Category: PM News

By Paul Dada

Former presidential aide Reno Omokri and immediate past Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Mahmud Yakubu, are on the fresh list of 32 ambassadorial nominees forwarded by President Bola Tinubu to the senate for confirmation.

Also on the list, among other notable nominees, are former Minister of Aviation Femi Fani-Kayode and business mogul Jimoh Ibrahim who is currently serving as a senator.

This is coming a few days after Tinubu sent a first list of three ambassadorial nominees to the senate.

Confirming the latest development in a statement was Bayo Onanuga the President’s Special Adviser, Information and Strategy.

The statement read: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sent the names of 32 ambassadorial nominees to the Senate for confirmation, days after he sent the first batch of three names.

“In two separate letters to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, President Tinubu asked the Senate to consider and confirm expeditiously 15 nominees as career ambassadors and 17 nominees as non-career ambassadors.

“There are four women on the career ambassadors’ list and six women on the non-career ambassadors’ list.

“Among the non-career ambassador designates are Barrister Ogbonnaya Kalu from Abia, a former presidential aide, Reno Omokri (Delta), former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmud Yakubu, former Ekiti first lady, Erelu Angela Adebayo, and former Enugu governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

Others are Tasiu Musa Maigari, the former speaker of the Katsina House of Assembly, Yakubu N. Gambo, a former Commissioner in Plateau State and former deputy executive secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).

“Professor Nora Ladi Daduut, a former senator from Plateau; Otunba Femi Pedro, a former deputy governor of Lagos State; Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, a former aviation minister from Osun State; and Barrister Nkechi Linda Ufochukwu from Anambra State are on the nomination list.

“Also on the list are former First Lady of Oyo, Fatima Florence Ajimobi, former Lagos Commissioner, Lola Akande, former Adamawa Senator, Grace Bent, former governor of Abia, Victor Okezie Ikpeazu, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, businessman, lawyer and Senator from Ondo State, and the former ambassador of Nigeria to the Holy See, Ambassador Paul Oga Adikwu from Benue State.

“Among the nominees for career ambassador and high commissioner-designates are: Enebechi Monica Okwuchukwu (Abia), Yakubu Nyaku Danladi (Taraba), Miamuna Ibrahim Besto (Adamawa), Musa Musa Abubakar (Kebbi), Syndoph Paebi Endoni (Bayelsa), Chima Geoffrey Lioma David (Ebonyi) and Mopelola Adeola-Ibrahim (Ogun).

“The other nominees are Abimbola Samuel Reuben (Ondo), Yvonne Ehinosen Odumah(Edo), Hamza Mohammed Salau (Niger), Ambassador Shehu Barde (Katsina), Ambassador Ahmed Mohammed Monguno (Borno), Ambassador Muhammad Saidu Dahiru (Kaduna), Ambassador Olatunji Ahmed Sulu Gambari (Kawara) and Ambassador Wahab Adekola Akande (Osun).

“The new nominees are expected to be posted to countries with which Nigeria maintains excellent and strategic bilateral relations, such as China, India, South Korea, Canada, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, South Africa, Kenya, and to Permanent Missions such as the United Nations, UNESCO, and the African Union. All the nominees will know their diplomatic assignments after their confirmation by the Senate.

“Last week, President Tinubu sent three ambassadorial nominees for screening and confirmation. The nominees were Ambassador Ayodele Oke (Oyo), Ambassador Amin Mohammed Dalhatu (Jigawa), and Retired Colonel Lateef Kayode Are (Ogun). All three are in the pot for posting to the UK, USA, or France after their confirmation.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said more nominees for ambassadorial positions will be announced soon.”

Harmony Gardens and Estate Development Limited has issued a public notice regarding an ongoing investigation involving one of its former staff members, Fibiyisola Mustapha.

In an official statement signed by the Managing Director, Dr. Saheed Mosadoluwa, the company clarified that Mustapha has been disengaged from the organisation and no longer represents Harmony Garden in any capacity.

According to the statement, concerns were raised over certain financial irregularities discovered within the company’s system.

