Category: Nigerian Tribune

The Image Merchant Promotion Limited (IMPR), publishers of PRNigeria and Economic Confidential, has inaugurated a new hostel for its Young Communication Fellowship in Kano, addressing a key logistical need for participants from the state and beyond.

PRNigeria Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Yushau Shuaib, spoke at the graduation of ten fellows, who completed an intensive training that blended classroom instruction with field experience to connect academic theory and expertise in journalism, public relations, and crisis communication.

While thanking the training partners, Shuaib explained that the hostel was built to accommodate participants from distant locations as the programme forges ahead in its goal to nurture professionals and tackle misinformation.

‘Beyond equipping participants with essential communication skills, this programme prepares them to respond to the challenges of information disorder and positions them to contribute meaningfully to society,’ he noted.

Fellowship Coordinator, Dahiru Lawal, detailed the curriculum, which included digital journalism, fact-checking, social media management, and crisis communication strategies. Fellows undertook visits to media houses, academic institutions, and corporate firms for firsthand experience.

The graduation featured strong endorsements from industry leaders and public officials. IMPR Board Chairman, Associate Prof. Sule Ya’u Sule, praised the initiative’s youth development focus and donated ?250,000 to support the fellows’ corporate project.

Nigeria Customs Service spokesperson, Asst. Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, lauded PRNigeria’s mentorship model for shaping his own career. He advised the graduates to remain disciplined and pledged technical support for their projects.

A grassroots politician and former Kano commissioner, Malam Garba Yusuf, and Kano Command Police spokesperson, SP Haruna Kiyawa, encouraged the graduates to use their new digital capabilities to create positive change in their communities.

Other dignitaries in attendance were the Sarkin Kofar Dukawuya, Alhaji Bello Maitama, Senior Special Assistant to the Kano Governor, Hon. Ramadan Yusuf, and the Publisher of Solace, Abdullatif Jos.

Aliyu Shehu Ingawa, on behalf of his peers, assured that the cohort would apply their skills to solve real-world communication challenges. A fellow, Hadiza Umar, in a project pitch, proposed a platform to combat information disorder and promote media literacy among youths.

Apart from the annual fellowship, PRNigeria Centres in Abuja, Kano, and Ilorin have trained young people in a wide range of skills, including videography, photography, web management, graphic design, and public speaking, among others.

Launched in 2024, the PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship is an IMPR initiative designed to promote excellence in journalism and strategic communication by equipping young Nigerians with the skills to thrive in a dynamic media landscape.

Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two suspected hoodlums and recovered a fabricated AK-47 rifle and other dangerous weapons during a routine patrol in Uyo.

The suspects, identified as Joshua Benjamin from Mbiaku, Ikono Local Government Area, and Kingsley Friday Michael from Ikot Ekop, Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area, were apprehended in the early hours of Thursday, October 2, 2025, along Idoro Road by Abolin Junction.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, operatives on routine patrol spotted the duo loitering suspiciously at a dark spot at about 12:30 a.m. Their conduct drew the attention of the patrol team, leading to their arrest.

A search conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of a fabricated revolving AK-47 rifle and a jackknife. The police said the suspects, upon interrogation, failed to provide any credible explanation for their presence at the location or for the possession of the firearm.

‘They falsely claimed to be security guards but could not present uniforms, any means of identification, or credible justification for the weapon in their possession,’ DSP John disclosed.

The suspects, now in custody, are undergoing further interrogation as investigations continue to establish their possible links to criminal activities within the state.

Reassuring members of the public, the Police Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, warning that criminal elements will find no hiding place in Akwa Ibom.

The Command also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police formation for swift action.

Nigerian music legend, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has debunked viral reports claiming he was arrested in London over an alleged altercation with his wife, Natasha Osawaru.

The speculation was fueled by a controversial blogger who alleged that the singer missed his UK tour performance on Thursday because he had been detained on domestic violence charges.

Reacting in a video message, 2Baba clarified that his absence was due to a medical emergency, not an arrest.

He expressed gratitude to fans who showed up for the concert and assured them that plans were underway to make it up to them.

