Category: PM News

The Vice-Chancellor of Osun State University, Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye, has been honoured with an Award of Excellence by the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, in recognition of his exceptional leadership, distinguished accomplishments and invaluable contributions to the advancement and enduring legacy of the institution.

Professor Adebooye was among the 65 distinguished alumni honoured during the celebration of OAU’s 65 years of transformative education, innovation and national impact held at Odua Hall, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, on Monday, June 8, 2026.

The award ceremony formed part of activities marking the University’s landmark anniversary and recognised notable alumni whose contributions in leadership, academia, public service, research and national development continue to reflect the ideals and excellence for which OAU is renowned.

Representing Professor Adebooye at the event was the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Research, Innovation and Partnerships, Osun State University, Professor Adetunji Lawrence Kehinde, who received the award on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor.

Speaking after receiving the award, Professor Kehinde expressed appreciation to the Council, management and alumni community of Obafemi Awolowo University for the honour bestowed on Professor Adebooye, describing the recognition as a reflection of his commitment to academic excellence, visionary leadership and service to humanity.

He noted that the Vice-Chancellor considers the recognition not only a personal honour but also a call to greater service and responsibility.

According to him, Professor Adebooye remains committed to advancing academic and research excellence, strengthening educational development and continuing to represent both Osun State University and his alma mater with distinction.

“This honour further inspires him to continue contributing meaningfully to scholarship, leadership and institutional development while sustaining the values of excellence and integrity associated with Obafemi Awolowo University,” he said.

The recognition of Professor Adebooye by one of Nigeria’s leading institutions of higher learning further reflects his growing profile as an accomplished scholar and administrator whose leadership continues to attract recognition within and beyond academic circles.

Since assuming office as Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebooye has championed initiatives aimed at strengthening academic standards, promoting research and innovation, expanding strategic partnerships and enhancing the overall development of the University.

The latest recognition adds to the growing list of honours associated with the Vice-Chancellor and further underscores the increasing national visibility and rising profile of Osun State University within Nigeria’s higher education landscape.

Diogo Jota’s widow, Rute Cardoso, has sent an emotional message to Scotland captain Andy Robertson, urging him to carry the late Liverpool forward’s dream with him to the World Cup.

Robertson, a former Liverpool team-mate and close friend of Jota, recently led Scotland to World Cup qualification for the first time since 1998.

The Scotland captain had spoken about Jota shortly after the qualification-clinching victory over Denmark, revealing that the late Portuguese forward was on his mind throughout the build-up to the match.

Jota and Robertson had often discussed their shared dream of playing at the World Cup while training together during the 2022 tournament, which Jota missed after being left out of Portugal’s squad due to injury.

Jota died four months ago in a road accident that also claimed the life of his brother, Andre Silva.

In a letter to Robertson published by FIFA, Cardoso said she was writing with “longing, gratitude and pride,” adding that Jota had often spoken about the bond he shared with the Scotland captain.

She said the World Cup was one of the dreams Jota and Robertson carried together as team-mates and friends.

Cardoso said Robertson’s qualification for the tournament showed that Jota had not truly left the pitch.

According to her, Robertson would not be going to the World Cup alone because he would also be carrying Jota’s dream with him.

She thanked Robertson for remembering her late husband and for turning grief into strength.

“Cherish that dream, Andy. Live it for yourself and for him,” she wrote.

Robertson was filmed by FIFA reading the letter and later thanked Cardoso for her words, describing the gesture as deeply moving.

“It’s obviously amazing of Rute to even take the time, for what she’s going through, to write me a letter,” Robertson said.

He added that the letter would stay with him for a long time.

Robertson said Jota would remain in his heart throughout the tournament, adding that memories of the late forward would continue to bring moments of both laughter and tears.

“I’m not only just playing for me, I’m playing for both of us,” he said.

The emotional exchange has added another layer of meaning to Scotland’s return to the World Cup, with Robertson now set to honour the dream he once shared with his late Liverpool team-mate.

By Nabilu Balarabe

The death of Emir of Gazargamu Alhaji Ahmad Tijjani Ibn-Saleh after a prolonged illness in Cairo, Egypt has thrown his community and Yobe State into mourning.

