Category: Daily Trust

The testimony was made by both Most Rev(Dr) Timothy Yahaya, the Arch Bishop of Kaduna Province and Sheikh Haliru Maraya, Northern Coordinator of Global Peace Foundation.

The two religious leaders praised the Governor for buying a house for both Mrs Sarah Achi and Malam Usman Aliyu who lost their spouses at different times recently.

It will be recalled that Ven Edwin Achi, the husband of Mrs Achi, lost his life after his abduction and Malama Ummulkhairi Aliyu, an Islamic teacher, was mobbed to death at Maraban Jos last June.

Governor Uba Sani visited the deceaseds’ families and promised to buy each of them a house and to cater for the education and upkeep of Ummukhairi’s four children.

The Governor fulfilled the promise and the title documents were handed over to both Mrs Achi and Malam Usman at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House last Monday at a brief ceremony.

Expressing his gratitude to the Governor, Rev Yahaya said that he lacked words to express his joy, adding that ‘the lexicon of words look very inadequate to express our feelings from our heart of hearts, and to express our thanks.”

He argued that ”it is one thing for leaders in our clime to make a promise, and it’s another thing to keep that promise. But God has so blessed us with a Governor that when he says something, he follows his promise and keep his words.”

The clergyman further said that ”we are most grateful for your putting smiles on the faces of these families. And it is our heart’s desire and prayer, as you put smiles on the faces of this family, the Lord will put smiles on your government in the name of Jesus.”

”We equally pray that there will be lasting peace in Kaduna State. That this type of troubles will never come around again-that is our heart’s desire.

As a man of peace, a man of unity, all you have been doing, the Lord will bless it. And it will become a lasting legacy in your own regime,” he added.

Speaking also, Sheikh Maraya recalled that Ummulkhairi was murdered by a mob at Maraban Jos and Governor Uba Sani displayed his usual kindness and mercy by visiting and condoling with the family.

The Islamic cleric recalled that the Governor ” made a pledge of monetary donation, which you subsequently fulfilled. We were told that the family has indeed received a donation of N10 million.”

According to him, Governor Uba Sani also promised to continue funding the children’s education and he has directed relevant officials ”to look for a befitting quality school in Kaduna State for the children to get enrolled.”

”The Governor equally pledged to get a befitting house for the family of the Ummukhairi and befitting three-bedroom bungalow has been obtained. We thank you immensely for always ensuring that your words are in tandem with your actions,” he added.

Sheikh Maraya who is also a member of the Special Hajj Committee of the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, said that ” we thank the Almighty Allah for giving us a compassionate Governor.”

”Since you assumed the mantle of leadership, you have become a fountain of mercy to we, the good people of Kaduna State. And consequent upon that, the Almighty Lord will keep on rewarding you richly. And Insha’Allah, Allah Subhanahu wa ta’ala will elevate you to a position you have never expected,” he maintained.

In his remarks, Governor Uba Sani reiterated that Kaduna States has a policy of supporting the families or the victims of banditry and insecurity since he assumed office.

He recalled that last year his administration also handed over 50 houses to the families of victims of banditry attack in the Kaduna State, adding that ” I’m also happy today we are continuing with that very important policy. ”

”As a government, we will not let the families of the victims of insecurity in Kaduna State down; we will always be with them. I’m happy today Mrs. Aichi have recovered. She was in the hospital for many months.”

In a bid to mend internal rifts and fortify its ranks ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has set up a seven-member National Reconciliation Committee to resolve grievances stemming from its recent primary elections.

The initiative was formally announced in a joint press statement signed by the NDC National Chairman, Senator Cleopas Moses, and National Secretary, Mr. Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu, which was released to the press by the National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director.

According to the leadership, the committee has been charged with engaging party aspirants across all 36 states to resolve outstanding disputes and foster party cohesion.

Renowned political economist, Professor Pat Utomi, has been appointed to chair the committee, with veteran politician, Engr. Buba Galadima serving as Co-Chairman.

Other members of the committee are Mohammed Sanni Takori – Vice Chairman, Babatunde Alli – Secretary with Mrs. Dudu Mamman Manuga, Salvador Adegoke Moshood and Alhaji Haruna Pai as members.

To ensure thorough outreach, the NDC also announced the creation of three zonal sub-committees specifically assigned to oversee reconciliation efforts across the North, South-South, and South-East regions.

