Category: Nigerian Tribune

The Cross River State Government has expressed confidence that its 2025 fiscal year will close with a 90 per cent budget performance, building on the 85 per cent achieved in 2024, following renewed efforts to strengthen public financial management systems.

This declaration was made on Monday during a presentation of the Cross River Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (2026-2028) and Development of the Medium-Term Sector Strategy at Danic Hotel, Calabar, sponsored by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

The Special Adviser to the State Governor on Budget, Mr Otu Otu Ita, disclosed that the state’s 2024 budget achieved an 85 per cent performance rate, while the 2025 budget had reached 35 per cent implementation by the end of the second quarter. With a supplementary provision of N104 billion signed into law in August to reflect new revenue inflows, he expressed optimism that the 2025 budget could achieve up to 90 per cent performance.

He explained that the state is committed to plan-based budgeting and prudent resource allocation.

‘We want a system where revenue projections match expenditure, based on proper economic analysis. From 2021, we have improved our processes, but there is always room for growth. That is why we are grateful to UNICEF for this technical support, and we are hoping that budget officers will learn best practices in the course of this workshop,’ he stated.

On leakages, the adviser noted that the state’s finance management system had been tightened, with due diligence processes and legislative oversight helping to curb wastage.

In her remarks, the Chief of UNICEF Field Office, Enugu, Juliet Chiluwe, who was represented by UNICEF’s Social Policy Officer for Enugu Field Office, Victor Chima, said the engagement was part of a broader initiative to build the capacity of budget officers across ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs).

‘We are supporting Cross River state in terms of strengthening the public financial management system through capacity building for the medium-term expenditure framework and the medium-term sector strategies for WASH, education, social protection, and health’.

According to Chima, UNICEF’s support is tailored to ensure better alignment of budget implementation with the state’s development plan.

‘This effort is to enhance public financial management in sectors critical to women and children. While Cross River has recorded progress in budget implementation, there is still room for improvement, particularly in increasing allocations and ensuring timely releases for social services,’ he said.

He stressed that UNICEF does not set targets for states but works to strengthen their systems and provide technical assistance to help them achieve their own development priorities.

A Public Finance Management expert, Oluwasola Omoju, in his presentation ‘Overview of the Budget and Appropriation Process’, stressed that Nigeria’s budgeting process still suffers structural weaknesses that undermine its impact on citizens. He cited delays and arbitrariness in budget presentation, lack of a predictable budget calendar, and weak oversight functions as major challenges.

‘Government spends a lot of money, but the impact on people’s lives remains limited. A predictable budget calendar and reforms to strengthen legislative independence are critical. Oversight is compromised when lawmakers rely on the executive or external organisations for funding, rather than having dedicated resources to carry out their constitutional roles,’ he said.

He added that while national assemblies have some financial autonomy, most state assemblies still depend on governors for funding, a situation he described as unhealthy for accountability.

The expert also called attention to the need for strict adherence to the constitutional provision that places the Public Accounts Committee under the leadership of the opposition, warning that the dominance of single parties in most state assemblies undermines effective checks and balances.

The Department of State Services (DSS) on Monday arraigned Kaduna-based social media activist, Abubakar Muhammad, popularly known as Sultan, before a Magistrate Court in Rigasa, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Sultan was docked before Chief Magistrate Muhammad Musa on a two-count charge bordering on extortion and criminal intimidation by anonymous communication, offences contrary to the Penal Code Law of Kaduna State 2017.

According to the Prosecution Counsel, the charges followed a petition by one Hafsat Yusuf Paki, who alleged that Sultan threatened her via fake social media accounts and demanded payments in cryptocurrency and through a vendor.

The Prosecutor told the Court that, ‘the complainant alleged that the accused threatened to leak her indecent pictures to the public if she refused to comply, and even issued kidnap threats.

He added, ‘While investigation has not established kidnap elements, there is a prima facie case of extortion and criminal intimidation, hence the arraignment.’

The accused, Muhammad, however, pleaded not guilty.