The death of the Emir was announced in a statement signed by the Waziri of Gazargamu, Alhaji Muhammad Baba-Kankare, in Damaturu on Tuesday.

Gazargamu, located in Geidam town, is the ancient historical capital of the Kanem-Bornu Empire.

Baba-Kankare said the first-class chief passed away on Tuesday in Cairo, Egypt, where he had been receiving medical treatment.

“The remains of the late Emir will be transported back to Nigeria for funeral rites in Damaturu, at a later date and time to be announced later.

“The Emirate council calls for prayers for the repose of the soul of this great leader, our respected traditional ruler, custodian of the rich tradition and culture of the historic Ngazargamu emirate,” he said.

The late Emir who passed away at 80 was a first-class traditional ruler in Yobe and had been on the throne for 34 years, having been appointed in 1992.

The deceased was born in 1946 in Mairari, Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe.

Ibn-Saleh was educated at Geidam Elementary School, Yerwa Senior Primary School, and the Institute of Administration, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

He also held a Higher Islamic Teachers Certificate and Diploma in Sharia and Civil Law.

Before his ascension to the throne, the late Emir Ibn-Saleh was a teacher, an Area Court Assistant Registrar, Chairman of Geidam Local Government and Commissioner for Agriculture in old Borno.

In May 2020, he was appointed Chancellor of the Yobe State University.

Meanwhile, Kashim Tumsah, a lawyer and development advocate has described the late Emir Ibn-Saleh, as an epitome of humility, wisdom and courage.

Tumsah, a former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in the state, stated this in Damaturu on Tuesday while mourning the death of the first-class chief.

He described the death of the Emir as a monumental loss not only to the people of the Gazargamu Emirate, but also to the entire Yobe State and beyond.

“The late Emir was a true leader, a source of wisdom, guidance, and peace. His contributions to the progress, unity, and development of his people will never be forgotten.

“He embodied the values of humility, service, and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him,” he said.

The lawyer prayed to the Almighty Allah to continue to guide and bless the people of the Gazargamu Emirate during this difficult time, hoping that the memory of the late Emir would inspire them to emulate his integrity and compassion.

In his own tribute, Mr Tijjani Bala, a son of the deceased, described his father as a mentor and traditional ruler whose life was devoted to the service of his people and humanity.

Bala, the General Manager of the Yobe State Road Maintenance Agency (YORMA), said the late Emir’s fatherly guidance, leadership and legacy would remain a source of inspiration to the entire people of Gazargamu.

(NAN)

By Ikenna Osuoha

The House of Representatives has called on President Bola Tinubu to come up with comprehensive and aggressive security strategy to flush out bandits, terrorists and kidnappers from their hideouts in Nigeria.

The call followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by Rep. Ibe Osonwa, who represents Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency of Abia, during plenary on Tuesday.

The motion is titled, “A Call for Immediate Executive Action on the Surge in Banditry, the Daily Abduction of Schoolchildren and the Perilous Security Situation in Nigerian Schools and Places of Worship.”

Osonwa, however, reiterated calls on the President by several other sources to restore safety across the country amid worsening insecurity.

He expressed concern over the escalating wave of kidnappings, banditry, terrorism and attacks on vulnerable communities nationwide.

Osonwa reminded the Federal Government of its constitutional responsibility to protect citizens, citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The lawmaker explained that the section as cited provides that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.”

He lamented the growing trend of attacks on schools, noting that “the abduction of schoolchildren across several parts of the country had disrupted education and deepened Nigeria’s out-of-school children crisis.

According to him, thousands of children have been forced out of classrooms due to fear of attacks, while many families continue to grapple with the trauma of kidnappings.

Osonwa decried the systematic targeting of schools and places of worship by criminal elements, warning that institutions traditionally regarded as safe havens have increasingly become soft targets for bandits and kidnappers.

He said worshippers across the country now face the risk of attacks, abductions and killings while observing religious activities, which undermines citizens’ constitutional rights to freedom of thought, conscience and religion.

The lawmaker also painted a grim picture of the economic consequences of insecurity, stating that “many businesses have shutdown, farming communities have been deserted and families plunged into poverty.”

Osonwa argued that the current security response appeared largely reactive and insufficient to stem the operations of criminal groups.

