Category: Nigerian Tribune

The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Ondo State Government to take decisive steps towards resolving the ongoing industrial action by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

The students warned that failure by the Ondo State Government to act within the 72-hour ultimatum would leave them with no option but to embark on lawful, peaceful and democratic actions to press home their demands.

The union said the strike, which has entered its 14th day, has brought academic activities at the state-owned institution to a complete standstill, disrupted the university’s academic calendar and thrown thousands of students into uncertainty.

According to the students, the prolonged shutdown has forced many undergraduates to leave the campus due to the absence of a clear timeline for the resolution of the dispute, while those who remain continue to endure emotional, psychological and financial hardship as they await the resumption of academic activities.

In a statement jointly signed by the Students’ Union President, Folagbade Greatness, and the General Secretary, Amos Oluwatimileyin, the students described the situation as deeply unfortunate and unacceptable, saying it has subjected students to unnecessary hardship and uncertainty.

According to the statement, the continued closure of classrooms has forced many students to leave the university community due to the absence of any indication of when lectures would resume.

The union added that students who remain on campus are grappling with emotional, psychological and financial challenges as they continue to wait for a resolution of the dispute between the lecturers and the state government.

The students’ leadership noted that every additional day of the strike further erodes students’ confidence in the education system, delays graduation, distorts academic planning and imposes extra financial burdens on parents and guardians who continue to fund an interrupted education.

The students stressed that education remains a fundamental right and a critical instrument for the social and economic development of Ondo State and Nigeria, insisting that the current impasse requires immediate attention from all stakeholders.

The statement read: ‘We strongly believe that the issues responsible for this industrial action can be resolved through sincere dialogue, commitment and decisive intervention by the Ondo State Government,’

The union appealed to the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to urgently intervene by convening discussions with the leadership of ASUU-AAUA and other relevant stakeholders to ensure a prompt and lasting resolution of the dispute.

The students said they had exercised patience since the commencement of the strike but warned that such patience was gradually running out as their academic future remained uncertain.

‘In the interest of preserving the academic future of AAUA students, we have exhausted the two Cs of Aluta, and we are left with no other option but to include the last C of Aluta.

‘The time for decisive intervention is now. The future of thousands of AAUA students depends on it,’ the union declared.

Consequently, the union issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Ondo State Government to provide what it described as a clear, practical and satisfactory response towards ending the strike.

It warned that failure by the government to demonstrate genuine commitment within the stipulated period would compel the Students’ Union to mobilise students across the institution to embark on lawful, peaceful and democratic actions aimed at defending their educational rights.

The union, however, maintained that its position should not be interpreted as a threat to the government but rather as a passionate appeal on behalf of thousands of students whose academic aspirations have been put on hold.

It reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement, dialogue and peaceful resolution of the dispute but insisted that it could no longer watch students’ future being jeopardised by prolonged inaction.

The strike by the AAUA chapter of ASUU has grounded teaching and other academic activities at the institution, with students anxiously awaiting a resolution between the union and the Ondo State Government.

The latest ultimatum by the Students’ Union is expected to increase pressure on the government to intervene and bring the dispute to an end before it escalates into mass student demonstrations.

THE i-Scholar Initiative (iSI) has officially welcomed 100 new scholarship awardees during its 2026 virtual onboarding event, reaffirming its commitment to mentoring and empowering young African students to pursue academic excellence through fully funded scholarship opportunities.

The event, themed ‘Unlocking Your Potential to Rise Beyond Barriers’, brought together board members, management officials, mentors, partners, beneficiaries, and newly selected scholars from around the world.

Speaking during the meeting, Chair of the Board of Trustees at iSI, Mrs. Tolulope Ewherido, described the initiative as a family committed to creating opportunities for talented students.

‘We know that talent is universal, but opportunity is not. What we do is invest our time and resources to create a bridge to the dreams and aspirations of our scholars,’ she said.

Mrs. Ewherido commended the Board of Trustees, the management committee, volunteers, and partners for their dedication to the organisation’s mission, noting that their contributions continue to transform lives across Africa.

Providing an overview of the organisation, President of iSI, Mr. Victor Ogunmola, explained that iSI was established in 2019 as a non-profit organisation in Nigeria and the United States with the vision of nurturing a self-driven generation for future leadership.

