Category: The Nation – Nigeria

The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) have met to strengthen their efforts in improving safety and emergency response on Nigerian roads through the Motor Third Party Insurance Scheme.

A statement made available to journalists stated that this development follows a courtesy visit by the FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Muhammed to the Commissioner for Insurance Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin at NAICOM Headquarters.

During the meeting, NAICOM said, the Corps Marshal congratulated NAICOM on the signing of the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025 and acknowledged the Commission’s efforts in driving reforms in the industry.

‘He emphasised the need for enhanced data exchange between NAICOM and FRSC to develop a robust system for quick response to road accidents and compensation. The Corps Marshal also stressed the importance of digitising the process for prompt emergency response and eliminating fake motor insurance policies.

‘The Commissioner for Insurance, in his response, thanked the Corps Marshal for the visit and commended his efforts in upgrading the licensing system.

He highlighted that NIIRA 2025 has strengthened the compulsory third-party motor insurance policy and established a fund for compensating road accident victims, which will be administered by a committee that includes FRSC representation.

‘The Representative of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Mr. Ajodi Nuhu Nasir expressed profound satisfaction at the collaborative efforts among the agencies, noting that this synergy will culminate in a robust system that not only safeguards our roads but also ensures prompt and quality medical treatment for accident victims, thereby reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with road crashes.

The meeting culminated in agreements such as Data Sharing Integration where NAICOM and FRSC will integrate their data sharing systems to enable seamless information sharing; and Joint Awareness Campaign where the agencies will develop a joint awareness campaign strategy to educate the public on insurance benefits and road safety. Others are Enforcement Committee where a joint committee will be established to collaborate on enforcement of proper insurance coverage and address cases of fake insurance policies; and Inclusion of Insurance Requirements: FRSC will include insurance requirements, especially for valid third-party motor insurance, in its awareness and enforcement efforts’, the statement read.

The collaboration aims to promote road safety, ensure prompt treatment for accident victims, and protect the interests of motorists and other road users. A date will be announced for the inauguration of the joint committee.

The Senate has passed the Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill, 2024 and will now be forwarded to the President for his assent.

The Bill introduces strict penalties for those who break the law while tackling wildlife trafficking and habitat destruction.

The Bill, passed by the House of Representatives, has updated existing wildlife laws, increased penalties for wildlife crimes, and provides greater authority to investigators to probe financial transactions and conduct intelligence led operations.

It also empowers judges to expedite wildlife cases and recover offender assets while promoting international collaboration by aligning with global treaties and allowing extradition of offenders.

A statement by the West African Director Wild Africa, Linus Unah, explained the passing of this bill is a huge win for Nigeria and shows, without any doubt, that the government remains committed to stamping out wildlife trafficking and protecting its unique fauna and flora.’

The Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, who sponsored the bill Hon. Terseer Ugbor said: ‘This shows without doubt, that Nigeria remains committed to stamping out wildlife trafficking. This also means that with stronger laws, Nigeria’s forests and wildlife will now be protected from exploitation and criminal activities. ‘We are proud to see this bill move forward because protecting wildlife is tantamount to safeguarding our environment and our future.

‘In the last decade, Nigeria emerged as a major hub for the trafficking of ivory and pangolin sales to Asian markets, the West African country was linked to the smuggling of more than 30 tonnes of ivory since 2015 and over half of the pangolin scales trafficked globally between 2016 and 2019. Environmental organizations have praised this latest development, saying that the Bill demonstrates Nigeria’s response to tackle serious and organised wildlife trafficking’.

Tunde Morakinyo, Africa Nature Investors Foundation (ANI) Executive Director noted that for too long, traffickers have used Nigeria as a transit country for the illegal wildlife trade, bringing endangered wildlife from all over Africa through the porous borders, ports and airports to export them illegally to Europe and Asia.

He said: ‘The Bill aims to halt this shameful trade which is destroying our environment and ruining Nigeria’s global reputation. We salute the Nigerian Senate for taking this bold step which will make Nigeria a global leader with one of the most progressive wildlife laws for the African continent.’