He warned that the apparent inability to decisively confront bandits and terrorists had created the impression that government was losing control of parts of the country to criminal elements.

Following deliberations, the House condemned in “the strongest possible terms” the continued banditry, mass abductions and attacks on schools and churches across Nigeria.

The lawmakers resolved to transmit “an urgent and solemn appeal” to President Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, “reminding him of his oath to protect the lives and property of Nigerians.”

The House specifically demanded the immediate deployment of “an aggressive, unrelenting and comprehensive security strategy” to dismantle bandits’ strongholds, secure vulnerable schools and places of worship.

They also pledged to ensure the unconditional release of citizens held captive by criminal groups.

The lawmakers declared that if the administration proves unable to halt the worsening security situation and restore public confidence within a clearly defined timeframe, the service chiefs should “honourably resign from office.”

The House also mandated its Committees on Defence, National Security and Intelligence and Army to intensify oversight of the implementation of the resolutions and report back within two weeks for further legislative action.

Nigeria has continued to battle multiple security challenges, including banditry, terrorism, kidnapping for ransom and communal violence, particularly in parts of the North-West, North-Central and North-East zones.

In recent years, mass abductions of students from schools in Kaduna, Niger, Zamfara and other states have drawn widespread national and international concerns.

This has prompted repeated calls for stronger security measures to protect educational institutions and vulnerable communities.

(NAN)

By Ayorinde Oluokun

The Kwara Police Command said its operatives have arrested seven suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate and recovered firearms during a series of intelligence-led operations conducted across parts of the State.

SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the spokesperson for Kwara Command announced this in a statement on Tuesday.

Giving details of the operations, the spokesperson noted that on 28th May 2026, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad, acting on credible intelligence regarding the abduction of a resident within the Agbeyangi axis of Ilorin, launched a coordinated intelligence-led operation which led to arrest of one Surajo Abubakar.

She said the arrest of Abubakar provided critical intelligence that significantly advanced the investigation that resulted in the arrest of one Umar Yabani alias “Yabo,” identified as the leader of the syndicate as well as two other suspects, Isah A. Sule and Umar Sani.

“During the operation, one AK-47 rifle and one pump-action gun were recovered from the suspects. Preliminary investigations linked the suspects to several kidnapping incidents across Ilorin East, Edu, Ifelodun, and neighbouring communities within Kwara State,” said Ejire-Adeyemi.

The spokesperson added that investigators intensified efforts to dismantle the remaining elements of the criminal network and subsequent intelligence obtained from the suspects led operatives to identified locations and associates connected to the syndicate.

“Consequently, on 4th June 2026, the Command carried out a follow-up intelligence-led operation in collaboration with members of the Forest Guard and Local Vigilante Groups across strategic locations within Edu and Ifelodun Local Government Areas.

“The operation resulted in the arrest of three additional suspected members of the syndicate identified as Bello Alhaji Maidabo (25), Shehu Malami (23), and Riskuwa Babuga (18), who were apprehended in the forest near Tsaragi following coordinated surveillance and tactical operations”

Police said a locally fabricated single-barrel firearm loaded with two live cartridges was recovered during the operation.

Ejire-Adeyemi said preliminary investigations indicated that the three suspects played various roles within the criminal network.

She added that they are now assisting investigators with valuable information aimed at rescuing victims believed to still be in captivity and apprehend other fleeing members of the gang.

“The Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, CP Ojo Adekimi stated that the breakthrough reflects the operational directives and strategic vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu towards strengthening intelligence-led policing, dismantling criminal networks, and enhancing public safety nationwide.

“The Commissioner of Police, further reassured residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property and urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and actionable information.

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said to ensure certainty, stability and administrative efficiency, it has approached the Court of Appeal to challenge the recent conflicting Federal High Court judgments regarding its powers to set timelines for the 2027 general elections.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN), disclosed this at the commission’s second quarterly consultative meeting with leaders of political parties at its headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.

Amupitan noted that the legal action had become imperative given two differing judgments delivered in May.

He said the while the commission remains fully respectful of the decisions of the courts. the judgments raise important legal questions concerning the extent of the commission’s constitutional and statutory powers in coordinating and regulating electoral activities.