‘Our mission is to mentor and empower young African students in pursuing academic excellence at world-class universities through fully funded scholarships,’ he said.

He added that the organisation is run entirely by volunteers who contribute their time, expertise, and resources to support scholars.

Speaking on the impact of the initiative, Dr Seyi Ajayi highlighted the importance of supporting talented students who often face financial barriers to achieving their academic goals. He noted that iSI provides funding for standardised tests, application fees, mentorship opportunities, and moral support to scholars seeking admission into international universities.

The event also featured testimonials from past beneficiaries who shared how the programme had positively influenced their educational and professional journeys.

One of the beneficiaries, Esther Oyedele, a graduate student in Geology, shared how the initiative supported her financially and connected her with experienced mentors.

‘I have benefited from mentorship provided by seasoned professionals across the world. I have also had the opportunity to give back by mentoring upcoming scholars,’ she said.

Another award recipient, Rukaiya Oladusu, a graduate of the University of Lagos, expressed appreciation to the organisation for believing in her dreams.

‘This opportunity has made a goal that once seemed distant feel much more attainable. I am grateful for the investment in my future and look forward to contributing to the community,’ she said.

Vice President of Operations, Hanatu Kadir-Banjoko, officially unveiled the 2026 scholarship class and commended the awardees for their outstanding academic achievements, leadership qualities, community service, and strong performance during the selection process.

‘These scholars worked hard, submitted strong applications, and distinguished themselves throughout the interview process. We are proud to welcome them into the i-Scholar Initiative family,’ she said.

The onboarding session ended with words of encouragement from alumni and mentors, who urged the new scholars to maximise the opportunities available through the initiative, remain committed to excellence, and give back to society as future leaders.

The i-Scholar Initiative continues to support African students through mentorship, career development, and scholarship opportunities, helping them gain admission into leading universities globally.

Jigawa State Government has launched an ambitious ?7 billion dairy development programme that will introduce improved cattle breeds from the United Kingdom and India through artificial insemination as part of efforts to diversify the state’s economy and transform livestock production.

Commissioner for Livestock Development, Prof. Abdulrahman Salim Lawal, disclosed this at a one-day sensitisation workshop on artificial insemination and dairy production for Fulani leaders drawn from the 27 local government areas of the state.

He said the programme, initiated by Governor Malam Umar Namadi, would commence with the artificial insemination of 6,500 cattle using improved breeds from the United Kingdom and India before expanding to cover 25,000 cattle, with a target of producing over 60,000 genetically improved cattle.

According to the commissioner, the initiative aims to increase milk production, improve the quality of indigenous cattle breeds, create jobs, and position Jigawa as a major dairy-producing state in Nigeria.

Lawal disclosed that the government had already committed ?3.3 billion to the dairy programme. At the same time, another ?4.5 billion would be invested in restoring and developing grazing reserves, bringing the total investment to over ?7 billion.

He explained that the state plans to reclaim and rehabilitate its 362 gazetted grazing reserves by planting high-yield pasture grasses and legumes to support modern livestock production.

The commissioner said the programme was inspired by successful dairy development models in countries such as India, where improved cattle breeds produce significantly higher milk yields than local breeds.

‘We are changing the narrative from quantity to quality. Instead of keeping large numbers of low-yield cattle, our focus is on fewer but highly productive breeds capable of meeting Nigeria’s growing dairy needs,’ he said.

To ensure sustainability, Lawal said 13 scientists from Jigawa would travel to India next month for specialised training at the National Dairy Development Board on artificial insemination and dairy management.

He added that the experts, on their return, would train 350 youths recently recruited by the state government as artificial insemination technicians to drive the programme across the state.

The commissioner expressed optimism that the initiative would not only improve pastoral livelihoods but also reduce conflicts associated with open grazing by encouraging settled and more productive livestock management.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of Ferrado Agro and Bioforms, Mr. Chendu, said the company was partnering with the state government to implement the one-year programme through baseline surveys, digital documentation, animal identification and farmer tracking.