Oyo State governorship hopeful on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Adewale Kareem (AKK), has announced plans to present copies of his new book, Our Realistic Tomorrow, to prominent traditional rulers in Oyo State by December.

The announcement follows the hosting of his Town Hall Meeting, Book Launch, and Fundraising in Doonside, Sydney, Australia – an event that drew Yoruba leaders, professionals, and community figures from New South Wales.

Kareem lauded Nigerian Association of New South Wales, Odua Group, Newcastle Muslim Brothers, and other community bodies for support. He said the gathering is a blend of cultural pride, intellectual dialogue, and shared vision.

According to him, the book, his roadmap for sustainable development and people-centred governance, will be presented to Olubadan, Alaafin of Oyo, Soun of Ogbomoso, and others ahead of Oyo State AKK Town Hall Meeting and Book Launch, in January.

‘Our mission is not only politics; it’s about purpose, vision, and unity,’ he said. ‘Our fathers will be first to get my book because their blessings and guidance are central to the progress of the state and realisation of our dream.’

Dr. Kareem also revealed that following the success of the Sydney event, similar engagements would be held in Western Australia, the United States, and Canada before June 2026, targeting members of the Oyo and Nigerian diaspora to further strengthen the movement.

The Doonside event, characterized by rich cultural displays and robust discourse, also served as a rallying point for supporters of the ‘Oyo 2027 Project,’ with participants pledging moral and financial commitment to the cause.

Dr. Kareem, widely respected for his humility and vision, reaffirmed that the slogan ‘Aseyori ni tiwa’ – meaning Success is Ours remains the driving spirit of his campaign for a more united, progressive, and prosperous Oyo State.

About Dr. Adewale Kolapo Kareem (AKK)

Dr. Adewale Kolapo Kareem is a scholar, community leader, and development advocate with a record of excellence in both public service and the private sector. A native of Oyo State, he is deeply committed to promoting education, innovation, and inclusive governance.

His book, Our Realistic Tomorrow, presents a comprehensive blueprint for Oyo State’s socio-economic transformation. As the APC’s 2027 gubernatorial aspirant, Dr. Kareem’s campaign is anchored on accountability, infrastructure renewal, job creation, and human capital development – guided by his conviction that ‘good governance must be felt, not just promised.’

The Super Falcons have booked their place at next year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a 1-1 draw against Benin Republic on Tuesday, completing a 3-1 aggregate victory over the Amazons to secure qualification.

The return leg, played at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, saw the Falcons fail to replicate their dominant first-leg display in Cotonou, where they had triumphed 2-0.

Nevertheless, coach Justin Madugu, praised his players’ resilience while admitting that the performance fell short of expectations.

‘It didn’t come as much of a surprise. We knew it was going to be a tough game,’ Madugu said during the post-match press conference.

‘I want to apologise to Nigerians for not meeting their expectations, sometimes, teams zave off days, today was one of those, the girls gave their best, and while the result wasn’t ideal, we are taking it as a wake-up call that there’s still a lot of work to do.’

The coach, who confirmed he has signed a two-year contract with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) running until October 2027, emphasised that the focus now shifts to preparing the team for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

‘The last World Cup is behind us. Now, as African champions, every team wants to beat us. That means we must double our efforts and keep improving, It’s a new transition phase, and we’ll continue to test players, build depth, and refine our system before the next global tournament,’ he said.

In her own post-match remarks, Captain Rasheedat Ajibade expressed pride qualification and acknowledging that the Super Falcons must maintain focus as stronger in her team’s challenges await.

She said: ‘We weren’t overconfident, we expected Benin to come all out, especially after how they played in the second half of the first leg, today wasn’t our best performance, but we’ll take the lessons and keep improving. We know our standards and must continue pushing ourselves.’

Ajibade, who recently received an individual honour at the Nigerian Pitch Awards, dedicated the recognition to her teammates, coaches, and fans.

