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A support group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, Abia Best Interest Association (ABIA), has called on the former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to ensure transparency and accountability from Abia state governor, Alex Otti, over what it described as ‘massive revenue inflow’ to the state.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Monday, the group’s convener, Hon. Eze Chikamnayo, criticised Obi for constantly faulting the federal government while allegedly ignoring governance issues in the only state controlled by his party.

Chikamnayo accused the Otti administration of operating a system ‘marked by corruption, impunity, and lack of transparency,’ saying it contradicted the values Obi often preaches.

‘If we talk about accountability at the federal level and refuse to talk about it at the state and local government levels, we make ourselves hypocrites and undermine the essence of good governance in Nigeria,’ he said.

‘We have a message for Mr. Peter Obi. He is galivanting to Indonesia, going to India, and even going to Egypt to look for a model on how Nigeria should be governed. I say to him: Stop this hypocrisy. You don’t need to go abroad. Go to Abia State – the only Labour Party state in Nigeria – and ask Mr. Alex Otti how the N54 billion meant for education was taken for Smart Schools, yet no single school is to be found,’ Chikamnayo added.

Ahead of the 2027 governorship election, the APC group also cautioned Governor Otti against plans to defect to the APC, saying he would not be welcomed and would face defeat from ‘competent and loyal members’ of the party in the state.

He said, ‘We will not welcome Mr. Alex Otti with his excess baggage, and with his corruption, and with his lack of transparency, and with his lack of accountability to the APC at the state.

‘Anybody who is thinking that he is going to cooperate with Mr. Alex Otti continued his era of complete intimidation, his era of complete impunity, his era of complete anarchy in Abia State by joining APC through the backdoor, such a person is day-dreaming

‘Abia State APC has in its kitty competent men who are capable of joining hands with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to make sure that APC and the Renewed Hope Agenda are made available to the people of Abia State, both at the state and the local government levels.

‘So, we are set to replace Mr. Alex Otti in 2027 with the APC government that will make sure that the Renewed Hope Agenda is spread to the grassroots in Abia State.’

Dismissing the propaganda that the incumbent is unbeatable, Chikamnayo said, ‘People who are saying that Alex Otti is not beatable are building castles in the air. Mr Alex Otti knows within his heart that he is completely using the machinery of media propaganda and manipulation to build an image that doesn’t exist.

‘The reality in Abia state today is that civil servants are being repressed, the reality on the ground in Abia state today is that there are phantom projects that used to siphon billions of Abia money without accountability and transparency.

‘The reality in Abia state today is that Abians are yearning for liberation, and that liberation must come to pass in 2027. Alex Otti will be roundly defeated in 2027 because Abia people are tired of his rule that has become a rule of tyranny and a complete rule of confusion.’

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, has dismissed recent reports questioning his academic credentials, affirming that he duly graduated from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) in 1985.

Addressing journalists on behalf of the Minister in Abuja, Dr. Robert Ngwu reaffirmed that Chief Nnaji is a proud alumnus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, having obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology/Biochemistry, Second Class (Honours) Lower Division in July 1985.

Ngwu, who described the controversy as a case of political desperation disguised as academic inquiry, said official records from UNN, including its 1985 Convocation Brochure and the University’s registry, confirmed the Minister’s academic history beyond any doubt.

According to Dr. Ngwu, the only valid and authentic communication issued by the University regarding the Minister’s academic record is the letter dated December 21, 2023, signed by Mrs. I.A.S. Onyeador on behalf of the Registrar, Dr. (Mrs.) Celine Ngozi Nnebedum.

That letter, he said, explicitly confirmed that Mr. Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji, with registration number 1981/30725, was admitted in 1981 to study Microbiology/Biochemistry and graduated in July 1985 with a Bachelor of Science, Second Class (Honours) Lower Division.

‘This remains the official position of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka properly stamped, duly issued, and still valid,’ Ngwu emphasised.

The Ministry’s spokesperson expressed shock that nearly two years after the University’s official confirmation, another letter emerged in May 2025, purportedly denying the existence of the Minister’s records.

He questioned the timing and motive of the new claim, noting that it coincided with the emergence of two card-carrying members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as Acting Vice Chancellor and later substantive Vice Chancellor of the University.

‘The question every well-meaning Nigerian should ask is: what changed between December 2023 and May 2025 apart from the change in leadership at the University? Ngwu asked.

Ngwu disclosed that upon learning of alleged attempts within the University to tamper with his academic file, Chief Nnaji sought redress at the Federal High Court, Abuja, in Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/1909/2025, presided over by Hon. Justice H.J. Yilwa.