The matter has been formally reported to the Nigerian Police Force, which is currently conducting an investigation to establish the facts surrounding the issue, including any potential involvement of Mustapha and Jorge Haus Consulting Limited.

The company emphasized that it is cooperating fully with law enforcement and remains committed to allowing due process to run its course. It also urged all parties involved to support the investigative process.

Harmony Garden, however, reiterated its dedication to transparency, accountability, and the protection of its clients, partners, and the general public.

By Paul Dada

Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has told Nigerians that he has been released after his meeting with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

He, however, says investigations into what he describes as “fabricated allegations” against him continue.

In a post on his X handle, Malami said: “In line with my undertaking to keep Nigerians updated on my invitation by EFCC, I give glory to Allah for His divine intervention. The engagement was successful and I am eventually released while on an appointment for further engagement as the truth relating to the fabricated allegations against me continue to unfold.”

The former AGF affirmed his readiness to cooperate fully with the anti-graft agency, describing himself as a “law-abiding and patriotic citizen” committed to transparency and accountability in public service.

The invitationof Malami was issued via a letter dated 24 November 2025, signed by an EFCC official, requesting him to appear on 28 November at the agency’s headquarters in Jabi, Abuja. The EFC was reportedly examining major transactions and decisions made during Malami’s tenure (20152023) as AGF, including asset recovery, disposal of seized assets, contract approvals and high-profile settlements.

By Thompson Yamput

Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi has offered automatic employment to 31 best graduating students of Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara.

Ododo made the pronouncement during the institution’s maiden convocation held on Saturday in Osara, Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi.

The governor, who congratulated the graduands, described them as the touchstone of hope and beacon of light of their families, the state, and the nation at large.

He charged them to justify their certification in character and learning, and “being the drivers of our future prosperity as a people.

“I charge you to be global beaters and must exemplify the resilience that defined the establishment of this centre of higher learning by your individual contribution to the socio-economic development of the country.

“We all need to pool our resources together to ensure steady growth of these universities by sponsoring of research efforts and establishment of projects that will support knowledge and enhance infrastructural development.

“That way, we would have bequeathed enduring legacies to generations yet unborn. Let us be committed to building a sustainable legacy for our future growth,” he said.

He assured that his administration would continue to ensure enabling environment that did not compromise the standard it had attained, while promising to do more to put the university on global stage.

The Chancellor of CUSTECH, HRH. Anthony Abumere Ii, the Onijie of Ekpoma Kingdom, described his appointment as clearly showing the leadership maturity of Ododo, whom he said was intentional in his desire to lead Kogi with clarity of purpose.

The chancellor said the giant strides so far made by the university in five years, epitomised the vision of the state government to promote pragmatism and novative education.

“I can say without equivocation that we will collectively build a CUSTECH that will be a source of pride, not only to the people of Kogi but Nigeria at large,” he said.

Abumere pledged to work hard to ensure that his tenure would be marked as an era of innovation, rapid growth and inclusion.

Also speaking, the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Olu Obafemi said the growth of CUSTECH required concerted efforts and urged both the government, primary sponsor, private sector and good spirited lovers of education, to partner with the university.

He said, “We seek endowments, donations, and investments in our infrastructure, research, and scholarship programmes.”

To the graduands, he said, “As you step into the world, remember that this degree is not just a certificate for personal gain; it is a tool, and a charge, to make positive, transformative, and ethical contributions to our dear country, Nigeria, and to all of mankind.”

(NAN)

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that his administration remains resolute in confronting the underlying factors fuelling insecurity across Nigeria, pledging sustained investment in policing and national security.

He made the commitment during the passing-out parade of 1,187 newly commissioned Assistant Superintendents of Police at the Nigeria Police Academy in Wudil, Kano State. The President was represented at the event by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.

Addressing the cadets, Tinubu noted that the country has placed immense trust in them at a critical moment in its security trajectory. He urged the new officers to approach their duties with patriotism, professionalism and an unwavering willingness to defend the nation, even at great personal risk.

Tinubu praised the academy for what he described as significant improvements in training standards, instructional quality and infrastructure, saying the institution had grown into a centre capable of producing disciplined, ethical and well-prepared police personnel.

