Category: Nigerian Tribune

Former Senate President and interim National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, has said the party was determined to restore the confidence of Nigerians in the democratic process and its institutions.

The APC national chairman gave the pledge on Tuesday in his opening remarks at the National Working Committee (NWC) meeting of his party in Abuja.

The former Senate President decried what he called the surrender of authority of institutions of the parliament and the judiciary to the executive arm of government.

He said, ‘As a former President of the Senate, I am alarmed by attempts-subtle and crude-to bend the legislature and judiciary to the will of the executive.

‘The ADC will defend the separation of powers, restore legislative and judicial independence, and strengthen oversight so that budgets serve the public interest, not private appetites. We will end the culture of parallel budgets and extra-budgetary maneuvers by enforcing strict and transparent planning, timely appropriations, and rigorous auditing.

‘The judiciary must again be a refuge for every citizen. We will back an independent, efficient, and trusted bench-appointments on merit, transparent case management, time-bound rulings, and a bias for justice over empty technicalities.’

He further assured the electorate that a ruling government under the ADC would walks its talks on its electoral promises to Nigerians.

To achieve its dreams, Mark urged stakeholders in the opposition party to be willing to subordinate their interests for the collective good of the party and ultimately the larger interest of Nigerians.

‘Nigerians are tired of slogans and statistics that do not translate into their welfare: food, power, jobs, and safety. We will focus on what works. We will pursue price stability and productivity through credible, rules-based coordination of fiscal and monetary policy. We will deliver reliable power supply by expanding power generation, fixing transmission bottlenecks, and rewarding distribution performance.

‘We will secure our food supply by supporting farmers and agricultural value chains from inputs and storage to processing and markets. We will back small businesses and industry with affordable, performance-tied credit and local content that creates jobs, not rent. And we will shine a bright light on every naira-no parallel budgets, no black-box spending, no sacred cows. Judge us by what Nigerians feel in their daily lives, rhetorics and bland statistics: lower volatility, more reliable power, visible projects, and decent work.

‘Our foreign policy will be Pan-African-rooted in regional integration and international peace. We will champion trade within Africa, harmonize standards that open markets for Nigerian goods and services, leverage diaspora capital, and build coalitions that keep our sub-region stable and prosperous.

‘This National Working Committee has urgent tasks. We must review our constitution to reflect the new order, develop a code of ethics, financing rules, and compliance systems. We must establish functional ward, local government, and state structures with trained organizers, digital registers, and service desks. We will build a leadership pipeline through a merit-based academy-policy, ethics, communications, and delivery.

‘We will receive reports from the Secretariat and zones and prepare for regular and off-cycle elections well in advance. And we will field only credible and viable candidates who meet the 4-pillar standard-Character, Competence, Courage, and Discipline.

‘Nigeria and Nigerians-will accept nothing less. The political class has too often served itself. We must change this outdated pattern. We must model a new attitude to leadership across every sphere-public, private, and civic. Let it be said of the ADC that we kept faith with the people, that we were steady under pressure, honest in our dealings, and relentless in delivery. We do not seek power for its own sake; we seek it to build a legacy worthy of our children.

‘A new tomorrow is achievable-if we start the work today,’ Mark stated.

AS the world marks World Habitat Day 2025, the Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN) has called for urgent action toward climate-resilient housing, sustainable urban planning, and inclusive housing policies across Nigeria.

It warned that ‘every home built today must stand against tomorrow’s climate risks.’

World Habitat Day is observed on the first Monday of October each year. It was established by the United Nations to reflect on the state of towns and cities and reaffirm the basic right of every human being to adequate shelter. It also reminds the global community that everyone has the power and responsibility to shape the future of urban settlements

This year’s global observance, held on October 6, 2025, is themed ‘Urban Crisis Response’, drawing attention to how conflicts, climate disasters, and economic instability are transforming cities and deepening inequality. The theme emphasizes that inclusive urban crisis response must create the conditions for people to return, reintegrate, and rebuild their lives with dignity.

According to the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), over 122 million people are currently displaced worldwide, with more than 60 percent of them seeking refuge in cities. This growing trend of urban displacement is exerting immense pressure on already fragile housing systems and public services, particularly in developing countries like Nigeria.

Nigeria’s urban crisis is escalating rapidly, driven by poor planning, weak enforcement of regulations, and rapid population growth. Experts estimate that Nigeria’s cities are expanding at a rate far faster than their infrastructure can support, resulting in overcrowded settlements, pollution, and inadequate social amenities.

The Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN), in its statement to mark World Habitat Day, expressed concern that Nigeria’s urban landscape is under increasing strain due to unregulated construction, poor waste management, and the loss of green areas meant to serve as buffers against flooding and heat waves.

The organization noted that cities such as Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Asaba, green belts originally designed as utility corridors and environmental buffers have been converted into residential and commercial properties.

Amuwo-Odofin Local Government has commenced the construction of a temporary market settlement in Agboju to provide a safe and conducive trading environment for displaced traders.

The council chairman, Prince Lanre Sanusi, said the new settlement would serve as an alternative site for traders relocated from roadways and walkways, while major renovation works, including road reconstruction, drainage clearing, and electrification of the Agboju Market, are ongoing.

Sanusi assured that the temporary market, now under rapid construction, would be completed and handed over to traders within weeks, stressing that the relocation was necessary to ease business activities during the market’s rehabilitation.

The council disclosed that the renovation project will also extend to the Agboju-Badagry highway axis once the temporary settlement is delivered.

Meanwhile, Sanusi revealed that plans are underway to construct a permanent ultra-modern international market at 6 Avenue, Festac Town. The proposed market will accommodate large-scale trading at affordable rates, serving traders and business owners across Festac and Amuwo-Odofin.

In addition, a mechanic village has been earmarked for the same area to centralise automobile workshops and related businesses within the local government area.

According to the chairman, these projects are part of his administration’s efforts to improve commerce, decongest roads, and provide a sustainable business environment for residents.

LAGOS State Government has been called to take urgent and lasting action to address the persistent flooding that continues to devastate the Lekki axis.

In a statement issued by the Lekki Chapter of the Neo-Black Movement of Africa, the group bemoaned the recurring floods that destroy homes, disrupt livelihoods, and hinder economic growth in one of Lagos’ fastest-growing districts.

Speaking, the Chapter President, Mr. Erauyi Agbon-Ifo, advocated for compensation and an insurance framework to support households and businesses affected by the floods, arguing that taxpayers deserve fair restitution for their losses.

He said the yearly flood inflicted pains on residents as they lost valuables worth millions of naira in the deluge

He canvassed the need for government, private organisations, and community groups to collaborate on sustainable solutions that go beyond temporary relief.

The group urged the state to improve drainage infrastructure, expand stormwater channels, and ensure consistent maintenance of existing systems. It also cited Rivers State as a model for effective flood management despite similar coastal challenges.

It also called for intensified public enlightenment on proper waste disposal, flood prevention, and climate adaptation measures.

Expressing solidarity with affected families, the NBM reaffirmed its commitment to continued advocacy until concrete government action is achieved.

The Federal Government has reconstituted and inaugurated the Mahmud Yayale Ahmed Federal Government Tertiary Institutions Expanded Negotiation Committee to accelerate ongoing discussions with academic and non-academic unions across universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

The negotiation committee, inaugurated by the Minister of Education, Dr Olatunji Alausa, is seen as a knee-jerk response to avert the looming strike following the two-week strike notice issued on Monday last week by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

Already, the leadership of ASUU has commenced mobilisation of its members across all the universities in the country ahead of an indefinite strike that would be preceded by a warning strike at the expiration of the ultimatum.

Speaking during the inauguration of the Yayale-led committee, the Minister of Education, Dr Alausa, said the new committee was designed to harmonise all negotiation processes under one coordinated framework that reflects institutional memory and sector-wide inclusiveness.

Director, Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Education, Mrs Folasade Boriowo, in a statement on Tuesday, said Alausa was joined by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Mohammed Maigari Dingyadi, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmed.

Alausa explained that, unlike previous fragmented negotiations, the expanded committee will engage all unions collectively to achieve a comprehensive and sustainable agreement. ‘The membership of the committee has been carefully chosen to represent the full spectrum of the education sector, ensuring that no group is left behind,’ he said.

The Minister disclosed that the committee has been provided with a well-equipped and functional secretariat to enable it to carry out its mandate effectively, adding that its inaugural meeting will hold at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, 7 October.

He urged all academic and non-academic unions to cooperate fully and respond promptly to the committee’s engagements.

According to him, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given full political backing to the process, with a clear directive that all negotiations be concluded swiftly, fairly, and in the spirit of mutual respect.