‘This award means a lot – not just to me, but to every young girl who dares to dream,’ she said emotionally. ‘I dedicate it to my Super Falcons sisters, my club, the technical staff, and everyone who has supported my journey. To the next generation of girls watching – keep believing, keep working, your dreams are valid.’

For the Benin Republic, the result, though not enough for qualification, was historic. Their head coach, Abdullahi Husseinu, lauded his players’ fighting spirit, describing the draw as a morale booster.

‘We came to Nigeria to win because we always compete to win,’ Husseinu said. ‘Our players showed great character, especially in the second half. Most of them are very young – some are under-17 and under-20 – and this experience will make them stronger. The future is bright for Beninese women’s football.’

He added a personal touch, revealing his emotional connection to Nigeria, where he ended his professional playing career with Sunshine Stars a decade ago.

‘Playing here brought back special memories for me,’ he said tearfully. ‘Nigeria will always have a special place in my heart.’

With the qualification secured, the Super Falcons will now shift focus to preparations for both the 2026 WAFCON tournament and the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, as they continue to rebuild under Coach Madugu’s leadership and maintain their dominance as Africa’s most successful women’s football team.

First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu yesterday commended the role of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) in women empowerment as the committee celebrates 25th anniversary.

They made the commendation at the opening of a three-day National Women’s Conference organised by COWLSO at Eko Hotel in Lagos.

In attendance were wives of the governors of Ogun, Osun and Nassarawa states, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, Mrs Titi Adeleke, and Hajia Silifat Sule.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu praised COWLSO for contributions to nation-building and urged women to uphold the values of selflessness and service.

Tinubu, who resuscitated the conference during her tenure as the Wife of Lagos State Governor, described COWLSO as an enduring model of women’s collaboration.

According to her, its 25-year journey shows what women can achieve when united by purpose.

‘COWLSO remains a beacon of hope and an example of what women can do together. It has inspired generations to rise, lead and give back to society. I commend all members for sustaining the vision, and urge you to continue empowering others,’ she said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu described COWLSO as a symbol of compassion, continuity and transformative leadership in women empowerment.

He said that COWLSO had evolved from a modest initiative into a dynamic platform of change, inspiring women to become innovators, changemakers and community leaders.

He said the committee had continued to demonstrate the values of compassion, collaboration and continuity.

He added that it had grown into a rallying point for women, who believed leadership was not about holding titles, but transforming lives.

‘Twenty-five years ago, a simple but powerful idea was born – to serve, to uplift and to make a difference. Today, we gather not just to celebrate, but to honour women whose vision, strength and service have defined our humanity,’ he said.

He commended his wife, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, for devotion to family well-being and empowerment programmes that continued to touch lives across the state.

Chairperson of COWLSO, Dr Sanwo-Olu, hailed past wives of Lagos State governors; COWLSO partners, and other women, who had contributed to the growth of COWLSO’s growth.

She said the anniversary was not just a celebration of longevity, but a reaffirmation of purpose to build a Lagos and Nigeria where every woman could dream freely, lead boldly and thrive fully.

‘As we reflect on the past 25 years, we renew our commitment to nurturing families, empowering women, and promoting values that strengthen our society,’ Sanwo-Olu said.

The Service Chiefs-designate yesterday met with Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru and National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu ahead of their screening today by the Senate.

Chief of Defence Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede led Chief of Army Staff Maj.- Gen. Waidi Shaibu, Chief of Naval Staff Rear Admiral Idi Abbas and Chief of Air Staff Air Vice Marshal Sunday Aneke on the visits.

There was no statement from the NSA’s after the visit, but spokesman of the Defence Minister Mati Ali in statement said the visit underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to building cohesive defence leadership anchored on trust, collaboration and shared purpose.

On Monday, 72 hours after they were named, the Service Chiefs met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced yesterday in plenary after reading the correspondence for the President, that the Service Chiefs will be screened for confirmation today.

President Tinubu’s letter urged the Senate to give ‘expeditious consideration’ to his request for clearance of the new security chiefs.

The Senate President referred the letter to the Committee of the Whole, which he chairs.