He emphasised that the government would continue to prioritise modern training, adequate equipment and improved welfare across all security agencies in order to strengthen their operational capacity.

As we enter a new phase in our security strategy, it is vital that our police officers possess the competence, values and resilience required to confront the complex threats of our time,” he said. He reminded the cadets that they have a duty not only to uphold law and order, but also to protect human rights and maintain the trust of the public.

The President encouraged them to be guided by integrity and fairness in their interactions with citizens, noting that their conduct would greatly influence the public perception of the Police Force.

Earlier in his remarks, the Commandant of the Police Academy, AIG Patrick Atayero, urged the officers to embody the discipline and commitment instilled in them during their training. He told them that they now carry a “sacred responsibility” as defenders of justice and guardians of public peace.

Atayero also noted the academy’s ongoing transition towards a more comprehensive academic system, highlighting expansions in facilities, programme offerings and plans to introduce postgraduate degrees and diploma programmes to further strengthen professional capacity in policing.

The Pan African Scrabble Association (PANASA) has sent shockwaves through the continent with the unveiling of its 2025 Player Awards, introducing two brand-new badges that instantly raise the stakes for Africa’s top word warriors.

In a dramatic shake-up of the honours system, PANASA has rolled out the Elite Veteran (EV) badge, reserved for battle-tested giants who consistently cracked the Top 10 across the first seven Africa Scrabble Championships.

No shortcuts. No sentiment. And no room for players already crowned with higher titles like EXP, GM or CC.

But the fireworks didn’t stop there.

In a move that electrifies the youth ranks, PANASA announced the Junior Continental Champion (JCC) badge, a backdated honour for the U-15 and U-19 kings and queens of the Africa Youth Scrabble Championship since 2023.

Once earned, players hold it proudly, until they rise to even greater heights.

The Scrabble community is bracing for more details, with PANASA teasing updates on criteria, timelines, and official rollouts in the coming days.

One thing is certain, PANASA isn’t just honouring champions it’s rewriting the continent’s Scrabble hierarchy with bold strokes.

Google, through its charitable branch Google.org, has pledged N3 billion to help Nigeria grow its digital skills and make the online environment safer.

The funds will support artificial intelligence (AI) training and cybersecurity initiatives through five Nigerian organizations: FATE Foundation, African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, African Technology Forum, Junior Achievement Africa, and CyberSafe Foundation.

The program aims to build AI talent by introducing advanced AI programs in universities to equip students and lecturers with modern skills, while also organizing innovation challenges to turn learning into real-world AI solutions.

At the same time, it focuses on improving digital safety by expanding programs that teach young people safe online practices and helping public institutions strengthen cybersecurity to protect important data.

Minister of Communications, Bosun Tijani, said the partnership supports Nigeria’s National AI Strategy and will help the country create a skilled workforce to compete globally. The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s goal of creating one million digital jobs and could unlock $15 billion from AI by 2030.

Olumide Balogun, Google’s Director for West Africa, said the investment empowers people with AI skills and ensures a safer digital environment.

This builds on Google’s previous efforts in Nigeria, including the 2023 Skills Sprint program, which trained over 20,000 participants and helped more than 3,500 find jobs or start businesses in tech.

By Tolulope Oke

Is Pope Leo XIV stuck in Turkey? Not exactly, but his trip hit an unexpected challenge on Saturday after urgent safety checks grounded his plane in Istanbul.

The delay came after Airbus flagged a potential software issue affecting A320 aircraft worldwide, forcing technicians to rush in and make sure the pontiff’s flight to Beirut on Sunday, is safe. The warning followed concerns that solar radiation could interfere with the planes’ computer systems.

According to Daily Mail, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed that ITA Airways flew a technician and a critical component to Istanbul to fix the issue on the Pope’s plane. He said the aircraft would only depart after it is confirmed safe.

The disruption comes weeks after an Airbus A320 operated by JetBlue dropped suddenly in Florida, injuring 15 passengers. Investigations linked the incident to a software vulnerability, prompting the wider safety notice.

Despite the hiccup, Pope Leo continued his engagements in Istanbul. He visited the historic Blue Mosque but did not pray inside it. This contradicted earlier Vatican guidance that said he would observe a moment of silent prayer. The reference was later removed without explanation.