DSS applied for his remand in correctional custody, but the Magistrate admitted him to bail in the sum of N1 million with two sureties in like sum.

The Court ordered that the sureties must be civil servants not below Grade Level 16 in the Kaduna State Government, with passport photographs and bank statements showing not less than N1 million. The court clarified that no cash deposit was required, but the sum would be forfeited if Sultan jumped bail.

The case was, however, adjourned to October 6, 2025, for continuation of the hearing.

Sultan was arrested on September 27 at Rigachikun, where investigators claimed they recovered the social media handles allegedly used for the offence, along with digital footprints and payment records.

As part of efforts to reposition the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has met with the newly called-to-Bar personnel of the Force.

Addressing the officers at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, Egbetokun urged them to uphold integrity, professionalism, and discipline as they assume dual responsibilities as law enforcement officers and legal practitioners.

The IGP charged the 98 police officers, who were recently called to the Bar after completing the Nigerian Law School programme, to always ensure that every action they take is grounded in the law.

According to him, the Nigeria Police Force is not just an enforcement institution but also the frontline defender of law and order in the country. He stressed that the Force cannot effectively discharge this duty without officers who deeply understand the law and can apply it with clarity.

He said, ‘Your success, therefore, is not for yourselves alone, it is an asset for the Force and for Nigeria. Let me congratulate you on your successful completion of the Nigerian Law School programme and your call to the Bar. I have also been informed that one of you graduated with First Class Honours, a rare and outstanding feat. You have made the Nigeria Police Force proud, and for that, I thank you.

‘Policing is about enforcing the law, and no Force can do this effectively without sound legal knowledge. The Police require officers who are not only courageous in the field but also competent in the courtroom and clear in their interpretation of justice.

‘Every action we take must be grounded in the law. Every power we exercise must be backed by the law. And every responsibility we bear must be judged by the law. This is why your achievement matters.

‘You return to this institution not just as police officers, but as custodians of legal knowledge. That knowledge must not be idle. It must be put to work, to strengthen the Force and to serve the people of Nigeria.

‘Your success comes at a defining moment. The Nigeria Police Force has recently been upgraded in status and has now become the Force Directorate of Legal Services, under the command of an Assistant Inspector-General of Police. This elevation is not symbolic; it is strategic. The Directorate must now deliver sharper legal direction, ensure that our prosecutions are watertight, protect the Force against legal vulnerabilities, and shape policy at the highest levels. You are entering at this turning point, and the responsibility to make this Directorate excel rests heavily on your shoulders.’

While charging the lawyers, Egbetokun emphasised that the Nigeria Police Force does not need lawyers in uniform for decoration but officers who will add value. He said: ‘We need lawyers in uniform who will defend this institution with skill, with courage, and with integrity.

‘As young officers, I charge you to: Strengthen prosecutions, ensure that our cases are tight, professional, and beyond compromise. Uphold integrity, let your conduct be above reproach; compromise and corruption must never stain the Directorate. Advise with authority, your legal opinion must be clear, practical, and reliable, such that commanders can trust it without hesitation.

‘Advance reforms, help align the Force with constitutional standards, human rights obligations, and international best practices. Inspire others, be role models to officers coming behind you. Prove that police officers can wear the uniform and the lawyer’s gown with distinction.

‘Your call to the Bar has doubled your responsibility. You are now accountable to the Force, to the legal profession, and to the Nigerian people. You cannot afford to fail in any of these. Remember this: the uniform you wear is not ordinary. Combined with the authority of the lawyer’s gown, it places you in a unique and demanding position. You must carry yourselves with humility, discipline, and loyalty to the Force.’

Egbetokun also advised them not to misuse their legal knowledge for personal advantage.

He added: ‘Channel it into service. Let your competence strengthen this Directorate. Let your integrity inspire this institution. Excellence will be recognised and rewarded. Mediocrity will not be tolerated. You have brought pride to this Force. But pride is not enough. This institution has invested in you. Now, you must justify that investment.