Rapper Odumodublvck has addressed the backlash trailing his recent interview with BET Network, where he was quoted as referring to female artists like Bloody Civilian and Smur Lee as ‘Z-list artists.’

During the interview, Odumodublvck spoke on supporting upcoming talents without demanding anything in return.

‘I can help you without taking anything from you, same thing with the girls. I want to be able to give girls deals without having to compromise themselves.

‘The last time a Nigerian girl was number one on the chart, I think it was probably me. I’ve gone number one with two girls, Smur Lee and Bloody Civilian, and they were not A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H artists – they were Z artists. But yes, they went number one. That’s to show you that girls out there, you can do your thing without compromising,’ he said.

His remark sparked widespread criticism online, with many calling him out for seemingly belittling the mentioned female artists.

In response, Odumodublvck clarified the statement on X, explaining that his words were exaggerated and not meant to discredit anyone.

‘BLOODY IS NOT A Z LIST ARTIST. NEITHER ARE THE NAMES I CALLED.

Z WAS JUST AN EXAGGERATION TO AMAZING FEMALE ARTISTS LIKE SMUR LEE, KENKÉ and VALENTINO, WHO ARE MAKING A NAME FOR THEMSELVES. – THE MACHINE.’

AHMED: Good day, my name is Ahmed. I retired from NIWA in 2007, my complains are I haven’t received any of the arrears paid to some of the pensioners ranging from the 24 per cent and the N32,000 arrears. I was told my name fell on the second batch since August 2024. Kindly help me out

PTAD: Dear Mr. Ahmed, please send your verification slip to our email [email protected] to enable us to investigate and respond further. Thank you.

ANONYMOUS: I have no other option than to continue to complain of deduction of my pension allowance sum of #9000, since September last year. Please use your office to rescue me from this situation l have written several times for correction to no avail why?

PTAD: Dear PTAD pensioner, please send your verification slip to our email [email protected] to enable us to investigate and respond further. However, note that PTAD obtained a directive for the re-implementation of the CPA based on grade level in line with the clarification from the NSIWC before implementing the new 20 per cent and 28per cent increment as applicable. The CPA which was as a result of the minimum wage approval in April 2019 was implemented in May 2021 based on pay-band application with subsequent payment of 24 months arrears covering from April 2019 to April 2021. It is, therefore, instructive to mention that arrears reconciliation arising from the re-implementation of the CPA based on grade level is set aside pending further directive.

The clarification from the NSIWC which revised the implementation of the CPA to Grade level was taken into cogni NAICOM, FRSC, NHIA Partner on Road Safety, NIIRA 2025 sance and accordingly implemented on the payroll before the application of the new pension increment of 20-28per cent as applicable which will take effect from September 2024.

Further to the above, the Executive Secretary gave directive to pay the 20per cent / 28per cent pension increment arrears to only the pensioners whose monthly pension have been correctly computed and implemented as per the August payroll. In line with the directive of the Executive Secretary, the Department reviewed the August 2024 pension payroll to ascertain that only pensioners who are on their correctly computed monthly pension are paid the 20 – 28per cent pension increment arrears and thereafter identified and excluded the following categories of pensioners:

Pensioners on the payroll with inherited monthly pension and whose monthly pension entitlement is yet to be computed to date;

Pensioners on the payroll with inherited monthly pension but whose monthly pension entitlement have been computed but not yet implemented;

Pensioners on the payroll with monthly pension figure that appears to be higher than the maximum monthly pension for their Grade Level.

Thank you.

founder and Chief Executive Officer of Small-Scale Enterprise, Adesola Jimmy-Eboma, is set to host the second MBA Business showers, to celebrate the cohort 2 graduates and heighten conversation on role of MSMEs in the economy.

The event: ‘Innovation. Inclusion. Impact: Redefining MSMEs in Nigerian Economy, holds tomorrow in GRA Ikeja, Lagos. Keynote address will be delivered by Mr Charles Odii, director-general and chief executive of SMEDAN, and Ms Esther Obiekwe, group head of Retail and SME Banking at NOVA Bank.

