Category: Nigerian Tribune

Edo State Executive Council has approved a revised supplementary budget of N799.820 billion from the initial N675,200 billion, representing an increase of N125 billion, or 18 percent for the 2025 fiscal year.

It was learnt that the approval followed an emergency executive meeting presided over by the Chairman-in-Council and Governor of the State, Monday Okpebholo on Monday.

Briefing newsmen after the meeting, the Commissioner for Finance, Emmanuel Okoebor, explained the rationale behind the adjustment and emphasised the government’s commitment to infrastructure development.

He explained: ‘Previously, we have a budget of N675 billion with recurrent expenditure having about 33 percent and capital 67 percent.

‘The new revised budget now has about 70 percent for capital expenditure as against 30 percent for recurrent expenditure.

‘It shows the commitment of governor Monday Okpebholo in infrastructural development in Edo state.’

Okoebor further explained the size and nature of the increment, saying that: ‘The increment in the budget is about N125 billion, which signifies about 18 percent of the previous budget.

‘Recurrent increased with about N12 billion, while capital is about N113 billion from the previous one. Given about 25 percent increment in Capital expenditure and just 5 percent increment in recurrent expenditure.

‘It clearly shows that the government is concerned about infrastructural development making Edo people happy. We have done about 254KM of roads across the state, and many more construction works are ongoing.

‘Recurrent expenditure has about 5 percent increment as the increase in minimum wage necessitated that increment including a lot of employment the present administration did in hospital management board for over 1000 and it needs to be captured.

‘The budget has been increased by N125 billion, which is about 18 percent, and capita expenditure about 25 percent increment, from N450 billion to N563 billion.’

According to the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Communication, Paul Ohombamu, the revised budget is expected to be forwarded to the Edo State House of Assembly for legislative consideration and passage.

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of new heads for three key Federal Government agencies.

This was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by Mr Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government.

Tinubu appointed Bello Bawa Bwari as Director-General of the National Biosafety Management Agency for an initial four-year term, effective from 18 September 2025.

The President also appointed Mr Aminu Junaidu as Chairman of the Investment and Security Tribunal for a five-year term, beginning on 18 September 2025.

Similarly, Mr Olayiwola Nurudeen Awakan was appointed Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation for an initial four-year term, effective from 2 September 2025.

Imohiosen stated that the appointments underscored Tinubu’s resolve to strengthen key sectors and institutions in the country.

He added that the President urged the appointees to apply their expertise towards advancing the growth and development of their agencies for national progress.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu and Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, urged Nigerians to rekindle their hope and renew their commitment towards building a nation that benefits everyone.

In his message on Tuesday, Kalu congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians on the occasion of the country’s 65th Independence anniversary.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s journey, Kalu acknowledged the nation’s challenges but expressed optimism about its progress toward greatness.

He emphasised the significance of the Renewed Hope Agenda, initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and encouraged Nigerians to remain patient and work together in harnessing their diversity, resilience, and determination for the development of the country.

The Deputy Speaker noted that the agenda embodied collective aspirations for a Nigeria where citizens thrive and opportunities abound, stressing that working together will help build a nation that reflects the dreams of Nigeria’s founding fathers.

Kalu reaffirmed his commitment to serving Nigerians and contributing to the nation’s growth as a federal lawmaker, assuring that the Parliament will continue to prioritise people-oriented legislation.

The Deputy Speaker wished all Nigerians a fruitful Independence Day anniversary, praying for God’s guidance toward a prosperous future for Nigeria.

He said: ‘As we celebrate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, we reflect on our nation’s journey, achievements, and challenges. This milestone reminds us of the sacrifices made by our forebears and the collective efforts towards nation-building.

‘As a representative of the people, I’m honoured to reaffirm my commitment to serving Nigerians and contributing to our nation’s growth.

‘I have faith in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR which embodies our collective aspirations for a Nigeria where citizens thrive, opportunities abound, and our nation takes its rightful place globally. It’s a call to action for us to work together, harnessing our diversity, resilience, and determination.

‘As we mark this significant day, let’s rekindle our hope, renew our commitment, and work tirelessly towards building a Nigeria that reflects the dreams of our founding fathers. Together, we can achieve greatness.

‘Happy 65th Independence Anniversary! May God bless Nigeria and guide us towards a prosperous tomorrow, anchored on the principles of the Renewed Hope Agenda’.

On her part, Musawa felicitated with Nigerians on the 65th Independence Day celebration.

She said: ‘This an ode of our independence that came with a fee; The tale of a nation that begged to be free. My heavy heart; Oh Verily! Nigeria, thy never on bended knee! Awo, Zik and Sardauna made a fortress for thee. Balewa he stood, as did Macauley. To make Ye as brave as Ye can be. But thy Babylon-Beasts laid snares for thee, And spread their nets with cords of glee.

