Category: Business Day

The Federal Government has announced plans to expand the annual enrollment of medical students to 20,000 in order to expand access to medical education and retain critical health manpower in the face of the rising japa trend, which has seen many professionals leave the country in search of better opportunities abroad.

Maruf Tunji Alausa, the minister of education, made this known on Monday in Abuja while delivering a keynote address at the launch of the Federal Ministry of Education’s Communication Strategy (2025-2027).

According to him, the reforms are part of the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), inspired by President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which positions education as a catalyst for national renewal.

Alausa disclosed that enrollment in Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy has doubled in recent years, with medical student intake rising from about 5,000 to a projected 20,000 in the 2025/2026 academic session. Nursing admissions have also grown exponentially, from 28,000 to 115,000 nationwide.

‘We have doubled the intake of students in Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmacy in our health educational institutions. For medical students for example, from an enrollment of 5,000 students a couple of years back, we are well on our way to achieving 20,000 this new academic year. These are all aimed at addressing the critical manpower shortages in the health sector.

‘These interventions are deliberate steps to address critical manpower shortages in the health sector and ensure that Nigerians are not denied access to quality healthcare because of the japa syndrome,’ the minister said.

He further disclosed that 18 medical schools are being equipped with modern facilities, while 1,000 laboratories are being upgraded in senior secondary schools in partnership with the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF).

‘We are partnering with the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) to equip 1000 Laboratories in our senior secondary schools nationwide. ‘Nursing student intake has risen to 115,000 nationwide, from an initial figure of 28,000 which we met on ground. This would greatly increase the number of Nurses that would serve the nation despite the JAPA syndrome we are currently facing now,’

Beyond medical education, the minister highlighted other NESRI achievements, including the government’s foundational education strategy, which has expanded access to basic education in underserved and rural communities.

The minister noted that in just six months, 4,900 classrooms were constructed, 3,000 renovated, 34 model and smart schools established, and 353,000 furniture supplied, impacting more than 2.3 million learners nationwide. On tackling out-of-school children, Alausa disclosed that the Almajiri Commission has mapped nearly one million children, while 35,000 learners have been reintegrated into formal education through TVET centres. He added that 1,400 Tsangaya teachers have been trained and policies on Almajiri and non-state schools strengthened.

Other initiatives outlined by the minister include: The launch of a TVET digital platform that has attracted over 1.3 million applicants.

Free education in federal and selected state technical schools from the 2025/26 academic year, covering tuition, boarding, feeding, and a ?22,500 monthly stipend.

Nigeria’s membership of WorldSkills International, giving artisans global certification opportunities.

The training of 6,000 teachers in Artificial Intelligence (AI) to prepare learners for the digital future.

The introduction of the Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund (TISSF), a ?10 million interest-free revolving loan scheme for staff of public tertiary institutions.

The minister reiterated that education remains central to national renewal, assuring that the government will continue to implement reforms that bridge gaps in access, quality, and relevance while tackling brain drain across key sectors.

Speaking on the Communications Strategy (2025-2027), Alausa said it is designed to strengthen transparency, accountability, and public trust through unified and data-driven communication.

According to him, the strategy provides a coordinated framework for the Ministry, its agencies, and parastatals to communicate reforms effectively. Its key objectives include: establishing clear priorities and target audiences, standardising processes and branding, enhancing public awareness of policies, and improving interdepartmental alignment using evidence-based planning.

The plan rests on five strategic pillars: Unified Messaging and Branding, Stakeholder Engagement and Public Trust, Crisis Communication and Reputation Management, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning and Capacity Building and Professionalisation of Communication.

To achieve these, the strategy outlines measures such as appointing departmental communication focal points, activating a shared content calendar, developing a knowledge hub, and training communication officers in media relations, digital engagement, and crisis response.

System-strengthening measures include integrating communication into departmental budgets, institutionalising stakeholder feedback loops, and applying real-time monitoring to adjust messaging and channels.

Expected outcomes, according to the ministry, include consistent and credible messaging across the education sector, stronger alignment between communication and policy delivery, improved public awareness, and an institutionalised culture of proactive, data-driven communication.

Alausa reaffirmed that education remains central to Nigeria’s national renewal, adding that the twin goals of expanding human capital and building public trust will drive the sector forward under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Ann Pettifor, the British economist who became a global figure in the fight for debt relief, will deliver the keynote address at the 9th Ghana International Trade and Finance Conference (GITFiC).