‘First of all, I want to say everyone that came out, I appreciate you. We had a medical emergency, it was tough. To the organizers and everyone that came out, we go regroup and make something beautiful happen. And please, if una no sabi something, make una no talk abeg. This allegedly, I don tire,’ he stated.

The singer, who traditionally married Natasha, an Edo State lawmaker, in July 2025 after ending his marriage with actress Annie Macaulay, has urged fans to disregard the false reports.

The Northern Youth Council for Asiwaju (NYCA) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment of Barrister Aminu Junaidu as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Investment and Securities Tribunal.

The appointment, effective from September 18, 2025, has been described as a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria’s capital market and boost investor confidence.

Junaidu, a former Attorney-General of Zamfara State, is set to serve a five-year term in this critical role.

The NYCA highlighted that Junaidu’s selection reflects the President’s commitment to appointing highly qualified individuals to sensitive government positions.

As a seasoned technocrat with extensive legal and administrative experience, Junaidu is expected to bring professionalism and integrity to the tribunal.

The organisation believes this appointment will significantly advance the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at fostering economic growth and stability.

The Investment and Securities Tribunal plays a pivotal role in resolving disputes within Nigeria’s capital market, ensuring that investors’ grievances are addressed promptly and fairly.

Junaidu’s leadership is anticipated to enhance the tribunal’s efficiency, further solidifying Nigeria’s position as a safe and attractive destination for investments.

Comrade Usman Usman, President of the NYCA, stated, ‘We wholeheartedly applaud President Tinubu for this well-thought-out appointment.

‘The selection of Barrister Aminu Junaidu is another evidence of the detailed research and diligence of the President’s team in identifying one of the finest minds from Northern Nigeria to lead a sensitive agency like the Investment and Securities Tribunal.

‘This decision reflects the administration’s dedication to competence and excellence.’

He added, ‘Junaidu is a seasoned technocrat whose expertise will undoubtedly add immense value to the Renewed Hope Agenda. His appointment is a clear signal that the President prioritizes merit in building a prosperous Nigeria.

‘We assure Mr. President of our unwavering support as he continues to make decisions that propel our nation forward.’

The NYCA emphasised that Junaidu’s extensive experience in law and governance makes him uniquely suited for the role.

As a former Attorney-General, the group said he demonstrated a commitment to justice and fairness, qualities that are essential for leading the tribunal.

His appointment is seen as a boost to the confidence of both local and international investors in Nigeria’s capital market.

Junaidu’s five-year tenure is expected to usher in reforms that will streamline dispute resolution processes within the tribunal.

The NYCA believes this appointment aligns with the broader goal of fostering economic resilience.

With Junaidu at the helm, the NYCA is confident that the agency will play a pivotal role in attracting more investments, thereby contributing to job creation and economic growth.

The organisation urged all stakeholders to support Junaidu in his new role.

Comrade Usman Usman further remarked, ‘Barrister Junaidu’s appointment is a masterstroke by President Tinubu.

‘His impeccable credentials and deep understanding of legal and financial systems make him the right choice to lead the Investment and Securities Tribunal.

‘We are confident that his leadership will strengthen investor confidence and enhance Nigeria’s standing in the global financial community.’

He continued, ‘The Northern Youth Council for Asiwaju remains steadfast in its support for President Tinubu’s transformative agenda.

‘We call on all Nigerians to rally behind this administration and its appointees, like Junaidu, who are poised to deliver on the promise of a renewed Nigeria.

‘Our commitment to the President’s vision for 2023 and beyond is unshakable.’

The NYCA also noted that Junaidu’s appointment is a source of pride for Northern Nigeria, as it showcases the region’s pool of talented and capable professionals.

The organisation believes his leadership will inspire young Nigerians to strive for excellence in their respective fields.

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, alongside Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, has commissioned the newly upgraded Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Kumo.

In Kumo, the First Lady received a rousing welcome as residents, youths, trade groups and students trooped out in their numbers, lining the streets to celebrate the historic commissioning.

In her remarks, Oluremi Tinubu lauded the Gombe State Government for its massive investment in healthcare, which laid the foundation for the hospital’s upgrade from a general hospital into a world-class Federal Medical Centre.