On September 22, 2025, the court reportedly issued protective orders restraining the University’s management from altering the Minister’s records and mandating the immediate release of his academic transcript. The court also directed relevant supervisory authorities to ensure full compliance.

‘These are not speculative claims, Ngwu said. They are certified orders of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, which should have settled the matter once and for all.’

He, however, lamented that instead of complying with the court’s directives, the Vice Chancellor, a lawyer by training allegedly resorted to cyberbullying and politically motivated media campaigns against the Minister.

Ngwu alleged that the controversy was fueled by a coordinated attempt to tarnish the image of a reputable public servant for political gain.

He blamed a Governor of being behind the whole thing.

The governor, he claimed , wanted to remove him as the APC leader in the state to enhance his (governor’s) second term ambition.

‘It is no coincidence that the so-called exposés are being driven by partisan actors and amplified by certain media outlets like Premium Times,’ he said.

‘This is a deliberate campaign to weaponize institutions and discredit a serving Minister committed to national innovation and development.’

The minister said, ‘It is increasingly clear that this entire episode is not about education or integrity-it is about political desperation, disguised as academic inquiry. The timing, the sources, the false documents, and the paid narratives all point to a coordinated campaign to drag a reputable public servant into the mud of partisan politics.

‘The university of Nigeria Nsukka must uphold its proud motto of restoring the dignity of man. It must regain its integrity by distancing itself from political manipulation and reaffirming the authenticity of its own official record. This is not about one man’s record-it is about protecting truth, preserving institutional honour, and ensuring that no university in Nigeria ever becomes a pawn in partisan politics.’

Despite the controversy, the Ministry said Chief Nnaji remains focused on his mandate to advance innovation, strengthen Nigeria’s science and technology ecosystem, and drive research-based industrial growth.

‘The Honourable Minister will not be distracted by falsehoods or propaganda,’ Ngwu assured. He will continue to serve with integrity, dedication, and focus.’

Reiterating the government’s stance, Ngwu stated:Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji graduated from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in 1985.

‘The University officially confirmed this in writing on December 21, 2023. His name and academic details are documented in UNN’s 1985 Convocation Brochure, which remains in the University’s permanent archives.Any document or statement to the contrary is false, malicious, and politically motivated.

‘We call on the University of Nigeria to uphold its proud motto to restore the dignity of man. It must reclaim its integrity by distancing itself from political manipulation and reaffirming the authenticity of its own official record.

‘This is not just about one man’s academic record it is about protecting truth, preserving institutional honour, and ensuring that no university in Nigeria ever becomes a pawn in partisan politics. The truth is simple, the record is clear, and the law is now on the side of justice’.

Ngwu noted that the Ministry has full confidence in the Nigerian judiciary to uphold the truth and ensure that justice prevails.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has said that Nigeria is in urgent need of a Constitution that not only allows democracy but actively strengthens and enables it.

Kalu stated this on Monday during a consultative meeting with leaders of political parties organised by the House Committee on Constitution Review.

Also speaking at the event, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said that the growing call for state policing across the country should not be seen as rebellion, but cautioned that in pursuing safety, Nigerians must not sacrifice their freedom.

Kalu lamented that the cooperative democracy envisioned twenty-six years ago has yet to fully materialise, adding that the country must now confront tough questions about its constitutional framework.

‘We must ask ourselves: Is our Constitution still fit for purpose? Does it reflect the Nigeria we are today, or is it still anchored to the Nigeria of a bygone era?’ he said.

Meanwhile, the leadership of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) used the occasion to call for the restoration of direct constitutional funding for political parties to ensure a level playing field during elections.

However, the meeting witnessed the absence of several top party leaders, including the National Chairmen and Secretaries of major political parties such as the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Labour Party, though their women leaders were in attendance.

Kalu said, ‘Twenty-six years ago, Nigeria returned to democratic governance under the 1999 Constitution. It was a moment of great expectation. After decades of military rule, we dared to believe that a new era of freedom, justice, and prosperity was finally within reach.

‘The Constitution we adopted was meant to be the bedrock of a new Nigeria, a Nigeria where power belonged to the people, where rights were guaranteed, and where institutions served the common good. Twenty-six years on, has this promise been fulfilled? Yes, Nigeria today is more democratic than ever before. We have conducted seven successive general elections.

‘Power has changed hands peacefully between parties. Our civil society is vibrant. Our media is free. Our judiciary, though tested, remains independent. On the one hand, our democracy has deepened. Political parties like yours have become the primary vehicles through which Nigerians participate in governance.