Our correspondent reports that the main committee will be inaugurated at the NDC national secretariat at 12pm on Thursday.

Party leadership expressed strong confidence that the panel’s work will smooth over internal disagreements, unite members, and build a solid foundation for the party’s upcoming national campaign.

Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has urged the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over investigations into the controversial deaths of Mary Habila and Babatunde Tanimola, warning that both cases must not be ‘swept under the carpet.’

Falana also called for a speedy autopsy in Habila’s case and urged authorities to ensure transparent investigations into politically motivated killings in Osun State, arguing that every suspicious death deserves a thorough and independent probe.

The senior lawyer made the demands in a statement on Monday.

Falana expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding the death of Habila, who was found dead and unclothed on June 27, 2026, in a room at the country home of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Although Umahi has publicly denied any foul play, insisting that the deceased had an existing medical condition and that the matter was reported to the police, Falana questioned the handling of the incident.

He also criticised the delay in conducting an autopsy after the Nigeria Police Force rejected a request by Habila’s father to release the body for burial.

While sympathising with the family, he maintained that suspicious deaths are matters of public interest.

Falana also called for an independent investigation into the death of Tanimola, whom the Presidency recently identified as a principal suspect in the alleged establishment of a fake government agency.

He noted that the police said Tanimola died in a hotel fire in Abuja on October 22, 2025.

Falana argued that since the terms of reference of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission investigation into the alleged fake agency did not cover Tanimola’s death, the Inspector-General of Police should immediately take over the matter.

The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has released the final list of successful candidates for its 2024/2025 recruitment exercise, announcing that 3,852 applicants were selected from 573,680 applications received nationwide.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed this at a briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.

He said the successful candidates were recruited into the Superintendent, Inspectorate and Customs Assistant cadres, with all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory represented.

Adeniyi also announced that the Service would henceforth conduct recruitment annually to ensure predictable and efficient manpower planning.

‘The Nigeria Customs Service is moving to an annual recruitment cycle. Recruitment will no longer be an occasional event undertaken every several years. It will be a standing, predictable, yearly process,’ he said.

According to him, the 2026 recruitment exercise will begin later this year and be concluded within the same calendar year, from advertisement to publication of the final list.

He said the new system would enable unsuccessful applicants to know when the next recruitment exercise would take place instead of waiting for years without certainty.

The Comptroller-General explained that the screening systems, verification processes and recruitment architecture developed during the just-concluded exercise had now been fully established, making future recruitment faster and more efficient.

‘The delays experienced in this cycle were largely due to the time required to build this system. That process has now been completed,’ he said.

Adeniyi said all applicants underwent several stages of screening, including computer-based tests and verification of credentials against the National Identity Database.

He attributed the delay in concluding the exercise to the large number of applications received and the high rate of retirements among senior management officers.

The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on maritime crimes in the South-South, destroying a suspected militant hideout in Cross River State while rescuing three passengers from suspected sea robbers in Akwa Ibom.

The separate operations, carried out by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Victory and the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ibaka under the Eastern Naval Command, were aimed at sustaining security along Nigeria’s coastal waterways and denying criminal elements freedom of operation.

In Cross River, troops of NNS Victory raided Ine Ikoridung coastal settlement in Bakassi Local Government Area and destroyed a suspected militant camp located along the Dayspring axis.

The Navy said the operation followed credible intelligence indicating that militants, displaced from their former camps on Dayspring Island by sustained military pressure, had relocated to the remote coastal settlement where they were attempting to regroup.

Briefing journalists in Calabar, the Base Information Officer of NNS Victory, Lieutenant Commander Sulaiman Bala, said the operation was intelligence-driven and executed without delay.

According to him, naval patrol gunboats stormed the settlement, cordoned off the area and conducted a thorough search of huts believed to be occupied by the suspected militants. However, the suspects fled on sighting the approaching naval boats.

Bala said the search led to the recovery of five empty cartridges, a military camouflage vest, a police camouflage vest, a military pullover, a military jungle hat and a notebook containing records of suspected militant fighters previously arrested and the correctional facilities where they are serving prison terms.

He said the identified hideouts were subsequently destroyed to prevent the criminals from returning, adding that continuous operational pressure had significantly restricted the activities of militant groups operating within the maritime environment.