Amupitan He noted that one of the suits filed by Youth Party against INEC questioned certain timelines in the 2027 election timetable.

The second litigation, according to him, is the Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/720/2026 (SDP v. INEC) which affirmed INEC’s authority but nullified certain timelines relating to the nomination and substitution of candidates.

“In view of the differing conclusions reached in the judgments and in order to ensure certainty and stability in preparations for the 2027 general elections, the commission has filed appeals against the decisions,” he stated.

The INEC chairman noted that electoral activities were interrelated operational processes rather than isolated events.

According to him, while the Electoral Act prescribes timelines for some activities, many critical processes have no express statutory timelines but must be harmonised to avoid chaos.

Amupitan listed the activities to include verifying party registers, monitoring primaries, configuring Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines and printing sensitive materials.

He assured the public that in spite of the pending appeals, the commission remained committed to conducting the 2027 general elections in strict compliance with the law.

“The commission, therefore, considers it imperative that all electoral activities be harmonised within a coherent and workable framework that promotes certainty, transparency, administrative efficiency and equal treatment of all political parties.

“I wish to assure political parties and the Nigerian public that notwithstanding the pending appeals, the commission remains firmly committed to conducting the 2027 general elections in strict compliance with the Constitution, the Electoral Act and all lawful judicial pronouncements,” he said.

The INEC chairman also disclosed that the commission would issue official access codes to all political parties on June 26 to enable them to use its candidate nomination portal.

“These access codes will enable designated national officers of political parties to upload the names, personal particulars and other required information relating to nominated candidates.

“I urge political parties to ensure that their ICT personnel and relevant officers are adequately prepared and that all submissions are completed well before the stipulated deadlines.

“The portal is fully automated and will close automatically at the expiration of the prescribed period,” he said.

On the ongoing nationwide continuous voter registration, Amupitan urged political parties to intensify voter education and mobilisation efforts so that eligible citizens can take advantage of the opportunity and subsequently collect their permanent voter cards (PVCs).

He, however, expressed worry over the numerous leadership tussles involving political parties pending in various courts, describing them as unnecessary distractions that should be resolved immediately.

While reiterating INEC’s continued commitment to providing a level-playing field for all political parties and candidates in accordance with the laws, the INEC chairman urged them to play by the rule.

He said that the success of the 2027 general elections would also depend on parties’ commitment to upholding democratic principles, respect for rule of law, conducting transparent primaries, discouraging violence, hate speech and vote buying, and promoting issue-based campaigns.

(NAN)

The Induze Tech Foundation has successfully concluded the Tech Bridge Exhibition, a large-scale digital education and innovation program designed to prepare secondary school students with practical digital skills, innovation capacity, and entrepreneurship competencies for the future economy.

The program, which was implemented in three phases — Training, Capstone Project Development, and Exhibition — engaged students from more than 42 secondary schools across the six Area Councils of the Federal Capital Territory, including AMAC, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Abaji, and Kwali.

The initiative culminated in an exhibition that showcased over 50 student-led capstone projects developed to address real-world challenges through technology, creativity, and innovation.

The exhibition attracted over 3,000 students through a hybrid participation model, combining physical attendance and live participation, further demonstrating the growing importance of digital education and innovation within Nigeria’s education system.

Speaking during the exhibition, representatives of the Foundation emphasized that Tech Bridge was created to bridge the gap between traditional classroom learning and future workforce requirements by exposing students to practical digital experiences and innovation-driven learning.

A major highlight of the event was the official unveiling of the Induze Hub (iHub) — the Induze Tech Foundation Innovation Center located at Government Secondary School, Gwarimpa (Lifecamp), Abuja.The Innovation Center is designed to serve as a multi-purpose digital learning ecosystem featuring:

A Computer-Based Testing (CBT) Center Robotics and STEM Innovation Laboratory Teachers’ Co-Working and Professional Development Space Digital Content Creation Studio