‘Millions cast their votes in every election cycle, believing, rightly, that their choices matter. On the other hand, too many Nigerians feel left behind. Women remain severely underrepresented in our political structures, despite constituting half our population. Our local governments, the closest tier of government to the people, remain weak and financially dependent.

‘Electoral disputes drag on for years, creating uncertainty and undermining public confidence. The cooperative democracy we imagined twenty-six years ago has not fully materialized. Instead, we find ourselves in a moment of reckoning. A moment where we must ask: is our Constitution still fit for purpose? Does it reflect the Nigeria we are today, or is it anchored to the Nigeria of a bygone era?

‘As leaders of Nigeria’s political parties, you face this question every day. You see the gaps. You feel the frustrations. You hear the voices of ordinary Nigerians demanding more from their democracy. And that is precisely why you are here today.

‘Political parties are not just participants in our democracy; you are its backbone. You recruit candidates. You mobilize voters. You articulate competing visions for our nation’s future. You are the bridge between government and the governed. If constitutional amendments are to be legitimate, they must have your buy-in.

‘If they are to be effective, they must address the challenges you face on the ground. If they are to endure, they must reflect a broad consensus that transcends party lines. This is why we have invited you here today: not as adversaries, but as partners in nation-building.

‘Let me be clear about what is at stake. Before us are critical amendment bills that will define the trajectory of our democracy for the next generation.

‘These are not abstract legal propositions. These are reforms that go to the heart of what it means to be a democracy. And they require your input. We recognize that your parties represent diverse ideologies and constituencies.

‘You will not agree on everything. That is the beauty of democracy. But I am asking you today to focus on what unites us, not what divides us. We all want a Nigeria where elections are free, fair, and credible. We all want a Nigeria where women have an equal seat at the table.

‘We all want a Nigeria where local governments work, where federalism is real, and where our Constitution commands the respect and allegiance of every citizen. These are not partisan issues. These are Nigerian issues. The world is changing. So must we.

‘In the last twenty-six years, Nigeria’s democracy has relied on the goodwill of a few committed leaders to survive. But goodwill alone is not enough. We need strong institutions. We need clear rules. We need a Constitution that does not just permit democracy, but actively enables it. This is our moment to get it right.

‘The committee has worked tirelessly to ensure this process is inclusive. We have consulted widely. We have listened carefully. But the final word does not rest with us alone’.

‘A constitution is not just a legal document. It is a social contract. It is a promise we make to each other about the kind of country we want to build. And that promise must be one we all believe in. Our values do not change. Nigeria will remain a democracy. But to sustain our democracy in a changing world, we must change the way it operates.

‘We must give women their rightful place in governance. We must empower local governments to serve their people. We must make our elections credible and our courts efficient. This is the work before us, and it is work we cannot do without you’.

Represented by the Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, the Senate President assured that the National Assembly will work with the Executive and other stakeholders to give Nigerians the Constitution it deserves.

Akpabio said, ‘We are here because we share one belief – which our Constitution must live, breathe, and grow with the times’, and commended the House Committee on Constitution Review for their efforts, describing them as true patriots.

He said, ‘You have called the nation to reflection, not reaction; to reform, not rhetoric. This engagement with political parties is not routine – it is historic. It says to the world that Nigeria’s democracy is alive and still learning, still listening, leading.

‘We are gathered to examine the heartbeats of our Republic – justice, security, inclusion, and accountability. The issues before us, judicial and electoral reforms, local government autonomy, special seats for women, state policing, and human rights, are not items on a checklist; they are the pillars of a nation still under construction.

‘Each one of them speaks to a larger question: how do we make democracy not only endure but deliver?

‘An election is not a ceremony; it is the soul of democracy. And justice is not a luxury; it is the backbone of peace. When elections fail, trust dies. When justice delays, faith decays. That is why we must renew both our ballots and our benches.

‘We must strengthen INEC, shield our courts from corruption, and restore the people’s confidence in their institutions. In India, reforms made voting accessible even in the remotest villages. In South Africa, the Constitution enshrines judicial independence as sacred. We can do the same – not by copying others, but by perfecting ourselves.

‘True federalism begins at the grassroots. If the government does not work in the village, it has failed in the capital. We must free our local governments from the chains of dependency. Development must have a human face – and that face must be visible in every ward, every street, every home.

‘What of the women of Nigeria- the pillars of every family, the architects of every community? A democracy that sidelines its women weakens itself.