He explained that the intervention is expected to increase the average daily milk yield per cow from about one litre to between eight and 15 litres, thereby improving farmers’ incomes, creating employment opportunities for youths and women, strengthening food security and reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported dairy products.

Experts at the workshop described the initiative as a major step toward modernising livestock production and building a sustainable dairy industry capable of contributing significantly to Nigeria’s agricultural and economic diversification agenda.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of creating the impression that ‘some victims of insecurity matter more than others,’ and demanded timelines for the rescue of 176 residents abducted from Woro community in Kaiama, Kwara State, who have remained in captivity since February 3, 2026.

Speaking on Sunday through its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said the President’s celebration of recent rescues in Oyo State has raised questions about the fate of victims still being held in Kaiama, Borno, Zamfara and other parts of the country.

‘The African Democratic Congress is concerned by what is becoming an unmistakable pattern in the Tinubu administration’s response to insecurity: some victims receive swift presidential attention, while others are left to languish in silence,’ the statement said.

‘Every successful rescue of abducted Nigerians deserves to be celebrated. But the President must ensure that his actions do not create the impression that the value of a Nigerian life depends on where the victim comes from or whether the tragedy attracts national headlines. Leadership demands equal compassion for every citizen, because no country can build national unity on the basis of selective empathy and selective attention.’

‘On Friday, July 24, 2026, residents of Kaiama Local Government Area in Kwara State staged a peaceful protest over the fate of 176 residents of Woro community abducted on February 3, 2026.

‘More than 170 days later, their families are still asking the same questions: Where are their loved ones? What has the government done? When should they expect them home? Their protest was not political. It was the cry of citizens who fear that their loved ones have been forgotten,’ the ADC said.

The party also cited fresh incidents of insecurity: the recent abduction of no fewer than 40 residents from 11 communities in Mayanchi District, Maru LGA, Zamfara, mostly women and children; attacks in Benue’s Sankera axis on July 24; and the early hours of Sunday abduction of Kebbi State High Court Judge, Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza.

It added that communities in Borno continue to endure insurgent attacks and mass displacement.

‘These are not isolated incidents. They are reminders that insecurity remains a daily reality for millions of Nigerians.’

Following the public celebration of the rescue of abductees in Oyo State, the ADC asked: ‘What is the status of those still being held elsewhere? What progress has been made in securing the release of the 176 abductees from Kaiama? What is being done to rescue the women and children taken in Zamfara? What efforts are underway to secure the release of Justice Bunza? What updates are available on victims in Borno and other affected communities?’

‘The President owes Nigerians more than broad assurances. He owes them regular updates, timelines and evidence that no Nigerian community has been abandoned.’

The party referenced President Tinubu’s assurance on Thursday, July 23, 2026, that insecurity in the North would soon end.

‘We sincerely hope that promise becomes reality. But hope cannot survive indefinitely on declarations alone. There comes a point when repeated assurances, unaccompanied by visible results, cease to reassure. They simply become another headline in a long cycle of official optimism and public disappointment.’

‘That is why many Nigerians no longer receive presidential statements on insecurity with the confidence they once did. The administration has become remarkably consistent in making reassuring pronouncements but far less convincing in delivering outcomes. On one of the defining challenges of this government, the President is increasingly seen as a professional statement-maker, while communities continue to bury their dead, search for the missing and wait for rescues that never seem to come.’

The ADC called on President Tinubu to demonstrate through action that every Nigerian life carries equal value.

‘The people abducted in Woro on February 3 matter. The women and children abducted in Mayanchi, Zamfara matter. The families living under siege in Borno matter. The victims of fresh attacks in Benue matter. Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza matters. They deserve the same urgency, the same empathy and the same presidential attention that every rescued Nigerian rightly receives. Leadership is not measured by how quickly government celebrates a rescue; it is measured by whether no Nigerian is left behind or forgotten.’

Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr Olayemi Cardoso, and the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, will headline the 7th Africa Emerging Markets Forum, taking place at the CBN Headquarters, Abuja, on Wednesday, 29 July, and Thursday, 30 July 2026.

Hosted by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in collaboration with the Emerging Markets Forum (EMF) and the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA), the 7th Africa Emerging Markets Forum will convene senior policymakers, central bankers, ministers, development partners, private-sector leaders and leading economists from Africa and around the world to examine practical policy responses to an increasingly uncertain global economic environment.

