Category: PM News

Nigerians in the U.S. have strongly rejected any suggestion of United States’ military intervention in Nigeria under the guise of protecting Christians.

statement on Wednesday in New York by Ms Temi Aregbesola, President, Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN) for OAN together with 19 other Nigerian organisations in the U.S., strongly rejected the suggestion.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that U.S. President Donald Trump recently threatened to invade Nigeria following his designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged killing of Christians by terrorists.

“While we recognise and join in the urgent concern over the killings of Christians, Muslims and other innocent Nigerians, we unequivocally reject the idea of foreign military intervention on Nigerian soil,” the statement read.

“Nigeria is a sovereign nation. We remind all international partners that the protection of its citizens must remain in the hands of the Nigerian government, in collaboration, not under coercion.”

The Nigerian organisations warned that “foreign military presence is not the solution” adding, “the Nigerian government must take full responsibility for safeguarding its people”.

They, however, expressed “deep dismay and disappointment at the inability of successive Nigerian administrations to halt the escalation of violence” targeting communities, indigenous groups and innocent civilians across the country.

“The pattern of killings and displacement in several states reveals serious security lapses and lack of accountability.”

The organisations therefore called on the Federal Government to urgently halt the killings in all parts of Nigeria.

They asked the Federal Government to instantly strengthen its protection of all citizens, especially vulnerable communities, by deploying state and federal resources in coordination with local government authorities.

They also urged Nigeria to “accept and initiate urgent collaboration with the U.S. and international partners, to share intelligence, training, technology and logistical support.

ccording to them, Nigeria must safeguard its national sovereignty and not permit foreign boots on the ground.

dditionally, they want government to undertake transparent public audit of security operations, accountability mechanisms for perpetrators and the status of victims and survivors of sectarian violence.

“Develop a national strategy for the protection of religious and ethnic minorities, ensuring Nigeria does not slide further into the narrative of “systematic, ongoing, egregious violations of religious freedom.

“Engage civil society, faith-based organisations and diaspora communities, including OAN and partner organisations, in the formulation and implementation of a restoration and reconciliation programme for affected communities.

“We caution that although the designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” signals international scrutiny, it cannot and should not be used to justify militarisation or infringement of Nigerian sovereignty.”

The Nigerian organisations said the leadership of Nigeria must now act decisively, not wait to be forced by external threat.

“Nigeria’s designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” should serve as a wake-up call, not an excuse for external interference,” the statement said.

“The government must act decisively and responsibly to prevent further deterioration of peace and national unity.

“OAN and partner organisations stand for a peaceful, just and secure Nigeria where every citizen, Christian, Muslim or traditionalist, can live free from fear.”

The OAN partner organisations include the Association of Nigerian Physicians in America, The Olumo Progressive Association Inc and the Nigerian Lawyers Association, USA.

They also include the Nigerian-American Muslims Integrated Communities, Christ Apostolic Church, First in the Americas, Nigerian Independence Day Committee and the Akwa Ibom State Association.

The others are the Nigerian Nurses Association, Regional Council of Nigerian Muslims, Celestial Church of Christ, Cherubim and Seraphim Church Movement and Nurudeen Islamic Charity Organization.

Zumunta Association USA, Inc., Your Black Matters, Inc, Absolute Faith in Jesus Christ International Church, Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO), New Jersey, Under Da Rock and Big Moose Entertainments, Eko Club International and Egbe Omo Yoruba, are also among.

NAN reports that OAN was founded in 1989 when Nigeria and Nigerians on the U.S. were suffering seriously from negative stereotypes in the American media.

OAN immediately dedicated itself to fighting the stereotypes, enhance the image of Nigeria and Nigerians in the U.S. and address the negative stereotypes in the American media.

(NAN)

The Nigerian Navy has listed rescue of 11 passengers from a sinking speedboat and deactivation of several illegal refining sites in Rivers and Delta as part of recent achievements of personnel.

The rescue operation was carried out on Tuesday by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB), Bonny, along the Bonny River in renewed efforts to ensure safety and curb crude oil theft in the nation’s waterways Director of Naval Information, Commodore Ayiwuyor Adams-Aliu, said in a statement.

ccording to him, the boat, which departed Nembe Waterside Jetty in Port Harcourt for Coal Beach Jetty in Bonny Island, developed engine failure midstream and began taking in water near the Federal Ocean Terminal, Onne, Rivers State.