‘Step into the Directorate of Legal Services with confidence, but also with duty. The nation is watching. The Force is depending on you. Your work will determine not just your future, but also the standing of the Nigeria Police as a professional institution of law enforcement.

‘Make no mistake: this achievement is not about the gown you will wear in court. It is about the standard you will set in this uniform. The Police, at this time more than ever before, do not just need lawyers who carry titles-it needs officers who will make the law work for justice, for discipline, and for Nigeria.’

Four housemates recently evicted from the Big Brother Naija house, Thelma, Kuture, Joanna, and Bright Morgan, have shared thoughts about the connections and relationships they built inside the house.

Bright Morgan, while speaking alongside others in an interview with Tribune Online, clarified his stance with fellow housemate Dede. According to him, his actions were about setting boundaries rather than hatred.

‘Mide and Dede are close, so I just wanted to set boundaries. I don’t dislike her, but we had an issue the other day. Moving forward, I know I don’t have to be friends with everyone. I’m intentional about my relationships. When I have eyes on someone, I just focus on them,’ he explained.

Responding to questions on whether there was more to their connection with KayBobo, especially after a ‘kissing spree’ during her time in the BBNaija House, which apparently shocked other evicted housemates, Thelma revealed she values trust above all else.

She recalled feeling uncomfortable when she learned Isabella had shared KayBobo’s bed before he moved to hers, which created a wrong impression.

She said, ‘I didn’t see the need to explain to anyone, but I wasn’t cool with how things looked. I’d rather KayBobo come outside the house and explain the context, especially after he told housemates when asked about him and Thelma that the house is a social experiment. I don’t owe them an explanation. I just want clarity.’

On her part, Joanna addressed her relationship with Faith, explaining that what viewers saw on the reality show was not a serious relationship but just a friendship.

‘Faith isn’t a relationship person, and we decided to remain true friends. For me, mental connection comes first before anything else,’ she said.

On another relationship drama, Kuture recalled an outburst involving Isabella and Imisi, where things got heated to the point that Isabella poured pepper on Sultana before it was later resolved in a surprising way.

‘They called me to be a witness when they decided to settle their fight with a kiss,’ Kuture added.

Rite Foods Limited, Nigeria’s leading food and beverage company, has restated its commitment to environmental stewardship by driving innovations that continue to minimize greenhouse gas emissions in its manufacturing operations.

The company made the commitment while conducting news men round its energy Centre at its factory at Ososa, Ogun State as part of activities to commemorate the World Ozone Day.

General Manager, Operations Olufemi Ajileye, said the company would continue to raise the bar in sustainable manufacturing with world-class processes that conserve energy, protect the environment, and reduce carbon emissions.

At its state-of-the-art factory, the company has deployed fully automated systems, energy-efficient technology, renewable energy and advanced carbon-free infrastructure designed to safeguard the ozone layer. This reflects Rite Foods’ unwavering commitment to eco-friendly operations.

Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, Ekuma Eze, said the company built sustainability into the design of its world class production facility, starting from an energy strategy with a unique energy mix: 92 per cent gas, 6.5 per cent diesel, and 1.5 per cent solar.

According to him, the company’s use of low emission technologies and infrastructure has ensured that its carbon intensity is way below 800gCO2/lpb, well below the industry average of 1300-2500 gCO2/lpb, giving Rite Foods one of the lowest emission levels in the sector.

‘This demonstrates our commitment to cleaner energy sources, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and protecting the ozone layer,’ said EZE.

Ajileye further noted that the company’s cooling plant is equipped with advanced safety systems that ensures zero ammonia leaks, thus zero harmful emissions.

According to him, this would protect the environment and guarantee the highest standards of product quality and safety for people and the planet.

The company’s environmental stewardship goes beyond factory operations.

Through its Community Social Responsibility (CSR) pillars-Education, Youth Empowerment, Environmental Stewardship, and Community Development (EYEC), the company has continued to invest in sustainable programmes that touch lives.