Held under the theme ‘Building Resilience Amidst Geoeconomic Uncertainties,’ the 7th Africa Emerging Markets Forum will be headlined by the Cardoso-Okonjo-Iweala fireside dialogue, which will explore how African economies can build resilience, sustain reform momentum, deepen regional integration and unlock long-term growth amid an increasingly fragmented global economy.

According to a statement by CBN, the 7th Africa Emerging Markets Forum will also feature ministerial keynote addresses by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Taiwo Oyedele, and the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Kingsley Udeh, underscoring the importance of coordinated fiscal, monetary and innovation policies in advancing Africa’s economic transformation and long-term resilience.

‘Other distinguished participants include Indermit Gill, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President for Development Economics at the World Bank Group; Harinder Kohli, Founding Director and Chief Executive of the Emerging Markets Forum; Professor Adamu Ahmed, Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University; alongside senior policymakers, academics, development partners and business leaders from across Africa and beyond.

‘Over two days, participants will examine a wide range of issues critical to the future of emerging markets, including macroeconomic stability, regional economic integration, cross-border payments, financial technology, infrastructure, foreign direct investment, technology transfer, artificial intelligence, and the interconnected challenges of food price volatility, inflation and monetary policy transmission in fragile and post-crisis economies’

The statement noted that the organisers of the 7th Africa Emerging Markets Forum aim to foster open dialogue on issues of strategic importance to emerging markets and developing economies while identifying practical policy solutions that can be adapted to the unique circumstances of individual countries.

‘The Forum underscores the shared commitment of the Central Bank of Nigeria and its partners to strengthening regional cooperation, advancing evidence-based policymaking and promoting innovative solutions that enhance Africa’s resilience and support sustainable, inclusive economic growth,’ the statement added.

The Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board (ODSUBEB), in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), has concluded a five-day capacity-building workshop for over 200 teachers and education stakeholders under the Greening Schools and Climate Change Education Initiative (GSCCEI), culminating in the official launch of the Greening Schools Tree Planting Campaign and the distribution of tree seedlings and agricultural inputs to participating schools across the state.

The five-day workshop, held at the Domus Pacis Pastoral Institute, Conference and Retreat Centre, Igoba-Akure, equipped participants with practical and theoretical knowledge in climate change education, environmental sustainability, agricultural entrepreneurship, and climate-smart agricultural practices.

The programme culminated in the launch of the Greening Schools Tree Planting Campaign at St. James’ Mega Primary School Hall, Irowo, Akure, where beneficiary schools received tree seedlings and agricultural inputs to commence the establishment of tree nurseries, school gardens, and other environmentally sustainable projects.

Speaking at the launch of the campaign, the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Igbekele Ajibefun, described the initiative as timely and strategic, noting that climate change remains one of the greatest global challenges requiring practical and collective action.

Professor Ajibefun, in a statement by the Head, Media and Publicity Unit of ODSUBEB, Banjo Egunjobi, stressed that schools have a vital role in nurturing environmentally responsible citizens, adding that climate education must go beyond classroom instruction to practical activities such as tree planting, environmental conservation, and sustainable school gardening.

He urged beneficiary schools to make effective use of the tree seedlings and agricultural materials provided under the programme, emphasising that the success of the initiative would depend on the commitment of school administrators, teachers, and pupils to nurture the trees to maturity.

In her address, the Permanent Secretary of ODSUBEB, Princess Abike Bayo-Ilawole, described the initiative as a major milestone in the Board’s determination to build environmentally friendly schools while equipping learners with practical knowledge and skills required to tackle climate change and environmental degradation.

She explained that the programme, formerly known as the Agricultural Education Training Programme (AETP), has been repositioned and rebranded as the Greening Schools and Climate Change Education Initiative (GSCCEI) in line with global best practices and contemporary educational priorities.

According to her, the initiative integrates climate action, environmental conservation, sustainable agriculture, food security, ecological restoration and green entrepreneurship into the basic education curriculum.