He said the swift response of the naval patrol team under heavy rainfall prevented a major tragedy as all 11 passengers comprising six males and five females, were safely evacuated and taken to the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Jetty for medical checks.

“The rescued passengers were later handed over to the Marine Police for onward reunification with their families,” he said.

The naval spokesman said the navy, in another Operation on Wednesday, intensified crackdown on crude oil theft with the deactivation of multiple illegal refining sites in the Niger Delta.

He said personnel of FOB Escravos dismantled two sites at Obodo Omadino Community in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta.

“Similarly, the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER patrol team uncovered and deactivated another site with cooking ovens, reservoirs, sacks, jerrycans, and dugout pits filled with stolen crude and illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil around Bakana and Isaka areas of Rivers.

“Also, personnel of FOB Bonny dismantled a refining site at Eyamba Community in Bonny Local Government Area, while NNS DELTA patrol team deactivated another at Opumani Creek in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta,” he added.

dams-Aliu said the operations reflect the navy’s renewed commitment under the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, to ensure maritime safety, protect national assets, and promote lawful economic activities.

He reaffirmed that the Nigerian Navy would sustain the momentum in its fight against crude oil theft and all forms of illegality within the nation’s maritime domain. (NAN)

The Federal Government has launched a major nationwide initiative aimed at bringing over one million out-of-school children back into formal education.

Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, disclosed the plan during the 69th National Council on Education Summit in Akure, Ondo State. The summit, themed “Quality Education Data and Professionalisation of Teaching: Tools for Enhanced National Development,” brought together policymakers and education stakeholders from across the country.

ccording to Alausa, the scheme targets children aged between six and nine from more than 12,600 communities. Many will be placed in affordable private schools, while others–particularly from northern regions–will be absorbed through collaboration with the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education.

The minister revealed that in the Federal Capital Territory alone, more than 21,000 out-of-school children had recently been identified and transferred to the FCT Education Secretariat for proper enrolment.

s part of the wider effort, 109 learning and transition centres have been established across Nigeria’s 36 states and the FCT, enabling the registration of over 15,000 learners so far.

To ensure inclusivity, Alausa said the government had developed a hybrid curriculum that merges Qur’anic education with literacy, numeracy, and civic instruction–allowing pupils to benefit from both formal and religious learning.

He also highlighted the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Legacy Skills and Training Institute as a model centre offering practical and employable skills to Almajiri and other out-of-school youths.

Calling on participants at the summit, Alausa urged them to strengthen a data-driven and globally competitive education system that reflects professionalism and inclusivity.

Nollywood actress, Biola Bayo, has taken to social media to express frustration over the rising cost of asoebi, revealing that she has eight upcoming parties to attend before the end of the year, with the fabrics alone costing almost data-start=”317″ data-end=”3N2 million.

In a video shared on her Instagram page, the actress said she could no longer cope with the pressure of buying costly asoebi for every event, especially when the outfits are often worn only once.

She wrote: Biola added that attending parties has never been a luxury or form of relaxation for her, but an act of respect to those inviting her.

She stressed that she should still be able to honour invitations without being financially burdened by expensive dress codes.

The Executive Chairman of Lagos Island Local Government, Hon. Taiwo Oyekan, has disbursed various empowerment tools to more than 200 residents, including widows, elders, and vulnerable individuals, as part of efforts to alleviate poverty and promote self-reliance within the community.

The items distributed included grinding machines, sewing machines, salon equipment, ring lights, makeup boxes, POS terminals, and food palliatives, aimed at supporting small-scale entrepreneurs and encouraging self-employment.

Speaking during the celebration of his administration’s first 100 days in office at Dr. Teslim Elias Model Primary School, Adeniji Adele, Oyekan said the initiative reflected his administration’s commitment to empowering residents and boosting economic inclusion.

“I want to give back to the people of Lagos Island. Today, we thank Almighty God that I was able to touch many lives by empowering them,” Oyekan stated.

“I went around myself to distribute all the forms to ensure fairness and transparency,” he added.

In addition to the empowerment programme, Oyekan presented 12 vehicles to deserving individuals, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman in the local government, councillors, and other dedicated community members.

He said the gesture was to reward loyalty, service, and contributions to the development of Lagos Island.

“Leadership is not just about initiating projects but also about recognising those who work tirelessly behind the scenes. The car presentation symbolises encouragement for greater commitment to public service,” he noted.

Oyekan also announced the completion and commissioning of new roads, including Onikoyi Road at Enuowa off Dosumu and Kosoko Street, as part of ongoing infrastructure upgrades to ease traffic flow and enhance accessibility across Lagos Island.