‘This facility is a clear demonstration of what visionary leadership can achieve. It will significantly improve access to quality healthcare services and stands as a testament to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,’ the First Lady noted.

She expressed optimism that Gombe would sustain its trajectory of progress and reaffirmed her commitment to amplifying the voices of the people at the national level.

‘I believe Governor Inuwa Yahaya, who has his people at heart, will continue to support our initiatives for the betterment of Nigerians, especially those at the grassroots,’ she said.

The First Lady further stressed the importance of traditional institutions in national development, calling on religious, traditional, and community leaders to partner with government in sustaining peace and driving grassroots growth.

Earlier, Senator Oluremi Tinubu paid homage to the Emir of Akko, Alhaji Umar Muhammad Atiku, at his palace in Kumo.

In recognition of her contributions to humanity and the developmental strides brought by the Tinubu administration to Akko, Gombe and Nigeria, the Emir conferred on her the revered traditional title of ‘Sarauniyar Yakin Akko.’

The Emir described the commissioning of the FMC as a historic milestone that opens a new chapter in healthcare delivery for the people of Gombe State.

Also speaking at the event, Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, Member representing Akko Federal Constituency, commended President Tinubu for the numerous interventions in Gombe.

He reiterated the position of Gombe as a stronghold of the APC and pledged continued support for the President’s administration, assuring the people’s readiness to back his re-election bid in 2027 to consolidate ongoing gains.

A 200 level student of Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo and son of a member of the State House of Assembly representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju State Constituency, Hon. Bamidele Adeola is dead.

The deceased died after a brief illness on Friday.

The Oyo lawmaker son’s untimely passing has thrown the family, friends, and the university community into deep mourning.

The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Et. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin has paid a condolence visit to the bereaved family.

Ogundoyin during the visit described the incident as heartbreaking and deeply painful, especially for a young life with such promise and potential.

‘This is a painful loss not just for Hon.Bamidele Adeola and his family, but for all of us who are his colleagues, friends, and fellow parents. Words cannot capture the sorrow we feel at this moment,’ the Speaker said during the visit.

He extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the entire Oyo State House of Assembly and assured the bereaved family of the Assembly’s prayers and support during this difficult time.

Hon. Bamidele Adeola, surrounded by sympathisers, expressed appreciation for the Speaker’s visit and the outpouring of love from colleagues and the public.

Ahead of 2027 general election, the Director, Amnesty International, Kogi, Comrade Sunday Jatto has suggested that internal democracy should begin to be applied in nominating or selecting those who hold Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) or Judiciary, and the process should involve human rights organisations and the Nigeria Bar Association.

He made this call on Friday during a press conference to assess the performance of democracy in Nigeria and the way forward, 2015-2025.

He disclosed that failures in the conduct of proper elections in the political sector are threats and temptations to the judicial cycle, especially in the areas of corruption and insecurity of jobs.

‘Since litigation can be negatively influenced by the executive arm of government, with control over appointments and funds. We suggest or advocate that internal democracy should begin to be applied in nominating or selecting those who hold INEC or Judiciary in Nigeria, and the process should involve human rights organisations and the Nigerian Bar Association.

‘Democracy in Nigeria has room for improvement, and the electoral umpire needs more expertise in ICT Information in the area of automation systems for the proper conduct of elections to actualize growth, peace, and development in Nigeria.

We charge INEC to intensify efforts and exploits in the areas of modern automation means in the conduct of elections in Nigeria, where the power of technology will eradicate vote buying, thuggery, multiple voting, and excess spending in elections, and INEC’s ability to conduct elections that will take the nation to its citadel of democracy.

‘The political parties can be digitalised where every political party’s emblem has a specific code to click upon by voters from their phones and send online for automatic processing, and immediately the voters are made to see their votes count, and every citizen can know who is leading when the election is in progress, and who won after the election will be known immediately.

Comrade Jatto urged the executive arm of government to see democracy as government of the people by the people and for the people, and not to see democracy as personal belongings; the modules of democratic government do not run on dictatorship.

