importance. Ekiti people are politically aware, but logistics and access remain challenges. By decentralising registration points, coordinating outreach, and providing timely information, the state is fostering a culture where apathy is minimised and every eligible voter is empowered to participate fully.

How united is the party behind Governor Oyebanji, and what gives you confidence about this unity going into the primary?

The party is overwhelmingly united. Beyond APC members, Governor Oyebanji has earned the respect and trust of stakeholders across Ekiti who are not even partisan. This reflects his consistent role in the state’s trajectory, from serving as Secretary of the Committee that lobbied for the creation of Ekiti State, through successive administrations, to his current leadership.

He is seen as a bridge-builder and custodian of the progressive heritage. While a few have their ambitions, BAO is the rallying point for unity and good governance.

In the past, governorship primaries in Ekiti have been rancorous. How can the APC ensure a peaceful and orderly exercise this time?

History has taught us valuable lessons. The Governor and party leaders understand that disunity is counterproductive. The structures for this primary are deliberate, including inclusive consultations, fair screening, and a reconciliation framework.

Beyond structure, it is about fostering a political culture where fairness, transparency, and accountability are valued over personal ambition. When aspirants see the system as impartial and the process credible, tensions reduce naturally. Combined with strong party discipline, active monitoring, and a reconciliation mechanism, this is likely to be one of the most peaceful primaries in Ekiti’s political history.

What are your thoughts on the recent disqualification of Engr. Kayode Ojo from the APC governorship primary?

The party machinery at both state and national levels has ensured that our primaries meet all constitutional provisions and party guidelines, thereby preventing our eventual candidate from facing unnecessary litigations. The process has been thorough, transparent, and clearly communicated, including the reasons for Engr. Kayode Ojo’s disqualification.

Avenues for redress and reconciliation exist, reflecting our commitment to fairness. On principle, you will never see me insulting Engr. Kayode Ojo or any stakeholder because I believe they also mean well for our state and our people. They do not need to be demonised for their ambitions, even if those ambitions go against the grain of the will of the majority. I maintain civility in my public commentary and relationships across the party and beyond.

That said, given the structures on the ground and Governor Oyebanji’s overwhelming support, even if he had been cleared to contest, our dear Engr. Ojo would have been decisively defeated. I sincerely wish him well and hope he remains within the party to support Governor Oyebanji’s candidature and eventual success for a second term. I would strongly advise against needless litigations like those pursued during the last electoral cycle.

As the state prepares for the governorship poll, is the APC concerned about opposition parties like the PDP or ADC, and what will be your strategy to remain competitive?

The APC in Ekiti is not complacent, and we will not take anything for granted. Our focus is fidelity to the people and staying true to their mandate, especially those of us privileged to hold public office at this time, including the Governor, the Ekiti NASS Caucus, and the leadership and members of the State House of Assembly. Performance, accessibility, and consistent delivery will speak for themselves. When governance aligns with the aspirations of the people, politics becomes secondary, and opposition activities cannot gain traction in our state.

We are confident that the voice of the people will be heard strongly in support of the second term of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, and indeed, also of H.E. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. Our strategy is rooted in engagement, accountability, and demonstrating that the APC consistently prioritises the people’s welfare, ensuring that our governance remains participatory, responsive, and inclusive.

The Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria (CRMI) has opposed the proposed establishment of the Chartered Institute of Enterprise Risk Management of Nigeria by the National Assembly, describing it as a duplication of existing institutions with identical mandates.

In a memorandum submitted to the House Committee on Commerce, the Registrar of CRMI, Victor Olannye, said the bill seeking to establish the new institute overlaps with the functions of the already existing Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria.

‘Upon careful review of the bill, we wish to draw the Committee’s attention to certain issues surrounding the proposed legislation, specifically its overlap with existing laws and its implications for the integrity of the legislative process,’ he said.

Olannye explained that the 9th National Assembly had already passed the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria Act No. 39 of 2022, which was duly assented to by the President and gazetted, thereby conferring legal status on the institute.

‘The Act comprehensively governs and promotes the practice of risk management in Nigeria, including professional certification, regulation, and the advancement of the profession,’ he said.

He pointed out that the primary objective of the proposed Chartered Institute of Enterprise Risk Management of Nigeria, to control and promote the practice of risk management, is already fully addressed by the 2022 Act.

‘As such, the proposed bill duplicates functions and responsibilities already legislated under the existing law,’ he stated.

Olannye noted that the legislature has consistently frowned upon the unnecessary proliferation of professional bodies, particularly when their mandates are already covered by existing legislation.

‘Creating overlapping institutions not only leads to inefficiency and confusion within the profession but also undermines the integrity of the legislative process,’ he added.