‘Across the world, the evidence is clear: in Rwanda, women lead more than sixty percent of parliament; in Finland, women shape policy and governance with distinction. Where women rise, nations thrive. It is time for Nigeria to move from the language of sympathy to the policy of inclusion.

‘Security, too, must evolve. It must be local before it can be national. A nation as vast as ours cannot be protected from a single command post. The call for state policing is not rebellion; it is realism. In the United States, in India, and even in Brazil, local policing works side by side with national forces – coordinated, not conflicting. But in seeking safety, we must not sacrifice freedom.

‘The hand that guards must not gag. The shield of the state must never become a sword against its citizens’.

The Senate President assured that the National Assembly stands ready to collaborate with the Executive and all stakeholders in reforming the nation’s laws.

He said further that it is the responsibility of the lawmakers ‘not to preserve power, but to protect the people. Our mission is not to obstruct, but to construct – laws that heal, not harden; reforms that renew, not rupture. This review process is proof that democracy is not a monument; it is a movement. Each generation must refine it, renew it, and make it better than they found it’.

He argued, ‘The Constitution is not a piece of paper; it is the promise of a people. Let us therefore rise above party lines and regional divides. Let us remember that the strength of Nigeria lies not in her oil or land, but in her people and in their will to build together.

While addressing the House Committee, the Senate President said, ‘You remind us that democracy is not self-sustaining – it must be constantly defended and deliberately deepened.

‘If we do this – if we stay true to the ideals of justice, inclusion, and accountability – then future generations will say of us: here were leaders who did not merely speak of change, but made it. Here were men and women who did not merely amend the Constitution, but renewed the nation’.

Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, the umbrella body of political parties in the country, Alhaji Yusuf Dantalle, said issues of Judicial and Electoral Reforms, Local Government Reforms, Special Seats for Women, State Policing and Human Rights and Justice are part of broader issues for consideration in the ongoing Constitution and Electoral Act Amendments.

He said, ‘As the umbrella body of all registered political parties in Nigeria, IPAC has been at the vanguard for Constitution and Electoral Act Amendments with a view to consolidating, deepening, and strengthening the nation’s democracy. This is imperative after flaws were witnessed in each election cycle.

‘As the platform that produces all elected public officers, IPAC is committed to ensuring that the electoral process is fair, transparent, and inclusive, and all political parties are given a level playing field in electoral contests.

‘We believe that a revised Electoral Act and Constitution amendments preceding the 2027 general election will address identified concerns as well as significantly enhance the credibility and integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process, promote political stability, and strengthen democratic governance.’

Dantalle called for the scrapping of the State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) and vesting the responsibility of conducting all 774 Local Government elections on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

He said, ‘IPAC has been championing Local Government autonomy. Politics is local, citizens should be encouraged to actively participate in grassroots politics that guarantee free, fair, and credible Local Government elections.’

They are also advocating ‘the removal of the power to appoint the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, the Commission Secretary and National Commissioners from the executive to promote the independence of the Commission.

‘Setting up of an Independent Appointment Committee (IAC) composed of representatives from all registered Political Parties and Civil Society Organizations, the National Judicial Council, and a Committee of the National Assembly to be appointed by both the majority and minority arms of the Senate and House of

Representatives, thereby ensuring that all parties have representatives in the Independent Appointment Committee.

‘Restoration of funding of political parties in Nigeria to provide a level playing ground for all political parties. The amendment should provide a mechanism to ensure that political parties maintain transparent financial records and accounting practices.

‘IPAC supports the bill as proposed by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. When a section of society is under-represented in policy discussions, they feel marginalised’.

Also, IPAC is throwing its weight behind the establishment of the Electoral Offences Commission to try electoral offenders. This will help to curb electoral offences, including vote buying and selling, violence, ballot snatching, and falsification of results’.

While recognising the role of the Judiciary in the sustenance of democracy, Dantalle said the body was of the view that any seat vacated due to decamping, resignation, or death should be filled by the original winning political party through a replacement process, rather than a very expensive, torturous election.

A British Airways (BA) flight from London to Abuja was forced to make an emergency diversion to Barcelona, Spain, after Prof. Osita Obierika, died mid-air.

Obierika, a retired Air Vice Marshal (AVM) of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), was a former Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Training Command, Kaduna and a directing staff at the National Defence College, Abuja.

The Octogenarian was said to have been returning to Nigeria from the United Kingdom where he was being treated for cancer.

According to reports, the aircraft departed London’s Heathrow Airport at 11pm on Sunday, October 5 and was to arrive Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, by 5am on Monday.

However, around 1:30am, the pilot declared a medical emergency and diverted to El Prat Airport in Barcelona, Spain.