Princess Bayo-Ilawole observed that climate change remains one of the greatest environmental challenges confronting humanity, with its effects evident in rising temperatures, flooding, prolonged drought, biodiversity loss, declining agricultural productivity, food insecurity, desertification and erosion.

She stressed that schools occupy a strategic position in preparing future generations to become environmentally responsible citizens capable of promoting sustainable development and building resilient communities.

The Permanent Secretary disclosed that participants received intensive practical and theoretical training on climate change mitigation and safeguard measures, tree nursery establishment and maintenance, orchard development, school gardening, vegetable production, poultry farming, fisheries and aquaculture, alongside other environmentally sustainable agricultural practices.

She urged participants to replicate the knowledge acquired by establishing school gardens, tree nurseries, environmental clubs and viable agricultural enterprises capable of promoting food production, entrepreneurship education, environmental sustainability and community economic development.

Princess Bayo-Ilawole expressed appreciation to Governor Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering commitment to educational development and the timely release of counterpart funds that facilitated the successful implementation of the programme.

She also commended the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Dr Aisha Garba, for her visionary leadership and sustained support towards improving the quality of basic education through impactful interventions such as the GSCCEI.

Expressing optimism about the programme’s long-term impact, she said the initiative would contribute significantly to greener schools, increased environmental awareness among learners, improved agricultural productivity and the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the education sector.

Delivering her goodwill message, the Ondo State Coordinator of UBEC, Mrs Olanike Adams, described the Greening Schools and Climate Change Education Initiative as a strategic intervention designed to integrate climate change education into the basic education curriculum while promoting environmentally responsible attitudes and sustainable practices among pupils and students.

She stated that the programme reflects UBEC’s commitment to equipping young learners with the knowledge, values and practical skills required to address environmental challenges and contribute meaningfully to sustainable national development.

Mrs Adams noted that schools remain one of the most effective platforms for nurturing environmentally conscious citizens from an early age, adding that education remains the most effective tool for promoting environmental awareness, behavioural change and environmental stewardship.

One of the resource persons, Professor Gideon Adedayo of the Department of Forestry and Wood Technology, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), who delivered a lecture on Climate Change Mitigation, Resilience and Safeguards, described climate change as one of the most critical environmental challenges confronting the world today.

He explained that increasing extreme weather events, rising temperatures, biodiversity loss and environmental degradation continue to threaten agriculture, food security, water resources, public health, infrastructure and economic development.

Professor Adedayo advocated sustainable forest management, renewable energy adoption, climate-smart agriculture, biodiversity conservation and responsible natural resource management as practical solutions to mitigate climate change, while urging governments, educational institutions, private organisations and citizens to work collaboratively in protecting the environment.

Earlier, the Director of Academic Services, ODSUBEB, Mrs Foluke Fajana, described the workshop as a practical and result-oriented capacity-building programme designed to equip participants with the technical knowledge and hands-on skills required to successfully implement the Greening Schools and Climate Change Education Initiative in their schools.

She disclosed that each beneficiary school is expected to establish a functional tree nursery, develop a school garden and initiate at least one viable agricultural enterprise capable of serving both educational and economic purposes.

Speaking on behalf of participants, Dr Aina Benjamin expressed appreciation to the Ondo State Government, UBEC and ODSUBEB for organising what he described as an eye-opening and impactful training programme.

He assured that participants would effectively apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the workshop to promote environmental sustainability, establish climate-friendly practices in schools, educate learners on responsible environmental behaviour and contribute meaningfully to reducing the effects of climate change across Ondo State.

The workshop attracted participants from across the education sector, including Education Secretaries from the various Local Government Education Authorities (LGEAs), head teachers of public primary schools, school administrators, classroom teachers, agricultural instructors and other key stakeholders in basic education.

The Federal Government has pledged to remove longstanding barriers preventing Nigerian health professionals abroad from contributing to the country’s healthcare system, as it promised to simplify licensing procedures, facilitate temporary practice arrangements and expand investment opportunities for diaspora experts.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, made the commitment on Saturday at the 2026 National Diaspora Merit Award and Closing Ceremony of the Nigeria Diaspora Health Impact Initiative (NDHII) held at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja.

Salako said the success of this year’s initiative demonstrated that Nigeria’s diaspora should no longer be viewed through the lens of ‘brain drain’ but as a strategic partner in rebuilding the nation’s health sector.