The Center is expected to support schools in implementing Nigeria’s new digital technology curriculum while providing students and educators access to practical learning opportunities, innovation tools, and digital resources.According to the Foundation, the Innovation Center represents more than infrastructure; it represents access, opportunity, and a commitment to preparing young Nigerians for the digital economy.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by key stakeholders from government institutions, education agencies, and development sectors including:Ronnel Gambo Dolla, Deputy Director supervising the Gender Unit, Federal Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, representing the Honourable Minister; Hajia Fatima Gambo Bubba, Director/Secretary, FCT Secondary Education Board (SEB); Abubakar O. Ajayi, Principal, Government Secondary School, Gwarimpa (Lifecamp);Dr. Sampson Ebimaro, Director, International Cooperation Department, Federal Ministry of Budget and National Planning; Akure B. Jerry, Administrative Officer II representing the Federal Ministry of Youth Development; Omotowa Victor Opeyemi and Ojukwu M. Michael from the Special Duties Department, Public-Private Partnership/Non-Governmental Unit, Federal Ministry of Education Headquarters; and Mrs. Nkwocha Angela from the Child Development Department, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs.

As the Foundation expands its impact, Induze Tech Foundation is seeking partnerships from government agencies, development organizations, private sector stakeholders, philanthropists, and education partners to strengthen and scale the newly unveiled Innovation Center.

The Foundation believes collaborative investment in education technology and innovation infrastructure is critical to ensuring that young Nigerians are equipped with the skills, creativity, and opportunities necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital future.

“Technology education is no longer optional. It is essential. By investing in young people today, we are building the innovators, creators, and problem-solvers of tomorrow.”

By Ayorinde Oluokun

The Federal Government on Tuesday said available economic indicators showed that the country’s fortunes were improving under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume made the assertions while addressing a national press conference to mark the 2026 Democracy Day celebration in Abuja.

Akume who defended the economic and social reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration noted that Nigeria is on the path to recovery despite prevailing hardship and security challenges.

The SGF said the Tinubu administration remained committed to delivering on its promises as it approached the 2027 general elections, stressing that the government would seek “a revalidation of our mandate” from Nigerians.

According to him, Nigeria’s economy has recorded steady growth, with real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanding by 4.07 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2025 and 3.89 per cent in the first quarter of 2026.

While acknowledging that inflation and insecurity continue to affect citizens, the SGF maintained that the government’s reforms were beginning to produce tangible results.

“Government will never claim that every challenge has been solved,” he said. “Inflation has been painful, though it is on a downward trend. Insecurity still threatens lives and livelihoods, but evidence shows that the country is moving in the right direction.”

Akume described the Democracy Day briefing as part of the administration’s commitment to accountability, saying June 12 symbolises both the sacrifices that birthed democratic rule and the responsibility of elected leaders to improve citizens’ welfare.

He congratulated Nigerians for sustaining 27 uninterrupted years of democratic governance, describing the feat as one of the longest democratic experiences on the African continent.

Highlighting some of the administration’s achievements, the SGF said over three million vulnerable households had benefited from the Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer Programme, while nearly one million Nigerians had accessed support under various government credit schemes.

He disclosed that the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CreditCorp) had disbursed N37 billion in consumer loans, with more than half of the beneficiaries obtaining formal credit for the first time.

On education, Akume said the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) had supported more than 1.058 million students since the implementation of the Student Loan Act, with over N184 billion released for tuition and upkeep allowances.

He added that the administration had expanded access to healthcare through the National Health Insurance Authority framework and increased funding for primary healthcare facilities across the country.

The SGF also touted the government’s anti-corruption drive, noting that proceeds recovered by anti-graft agencies had strengthened public interventions, including the transfer of more than N50 billion in recovered assets to support NELFUND.

According to him, Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in October 2025 reflected the impact of reforms in anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing.

On security, Akume said the Federal Government was investing heavily in military capabilities and regional cooperation to combat terrorism, banditry and other criminal activities.

He, however, urged citizens to complement government efforts by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious movements to security agencies.

“We can say clearly that institutional responses are being sharpened, coordination is improving, and reforms are continuing because peace and civic order are foundations of democratic progress,” he stated.

The SGF further called for national unity and religious tolerance, saying diversity should be harnessed as a democratic strength rather than a source of division.

He said: “As we go into the cycle for the 2027 general elections, our responsibility is to finish what we commenced in 2023 and scale what is working.

“Our task is not completed yet and, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, more dividends will be delivered.”