‘There´s a storm in the affairs of man, If taken at its stride, it can, And leads thee into deepest sea! For those of We who toiled for thee, We pray to see thee always free. Freedom from corruption is thy only key. Even rebellion is an effort to set thee free. We, protégé, must continue to give to thee, In the path of those who doth walk for Ye. Some have followed and some doth lead for we to unite this great nation inclusivly and happily.

‘For our common good we traverse with glee, To turn our vast diversity into unity.

‘Continue lifting our nation for all to see, but the task ahead will be very heavy. Now forge forth, struggle and win for thee, Your unending great quest for liberty. Nigeria, ye off thy bended knee.’

The Chairman of the Northern Nigeria Development Company (NNDC), Alhaji Lamis Dikko, has said that the 19 northern states are facing serious socio-economic challenges, with poverty levels above 60%, and over 80% in states such as Zamfara and Sokoto, compared to about 30% in the South.

He spoke at the ongoing Northern Nigeria Investment and Industrialization Summit in Abuja.

Dikko noted that traditional development approaches have not been effective and called for a new direction.

He stressed that embedding technology, digital infrastructure, and innovation in all sectors is the only sustainable way forward.

According to him, a first step is to close the digital gap. He explained that while internet penetration in Nigeria is about 48%, rural and northern areas fall far behind, leaving more than 60 million Nigerians offline.

He warned that this could exclude the North from the $15.7 trillion global AI-driven economy projected for 2030, urging action to expand affordable broadband, smartphone access, and reliable electricity as key economic drivers.

On agriculture, Dikko said: ‘Agriculture remains the backbone of Northern Nigeria’s economy and livelihood but yields and incomes have long been limited by outdated practices. Embracing digital agriculture can change that.

‘Imagine widely adopting precision farming tools – from drones and sensors that monitor soil and crop health, to AI-driven analysis of weather and satellite data guiding planting decisions. These technologies help farmers optimize fertilizer and water use, predict pests or droughts, and significantly boost crop yields and reduce losses.’

On electricity, he added: ‘Northern Nigeria’s development is crippled by energy poverty – an unreliable grid and low access to electricity in many communities. Technology offers a two-fold solution: modernize the grid and leapfrog with renewables. Investments in smart grid systems can improve efficiency in power distribution, reducing the rampant losses and outages.’

He emphasized that achieving such transformation requires leadership, supportive policies, and strong public-private partnerships. He also called for regional cooperation, regulatory reforms, digital literacy programs, and initiatives that empower women and rural communities to prevent inequality from widening.

Dikko concluded that organizations like the NNDC can drive investment and policy advocacy and urged stakeholders to work together to address the region’s challenges.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has advised former President Goodluck Jonathan to continue to enjoy his retirement and protect his good name.

Spokesman of the party, Mogaji Seye Oladejo gave the advice while reacting to the statement made by a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Professor Jerry Gana on the former President Jonathan contesting the 2027 presidential election.

Oladejo described Gana’s rhetoric as too soon, noting that elections are about ideas and performance, not just bringing back old leaders.

He said, ‘Prof. Gana cannot decide alone who will be the PDP candidate, adding that this shows the party still has problems with fairness and internal democracy.

‘If Jonathan tries to run again, it will not be easy for him because of past records and other challenges. Nigerians should focus on real issues like food, electricity, transport, jobs, and security. President Bola Tinubu is already working on reforms to grow the economy and improve people’s lives.’

Lagos State Kick Against Drug and Substance Abuse (LASKADA) has appointed social media personality Ayomiposi Oluwadahunsi, popularly known as ‘Mandy Kiss,’ as its ambassador.

In a viral video posted by an X user, #dammiedammie35, on Tuesday, Lagos Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende, conferred the ambassadorship on Mandy Kiss at an event organised by LASKADA.

He urged citizens to join the fight against substance misuse.

He said, ‘We’re here with Mandy Kiss, and you know, she’s actually agreed to become one of our LASKADA brand ambassadors, Lagos State Kicks Against Drug Abuse.

‘Drugs are a pandemic that is hitting our streets, it is a pandemic that is hitting our society, it is a pandemic that is hitting our community.

‘The government cannot fight it alone. We must work in collaboration with those that can reach as many people as possible, and we know Mandy Kiss has a large followership, 402,000. We’ve had conversations and we’re trying to do things differently.’

He said, ‘With the powers conferred on me, I make her one of our brand ambassadors. So, say no to drugs. Say what? Say no to drugs.’

The development comes a few days after Mandy Kiss was at the centre of public backlash over her controversial ‘marathon sex’ announcement.