‘Its flagship initiative, RiteOnTheBeach, has made significant strides in ecological conservation, especially along Lagos’ coastline communities. The programme promotes plastic waste recovery, recycling, and community-led clean-ups that create jobs and fund school supplies for children in underserved coastal communities.

‘These efforts underscore Rite Foods’ commitment to circular economy practices that reduce waste, empower communities, and protect future generations,’ Eze said.

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu on Tuesday congratulated the Speaker Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, on the occasion of his 60th birthday anniversary.

Hon. Kalu in a congratulatory message, described Speaker Tajudeen as a true democrat, leader par excellence, with a track record of selfless and dedicated service to the nation.

He noted that the Speaker has consistently demonstrated the qualities of a nation-builder, and commitment to sustaining Nigeria’s democracy and promoting good governance through effective representation.

The Deputy Speaker also noted that Speaker Tajudeen has exhibited pragmatic leadership which has led to remarkable accomplishments.

Hon. Kalu commended the Speaker for choosing to focus on empathy, introspection, and humanitarian causes to celebrate his milestone birthday. He wished him many more fruitful years and sound health in service to humanity.

The Deputy Speaker said, ‘On behalf of my family and the good people of Bende Federal Constituency, Abia State, I wish to congratulate my boss, big brother and friend, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, PhD, GCON on the occasion of his 60th birthday anniversary.

‘I wish to commend your exemplary, selfless and all-inclusive leadership and commitment towards uniting the nation. Since the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly in June 2023, you’ve shown commitment to developing, sustaining Nigeria’s democracy and promoting good governance through effective representation.

‘The House under your able leadership has witnessed a peaceful atmosphere and tremendous progress. I am grateful for the confidence you reposed in me to serve and the overwhelming support we enjoy from our colleagues. I wish you many happy returns and more prosperous years ahead. Congratulations Sir,’ said the Deputy Speaker.

Former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar and former governor of Kaduna Nasir El-Rufai and former Senate President, Iyorcha Ayu paid a courtesy visit to Oba Rashidi Ladoja at his Bodija residence on Tuesday.

They were received by Oba Ladoja and his Oloris.

Atiku in his speech apologised for his inability to attend the coronation ceremony.

‘Kindly forgive our inability to attend your coronation ceremony as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on Friday,’ he pleaded.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Tuesday explained that his absence from the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, was due to protocol arrangements.

Atiku, accompanied by former Senate President Iyorcha Ayu, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke, and other chieftains of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), gave the explanation while speaking with journalists after leading a delegation to pay homage to the new monarch at his private residence in Ibadan.

Ladoja ascended the throne as the 44th Olubadan following the death of his predecessor, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90.

Atiku said his absence at the coronation was not deliberate, noting that Oba Ladoja had played a vital role in Nigeria’s political history.

He said, ‘We are here to say congratulations to the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Ladoja. We regretted that we didn’t attend the coronation. It was not intentional. Protocol arrangements did not allow us to come during the coronation, not that we don’t want to come.

‘We know your roles and relationship with some of us. We are here to congratulate you. Kindly accept our apologies for not making it to the coronation. We regret not attending the programme.’

In his response, Oba Ladoja declared that he had left politics behind with his new position as the Olubadan, pledging to focus his reign on fairness and justice.

‘I’m not one of you again. I am the Olubadan of Ibadanland. So, I am for everybody now. I am no more one of you. I am not a politician anymore. Welcome to my house.

‘Now that I am the Olubadan, I am no more interested in any other than the Olubadan. You are welcome to my house.

‘We started from the Social Democratic Party, we were in exile together, we were in the Peoples Democratic Party together. When I wanted to create an identity, I went to the Accord Party, which became a household name here. I know you politicians have a way of coming back.

‘All the religious leaders said that the only thing the leaders can do is to promote justice and fairness. I will serve my people. Ibadan people, the state, Africa and the world at large. I will depend on your support and advice,’ the monarch stressed.

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has apologised to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, for his absence at his coronation ceremony in Ibadan on Friday.