The press conference formed part of activities lined up to commemorate the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, with ministers expected to provide detailed briefings on achievements recorded in their respective sectors.

Road accidents have become a disturbing feature of life in Nigeria. Every year, thousands of people die on our highways, while many more suffer injuries that leave them with lifelong physical, emotional and financial burdens. What is most troubling is that many of these tragedies could have been avoided.

Statistics from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) show that road crashes remain a major challenge. In 2025, the country recorded 10,446 road traffic crashes, an increase from 9,570 in 2024. Although the number of deaths dropped slightly from 5,421 to 5,289, the figures remain alarming. More than 33,000 people were injured in road accidents last year alone. Behind these numbers are families that have lost breadwinners, children who have lost parents and communities that have been plunged into grief.

The question that must be asked is why these accidents continue to occur despite repeated warnings and awareness campaigns. The answer lies largely in the culture of recklessness that has taken root among many road users.

Speeding remains the leading cause of road crashes in Nigeria. FRSC reports indicate that excessive speed accounts for a significant percentage of accidents recorded across the country. Many drivers ignore speed limits, believing they can control their vehicles no matter the circumstances. Unfortunately, when emergencies arise, excessive speed often turns a minor mistake into a fatal crash.

Dangerous overtaking, driving under fatigue, overloading of vehicles and disregard for traffic regulations have also become common practices. Commercial drivers, in their quest to maximise profits, often take unnecessary risks with the lives of passengers. Some private motorists treat public roads as racing tracks, paying little attention to the safety of other road users.

Passengers are not without blame. Too often, they remain silent when drivers engage in dangerous behaviour. Some even encourage speeding because they are in a hurry to reach their destinations. This attitude must change. Every passenger has a responsibility to speak up when a driver’s actions put lives at risk.

Government agencies also have a role to play. While human behaviour is responsible for many accidents, poor road conditions, inadequate road signs and broken-down vehicles abandoned on highways contribute to the problem. Authorities must continue to improve road infrastructure and ensure that traffic laws are enforced consistently.

The FRSC deserves commendation for its efforts in promoting road safety, but enforcement alone will not solve the problem. Road safety must become a shared responsibility. Schools, religious institutions, transport unions, community leaders and the media should continue to educate Nigerians on the importance of responsible road use.

No journey is worth a human life. Arriving safely should always be more important than arriving quickly. The loss of more than 5,000 lives in a single year is a painful reminder that Nigeria cannot afford to continue on this path.

Road accidents are not acts of fate. In most cases, they are the result of choices made by drivers, passengers and other road users. If the nation is serious about reducing the carnage on its roads, the culture of recklessness must give way to a culture of discipline, patience and respect for human life. Only then can we begin to stem the tide of needless deaths on our highways.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Engr. Funsho Adebiyi, the accident occurred along the WarriItakpe rail corridor when four coaches capsized and one coach derailed.

The ministry said the crash claimed the lives of four passengers, comprising two adult women, one adult man and an infant.

A total of 442 passengers had booked for the journey, while 40 crew members, security personnel and third-party service providers were also on board, bringing the total number of occupants on the train to 482.

Authorities disclosed that 24 passengers sustained serious injuries in the accident, while several others suffered varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving treatment at medical facilities in Agbor.

One staff member of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) also suffered a traumatic limb injury and is said to be in stable condition.

Emergency rescue and evacuation operations were immediately launched following the incident, with support from the Delta State Government, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), local authorities and other emergency responders.

The ministry said the rescue operation was successfully concluded by 6:30 p.m., with injured passengers evacuated for medical attention.

Among the passengers on board the train were the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Ede Dafinone, and former Delta State Secretary to the State Government, Patrick Ukah.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.

“The Ministry and the NRC extend their deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and pray for the quick recovery of all those injured,” the statement said.

The corporation also commended the Delta State Government, emergency agencies, security personnel, medical workers, the NRC Mechanical Directorate, and members of the public for their swift response to the tragedy.

Officials disclosed that the full passenger manifest has been retrieved and will be made available to relevant authorities, while efforts are ongoing to properly identify all injured and deceased persons.

Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the NRC have launched a full-scale investigation into the cause of the accident.

Authorities said efforts would continue to account for all passengers and provide necessary support to victims and their families as investigations proceed.