A source, who confirmed his death, said there were many senior officers at the Abuja airport awaiting his arrival before news of his death filtered in.

It was gathered that the incident caused distress among passengers especially a pregnant woman said to have required urgent medical attention.

British Airways apologised to passengers for the disruption, assuring them of support and alternative travel arrangements.

The airline said a replacement aircraft was deployed to continue the journey to Abuja, with the flight rescheduled to depart Barcelona at 2:50pm local time and arrive in Abuja around 5:45pm.

It was not immediately clear if Obierika’s remains were deposited in Barcelona or arrangements were made to return his body to Nigeria on the new flight.

A native of Enugu-Ukwu in Anambra State, Obierika was a distinguished elder statesman who was fondly called Prof.

He remained active after retirement, delivering lectures on national security at public events including a 2021 lecture at Baze University on ‘Security Sector Reform in Nigeria and the 4th Industrial Revolution’.

Rapper Odumodublvck has unveiled his eagerly awaited album, Industry Machine, featuring powerhouse collaborations with artists like Wizkid, Davido, Skepta, and Seun Kuti.

Spanning 23 tracks, the project, crafted by producers Telz and P.Priime, blends hip-hop and Afrobeats with finesse.

The album quickly soared to the No. 1 spot on Apple Music Nigeria’s Top Albums chart, earning praise for its stellar production and high-profile features.

The track ‘Big Time,’ featuring Wizkid, debuted at No. 1 on Apple Music’s Top Songs chart, with fans and critics lauding Wizkid’s vibrant verse and Odumodublvck’s lyrical dexterity.

Hailed as a defining moment for Nigerian music, the album has been celebrated for its bold sound and cultural resonance.

Odumodublvck, a pioneer in Nigeria’s contemporary music scene, describes Industry Machine as a tribute to creativity, ambition, and the industry’s transformation.

Big Brother Naija Season 10 winner, Imisi, has revealed that she plans to seek professional financial guidance before deciding how to manage her grand prize.

During her final diary session with Biggie, the 23-year-old actress and fashion designer admitted that she does not yet have a concrete plan for the money but intends to take her time to make thoughtful decisions and avoid common financial mistakes that often follow sudden wealth.

‘Honestly, right now I don’t have a set plan for the money. I need to seek financial advice first because I’ve never had such a large amount before,’ Imisi said.

She added that she has seen many people make poor choices after receiving big wins and hopes to learn from their experiences to ensure long-term stability and growth.

‘I’ve seen people make mistakes after winning big, so I want to take my time and make the right choices,’ she noted.

As a celebration, Imisi plans to take her family members on a date.

Recall that Imisi was declared winner of BBNAIJA season 10 on October 5, 2025 by the show host, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu.

In a world overflowing with online information, finding a trustworthy Nigerian news source has become one of the biggest challenges for readers across the country. Every day, millions scroll through endless posts, unsure of what to believe. Some sites focus on gossip, others on unverified claims, and a few recycle the same headlines over and over again. But one platform is standing out for doing things differently, NewsKobo.com.

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The platform covers everything that matters: politics, governance, health, lifestyle, entertainment, technology, and sports. The news team works daily to provide updates that reflect the true picture of Nigeria. Instead of chasing attention with dramatic headlines, it delivers real stories that help people understand what is happening and why it matters.

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Visit www.newskobo.com today to stay updated and see how it is redefining the way Nigerians read and discuss the world around them.

Residents of Mushin, Lagos, have expressed frustration over the persistent scarcity and rising cost of cooking gas, saying the situation has made daily living increasingly difficult for households and small businesses.

According to residents, gas prices now fluctuate almost weekly, forcing many families to turn to charcoal and firewood as cheaper alternatives. What was once a basic household necessity has now become a luxury for many.

Across parts of Mushin, people were seen moving from one gas station to another in search of affordable rates, with some returning home disappointed as several outlets had run out of supply.

A food vendor, Mrs. Abimbola Aina, said the situation had disrupted her business operations.

‘Gas is now too expensive. Last month, I filled my cylinder for ?9,000, and now it’s ?15,000. Sometimes we don’t even see it to buy. We depend on gas every day, and without it, we can’t do business. It’s really affecting everything,’ she lamented.

For some families, the hardship has become unbearable. A mother of four, Mrs. Folake Ojo, said her family has resorted to using charcoal despite the health hazards.

‘We have no choice but to cook with charcoal now. The smoke makes the children cough, but what can we do? If we don’t cook, we won’t eat,’ she said.