Pettifor is best remembered for her pivotal role in helping Nigeria secure one of the most remarkable debt deals in modern African history. Between 2004 and 2005, she worked closely with Nigeria’s Debt Management Office. She also collaborated with the then Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, to negotiate the clearance of more than $30 billion owed to the Paris Club of official creditors. The deal restored fiscal breathing room to Nigeria’s economy. It also set a precedent for how developing nations could reset their debt burdens.

Her influence on the global stage extends far beyond Nigeria. She was one of the driving forces behind the Jubilee 2000 campaign. The grassroots movement galvanised world leaders and ultimately secured the cancellation of more than $100 billion in external debts for 42 of the world’s poorest countries. Backed by churches, trade unions, and civil society groups, the campaign reshaped conversations around sovereign debt and international finance.

In recognition of her contributions, Nigeria’s former president Olusegun Obasanjo conferred on her the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) in 2002, a rare honour for a foreign national.

Today, Pettifor serves as Director of Policy Research in Macroeconomics (PRIME), a UK-based think tank focused on sustainable finance and economic justice. She also sits on the Scottish Government’s Just Transition Commission, where she advises on climate finance and equitable economic policies. 9th Edition of GITFiC

At GITFiC 2025, she will act as both keynote speaker and lead discussant for the Global Debt Initiative and the GITFiC Agenda 2031. She is expected to bring decades of experience in global finance and advocacy into the ongoing dialogue on Africa’s debt sustainability.

The 9th edition of the conference, scheduled for October 29 to November 2 in Accra, will revolve around two major themes: the second Global Debt Initiative and the maiden AfCFTA Tertiary Students’ Congress.

Selasi Kofi Ackom, CEO of GITFiC, said the Global Debt Initiative was born out of the realisation that externally imposed solutions often failed to meet Africa’s needs.

‘Over the past years, we noticed that solutions designed outside Africa for Africans were not helping the continent’s financial architecture,’ Ackom noted.

‘This highlighted the need for an integrated, indigenous African financial architecture-cooked by Africans, made for Africans, and implemented by Africans. This vision gave birth to the Global Debt Initiative.’

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board has approved a fare of ?8,244,813.67 for the 2026 Hajj exercise.

A statement by Muhammad Aliyu, Board’s Public Relations Officer issued on Monday in Abuja indicated Kadiri Edah, the Director of the Board, had urged intending pilgrims to complete their payments on or before December 2025 to secure a slot for the pilgrimage.

He added that pilgrims might begin with deposits but must ensure full payment by the deadline, emphasising that all transactions must be made through bank drafts only, as cash payments will not be accepted.

Edah explained that early payments would enable the Board to compile the final list of pilgrims and remit funds to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) on time. The Board also asked individuals who had overpaid to forward their account details for refunds, which will only be processed via direct bank transfers.

‘Additionally, pilgrims who have completed payment are advised to submit their international passports and application forms to their Area Officers to facilitate processing of travel documents’, he said.

Edah reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to providing services to the FCT contingent during the 2026 Hajj exercise.

Delta State Government says it has exceeded its revenue projection mid-year into the 2025 budget, by 150%, and has predicted brighter future for the state and it’s citizens ahead of the 2026 budget.

Sheriff Oborevwori, the State governor, made the revelation during the state stakeholders’ engagement on 2026 budget planning process, an event held in Asaba, at the weekend.

The governor, who was represented by Sonny Ekedayen, the Commissioner for Economic Planning, recalled that the 2025 budget size was N972.2 billion out of which N630.5 billion was earmarked for Capital Expenditure while the Recurrent Expenditure was pegged at N348.8 billion.

‘As at the mid-year, the total implementation came to about N778 billion by way of revenues we received. That is, we overshoot our revenue projection by 150^ within the same period and so deserve applause’, he said. Of this amount, he said the Internally-Generated Revenue (IGR) alone was N104 billion as against N134 billion budgeted for the whole year, attributing the success to the vision and direction the current administration is providing. Also, this performance is a function of the prudence and judicious use of tax-payers monies which is now boosting public confidence as the level of compliance has increased, he added.

On expenditure, he disclosed that out of the N630 billion that was earmarked for capital budget, mid-year, N301 billion had been spent, which is about 96 percent pro-rated performance. ‘The government is spending heavily on infrastructures as a lot of payments are made to contractors. This year, we are expecting that the figures would be sustained as we end the year’, he explained.

‘The performance on the recurrent expenditure side is also looking green with over N200 billion spent against the budget of N348.8 billion, when pro-rated, we have about 86^ performance.

That is also keeping a level with the performance of the capital budget.