However, the chairman warned residents and traders against erecting shops or kiosks on drainage channels, stressing that such actions contribute to flooding.

He vowed that the council would enforce strict measures against violators to preserve public infrastructure.

He further urged residents to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and actively participate in governance, assuring that wards with the highest voter registration would be rewarded.

Deputy APC Chairman, Lagos State, Mayegun Moshood, commended Oyekan’s achievements within a short period, describing his leadership as “impactful and people-oriented.”

He urged beneficiaries to make proper use of the empowerment tools, assuring that the council would monitor their progress and offer additional support to those who excel.

Similarly, APC Chairman, Lagos Island Chapter, Ganiu Sodiq, praised Oyekan for his thoughtful gesture in presenting vehicles to party leaders, calling it a reflection of responsible and inclusive leadership.

“He told me he would not make a public announcement about it, but he has done it today. I am deeply grateful to him,” Sodiq said.

Egbin Power’s annual medical outreach, the Personal Corporate Social Responsibility (PCSR) vehicle of the leading power generation company, has been described by beneficiaries as a transformative and impactful health intervention that brings hope to people.

The 2025 programme, which was the eighth edition, delivered essential healthcare services to the residents in Egbin, Ipakan, and Ijede communities, where the people turned out in large numbers to participate in the programme, acknowledging the positive impact the outreach has made on their lives.

Speaking on the initiative, Felix Ofulue, Head of Corporate Communications and Branding, noted that the programme aims to bridge the gap between quality healthcare and the people, particularly those in the host communities.

“At Egbin Power, we believe that good health is essential to life. By providing access to healthcare, we are improving the productivity of individuals and prioritising the sustainability of society. As we strive to deepen access to quality healthcare in our communities, Egbin Power Plc is proud to align our efforts with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all. Every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive,” Ofulue remarked.

The community stakeholders applauded the GenCo for its consistent efforts in providing access to quality healthcare through the initiative.

High Chief Aliu Musediq, the Regent of Ijede, praised Egbin Power’s unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of people in the community. He said: “This outreach demonstrates the company’s dedication to improving our health and lives. The large turnout reflects our people’s need for quality healthcare, and we are grateful for this opportunity to receive free medical services.”

High Chief Mustapha Lasisi, the Baale of Ipakan, reflected on the long-term benefits of such initiatives. “Over the years, Egbin Power has been providing succour to our communities. Their efforts remind us of the importance of health; without it, we cannot thrive.” He emphasised the need for continued support from Egbin Power in addressing health challenges in the communities.

Many residents echoed his sentiments, sharing personal stories of how the outreach has transformed their lives. Mrs. Abosede Nofiu, a retired civil servant, expressed her gratitude, saying, “Egbin Power has shown us that they care. The medical care provided has greatly benefited me and many others in our community. We feel healthier and more informed about our health.”

Organised in collaboration with Ceccy Health, the programme offered a comprehensive range of medical services, including eye care, diabetes management, malaria treatment, dental check-ups, arthritis care, and blood pressure monitoring. After thorough medical examinations, beneficiaries received free high-quality medications, medicated glasses, glucometers, blood pressure monitoring machines, and wellness kits.

Mrs. Ife Honfo, a local hairdresser, shared her experience: “The doctors took their time to examine me and explained everything thoroughly. They also provided medications free of charge. I feel empowered to take better care of my health and now understand how to maintain a healthy lifestyle.”

Many beneficiaries not only received medications but also gained valuable knowledge about their health. Smiles and expressions of gratitude filled the air as residents returned home, hopeful.

Egbin Power Plc remains committed to enhancing the quality of life and advancing development in the host communities. This medical outreach is one of the many transformative initiatives carried out each year by the GenCo to uplift the communities and drive sustainable growth. -END-

Individuals in Taraba state on Thursday, have staged a protest in the state’s capital, Jalingo, demanding the payment of outstanding salaries.

The protesters who were tagged as ‘ghost workers’, insisted that they were genuine employees, claiming that they had completed the verification exercise.

They appealed to the governor of Taraba State, andgtovernor Agbu Kefas, to intervene in their ordeal. The protesters also lamented about the hardship faced after their removal from the payroll.

“We have worked tirelessly and deserve our pay. We are not ghosts; we are humans with families to feed,” one of the protesters stated.

overnor Kefas addressed the protesters, assuring them of a review of the records, adding that verified employers will be paid in due time.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sworn in Dr. Bernard Mohammed Doro as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria at a brief ceremony inside the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja.