A civil servant, Mr. Olayinka Musa, also described the frequent price changes as alarming.

‘It’s like every week, the price goes up. Even those selling it say they don’t understand what’s happening. Everything is just increasing,’ he said.

Small business owners, especially food vendors and caterers, said the high cost of gas has eaten deeply into their profits. Some have increased food prices, while others have reduced portions to stay afloat.

A restaurant owner, Mrs Kudieay Adedeji, said, ‘Customers complain that food is expensive, but they don’t know how much we spend on gas. It takes most of our earnings.’

Some gas retailers in Mushin attributed the scarcity and price surge to reduced supply from major distributors. They explained that depot prices had increased significantly, forcing them to adjust retail prices.

A retailer who identified himself simply as Seyi said, ‘We are not happy too. Sometimes we go days without supplies. When we finally get gas, it’s costly, and we must add something before selling, or we’ll run at a loss.’

Residents have appealed to the government to intervene urgently, warning that the situation could worsen the already high cost of living in the area.

‘It’s not only gas; everything is expensive now, food, transport, everything,’ Mrs. Aina said. ‘We just need help.’

If left unchecked, many fear the scarcity and high cost of cooking gas could further compound economic hardship in Mushin and other parts of Lagos.

In a major stride toward achieving universal health coverage, the Ebonyi State Government, through the Ebonyi State Health Insurance Agency (EBSHIA), has unveiled a landmark plan to enrol 29,000 persons living with HIV (PLHIV) into the state’s health insurance scheme at no cost.

The initiative was officially announced during the Network of People Living with HIV and AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWHAN) Conference in Abakaliki.

The state government said it is part of the Global Fund-supported project facilitated by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme (NTBLCP).

Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of EBSHIA, Divine Okemefuna Igwe, described the move as ‘a bold statement of compassion and inclusion,’ aimed at ensuring that no Ebonyian is denied healthcare because of financial barriers.

‘Each enrollee will enjoy comprehensive health management without any co-payment – meaning access to quality care at all levels without paying at the point of service,’ Dr. Igwe said.

He explained that the enrollment will cover all persons living with HIV across the state’s 13 local government areas and will be executed in collaboration with partners, including NHIA, NTBLCP, the Global Fund, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), and the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWAN).

Mr Igwe lauded Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for approving the inclusion of all Ebonyians living with HIV in the free health insurance program.

‘His Excellency’s magnanimity and visionary leadership have made this historic intervention possible. His decision that all Ebonyians living with HIV should access healthcare free of charge is a milestone in our collective journey toward universal health coverage,’ he said.

He reiterated that EBSHIA’s mission remains clear: to make healthcare accessible, affordable, and equitable for every resident of Ebonyi State through sustainable insurance coverage.

He said that to ensure a seamless registration process, EBSHIA is working closely with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).

The agency, he noted, will provide on-site services to issue National Identification Numbers (NIN) to those who do not yet have them.

‘Once you complete your enrolment, EBSHIA will issue you a health insurance ID card that grants access to healthcare services across accredited facilities,’ Dr. Igwe explained.

He also assured that the ID cards for PLHIV are identical to those of other beneficiaries to avoid stigmatization.

‘There is no distinction, no differential recognition, and no special marking. Everyone is treated with equal dignity and confidentiality,’ he emphasised.

Igwe, a Medical Doctor, further reassured beneficiaries that their personal data and medical information are fully protected.

‘Your data is highly protected and encrypted. Nobody will have unauthorized access to your personal or health information. There is absolutely no reason to fear or hesitate – your privacy is guaranteed,’ he affirmed.

The EBSHIA boss urged all persons living with HIV in the state to take advantage of the opportunity and register early.

‘We are here not only to celebrate this achievement but to ensure that people are registered early, not during emergencies. Early registration guarantees continuous access to healthcare when it is needed most,’ he noted.

The conference, attended by top government officials, health partners, and civil society representatives, marked what stakeholders described as a turning point in Ebonyi’s public health system.

Mr Igwe concluded by reaffirming his personal commitment to the cause:

‘As Executive Secretary of EBSHIA, I am personally committed to ensuring that no Ebonyi resident will die because of a lack of money to go to the hospital when sick. That is my pledge, and that is the heart of our mission.’

He thanked all partners, including NHIA, NTBLCP, Global Fund, NEPWAN, and NIMC, for their collaboration and urged continued cooperation to achieve full coverage.

‘Together, we are building a healthier, stronger, and more inclusive Ebonyi State,’ he declared.