Meanwhile, in Akwa Ibom, personnel of FOB Ibaka rescued three passengers from suspected sea robbers during a routine patrol following a distress call from a passing boat reporting an attack around Mbendoro waters.

In a statement issued by the Eastern Naval Command in Calabar, the Navy said the incident occurred at about 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29, when the patrol team swiftly mobilised to the area after receiving the emergency alert.

The Navy said the operatives successfully rescued a passenger boat conveying tomatoes and its three occupants, identified as David Okon, Anietie Friday and David Edet, who were travelling from Cameroon to Oron in Akwa Ibom State when they came under attack.

The rescued passengers were safely escorted to FOB Ibaka without any casualty, while the Eastern Naval Command reaffirmed its commitment to sustained patrols, rapid response to distress situations and the continued fight against piracy, sea robbery and other maritime crimes within its area of responsibility.

The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, has directed Vice Chancellors, Rectors and Provosts of tertiary institutions across the country to dismiss any student found culpable, after due investigation of involvement in kidnapping or related criminal activities.

Alausa also ordered heads of tertiary institutions to strengthen internal intelligence gathering and deepen collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to safeguard students both on and off campuses.

The minister gave the directive on Tuesday during a meeting with the Pro-Chancellor, Governing Council and Management of the Federal University of Lafia, Nasarawa State, led by its Pro-Chancellor, Lola Fibisola Akande, in Abuja.

He said although universities, polytechnics and colleges of education remained largely safe, recent incidents involving students outside campuses required stronger intelligence gathering and closer cooperation with security agencies.

‘We have a collective responsibility to protect every Nigerian child, from primary school to tertiary education. While our campuses remain safe, we must continue to strengthen intelligence gathering and work closely with our security agencies to ensure that students are protected both within and outside our institutions,’ Alausa said.

He warned that students involved in planning or participating in the kidnapping of fellow students had no place in tertiary institutions.

‘If you tolerate bad behaviour for too long, it becomes a culture. Any student found culpable, after due investigation, of planning or participating in the kidnapping of fellow students has no place in our tertiary institutions. Such individuals must be dismissed,’ he said.

Alausa further reiterated the Federal Government’s position against negotiating with kidnappers or paying ransom, saying such actions could embolden criminal elements.

He disclosed that the government would support security projects, including perimeter fencing, through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) 2027 intervention programme.

The minister also said efforts were underway to expand the Energising Education Programme, particularly through increased solar power generation and battery storage.

Earlier, Akande disclosed that some students of the university were suspected of involvement in off-campus kidnapping activities, while citing hostel accommodation, electricity and insecurity as major challenges confronting the institution.

Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mohammed Isa Kida, commended the minister’s reforms and appealed for the extension of the Energising Education Programme to the university’s second campus.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has published the particulars and credentials of the 19 presidential candidates and their running mates for the 2027 general election, ahead of the commencement of presidential and National Assembly campaigns on August 19.

The publication, carried out in accordance with Section 29(3) of the Electoral Act 2026, opens the window for Nigerians and other eligible persons to scrutinise the information and credentials submitted by candidates seeking election into the nation’s highest offices.

President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) will seek re-election with Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is contesting on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) with former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi as his vice-presidential candidate.

Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi is the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), while former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso is his running mate.

Other presidential candidates are Senator Sandy Onor (PDP), Omoyele Sowore (AAC), Donald Duke (PRP), Okwori Ada Elizabeth Frederick (NDP), Chukwu Anita Zugwai (YPP), Rufai Adekunle Omoaje (AA), Adenuga Sunday (Boot Party), Memeh Samuel (DLA), Nwanyanwu Daniel Danerechukwu (ZLP), Okereke Sunday Chibuzor (Labour Party), Okereke Iken Esther (NRM), Abbas-Bin Aliyu (ADP), Dikwa Suleiman Mohammed (NNPP), Adebayo Adewole Ebenezer (SDP), Seyi Makinde (APM) and Yusuf Kabiru (APP).

The documents published by the commission contain details of the candidates’ educational qualifications, dates of birth, occupations and other personal information submitted alongside their nomination forms.

Among the major contenders, Tinubu’s Form EC9 shows that he was born on March 29, 1952, and submitted a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration obtained from Chicago State University in 1979 as well as his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate.

The documents did not contain details of his primary and secondary school education.