He therefore urged the Committee to consider dropping the bill, warning that allowing it to progress would ‘contradict existing legislation (Act No. 39 of 2022), create legal and institutional conflicts, undermine the principle of avoiding duplication and redundancy in laws, and weaken the credibility and authority of the legislature’s previous actions.’

Olannye stressed that maintaining the integrity and coherence of the legislative framework was paramount, urging the Committee to uphold the existing law and reject the proposed bill.

He commended the Committee for its diligence and professionalism, saying, ‘The Governing Council wishes to commend the Committee for its unwavering diligence and commitment to upholding the principles of lawmaking. Your meticulous approach to legislative oversight and your dedication to ensuring that every bill aligns with the broader goals of national progress reflect the highest standards of legislative professionalism.’

He added that the Committee’s integrity and thoughtfulness were instrumental in strengthening Nigeria’s governance framework and fostering public trust in the National Assembly.

The father of the late Bilyaminu Bello, Alhaji Ahmed Bello Isa, who was murdered by his wife, Maryam Sanda, in 2017, has revealed how he appealed to late President Muhammad Buhari and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to pardon his daughter-in-law.

He made the revelations in a joint interview conducted in Abuja with Alhaji Garba Sanda, father of Maryam.

In an unexpected turn of events which underscores an exceptional demonstration of forgiveness and large-heartedness, he expressed his joy over the pardon of his daughter-in-law by President Tinubu.

He recalled how he had been on a quiet quest to secure freedom for Maryam, who had been on death row since her sentencing for the murder of her husband.

He said his motivation was purely humanitarian, and that he wanted his daughter-in-law released so she could look after her two young children, and that executing her would not bring back his son.

He explained that, as a devout Muslim, he had long accepted the tragic incident which has been a subject of public discussion, choosing to forgive and leave judgment to Allah.

Alhaji Isa had previously written to both the then Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), and the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command in 2019, to seek clemency for Maryam Sanda.

Although those early appeals went unanswered, the recent pardon granted by President Tinubu under the Presidential Prerogative of Mercy finally brought his request to fruition.

He made the first plea for Sanda to be set free even before her conviction in January 2020.

He recalled writing to the Commissioner of Police on January 17th, 2019, stating that he had forgiven whoever was responsible for his son’s death and appealing that the charge be withdrawn ‘so that my son’s soul could rest in peace according to Islamic injunction.’

He also swore an affidavit at the FCT High Court on June 21st, 2019, reaffirming his forgiveness and pleading that the prosecution be withdrawn.

Also in his letter dated December 16th, 2024, titled ‘Request for Exercise of Prerogative of Mercy for My Daughter-in-Law, Maryam Sanda Sentenced to Death by Hanging,’ Alhaji Bello Isa wrote: ‘There is nothing more painful than for someone to lose a son in the way I lost my son, Bilyaminu. However, what gives me some measure of comfort is that he left behind two beautiful children, my granddaughter, Sa’adatu Bilyaminu, and my grandson, Bilyaminu Bilyaminu, named after his father.

‘I have forgiven Maryam who was found guilty of killing my son. Before the end of the trial, I made every effort to let both the police and the court to know that I did not want her prosecuted, because I did not want a situation where my grandchildren, who had lost their father so tragically, would also lose their mother.

‘I have taken it as the will of Almighty Allah, what happened to my son, and I do not blame Maryam for it. However, now that she has been sentenced to death, I beg in the name of Almighty Allah for mercy. If she is killed, who will take care of her two children? They will grow up as orphans, without a father or a mother’s love.’

The grieving father emphasized that since the 2020 judgment, the children had only been able to see and bond with their mother during occasional visits to the Suleja Correctional Facility, a situation he described as ‘heartbreaking for innocent children.’ Responding to reports that some family members objected to his forgiveness and petition for clemency, Alhaji Isa said he understood that people would hold different opinions on such a sensitive matter, but as both a father and a Muslim, he believes this was the best course of action for peace and humanity.

‘Vengeance cannot bring back my son. But forgiveness can bring peace to my family, to her family, and to the children who must not suffer any longer,’ he stated.

Also speaking, father of Maryam, Alhaji Garba Sanda, expressed deep gratitude to Alhaji Isa and his entire family for their rare act of compassion, describing it as ‘a true reflection of faith and forgiveness.’

He said: ‘Words cannot describe our appreciation to the Bello family for this gesture of mercy and reconciliation. We continue to pray that something positive may yet emerge from this regrettable tragedy, that our families may heal, and that these children will grow up knowing love from both sides of their family.’

The two families, stated that they have chosen forgiveness, compassion, and faith over pain, and have committed to working together to raise the children in an atmosphere of peace and love.