He disclosed that over the past several weeks, Nigerian doctors, nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists, laboratory scientists and other healthcare professionals from across Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, South Africa and the United States returned home to provide specialist medical services, conduct surgeries, train health workers and mentor local professionals across the six geopolitical zones.

‘You did not merely come home to attend a programme; you consulted, treated, operated, trained, mentored, and gave freely of skills built over years abroad. That is patriotism made visible, and on behalf of the Federal Government, I say thank you,’ the minister said.

According to him, diaspora medical teams worked in teaching and general hospitals across Lagos, Edo, Kaduna, Kano, Sokoto, Borno, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Nasarawa, Gombe and the Federal Capital Territory.

He said UK-based specialists trained more than 1,000 frontline healthcare workers in Kano, Kaduna and Sokoto under the Safer Births Bundle of Care programme, while members of the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas conducted about 4,000 medical consultations, performed over 500 surgeries and trained 350 health workers alongside 150 community responders in Enugu, Imo and Abia States.

Salako added that the Nigerian Australian Medical Doctors Association organised specialist training on ultrasound diagnosis of endometriosis in Benin City, while members of the Nigerian Doctors Forum South Africa carried out more than 70 advanced procedures in interventional radiology, neurosurgery and endoscopy in Lagos hospitals while transferring the skills to local practitioners.

He also said the Concerned Medics Foundation screened thousands of secondary school students for sickle cell disease in Borno and Gombe States, while the Canadian Association of Nigerian Physicians and Dentists and the Nigerian Medical Association Germany supported telemedicine, family medicine and point-of-care diagnostic services across the FCT and Nasarawa State.

‘Across all six geopolitical zones, in a single season, our diaspora healthcare family have touched close to ten thousand Nigerian lives directly and trained more than two thousand frontline health workers, multiplying that impact for years to come,’ he said.

The minister assured diaspora professionals that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare would continue working to simplify professional licensing and locum arrangements, facilitate customs and visa waivers for medical missions and encourage investments in hospitals, diagnostic centres and pharmaceutical industries.

‘Let me reaffirm our commitment to continue to work with you, ease the path home: simplifying licensing and locum arrangements for diaspora clinicians, securing the customs and visa waivers your missions need, and expanding opportunities for you to invest in building hospitals, diagnostic centres, pharmaceutical industries and other healthcare investments on Nigerian soil,’ he said.

Salako argued that the migration of Nigerian health workers resulted from years of inadequate investment, poor remuneration and unfavourable working conditions rather than an unavoidable ‘brain drain.’

‘For too long, we have spoken of ‘brain drain’ as though it were a natural disaster. The reality is more complex. This administration is committed to rebuilding our health system from its foundations to save our country an estimated ?4.8 trillion a year currently lost to preventable disease and medical tourism,’ he said.

He said the Federal Government had introduced a Diaspora Health Registry and data mapping exercise, alongside the Nigerians in Diaspora Advance Health Programme (NiDAH-P) portal, to match diaspora expertise with healthcare needs across the country.

The minister urged Nigerian health professionals abroad to register on the platform and remain actively engaged beyond periodic medical missions.

‘There are many areas where we see room for deeper collaboration. Through telemedicine and digital health, our diaspora specialists can extend consultation and mentorship to Nigerian facilities year-round. Through structured training partnerships, joint clinical research, technology transfer and public-private partnerships, we can modernise our health infrastructure and strengthen our health system,’ he said.

Salako commended the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), led by its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, for driving the initiative, while thanking President Bola Tinubu for supporting the programme.

He also praised the governments of Edo, Lagos, Kaduna, Kano, Sokoto, Borno, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Nasarawa and Gombe States for partnering with the Federal Government to host the diaspora medical teams.

Describing the programme as the beginning of a sustained partnership rather than a one-off event, the minister urged diaspora professionals to continue contributing their expertise to Nigeria’s healthcare development.

‘Nigeria’s health system will ultimately be built by Nigerians, wherever in the world they reside. Let this evening not be a farewell, but a renewal of that partnership to secure the health, wellbeing and prosperity of every Nigerian,’ he said.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said the Tinubu administration has finally adopted a policy direction he first advocated more than two decades ago, after nearly three years of what he described as ‘poor planning and misplaced priorities’ in the power sector.