Tribune Online reports that the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, had petitioned Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, calling for her arrest after she declared via Instagram that she planned to set a Guinness World Record by engaging with 100 men in 24 hours.

The monarch described the plan as ‘shameful, disgraceful, and a stain on Nigeria’s reputation.’

Earlier, Guinness World Records later distanced itself from the stunt, stressing that it does not monitor such attempts due to ethical and safety concerns.

In reaction, Mandy Kiss admitted in a TikTok video that the announcement was a desperate attempt to revive her fading online presence.

‘I was just trying to see if I was still relevant. Everywhere was dry on my page, so I came up with the idea to boost engagement and get adverts,’ she explained, adding that she could not afford legal battles.

Justice M.J. Zubairu of the Kaduna State High Court on Monday convicted and sentenced Solomon Ilemona Emmanuel for internet fraud.

The Kaduna Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) prosecuted him on a one-count charge of impersonation and internet fraud.

The charge reads, ‘That you Solomon Ilemona Emmanuel (a.k.a SANTI XII) sometime in June, 2025 in Kaduna, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, fraudulently presented yourself as one SANTI XII on Facebook (a social media platform) to unsuspecting victims and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 142 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law 2017.’

Emmanuel pleaded guilty. Following this, prosecution counsel M.J. Argungu asked the court to convict and sentence him.

Justice Zubairu sentenced Emmanuel to three years in prison or an option of a ?200,000 fine.

The court also ordered the forfeiture of a Tecno Camon Pro mobile phone and noted that Emmanuel had earlier restituted ?6,057,488.13 to his victims.

According to the EFCC, Emmanuel was arrested in the Kafanchan area of Kaduna State after intelligence reports revealed fraudulent online activities.

Investigations showed he acted as a ‘picker,’ receiving illicit funds through a Chinese vendor and transferring them to other members of the syndicate.

Some farmers in Ilora, Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo State, have cried out over what they described as continued invasion and destruction of their farms by Fulani herdsmen.

One of the incidents which happened recently, captured in a 7-minute footage and made available to the Nigerian Tribune showed Fulani herdsmen having confrontation with farmers after a maize farm was destroyed by the cows being reared by the herdsmen.

Speaking with the Nigerian Tribune on Monday, one of the farmers, who craved anonymity said: Before this recent incident, a farmer was few weeks ago, attacked in his farm, killed and his motorcycle taken away. If you look at the video very well, you will see a man in purple dress, that is there leader and you will see the way he was aiding his subjects to carry out attack on the farmers.’

Asked whether relevant security agencies have been noitified about the incident, he said:’We have reported the matter, but we just felt if we make more noise about it, we believe steps will be taken urgently to address the situation.

‘It has been a very long while that this thing is happening and if the situation continues the way it is, farmers will be forced out of the farms because of their safety and avoiding continued loss of farm produce to numerous attacks from these herdsmen.

‘We appeal to government to please come to our rescue by acting accordingly in order to check the nefarious activities of these herdsmen as they remain threat to food security in Oyo State and some other places across the country,’ he said.

The Nigeria Customs Service has announced the date for the online recruitment test for the Superintendent Cadre.

The test is scheduled to take place on Thursday, October 2, 2025.

Shortlisted candidates are divided into three batches (A, B, and C) and can check their batch, date, and time by logging in with their NIN on the Customs Service website for the online test.

The agency announced this in a statement via X on Monday.

According to the statement, ‘All shortlisted Superintendent Cadre candidates should log in with their NIN via ((link unavailable)) to check their Batch, Date, and Time.’

The NCS has also warned that strict compliance with assigned batch and time is mandatory, and failure to sit at the allotted time will result in disqualification.

Additionally, candidates are prohibited from using calculators and other devices during the test.

The NCS also noted that applicants for the Inspectorate and Assistant Cadres will be contacted later for their Pre-Test and Online Test, and they should not log in at this stage.

The relevant instructions from the NCS include:

Candidates must log in with their NIN to check their batch, date, and time

Strict compliance with assigned batch and time is mandatory to avoid disqualification

No calculators or devices are allowed during the test

Inspectorate and Assistant Cadre applicants will be contacted later and shouldn’t log in yet.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced that the online ticketing platform for the Abuja-Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) is now open for payment.

The Chief Public Relations Officer of the NRC, Mr. Callistus Unyimadu, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.

He explained that passengers are encouraged to book their tickets online ahead of resumption on Oct. 1 via https://nrc.tps.ng or visit any of the designated stations to purchase their tickets.

According to him, as part of preparations for the resumption of services, the journey time has been reduced following a review of the Temporary Speed Restriction (TSR) to improve operations.

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

He added that the management of NRC appreciates the patience and understanding of passengers during the suspension period and assured the public that safety, comfort, and customer satisfaction remain top priorities.