There will be a fireside chat, featuring Bunmi Kola-Dawodu, state manager of SMEDAN; Meksley Nwagboh, divisional head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity; Afolabi Solebo, general manager of LASCOPA; Ayomide Olofinjana, founder of Florence Richards Africa; and Adanna Uche, founder of Ady’s Agro Processing, to be moderated by Founder of Moore Organics, Mrs. Adebisi Odeleye.

At the programme, Jimmy-Eboma said, ‘participants will examine role of policymakers, financial institutions, and entrepreneurs on need to collaborate and unlock finances, strengthen quality and consumer protection, and accelerate international competitiveness.”

According to Adesola, ‘Nigeria has enormous potential locked within her people. If every state intentionally develops its local resources into finished goods by turning cassava into packaged flour, hibiscus into export tea, and shea butter into global beauty products, we can transform our economic narrative.

‘The MBA Business Showers has rapidly become a leading platform spotlighting innovation and entrepreneurial excellence in Nigeria’s small-scale manufacturing sector. Powered by SSE Lab, the initiative bridges the gap between vision and venture by equipping founders with practical structure, market-ready knowledge, and strategic support to thrive in today’s dynamic economy.

‘The Manufacturing Business Accelerator (MBA) is a 90-day intensive transformation program tailored for product-based founders and micro-manufacturers. Over three months, participants progress through a disciplined pathway of conceptualisation, product validation, branding, packaging, regulatory compliance, and market launch, transforming raw ideas into proudly made-in-Nigeria brands capable of competing globally.

‘Through the MBA Business Shower, we have built entrepreneurs who can make vision real because we have seen ordinary individuals like; traders, artisans, and dreamers become structured, compliant, export-ready businesses within 90 days. This is a statement of possibility.’

Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has begun tree-planting campaign in Ondo State, as part of efforts to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability across Niger Delta.

The initiative, aimed at ensuring a greener environment, had earlier been launched in Rivers, Bayelsa, Imo, Abia, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Delta and Edo states in partnership with the Foundation for Sustainable Development Options (FOSDO), an environmental solutions non-governmental organisation.

This development comes amid reports of several coastal communities, particularly in southern Nigeria, being devastated by gully erosion.

Speaking yesterday at a one-day sensitisation workshop and tree-planting event held in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, with the theme: ‘Reawakening the Practice of Tree Planting’, the Acting State Director of NDDC, Dr. Asonye Victor-Ngozi, said the initiative became necessary in view of the severe ecological impact of erosion across Niger Delta communities.

He noted that the campaign underscored the commission’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainability, describing the exercise as a practical demonstration of NDDC’s dedication to safeguard the environment.

‘Trees play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide emissions, mitigating greenhouse effects, improving air and water quality, and sustaining biodiversity,’ he said.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FOSDO, Dr. Anthony Chovwen, lauded NDDC for funding and supporting tree-planting campaigns across the nine Niger Delta states.

Represented by Ms. Abigail Bokoyeibo, the FOSDO Ondo State programme director, Chovwen said the region was not immune to the effects of climate change, adding that the campaign aimed to raise public awareness about the importance of environmental sustainability.

‘Through this collaboration, we have conducted sensitisation programmes and environmental education projects, reaching more than 1,000 young people in secondary and primary schools across Niger Delta,’ she said.

Delivering a keynote address, Dr. Menakai Kekwaru, an environmental zoologist from the University of Port Harcourt, highlighted the growing threat of climate change caused by human activities that increased carbon emissions and heated the planet.

Dr. Michael Rotimi Olujugba, a lecturer at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, emphasised the vital role of trees in sustaining life and reducing noise pollution.

He urged all tiers of government to implement policies promoting afforestation, noting that ‘anyone who cuts down a tree should be mandated to plant three new ones.’

The event featured practical tree-planting sessions involving students from participating schools, including Community Primary School, Kofawa; Caring Heart Mega School; Ilaje High School and Community Grammar School, Igbokoda.