His running mate, Shettima, submitted certificates showing that he attended Lamisula I Primary School and Government Secondary School, Potiskum, before earning a degree in Agriculture from the University of Maiduguri and a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Ibadan.

Atiku’s documents include his First School Leaving Certificate, West African School Certificate and a Master’s degree in International Relations obtained from Anglia Ruskin University in 2020.

Amaechi submitted academic credentials from St. Theresa’s Primary School, Government Secondary School, Okolobiri, the University of Port Harcourt, Baze University, the Nigerian Law School and King’s College London.

Obi’s documents show that he attended St. Augustine’s Primary School and Christ the King College before obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Kwankwaso submitted a Higher Diploma in Civil Engineering (Water Resources) with Upper Credit from Kaduna Polytechnic as well as his NYSC Certificate of National Service.

Other notable candidates also submitted their academic qualifications, including Donald Duke, who declared a law degree from Ahmadu Bello University, and Omoyele Sowore, who presented a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Columbia University alongside his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Lagos.

The list published by INEC, however, did not include former President Goodluck Jonathan, who had reportedly been nominated by the Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party.

Also, absent was Gbenga Olawepo Hashim, while the Accord Party did not field a presidential candidate after announcing that none of its aspirants met the nomination deadline.

Under the 2027 Election Timetable released by INEC, presidential and National Assembly campaigns will officially commence on August 19, 2026, following the publication of the candidates’ particulars and credentials.

The future of Africa’s media will not be shaped by technology alone. It will depend on the quality of the people who lead newsrooms, responsibly embrace innovation, and uphold the profession’s ethical values.

Preparing such leaders requires more than technical training; it requires an educational environment that combines academic excellence with practical industry experience.

My participation in the MTN Media Innovation Programme (MIP) at the School of Media and Communication (SMC), Pan-Atlantic University, has shown me how this can be achieved.

In May 2026, I joined the sixth cohort of the MTN Media Innovation Programme after a rigorous selection process. I was privileged to be among the 25 fellows selected from over 5,000 applicants drawn from television, radio, print, digital media, public relations, and content creation.

The six-month executive programme, which also includes an international study visit to South Africa, brings together experienced media professionals to examine the forces transforming journalism and the wider media industry.

Even before classes began, I had my first impression of Pan-Atlantic University. After receiving my admission letter, I became aware of the University’s culture, particularly its emphasis on discipline, professionalism, proper dressing, and respect for institutional values.

These expectations reflected a learning environment that places a premium not only on academic excellence but also on personal and professional development.

When lectures commenced at the School of Media and Communication, I expected to update my knowledge of the changing media landscape. What I experienced went beyond that expectation.

The teachings broadened my understanding of leadership, innovation, media business, and the responsibilities of media professionals in a rapidly changing world.

One of the defining strengths of education at Pan-Atlantic University is its ability to bridge theory and practice. Rather than relying solely on academic concepts, the teaching combines lectures with case studies, research, group projects, class discussions, and practical problem-solving.

Every session encourages us to connect classroom learning with the realities of today’s media industry.

The curriculum reflects the changing demands of innovation in the media space. We explored media business models, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, audience engagement, product development, strategic leadership, innovation, ethics, and sustainability.

These are not presented as isolated topics but as interconnected issues that every media professional must understand to remain relevant in an increasingly digital environment.

Another remarkable aspect of the programme is the diversity of the participants. Bringing together professionals from different sectors of the media industry creates an atmosphere of collaborative learning.

Every class becomes an opportunity to exchange ideas, compare experiences, challenge assumptions respectfully, and learn from colleagues whose professional backgrounds differ from one’s own. In many instances, the discussions among participants became just as valuable as the formal lectures.

Learning at Pan-Atlantic University also extends beyond the classroom. My colleagues and I have conversations during breaks; group assignments and collaborative projects provide opportunities to learn from one another’s professional experiences.

Aside from that, Dr. Chike Mgbeadichie, the Head of the Department of Communication, Media and Cultural Studies and the Director of the Media Innovation Programme, encouraged us to submit monthly reflections, allowing us to examine how the knowledge gained during the programme influences our work and professional practice.

One area that particularly transformed my thinking was the emphasis on media innovation and product thinking. I learned that the success of media organisations depends on understanding audience needs and developing products and services that effectively address those needs.