‘We advocate that women should be allowed to hold many leadership positions in offices. Gender equality in Nigeria has not fully taken its full course in Nigerian democracy. Any nation which do not consider women in the scheme of things, either politically or economically, hardly progresses.’

A former acting governor of Ekiti State, Tunji Odeyemi has emerged as the new state chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

Odeyemi was elected during the state Congress of the party held in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital which was attended by delegates and party stakeholders across the 16 Local Government Areas of the state. It was witnessed by security agencies

He scored 936 votes to defeat his challenger and a former state legal officer of the party, Sunday Olowolafe who garnered 290 votes.

Delivering his acceptance Odeyemi commended the party leaders and delegates for the overwhelming support in leading the State Working Committee in the state, noting that the confidence reposed in him would not be betrayed.

He saluted the courage and commitment of all the contestants towards the growth and progress of the PDP, soliciting the support of all stakeholders in a bid to reposition the party for success during the 2026 governorship election. According to him, ‘ My emergence today is not about Tunji Odeyemi. It is about the PDP family in Ekiti reclaiming its rightful place as the true voice of the people, the hope of the common man, and the credible alternative for good governance. We must therefore put behind us the divisions of the past and focus on unity, discipline, and loyalty to the ideals of our party.

‘ Our state, Ekiti, is in dire need of rescue from maladministration, poverty, and neglect. The PDP must rise to this challenge and provide the leadership that our people are yearning for. We will strengthen our grassroots structures, empower our youths and women, and ensure internal democracy where every member has a sense of belonging.

‘ As your Chairman, I pledge fairness, inclusiveness, and transparency in all our dealings. I will run an open-door policy where all voices are heard, respected, and valued. Together with the State Working Committee, we will reposition PDP in Ekiti to win elections and deliver dividends of democracy to our people.

‘ Finally, I call on every member of our great party to close ranks. Let us speak with one voice, march with one spirit, and labour with one purpose,to return PDP to Government House, Ado-Ekiti, and restore prosperity, dignity, and hope to our people.’

Following an interim injunction filed against the 2025/2026 admission process of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), the Global President of the Great Ife Alumni Association, Mr Leye Bunmi Falode, has called on all stakeholders to remain calm as the matter is being handled.

The injunction was filed at the Federal High Court, Enugu Division, on September 30, 2025, by a group of candidates.

In a statement released by the Global Publicity Secretary of the association, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Falode disclosed that he is in communication with the Vice Chancellor of OAU and has received assurances that the university is actively addressing the legal issue.

‘I have spoken with the Vice Chancellor, and I have been assured that there is no cause for alarm. Necessary actions are being taken to resolve the situation,’ Falode said.

He explained that the statement was prompted by widespread concerns from parents and applicants across the country who are anxious about the implications of the court case.

The legal action was initiated by five applicants, Chibuzor Success, Oyeleye Zainab Ayomide, Adedeji John Samuel, Monsura Aliat Aduragbemi and Bassey Daniel Nsikak.

The suit, filed as FHC/EN/CN/274/2025, names OAU, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) as respondents.

The plaintiffs, acting on behalf of other candidates, are seeking a court order restraining the respondents from approving, uploading or finalising any admission list for the 2025/2026 academic session pending the hearing and determination of their motion on notice.

The Jigawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (JSPHCDA) said that it has intensifying Advocacy, Communication and Social Mobilisation (ACSM) for the next round Mesealse-Rubella (MR) vaccination exercise.

The agency’s spokesperson, Mr Ya’u Muhammad, said in a statement in Dutse, on Wednesday that the effort was part of preparations for the 10-day state-wide exercise scheduled for October 6.

He said the 27 local government areas team had embarked on similar advocacy to sensitise influential persons, council chairmen, traditional leaders, community members and security agencies, to the exercise.

Muhammad said the ACSM activities will enhance awareness creation, dispel misconceptions, broaden acceptability and mobilise communities to achieve successful immunisation coverage.

‘The meeting, chaired by the state’s Health Promotion Officer, Mr Sani Yusuf-Kachi, was attended by top officials of the agency and development partners,’ he said.

Muhammad further said that the agency and partners will continue to play vital role in promoting health and safeguarding the wellbeing of children across the state.