Some of Nigeria’s most respected voices in religion, politics, and academia have thrown their weight behind a new book, Beneath the Surface, written by Dakuku Peterside. The book, which brings together essays and policy writings, has been praised as a powerful contribution to Nigeria’s search for good governance, national growth, and democratic stability. Those who endorsed the work include Catholic Bishop Matthew Kukah, former Ekiti State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Professor Anya O. Anya, and Professor Kyari Mohammed. Their combined reputations cover decades of leadership in the church, government, science, history, and nation-building, giving the book a strong vote of confidence.

The four leaders are not just ordinary commentators. Bishop Kukah is known worldwide for speaking truth to power and defending democracy. Fayemi, besides serving as governor, is a respected scholar of war studies. Prof. Anya has led top scientific and economic institutions in Nigeria, while Prof. Mohammed is a renowned historian and former vice-chancellor of two universities. For such seasoned figures to unite in praising one book signals that Beneath the Surface is more than just another publication. It is being recognized as a roadmap for Nigeria’s future.

Bishop Kukah, who has authored books on politics, religion, and social responsibility, described Peterside’s work as a refreshing collection. In his words, the book is ‘a salad plate of exquisite writing’ that combines deep thought with engaging storytelling. He noted that it opens a new window for Nigerians to think about fresh options for the country’s progress. Kukah’s endorsement matters because he has long been a moral voice in Nigeria’s public life. His description of the book as ‘exciting and alluring’ suggests that readers will not only gain insights but also enjoy the writing style.

For Fayemi, who governed Ekiti State and also served as Minister of Solid Minerals, Peterside represents a rare blend of politician and intellectual. He said Peterside’s essays revive the tradition of leaders who think deeply about society rather than simply chasing power. According to Fayemi, the book highlights Nigeria’s weaknesses but also shows the ‘immense possibilities of building a nation where justice and peace prevail.’ He called it ‘a must-read,’ especially for anyone hoping to understand the roots of Nigeria’s challenges. Professor Anya, who once led the Nigerian Academy of Science and co-founded the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, praised the book for being both insightful and easy to read. He said Peterside’s wide experience in public service gives the essays a unique authority. At the same time, he noted that the book raises a painful but necessary question: why does Nigeria, despite having abundant talent and resources, continue to underperform? For Anya, the book does not just criticize-it pushes readers to reflect on the gap between Nigeria’s potential and its reality.

Mohammed, a respected historian and former university leader, described ‘Beneath the Surface’ as a ‘comprehensive exploration’ of Nigeria’s politics and society. He emphasized that Peterside avoids the trap of endless lamentation. Instead, the essays point out practical ways forward, offering guidance for policymakers, academics, and ordinary citizens. He concluded that the book is essential reading for anyone serious about Nigeria’s future.

At the heart of Beneath the Surface is Peterside’s attempt to answer why Nigeria struggles with governance, despite its human and natural wealth. The book compiles his most powerful essays, blending analysis with relatable storytelling. The themes span across politics, governance, economy, and social life. Peterside does not just point out problems but also suggests reforms. He stresses accountability, stronger institutions, and investment in human development as keys to unlocking Nigeria’s progress. By writing in a style that balances intellectual depth with clarity, Peterside makes the book accessible to different audiences: government officials, business leaders, students, scholars, and ordinary Nigerians curious about the forces shaping their nation.

Nigeria is at a critical point in its democratic journey. With rising economic pressures, security threats, and governance gaps, many citizens feel frustrated about the direction of the country. Books like Beneath the Surface tap into this frustration but also offer hope by laying out practical ideas for change. The endorsements from Kukah, Fayemi, Anya, and Mohammed show that the book is striking the right chords. Coming from leaders who have themselves faced Nigeria’s challenges firsthand, their praise gives weight to the argument that Peterside’s work deserves national attention.

Bassey Otu, Cross River State governor, has felicitated former Governor Donald Duke on the occasion of his 64th birthday, describing him as a statesman of rare distinction whose legacy continues to inspire the state and the nation.

In a statement conveyed through his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Linus Obogo, Governor Otu extolled Duke as a leader whose name sparkles in the annals of Cross River’s political history. He noted that his tenure as governor remains a shining testament to courage, compassion and progress.

According to Governor Otu, ‘Former Governor Duke’s time in office was not merely about governance but a renaissance of vision, service and passion. It was a season when hope blossomed, and Cross River’s pride was rekindled. His leadership lit a path that continues to guide our collective aspirations.’