Imam Asgin Tunca, who welcomed the Pope, said he invited him to pray, calling the mosque “Allah’s house,” but the pontiff chose silence instead. The Vatican said he experienced the visit “with deep respect.”

The Airbus alert caused ripple effects across Europe. Airlines, including Wizz Air and EasyJet, warned passengers of possible delays as checks continued. British Airways, Aer Lingus and Jet2 said only a small number of their aircraft were affected.

Pope Leo is expected to leave Istanbul for Beirut on Sunday once technicians clear his aircraft for flight.

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Army has intensified nationwide counterterrorism operations following a deadly attack in Kebbi State that claimed the lives of three Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) personnel.

The coordinated raids, launched across multiple theatres within the last 24 hours, also led to the rescue of 21 kidnapped victims and the disruption of several criminal activities.

A senior military source at Army Headquarters told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA responded swiftly after terrorists ambushed an NIS checkpoint in Bagudo Local Government Area of Kebbi.

According to the source, the attackers opened fire on officers manning the checkpoint, killing three Immigration personnel and burning operational vehicles before fleeing the scene.

“Troops pursued the terrorists immediately after the attack, but they had already withdrawn into nearby forests,” the source said.

“The Army has now reinforced deployments in the general area to prevent further incursions.”

Amid the heightened operations in the North-West, troops recorded major breakthroughs in Zamfara and Kebbi.

In Maradun, soldiers from 1 Brigade repelled an attack on Baigasuwa community, rescuing trapped residents, although four civilians sustained gunshot injuries.

Troops also rescued five persons and a baby along the UnashiDoka road in Danko Wasagu LGA, after the terrorists abandoned their captives upon sighting advancing soldiers.

In the North-Central region, troops of Operation MESA operating along the KogiKwara corridor freed four kidnapped victims during a gunfight with insurgents at Konan Leda, Lokoja.

“Following the exchange of fire, eleven additional victims managed to escape as the terrorists fled,” the source added. Items recovered included two motorcycles and a radio set.

Another victim was rescued by troops in the Kwali axis of the Federal Capital Territory as part of sustained clearance operations along key routes notorious for abductions.

Meanwhile, the Joint Task Force South-South, Operation Delta Safe, continues to tighten its grip on crude oil theft. A combined team in Eleme, Rivers State, uncovered 350 bags of stolen crude oil, estimated at 10,500 litres, while a separate patrol in Bonny recovered theft equipment abandoned by fleeing suspects, including hoses, a Yamaha engine and several jerricans.

The source said other theatres, particularly those under Operation HADIN KAI in the North-East and the ongoing Desert Sanity IV, reported no major incidents but continued aggressive patrols and clearance missions.

He reaffirmed the military’s resolve to protect civilians nationwide.

“Troops remain on heightened alert to deny terrorists and criminals any freedom of movement,” he said. “The attacks on security personnel will not deter ongoing operations.”

Abeokuta came alive on Friday as the Ogun State capital welcomed hundreds of para-athletes for the historic debut of the West Africa ‘Zone A and B’ Para Games.

The event, which marks a new chapter for disability sports in the region, is drawing competitors, officials, and fans from across West Africa and beyond.

According to the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Victor Achakpo, more than 700 athletes are participating in 12 sporting events, with Nigeria fielding a contingent of 190 competitors. He noted that after several postponements, all logistical arrangements–accommodation, transport, venues, medicals, security, and feeding–have been fully secured to guarantee a smooth tournament.

Achakpo expressed gratitude to the National Sports Commission (NSC), the Ogun State Government, and other partners for their commitment to making the maiden edition a reality. He added that 16 West African nations, along with invited teams from DR Congo and Cameroon, are already in Abeokuta for what he promised would be a safe, fair, and memorable competition.

“The whole of West Africa is represented,” he said. “We are ready, and Ogun State is safe. Sports unites us–especially para sports.”

President of the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria, Sunday Odebode, also praised Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun for hosting the landmark event and commended NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko for ensuring Nigeria secured the hosting rights.