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, on Monday, officially flagged off the National Measles-Rubella Vaccine Introduction Integrated Campaign in Abuja, declaring the exercise a collective resolve to end vaccine-preventable childhood diseases and safeguard the nation’s future.

The First Lady described the flag-off as ‘a declaration of our collective resolve as a nation to say ‘No More’ to the diseases that steal the future of our sons and daughters.’

She said measles and rubella remain among the leading causes of blindness, disability, and child mortality, noting that rubella infections during pregnancy could lead to blindness, deafness, or congenital heart defects in unborn children.

She emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which seeks to guarantee every Nigerian child a healthy start in life and ensure that no mother dies while giving birth.

‘A vaccine in a vial does not save a child. A vaccine in a clinic does not protect a community. Protection only becomes real when that vaccine is injected into the arm of a child,’ she stressed, urging mothers to take their children for vaccination and fathers to support them.

Senator Tinubu also appealed to traditional and religious leaders to use their influence to dispel misinformation and encourage nationwide participation, noting their previous role in the success of the HPV vaccine rollout.

She reaffirmed her personal commitment to promoting vaccine uptake and pledged to mobilize State First Ladies, wives of Local Government Chairmen, and women’s groups to ensure no child is left unprotected.

She lauded the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), and development partners-WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, and the Gates Foundation-for their partnership and dedication to Nigeria’s public health goals.

‘With this vaccine, our children will be protected against two deadly diseases and enjoy a lifetime of safety and protection. These vaccines are safe, effective, and free,’ she assured.

Declaring the campaign open, the First Lady said the exercise represents ‘a pathway to hope and a promise of progress,’ praying for divine blessings on Nigerian children, mothers, and the nation.

The official flag-off of the campaign set in motion a nationwide drive expected to reach approximately 106 million children aged 9 months to under 15 years in two phases.

The campaign also integrates vaccination efforts against polio and the rollout of the HPV vaccine among adolescent girls, combining resources to optimize health impact.

Meanwhile, in his address, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, described the event as a ‘historic moment for Nigeria’s health system,’ calling it the largest integrated health campaign on the African continent and possibly anywhere in the world.

The campaign, he noted, is expected to reach over 100 million Nigerian children, covering measles, rubella, polio, malaria, HPV, routine immunization, and neglected tropical diseases.

He said the initiative reflects the vision of President Tinubu, who has prioritized health as a key pillar of national development.

‘The President is healing this country, unifying it through health, and inspiring national confidence,’ Pate said, crediting the Renewed Hope Agenda for repositioning healthcare delivery in Nigeria.

Pate revealed that primary health care utilization had risen dramatically-from 10 million visits per quarter in 2023 to 47 million in the second quarter of 2025, while the government plans to make 4,800 additional PHCs fully functional by the end of 2025.

He disclosed that 15,000 women have benefited from the Free Emergency Obstetric Care Initiative, with hundreds of thousands more enrolled under the Mothers and Babies Implementation (MaMi) programme.

He further praised the First Lady for her ‘time, treasure, and talent’ in championing maternal and child health, particularly through her Renewed Hope Initiative.

The Minister also commended Nigeria’s traditional and religious leaders for their role in improving immunization coverage and eradicating polio. He paid tribute to frontline health workers who, he said, ‘risk their lives to deliver vaccines and healthcare services to the last mile.’

‘As Her Excellency flags off this campaign today, let us join her with conviction. The children we vaccinate and the trust we build will define the health legacy of an entire generation,’ Pate charged.

Also speaking, Minister of Education, Olatunji Alausa, warned that sanctions would be imposed on school administrators who sabotage the government’s vaccination efforts by shutting out vaccinators from schools.

Represented by Deputy Director in the ministry, Peter Ojonuba, he described the campaign as not just a vaccination drive but a critical investment in Nigeria’s future and educational progress, saying, ‘It is a day to ignite hope for healthier children, stronger communities, and a bright future for our beloved Nigeria.’

He stressed the grave threats posed by measles, one of the leading causes of vaccine-preventable deaths in children under five, and rubella, which can cause lifelong disabilities when contracted during pregnancy.

Stressing the linkage between health and education, the Minister noted, ‘a child who is sick cannot attend school. A healthy child is a teachable child. Illnesses like measles and rubella disrupt school attendance, impair cognitive development, and place undue burdens on families and the education system.’

He pledged the Ministry of Education’s full support, with schools as platforms for vaccination awareness and delivery.

Addressing potential obstructionists, Alausa stated firmly, ‘For those administrators who sabotage the efforts of government by shutting out vaccinators from educational settings, know that there are consequences.’