Atiku apologised to Oba Ladoja during a visit to Olubadan at his Bodija, Ibadan, residence on Tuesday.

The former Vice-President, who was accompanied on the visit by the former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Iyorcha Ayu, former governors of Cross Rivers and Kaduna states, Senator Lyel Imoke and Malam El-Rufai, said he had planned to attend the event but was unable due to logistical reasons.

Atiku said, ‘The Chiefs of Ibadan, distinguished ladies and gentlemen. First of all, Kabiyesi, I want to start with an apology. And I hope you will accept my apology on behalf of the rest for our inability to personally witness your coronation as Olubadan, which we know is your lifetime ambition. And by the grace of God, you have attained it.

‘Virtually all members of my delegation today have one form of relationship or another with you personally. Our inability to attend the inauguration was due to the protocol logistics arrangement, which could not allow us from attending. Not that we did not want to attend.

‘I know your relationship with most of us; we have always looked forward to this day and to this position for you. That is why, therefore, I spoke with you a couple of days ago, to seek your permission to lead this very high-level and distinguished delegation to come and personally congratulate you and wish you a very long, happy reign as Olubadan.

‘Please, therefore, accept our apology for our inability to attend the actual event on that day, certainly not due to our own making, but I think God has willed it that way.

‘The protocol logistics were such that we could not meet up with those logistics and therefore had to abort that visit.

‘We very much regret our inability to personally participate in the ceremonies and we sincerely hope you will overlook and forgive our absence during that historic event.

‘It is historic to both you, your family, and us, your friends and associates all over the country and we want to thank God for sparing our lives to witness this moment of your ascension to the position of Olubadan.

‘We pray you will have a long reign. And under your reign, Ibadan will continue to grow more prosperous, more peaceful and may God grant you your heart’s desires here, in the world, and thereafter. We thank you very much indeed for allowing us to pay you this congratulatory visit.

‘I would, therefore, like to hand over to you our letter of congratulations. And hope that you will forgive us and overlook our personal absence during those celebrations. Kabiyesi, God bless you.’

In his response, Oba Ladoja recounted the good relationship he has enjoyed with Abubakar and other members of his entourage.

Oba Ladoja disclosed that as a traditional ruler, he is no longer in politics but would always remember the ideas and experiences shared with his friends.

He recounted that he has enjoyed many years of personal and working relationships with virtually all the members of the entourage.

He, therefore, assured the visitors that he would make all his friends proud, reiterating that his only task on the throne is to serve humanity.

‘Former Vice-President, Senator Iyorcha Ayu, whom I fondly call My President. My Dear friends, welcome to this place. My dear friend, for a long time, we kept close to one another. So God has brought us together again today.

‘Welcome. Even though I’m no longer one of you anymore, I’m not a politician again.

‘I was really shocked when I didn’t see some of my friends, and the same night I sent a message to Waziri that I hope nothing had happened, because the advance team was here, I was following the lists of guests and I was looking forward to seeing you, but unfortunately, you could not make it.

‘When they say logistic problems, I can understand. Protocol logistics. I can understand what it means. So that is something we can say is beyond your control. So there is nothing to forgive here because it was not deliberate. It was even difficult for all of us.

‘I said this because the first person who announced the passing away of the last Olubadan was Waziri. I woke up in the morning about 5 o’clock and I saw his message if it was a rumour that Olubadan is dead, is it true? I called him and said yes, it is true. He now said, is it now our turn? I said yes, it is our turn.

‘So that is why I said, somebody who said it is our turn and all the processes of his coming have been perfected, his advance team was here, the list of members of his entourage is here, so for him not to be able to be present, but I know that Waziri is used to such last-minute problems. So it is I who should apologise to you. Not you apologising to me because I can understand what you mean.

‘It is nice to have friends with you because I can remember that my friend, Senator Ayu said, we will carry the title of senator for life. He said there is nothing like a former senator. In fact, I was expecting your wife also. She didn’t come because she is one of my daughters.

‘Mallam has been my friend since the day of BPE. I remember there was a program of Standard Trust. Where he came and said, Maybe I will also join Standard Trust because I see potential governance here.