For instance, during one of our group presentations, we were encouraged to ask practical questions that continue to influence my thinking: What problem are we solving? Who are we serving? How do we measure impact beyond page views? How do we build products that meet audience needs while ensuring the sustainability of journalism?

These discussions demonstrated how education at Pan-Atlantic University prepares media professionals to think critically, solve problems creatively, and approach journalism from both editorial and business perspectives.

However, I have continued to apply the lessons in my workplace to strengthen my professional practice and contribute to my organisation.

Beyond academics, the University’s culture leaves a lasting impression. Excellence, discipline, professionalism, collaboration, and intellectual curiosity are consistently reinforced.

For me, studying at the School of Media and Communication has been much more than a professional development programme. It has expanded my professional network, strengthened my leadership capacity, challenged long-held assumptions, and renewed my commitment to contributing to the growth of a more innovative, sustainable, and impactful media ecosystem in Nigeria.

My experience at Pan-Atlantic University has demonstrated that quality education is not merely about transferring knowledge. It is about transforming the way people think, solve problems, lead organisations, and contribute meaningfully to society.

As I continue this journey, I remain convinced that Pan-Atlantic University is doing more than educating media professionals. It is preparing a new generation of media leaders who are equipped to respond thoughtfully to the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of Africa’s media.

Kafilat Taiwo is a media and development professional working at the intersection of media, technology, and governance, with a focus on strengthening media ecosystems and advancing accountability across Africa

Veteran scrabble player, Abdulmumin Jimoh, has emerged as the Masters champion at the 6th Governor Douye Diri National Scrabble Classic, taking home a trophy and a cash prize of N2 million.

At the closing ceremony held in Yenagoa over the weekend, Bayelsa-born Felix Igolukumo won the Intermediate category, receiving a trophy and N1.2 million. His compatriot, Godwin Angoye, took first place in the Open category, earning a trophy and a N700,000 prize.

For the third time, Oladokun Esan won the Veterans category, claiming a trophy and N900,000. Similarly, Godwin Joseph secured the top spot in the Students category, taking home a trophy and N150,000.

During the event, Governor Diri announced a special gift of N1 million each to two young players: seven-year-old Abdulsalam Yusuf from Kwara State and nine-year-old Bayelsa-born Elizabeth Fun-ere.

Looking ahead to the next edition, Senator Diri announced a significant increase in the tournament’s prize money. The total prize pool will double from N20 million to N40 million, with the winner of the Masters category set to receive N5 million.

Highlighting the educational benefits of the sport, the governor directed the state’s Commissioners for Sports and Education to work out the modalities for introducing Scrabble into secondary schools across Bayelsa, stating that it would help develop students mentally.

Senator Diri noted that playing Scrabble while growing up helped develop his own vocabulary, spelling, and cognitive abilities, emphasizing that it is a mind game that builds intellect and strategic thinking.

The Sokoto State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Prof. Ahmad Ladan Ala, has been selected for an Award of Excellence as the Best Commissioner for Education in the North West geopolitical zone.

The Sokoto State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education announced the award in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, Ibrahim Muhammad Iya.

The ministry said the selection followed recommendations by the National Award Committee, which cited Ala’s leadership and contributions to the development of education in Sokoto State and the North West.

According to the statement, the award will be presented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, during the grand finale of the 2026 Democracy Day Anniversary President Inter-Senior Secondary School Debate Championship.

The event is scheduled to take place on August 20, 2026, at the Rivers State Ministry of Education in Port Harcourt, with Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, expected to serve as chief host.

The ministry said the notification of the award was signed by the Chairman of the National Advisory Board of President School Debate Nigeria (PSDN), Hon. Muhammad Usman.

It quoted the organisers as saying the recognition was in acknowledgement of Ala’s ‘exemplary leadership, dedication, and outstanding contributions to the advancement of education in Sokoto State and the North West region.’

Reacting to the development, the ministry congratulated the commissioner and pledged to sustain efforts aimed at improving basic and secondary education in the state.

‘The Ministry congratulates Prof. Ahmad Ladan Ala on this well-deserved national recognition and reaffirms its commitment to supporting policies and programmes that promote quality basic and secondary education in Sokoto State,’ the statement said.

It added that the recognition reflected the ministry’s commitment to ‘educational excellence, innovation, and human capital development.’