The swearing-in took place just before the commencement of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, presided over by the President.

Doro, a pharmacist and lawyer from Plateau State, fills the ministerial vacancy created by the exit of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, who is now the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Both Doro and Yilwatda hail from Plateau State.

His nomination was confirmed by the Senate in late October after a smooth screening process.

Until his appointment, Doro had built a distinguished career in both the health and legal sectors, earning respect for his professional excellence and contributions to public service.

Meanwhile, earlier on Thursday, President Tinubu had also sworn in Mr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) from Enugu State, as Minister of Science, Innovation, and Technology.

Udeh replaces Uche Nnaji, who resigned following allegations of certificate forgery. His appointment was confirmed by the Senate after a brief screening session during plenary.

Before his appointment, Udeh served as the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Enugu State, where he was praised for his legal reforms and advocacy for institutional integrity.

During his screening, Udeh addressed national and diplomatic issues, including U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threat to invade Nigeria over alleged Christian persecution. He noted that President Tinubu was managing the situation “through diplomatic channels rather than confrontation.”

Following the swearing-in, both ministers joined the Federal Executive Council meeting, which began with a presentation by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, on the state of the economy.

The session was attended by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Esther Didi Walson-Jack; the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; and other members of the Council.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, the actress revealed that her father and mother–once “sworn enemies”–had reunited in Abuja to support her and work together toward securing the release of her brother, Sammy, who has reportedly been in detention.

“Two concluded sworn enemies reuniting with no negative ulterior motive other than their daughter’s happiness. And I dare question God for putting me in this situation?” she wrote.

Regina, who has been vocal about her family and marital struggles in recent weeks, said the reunion was the only thing she had ever wanted. She described her father as “one of the biggest lawyers back in the day” and praised her mother, actress Rita Daniels, as a “powerhouse” who would do anything for her children.

“Sammy’s detainment is taking way too long but we will get him out even if I have to march there myself and create a storm! Since they want me!” she added.

The Federal Government on Thursday approved a series of key aviation projects, including the concession of Port Harcourt International Airport and the introduction of biometric verification systems across Nigerian airports.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed this while briefing State House correspondents after Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Keyamo said eight memos from his ministry were considered and approved, covering airport management, infrastructure, safety, and modernisation initiatives.

He said one of the approvals was for contracts to provide maintenance and support services for airport management solutions at Nigeria’s five international airports — Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Enugu.

“These are firms that have been maintaining our airport management systems effectively over the years, and the Council approved their continued engagement,” he said.

The minister also announced the procurement and installation of advanced tertiary power systems and 14 VHF remote stations by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to improve navigational safety. “We also got approval to purchase 15 airport rescue and firefighting vehicles to meet International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards at our international airports,” Keyamo said.

He further disclosed that the Council approved the exclusion of all Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) residential and operational properties within and around airport premises from sale to private individuals.

“Properties within airport security and safety zones are now officially excluded from disposal. Those who claimed to have bought such properties should take note, we will not concede them,” the minister stated.

On infrastructure, Keyamo said approval was granted for the construction of a permanent headquarters for NAMA in Abuja, following the agency’s relocation from Lagos.

“NAMA currently operates from rented facilities, which poses security risks. We will now have a permanent and purpose-built headquarters in Abuja,” he said.

He added that FEC approved the full business case for the concession of Port Harcourt International Airport to private investors, noting increased investor interest since the Tinubu administration took office.

“In the past, no major investor showed interest in Port Harcourt Airport. Now, over six credible firms are competing for it. This shows growing confidence in the Nigerian economy,” Keyamo said.

He assured aviation workers that no jobs would be lost under the new concession arrangement.

“We will engage the unions fully. No worker will lose their job as a result of the concession process. The goal is efficiency, not retrenchment,” he emphasised.

Keyamo also said the Council approved the concession of biometric verification systems at all airports to enhance passenger identification and security.

“The system will link passengers’ National Identification Numbers (NIN) to airport databases to verify their identities during travel. It’s part of our ICAO-aligned safety reforms,” he said.

He further disclosed plans to upgrade airport lighting systems to extend night operations and boost airline productivity.

“Some airports close by 6.00 p.m. due to poor lighting. We’re installing new airfield lighting systems to enable night flights and improve revenue for local carriers,” the minister said.

Keyamo reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to modernising Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and making the sector globally competitive. (NAN)