‘President Tinubu’s mandate is that all our children must be in school. This is renewed hope in action,’ Dr Alausa emphasised, expressing appreciation to all unions for their patience and commitment as the government works towards a final and comprehensive agreement.

In his remarks, the Minister of Labour and Employment commended the Ministers of Education for their exemplary leadership and inclusive approach in the ongoing negotiation process.

He emphasised that true and lasting peace can only be achieved when all stakeholders are involved, noting that excluding any party would only breed division and undermine collective progress.

He further urged members of the expanded committee to act as impartial reconciliators, upholding justice, fairness, and stability while mediating between employers and employees.

The Minister reminded them that their early participation will ensure effective implementation of the final agreements, fostering transparency and mutual understanding.

He called for dedication to the process and continuous engagement with all parties, acknowledging both the limitations of government and the legitimate concerns of workers.

Reaffirming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to fair and lasting resolutions, he stressed that dialogue, consultation, and open communication remain vital to preventing future industrial actions and ensuring sustained peace and progress in the education sector.

Chairman of the committee and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yayale Ahmed, in his response, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for the confidence reposed in them to steer such a crucial national assignment.

He assured that the committee will approach its task with openness, inclusiveness, and integrity, listening to all stakeholders, fostering trust, and working towards agreements that promote industrial harmony and strengthen the nation’s tertiary institutions.

He pledged that the committee will not only negotiate but also ensure that the recommendations and agreements reached are practical, realistic, and capable of sustaining long-term peace and productivity within the education sector.

The Federal Government reiterated its unwavering commitment to restoring stability and trust across the tertiary education landscape. Through inclusive dialogue, fair negotiation, and decisive leadership, the Ministry remains resolute in delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-where every student stays in school, every teacher is valued, and every institution thrives in an environment of peace, progress, and shared prosperity, the statement added.

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin on Monday inducted 32 new veterinary doctors at its seventh induction/oath-taking ceremony.

Speaking as the keynote speaker at the event, a former vice-president Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN), Dr. Bala Mohammed, told both the graduands and audience at the event that solutions to contemporary health challenges demand interdisciplinary cooperation.

‘Solutions to today’s greatest health challenges cannot be designed in isolation-they demand cooperation across veterinary medicine, human medicine, environmental sciences, and public policy’, he said.

Mohammed, a veterinary surgeon, also said that, ‘the health of humans, animals, and the environment can no longer be treated as separate concerns.

‘They are intricately linked, forming the foundation of the one health approach, a global strategy that requires collaboration across disciplines to achieve optimal health outcomes for all,’ he said.

He also said that: ‘Despite successes, veterinary services remain underfunded, under-recognised, and under-integrated into national health frameworks.

‘Many countries, including ours, face surveillance blind spots, weak laboratory capacity, and governance silos.’

‘These gaps allow diseases to simmer unnoticed until they explode into public crises, with devastating health and economic consequences.

‘To truly protect one world, we must invest in veterinary infrastructure and laboratories, foster collaboration among doctors, veterinarians, ecologists, and policymakers to strengthen education, funding, and data systems which empower community-centered prevention strategies. ‘Veterinarians must be recognized not only as responders but as guardians of planetary health’.

Earlier, Dean of the Faculty Professor Saliu Ameen, said that the induction marked the formal licensing of these young doctors as veterinary professionals.

Professor Ameen added that, ‘this ceremony is not merely a ritual; it is a defining moment. It signifies the transition of our graduands from students of veterinary medicine to full members of a noble and globally relevant profession’.

THE creator of 40andFabulousNaija, a Nigerian reality TV show, Ambassador Jolly Nnenna Abani, has called for greater support from sponsors, partners, and broadcasters to expand a project aimed at empowering women and creating jobs across communities.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Abani, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Mother of Models International, said the initiative was designed to tackle stereotypes against women aged 40 and above while equipping them with practical skills to achieve economic independence. She said the programme also creates opportunities for girls and other vulnerable groups through training and empowerment schemes.

‘Strong women build strong nations,’ Abani said. ‘When women are empowered, entire families and communities are lifted out of poverty. This project is about healing, empowerment, and giving women – especially those over 40 – a second chance to thrive,’ he added.

Abani explained that 40andFabulousNaija goes beyond entertainment by providing women with hands-on skills that can create sustainable livelihoods. The show, which doubles as a non-governmental organization, also offers support to single mothers, widows, divorcees, and survivors of abuse who often face barriers to social and economic inclusion.