Atiku, in a statement issued on Sunday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, said the recent admission by the Minister of Power that Nigeria can no longer depend solely on large, centralised power plants amounts to a belated endorsement of the decentralised electricity model he championed since 2005.

‘It should not take a government three years in office to discover what was obvious more than two decades ago,’ Atiku said.

He criticised the administration for increasing electricity tariffs before implementing structural reforms.

‘A government that thinks before it acts would have fixed the system before asking citizens to pay more. Unfortunately, this administration has done the exact opposite-raising tariffs first and only now beginning to think about the reforms required to justify those increases.’

Atiku recalled that during his tenure as Vice President, he consistently urged President Olusegun Obasanjo to decentralise electricity generation by harnessing hydro, solar, gas and other viable sources.

He disclosed that when President Obasanjo set up the Power Sector Reform Committee based mainly on gas-fired generation, he was appointed Chairman but declined to preside.

‘This has been my position for over two decades. When President Obasanjo established the Power Sector Reform Committee based primarily on gas-fired generation, I was appointed Chairman. However, because I fundamentally disagreed with the policy direction, I declined to preside over the committee. I believed then, as I do now, that Nigeria’s electricity future lay in a diversified and decentralised energy mix-not an overdependence on a single source.

‘Unfortunately, billions of dollars contributed by the Federal Government, states and local governments were committed to that approach, yet the expected results never materialised. Contracts were awarded, huge sums were paid upfront, but much of the promised work was never done. The National Assembly subsequently investigated the power sector reforms and held President Obasanjo accountable for the outcome. I was never invited by the investigators because I had declined to chair the committee despite being formally appointed.’

Atiku said he restated the position in a 2022 interview with ARISE News and made it a central pillar of his presidential campaigns from 2007 through 2023.

‘For more than two decades, I have consistently argued that Nigeria’s overdependence on a centralised generation system was economically unsustainable and technically inefficient. Today, the Tinubu administration is merely acknowledging what I proposed years ago.’

The former Vice President lamented that instead of coherent reforms, the current government has spent almost three years ‘experimenting with the livelihoods of Nigerians.’

‘The result has been higher electricity tariffs, struggling businesses, collapsing manufacturers and households paying more for less power.

‘The greatest tragedy is not that this government has finally embraced the right idea. The tragedy is that it took three years of policy drift, higher tariffs and prolonged darkness to discover what could have transformed Nigeria’s power sector more than two decades ago.’

Atiku said an ADC administration under his leadership would pursue a diversified and decentralised electricity generation strategy driven by hydro, gas, solar and other viable sources.

He added that the plan would also include expanding transmission infrastructure, strengthening distribution networks, and encouraging private sector participation to guarantee stable and affordable electricity.

‘Nigeria does not suffer from a shortage of ideas. It suffers from a shortage of leaders willing to act on the right ideas at the right time. It is never too late to embrace the right policy, but Nigerians should never have had to pay the price for a government that spent three years learning what should have guided its actions from day one.’

A United States lobbying firm linked to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has renewed its campaign for the release of records relating to President Bola Tinubu’s decades-old US case, while announcing plans to engage anti-drug organisations and victims of heroin abuse in the United States.

The firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, made the announcement in a statement posted on its official X account on Saturday, alleging that US law enforcement agencies under former President Joe Biden refused to release documents relating to Tinubu despite multiple Freedom of Information Act requests.

According to the firm, the requests were filed by American transparency activist Aaron Greenspan with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Justice and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

It identified the requests as FOIA numbers 1588244-000, 1593615-000, 22-00892-F, 24-00201-F and EOUSA-2023-002028.

The lobbying firm claimed the refusal by the agencies prompted US District Judge Beryl Howell to order the release of the records in 2025, adding that the documents have yet to be made public.

‘The FBI, the Justice Department, and the DEA under President Joe Biden refused FOIA requests to release records concerning Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s alleged heroin trafficking from Nigeria to Chicago.