The governor stressed that Duke’s legacy is not measured only in physical structures or projects, but in the intangible yet enduring values he championed-innovation, creativity, and a bold belief in the ability of Cross River to lead where others hesitated. These, he said, remain living testaments to the power of vision-driven leadership.

He recalled that the Duke years saw Cross River reimagined as a hub of culture, tourism, and enterprise, where the Carnival Calabar gained global acclaim and the state became a reference point for creative governance. ‘Those were years when Cross River’s name was etched on the national and international map in colours too bold to fade,’ Otu remarked. Otu added that the former governor’s contributions went beyond infrastructure, capturing the very soul of the people through policies that touched lives, ignited dreams and rekindled faith in the boundless possibilities of purposeful leadership. ‘Such footprints,’ he declared, ‘cannot be erased from the sands of time.’

The governor further observed that even beyond office, Duke has remained a beacon of wisdom, radiating the qualities of an elder statesman whose words carry weight and whose life is a wellspring of inspiration for the younger generation. His enduring relevance, Otu said, speaks to a life anchored on service and vision.

‘As you celebrate sixty-four glorious years, I rejoice in your new chapter as a statesman and fountain of inspiration,’ Governor Otu said, while praying that God grants him renewed strength, abiding joy and enduring fulfilment in the years ahead.

‘On behalf of the Government and the good people of Cross River State, I heartily felicitate with you, Your Excellency, and wish you a happy 64th birthday. May your light never dim, and may your days be crowned with peace, laughter and divine favour,’ the governor added.

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a news anchor and reporter with Arise News, who was killed during an armed robbery incident at her Katampe, Abuja residence.

In a statement signed by Eze Anaba, its president, and Onuoha Ukeh, general secretary, the Guild described her passing as a tragic loss not only to her newsroom but to the future of Nigerian journalism.

‘By Somtochukwu’s untimely death, journalism has lost not just a good professional who was committed to shedding light on important issues and giving voice to the voiceless but also one who represented the future of journalism in the country,’ the NGE said.

The Guild linked her killing to the wider climate of insecurity facing Nigerians, stressing that violent crimes have become an everyday threat. ‘The loss of this dedicated journalist from an armed robbery incident is a stark reminder of the dangers Nigerians face daily in their homes and on the street,’ the statement noted. Condemning the rising tide of violent crimes, the editors demanded accountability and urgent reforms from the government.

‘The increasing frequency of armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, insurgency and other violent crimes has created an environment of fear and uncertainty for both citizens and professionals like journalists. We demand action from the government to address the root causes of insecurity and take measures to ensure the safety and security of all citizens,’ the Guild said.

The NGE also urged security agencies to bring Somtochukwu’s killers to justice. ‘We demand that those responsible for Somtochukwu’s death be fished out by security agencies and made to face the full weight of the law,’ it stated.

Extending its solidarity to Arise News, the Guild paid tribute to the late journalist’s memory, expressing hope that her legacy would continue to inspire her colleagues.

‘We pray that the memory of this talented young journalist who died at her prime inspire excellence in journalism, even in the face of adversity. May the memory of this vibrant journalist be a blessing to all who knew her,’ the Editors said.

Medical experts have warned that poor physical activity, climate change, and unhealthy diets are driving the growing heart-related problems in Nigeria.

As Nigeria joined the world to commemorate World Heart Day 2025, themed ‘Don’t Miss a Beat,’ the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF) emphasised the need for stronger awareness campaigns, healthier lifestyle choices, and policy reforms to curb the rising tide of cardiovascular diseases.

Akin Osibogun, chairman, World Heart Day 2025, NHF, said that hypertension cases in the country have soared from less than 10 percent in 1990 to between 35 and 40 percent today, making it one of the fastest-growing health challenges nationwide, noting that cardiovascular diseases kill more than 20 million people globally every year, and the numbers are rising in Nigeria.

Osibogun warned that without urgent lifestyle changes and stronger public health policies, the burden of cardiovascular diseases will continue to rise. He added that poor physical activity, unhealthy diets, especially excessive salt and fried foods, obesity, and environmental pollution are driving this surge.

‘The food we eat, the amount of salt in our diet, and our tendency to sit rather than move are fueling hypertension and obesity, which in turn affect the health of our hearts,’ Osibogun said.

Speaking on environmental issues, he added that clean air, green spaces, and safe places to exercise are as critical to heart health as medicine.

‘Beyond lifestyle, environmental pollution and climate change are worsening the risk of heart disease. Clean air and safe spaces for exercise are as important as medical care.