She appealed to major television networks to provide access to airtime, lamenting that value-driven content such as hers is often sidelined while shows that ‘erode family values’ dominate viewing schedules.

‘We are not asking for free airtime,’ Abani stated. ‘What we are asking for is a fair commercial arrangement – a purchase of airtime so our content can reach the audience it deserves. When you invest in this project, you are investing in women, families, and the future of our society,’ she stated.

Preparations are underway for Season 3 of the show, which will, for the first time, include men who will join the house on weekends to network and showcase their businesses, while women will live in the house full-time. According to Abani, this format aims to encourage entrepreneurship and collaboration among participants.

Abani said she remains optimistic about the upcoming season, describing it as a turning point for the programme and its impact.

‘Anticipate a season filled with hope, progress, and greatness,’ she told journalists.

The 40andFabulousNaija platform has so far provided empowerment and training for women and girls in different communities, with Abani emphasizing that sustained support from stakeholders would allow it to expand its reach, create more jobs, and promote decency and family-oriented values in society.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has announced plans to implement the Power Consumer Assistance Fund (PCAF) as provided under the Electricity Act (EA) 2023 to strengthen the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

NERC’s Acting Chairman, Engineer Abdullahi Ramat, made this known in Kano when he received the management of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), led by its Chief Medical Director, Professor Abdurrahman Sheshe.

Tribune Online reports that PCAF is a fund created under the Electricity Act to provide tariff relief for low-income electricity consumers, replacing broad-based subsidies. The fund will be managed by NERC and financed through government contributions and levies from eligible customers, including industries and large power users.

In a post on his X handle, Ramat advised AKTH’s management to reduce costs through energy audits, replace inefficient equipment, and install meters in staff quarters and shops.

He said the Commission remains committed to protecting consumer rights while ensuring investor confidence through a transparent and efficient market structure.

Ramat also confirmed plans to roll out the PCAF under the Electricity Act, noting that it will help cushion the impact of tariffs for schools, hospitals, and low-income consumers.

‘Today, I received Prof. Abdurrahman Sheshe – the CMD and the entire management of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital on a congratulatory visit to my house here in Kano. We discussed how to ensure steady and affordable power for the hospital.

‘I explained NERC’s plan to roll out the PCAF (Power Consumer Assistance Fund) under the Electricity Act 2023, which will cushion tariff impacts for schools, hospitals, and low income consumers.

‘Meanwhile, I encouraged the management to cut costs through energy audits, phasing out inefficient equipment, and metering staff quarters and shops. On our part at NERC, we will continue engaging with KEDCO to resolve the disputes quickly and prevent future occurrences.

Professor Mahmood Yakubu has handed over leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to May Agbamuche, who now serves as the Acting National Chairman of the commission.

Agbamuche, recognised as the oldest serving National Commissioner in the electoral body, assumed the role following Yakubu’s handover on Tuesday during a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners at the INEC headquarters in Abuja.

Professor Mahmood urged commissioners and directors of the commission to extend their full support to Agbamuche until a substantive chairman is appointed.

Professor Yakubu was appointed INEC Chairman by late former President Muhammadu Buhari on 21 October 2015.

He replaced Amina Bala Zakari, who had served in an acting capacity after the expiration of Professor Attahiru Jega’s term. He officially took the oath of office in early November 2015, following confirmation by the Senate and swearing in together with several national commissioners.

He was re-nominated for a second term in October 2020.

During Yakubu’s tenure, he oversaw several major elections in Nigeria, including the 2019 and 2023 general elections, which comprised the presidential, National Assembly, and state-level polls.

Raheem Okoya, son of Nigerian billionaire industrialist and founder of Eleganza Group, Chief Rasaq Okoya, has said that all the money he owns is earned through his personal hard work and not inherited from his father’s fortune.

In a viral video shared on X, Raheem made the statement during an interview on Wazobia Max Television, where he emphasised his independence and commitment to building his own success.

He stated confidently that the wealth in his bank account was a product of his own labour and perseverance, making it clear that he does not rely on his father’s riches.

In his words, he said ‘Every penny in my account today, is base on what I do, my sweat.’

Raheem further explained that, despite his achievements, he has not yet reached his desired level in life, but remains content with his current progress.

‘No be sey I dey where I wan be but if I wan chop, I dey chop,’ he added.