‘The FOIA requests were made by Aaron Greenspan, an American transparency activist. The refusal and stonewalling by the Biden Administration led to US District Judge Beryl Howell ordering the Biden Administration in 2025 to release the files. Yet, no files have been released. This is going to change,’ the statement said.

It added that the alleged delay in releasing the documents ‘is going to change.’

The firm also announced plans to meet with anti-drug organisations, religious leaders and victims of heroin abuse in the US.

‘As President Donald Trump has rightfully shown, US agencies must never protect foreign leaders accused of having links to drugs smuggled into the United States.

‘Next week, we will be engaging with anti-drug organisations, religious leaders, and victims of heroin abuse and deaths regarding President Tinubu’s alleged link to heroin trafficking in Chicago,’ it stated.

The renewed demand follows a series of exchanges between the former vice president and the Presidency over Tinubu’s US legal records.

Earlier this week, Atiku, through his spokesman, Phrank Shaibu, faulted the Presidency’s response to petitions reportedly sent by his US lobbying team to President Donald Trump and the US State Department seeking further scrutiny of Tinubu’s 1993 civil forfeiture case.

He argued that the government’s defence of the President had instead reignited public interest in the decades-old matter.

The Presidency rejected the petitions, insisting that US authorities had confirmed there were no pending criminal cases against Tinubu. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga also defended the President and accused Atiku of corruption during his time as vice president.

Tinubu’s 1993 civil forfeiture case, which involved funds connected to bank accounts linked to him, has repeatedly resurfaced in Nigeria’s political discourse. While the Presidency maintains that the matter ended without a criminal conviction, opposition figures have continued to press for the release of additional US records, making the issue a fresh point of political contention ahead of the 2027 general election.

A senior finance operative of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has surrendered to troops of Operation Hadin Kai in Borno State alongside two male children.

The Nigerian Army announced the development in a statement issued late Saturday, describing it as another significant operational success in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign in the North East.

According to the acting Military Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Captain Mohammed Goni, the terrorist surrendered to troops of the 3 Battalion under the 24 Task Force Brigade at about 6:45 a.m. on July 25, 2026, along the Ladari-Jegarawa-Tunokalia axis of the Gamboru-Wulgo Main Supply Route in Borno State.

The statement reads, ‘Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have recorded another major operational breakthrough with the surrender of a senior Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) finance operative, underscoring the sustained impact of ongoing kinetic and intelligence-driven operations across the North East.’

Goni said the latest surrender adds to the growing number of terrorists abandoning the insurgent group, noting that about 46 terrorists and their family members had voluntarily surrendered to troops in recent days.

He attributed the surrender to sustained coordinated land and air offensives carried out by Operation Hadin Kai against terrorist hideouts.

‘The terrorist surrendered to troops of 3 Battalion under 24 Task Force Brigade at about 6:45 a.m. on 25 July 2026 along the Ladari-Jegarawa-Tunokalia axis on the Gamboru-Wulgo Main Supply Route,’ he said.

‘Preliminary profiling indicates that the terrorist served as the Chief Finance Operative of the ISWAP enclave at Jubillaram, where he was responsible for managing the group’s financial activities and logistics. He surrendered alongside two male children,’ he stated.

The Army spokesperson said troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, four magazines, 101 rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition, one motorcycle and ?40,000 from the surrendered terrorist.

‘The individual is currently undergoing detailed profiling and interrogation to exploit actionable intelligence that will support ongoing operations and facilitate the targeting of remaining terrorist elements across the Theatre,’ he stressed.

Goni said the surrender of a senior finance operative marks another major blow to ISWAP, adding that it demonstrates the continued weakening of the group’s leadership, operational strength and support network due to sustained military operations.

‘Coupled with the increasing number of recent surrenders, this development confirms deepening disillusionment within terrorist ranks and points to an accelerating wave of defections from terrorist camps,’ he emphasised.

He reaffirmed that Operation Hadin Kai remains committed to restoring lasting peace, security and stability across the North East.

‘The Theatre Command therefore calls on all remaining terrorists to take advantage of the Federal Government’s non-kinetic initiatives by laying down their arms before it is too late,’ he added.

Goni also appealed to the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information to strengthen ongoing counter-terrorism operations.