‘Communities without parks, playgrounds, or green spaces deny people the chance to stay active and protect their hearts,’ Osibogun said.

Olugbenga Ogunmoyela, president/CEO, Consumer Advocacy for Food Safety and Nutrition Initiative (CAFSANI), reiterated that unhealthy diets, especially excessive salt intake and fried foods, are major contributors to the rising cases of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

‘We must encourage Nigerians to eat more fruits, vegetables, and healthy meals while cutting down on salt, sugar, and processed foods,’ Ogunmoyela said, adding that hydration is equally important, drinking enough water daily helps the heart work more efficiently. ‘The salt content in many of the foods we consume is far above recommended levels, and this is fueling hypertension and related heart problems.

‘We must go back to natural diets and reduce our dependence on processed foods, fried meals, and unhealthy oils,’ he said.

Ogunmoyela also stated that food manufacturers and vendors have a role to play by reducing salt and unhealthy fats in their products, noting that public education on diet is critical because many people are unaware of how much salt they are consuming daily.

Dolapo Koker, member, Nutrition Committee of NHF, warned against the increasing consumption of energy drinks by artisans and young workers, calling it a dangerous habit.

‘It is not good for their health because it kind of addicts them to it,’ she said, noting that most of those energy drinks have very high levels of caffeine, and it overstimulates the heart and puts it into hyperdrive, making it a risk factor.

Beyond healthcare delivery, experts called for policies that make communities healthier and safer, and urged the government to take decisive action.

‘We must build primary health care systems that integrate hypertension screening and treatment in all local government areas; essential drugs for related conditions must be made both available and affordable at the community level.

‘Policy makers must create safer environments, clean air, green spaces, walkways, and playgrounds, so people can exercise and live healthier lives,’ Osibogun said. To mark the 25th anniversary of World Heart Day, the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF) also rolled out a series of awareness and fitness campaigns under the global theme ‘Don’t Miss a Beat,’ such as the 25 minutes for 25 days’ challenge, which encourages employees to take short daily exercise breaks in October.

According to Edirin Metseagharun, founder of Passion for Healthy Kids Initiative (PHKI), explained that students will take part in short physical activities and quizzes to encourage healthy habits.

‘Sitting is now like the new smoking, and we don’t want any child to be affected.

‘Even if it’s 15 minutes, whether they are skipping, dancing, or moving in any form, whatever keeps the heart rate rising is what we are proposing to them,’ Metseagharun said.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation says the online ticketing platform for the Abuja-Kaduna Train Service is now open for payment.

Callistus Unyimadu, Chief Public Relations Officer, NRC, said this in a statement on the corporation’s X handle on Tuesday

Umyimadu said that passengers were therefore encouraged to book their tickets online ahead of resumption on Wednesday, Oct. 1, via https://nrc.tps.ng or visit any of the designated stations to purchase their tickets.

According to him, in preparation for the resumption of services, the journey time has been reduced following a review of the Temporary Speed Restriction (TSR) to enhance operations. He added that the management of NRC appreciated the patience and understanding of its esteemed passengers during the suspension period.

He assured the public that safety, comfort, and customer satisfaction remained top priorities.

‘The new schedule is as follows: Abuja – Kaduna – Idu: 8:45 a.m., Kubwa, 9:10 a.m., Rigasa (Arrive), 11:47 a.m., Kaduna – Abuja: Rigasa, 2:30 p.m., Kubwa, 5:12 p.m., and Idu (Arrive), 5:32 p.m.

‘The NRC appreciates the patience and understanding of its esteemed passengers during the suspension period and assures the public that safety, comfort, and customer satisfaction remain our top priorities,’

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has confirmed that Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has paid the hefty sanction fee imposed on it earlier this year for repeated breaches of consumer protection regulations.

The Moroccan flag carrier, singled out as the worst offender among foreign airlines operating in Nigeria, had been issued a fine following incessant reports of short-landed baggage and a repeated pattern of silence in the face of passenger complaints. While the airline has since improved its responsiveness to aggrieved customers, the NCAA disclosed that baggage-related issues continue to affect its operations, raising concerns about the carrier’s commitment to service quality.

In a virtual meeting convened recently, the NCAA sought to understand the underlying challenges facing Royal Air Maroc, but the regulator warned that its patience is running out. Officials hinted that more sanctions could follow if the airline fails to urgently resolve the recurring baggage lapses. ‘Business dictates a change of strategy when current methods are not delivering results’.

The authority advised the airline to rethink its approach to baggage management if it wishes to maintain credibility with Nigerian travellers.