Speaking on behalf of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Deputy Director of Immunization and Disease Control in Nigeria, Yusuf Yusufari, said the Foundation remains steadfast in supporting Nigeria’s immunization and primary healthcare drive.

He recalled that two years earlier, under the First Lady’s leadership, Nigeria successfully introduced the HPV vaccine, becoming ‘a global exemplar in protecting girls against cervical cancer.’

‘Today, like we did two years ago, we stand united behind one goal: that no child and no woman in Nigeria-or anywhere-should be left unprotected from preventable diseases,’ Yusufari said.

He cited Nigeria’s progress in routine immunization, which has risen from 33% in 2016 to over 60% today, alongside new vaccine introductions such as pneumococcal, rotavirus, HPV, and now measles-rubella.

However, he warned that over two million Nigerian children remain zero-dose, meaning they have not received a single vaccine, the second-highest figure globally.

The 2025 integrated campaign, he said, aims to close this gap by reaching 106 million children across all 36 states and the FCT, with 21 states combining measles-rubella and polio vaccines and four states adding malaria nets, deworming, and other essential services.

‘This integrated approach saves caregivers time, maximizes resources, and strengthens trust in the health system,’ Yusufari said, adding that the Foundation will continue to work with the Nigerian government and partners to ‘act together, reach every child, and secure Nigeria’s future.’

He reaffirmed the Foundation’s long-term commitment under Bill Gates’ $200 billion, 20-year global health investment plan, emphasizing that Nigeria’s success will ‘inspire the world with what is possible when unity and urgency meet purpose.’

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, Senior Programme Manager for Nigeria, Tarcile Mballa, highlighted the historic partnership between Gavi and Nigeria that has spanned two decades, with investments exceeding $2.6 billion.

‘We have witnessed immunization coverage rise from 27% in 2001 to 67% in 2024, a testament to collective commitment,’ she said.

Mballa stated Gavi’s contribution to the current campaign totals $103 million in operational support, vaccines, and technical assistance.

She emphasized the ambitious scope of the campaign, describing it as a convergence of ‘ambition and opportunity’ with Nigeria leading public health innovation on the continent.

Mballa referenced Nigeria’s recent successful rollout of the HPV vaccine, which has protected over 15 million girls from cervical cancer, as a strong precedent for the integrated approach. She noted the campaign’s complexity requires strong systems and ‘adaptive strategies,’ highlighting Nigeria’s robust leadership and collaboration from federal to community levels.

‘The establishment of real-time coordination platforms, strengthened community engagement, and rapid decision-making mechanisms will ensure every child and their caregiver are safely catered to,’ Mballa affirmed.

On his part, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, humorously revealed that he initially thought ‘rubella’ was an award, not realizing it was actually a serious disease threatening Nigerian children.

The traditional ruler stressed the importance of protecting children’s health as a national priority.

Describing rubella, the Ooni said, ‘About a year ago, when the team of Dr Aina came to me, I thought rubella was a beautiful award they were bringing to traditional rulers, not knowing that it’s a disease. You look at the way it sounds – rubella – it sounds very positive, but it’s a killer disease.’

He praised the efforts of health officials and public officers for their dedication in sensitizing Nigerians about rubella and other deadly diseases.

‘We are all aware of measles, but I am very positive many here have never heard of rubella, like me. We must continue to create awareness throughout the country,’ he said.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has emphasized that advocacy and education, rather than enforcement, will be crucial for Nigeria’s rubella vaccine campaign to succeed. Speaking at a recent national health event, he recalled the country’s successful polio eradication efforts, attributing it to community persuasion rather than coercion.

‘We defeated polio not by force but by convincing people that the vaccine is safe. We held seminars with religious leaders to educate communities and show that the vaccine is not anti-childbirth or harmful in any way,’ the Sultan said.

He stressed the importance of ongoing education and the role of traditional and religious leaders in increasing vaccine acceptance.

The Sultan praised the commitment of the First Lady, describing her efforts across the nation as inspiring.

‘Her total commitment strengthens us, and we fully support government programs that advance the health of our nation,’ he added.

Calling on all stakeholders, the Sultan urged, ‘Parents, caregivers, governors, and their wives must join hands to drive this campaign forward through positive advocacy, not force.’ He expressed confidence that through this inclusive approach, Nigeria will achieve a healthier future for its children.

President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Daniel Okoh, expressed profound support and optimism for the initiative aimed at protecting children and strengthening public health nationwide.

He described the campaign as a golden opportunity to reduce preventable childhood deaths and strengthen public health in our nation.