‘So it was his prediction that I became a governor, so thank you for that prediction. So now that I am in Olubadan, I am no more entitled to be any other thing than Olubadan.

‘We had a very nice relationship at the Senate with my friend Lyle Imoke, at that time he was the youngest senator and later on in Cross River State, when he was governor. Anytime I went visiting, he treated me with utmost respect. And it is always a joy to meet somebody you have known before.

‘Thank you very much for coming. So we meet again. And I hope that this is not going to be the last meeting because I will come to Abuja to thank each of you one by one. I am very, very grateful.’

‘I can assure you that I will make you proud as your Olubadan. I will make all my friends proud because all the religious leaders, both Christian, Muslim and the traditional ones, say that the only thing that is expected of a leader is fairness and justice. So I intend to do justice among my people and serve them with all the strength that is left in me.

‘I just passed 81 and in fact the Waziri asked me whether I was going to celebrate, and I said I was in confinement where they normally confine us before the day of coronation. So I was not opportuned to be there. They said, That’s why they are not coming to my birthday.

‘So the remainder of my life will be spent serving my people. Ibadan people, Oyo state people, Nigerian people, Africa and the world at large. I will depend on your support, on your advice and I hope that when we knock on your door, you will open it for us. So I am very grateful for this visit.’

Zamfara Police Command has succeeded in the arrest of notorious bandit Mohammed Dankani popularly known as ‘Akki’, and recovered arms and ammunition in the state.

Briefing newsmen while addressing men and officers on the achievements recorded on Tuesday at the police command headquarters in Gusau, the commissioner of police Ibrahim B. Maikaba commended all operatives involved in the operations for their exceptional bravery, professionalism, and commitment.

According to him, the notorious bandit was apprehended in Funtua, Katsina State, following credible intelligence linking him to numerous kidnapping cases across the state.

‘On 17th September 2025, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit arrested Muhammadu Dan Kani 57 years old, popularly known as ‘Akki’ from Kuraje in Bungudu LGA.

‘During the investigation, the suspect confessed to having been part of the kidnapping gang terrorizing Tsafe, Yandato, and Yanwarin Daji.

‘He further admitted to being an active member of the Kachalla Dan Goggo Gang, a criminal syndicate known for orchestrating high-profile kidnappings within Damba, Mareri, and Saminaka areas all in Gusau Local Government Area in the state.’

CP Maikaba explained that Investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the Gang and determine the full scope of their operations.

Meanwhile, on 15th September 2025, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the command while on routine patrol along Gummi-Sokoto Road, intercepted a Toyota Corolla car. When a search was conducted the following recoveries were made; Four (4) AK-47 rifles,200 rounds of PKT ammunition, 28 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, and four (4) empty AK-47 magazines.

‘The items were concealed in a sack of oranges belonging to one Nasiru Dawan Jiya, who confessed to transporting the weapons to bandits in Gurusu Village investigation is ongoing and efforts are underway to arrest other accomplices and dismantle the entire supply chain.

‘Similarly, on 19th September 2025, at about 1630 hours, while on intensive patrol along the Gusau-Sokoto Highway near the Gada Biyu area, operatives successfully intercepted and apprehended two male suspects riding on motorcycles. Both suspects were found in possession of 18 fabricated firearms.

‘On 14th September 2025, based on credible intelligence, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit arrested Alhaji Shehu Aliyu in Gurusu Village. He was found with nine (9) sacks of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.’

He disclosed that Aliyu is a known and repeated drug dealer with a criminal record spanning over six years and is currently in custody as investigations continue.

CP Maikaba maintained that the achievements recorded reflect the ongoing transformation and renewed vigor within the Zamfara State Police Command.

He assured the good people of Zamfara State that the Police Command remains steadfast in its determination to eliminate criminal activities and ensure the safety of all residents.

He urged members of the public to support the Police by providing timely and actionable information saying public cooperation is invaluable in the fight against crime in the state.