Category: The Nation – Nigeria

The Adamawa State House of Assembly has conducted a public hearing on the Adamawa State Social Protection Bill, reaffirming the need for a strong legal framework to sustain the government’s social and economic development initiatives.

The bill, which seeks to institutionalise social protection systems across the state, was developed with the support of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the European Union (EU) under the Supporting Sustainable Social Protection, Participation, and Economic Resilience in North East Nigeria (SEPIN-SUSI) programme, implemented by GIZ.

Having scaled its second reading, the bill was referred to the House Committee on Women and Social Development for further legislative work. The recent public hearing marked a key stage in the process, providing a platform for input from government agencies, civil society organisations, and development partners.

In her welcome address, Hon. Kate Mamuno, the Committee Chairperson, Majority Leader of the House, and sponsor of the bill, said the hearing was designed to enable broad stakeholder participation in fine-tuning the legislation for effective implementation.

Mamuno commended Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for his administration’s ongoing social protection and welfare initiatives but stressed that such programmes need legal backing to guarantee sustainability, equity, and long-term impact.

The public hearing featured a delegation from Borno State which is also in the process of establishing a social protection law under the SEPIN SUSI programme.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan, the Member representing Maiduguri Metropolitan Constituency, Hon. Ali Kotoko, commended Adamawa’s progress and said Borno looks forward to learning from its legislative experience in advancing similar reforms.

Also speaking, Mahamane Brimaka, Deputy Commission Manager for PETRA-DEP, one of GIZ’s flagship programmes in Northeast Nigeria, expressed appreciation to the stakeholders who contributed to the development of the bill.

The public hearing is expected to pave the way for the bill’s final consideration and passage, a move stakeholders say will help institutionalise poverty reduction and welfare interventions in Adamawa State.

Every October 17 has become a day that fills the sacred city of Ile-Ife, cradle of the Yoruba race and spiritual heart of an ancient civilization, with celebration and reflection as it marks the birthday ceremony of His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.

Though Ooni Ogunwusi isn’t one that is particular about birthdays, his subjects, family and people of Ile Ife always use the opportunity to celebrate the monarch whose journey is defined by purpose, peace, and profound cultural rebirth.

As the esteemed monarch marked his 51st birthday, October 17 didn’t just come like another year, it afforded several individuals the opportunity to express gratitude and display affection for the Ooni since his reign began in 2015.

Ooni Ogunwusi has stood tall as a unifier of peoples and traditions, breathing new life into the ancient institution he represents. His reign has become a shining testament to the power of cultural diplomacy restoring dignity to Yoruba heritage while building bridges across Nigeria, Africa, and the world.

At 51, Ooni Ogunwusi embodies the renaissance spirit, a modern monarch rooted deeply in ancestral wisdom, yet forward-looking in thought and action. His reign has been marked by efforts to demystify traditional leadership and make the palace an epicenter of development, dialogue, and youth empowerment. For him, royalty is not just about crowns and rituals; it is about service, vision, and impact.

Under his watch, Ile-Ife has evolved into more than a historical city; it has become a living hub of innovation, tourism, and interfaith harmony. The Ooni has consistently emphasized peace and tolerance, preaching unity among ethnic and religious groups, and urging Nigerians to rediscover the values that bind them as one family under God.

Ooni Ogunwusi’s 51 years on earth and nearly a decade on the throne tells a story of grace and responsibility. From his early entrepreneurial success to his ascension as the Arole Oduduwa, he has navigated life’s turns with courage and vision. His reign continues to inspire a new generation of Africans to believe in their culture, embrace innovation, and lead with compassion.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted consignments of illicit drugs concealed in frozen snails, electrical bulbs and female clothes heading to the United States, United Kingdom and Democratic Republic of Congo have been intercepted by operatives of the at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) and a courier company in Lagos.

Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, Femi Babafemi, who disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, said at least, two suspects linked to attempts to export the illicit substances have already been taken into custody.

Babafemi said one of them, a cargo agent Boladale Riliwan was arrested on 7th October 2025 following the discovery of 15 parcels of skunk, a strain of cannabis, concealed in 10 pieces of giant rechargeable electrical bulbs he presented in a carton for airfreight to Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) at the export shed of the Lagos airport.

He said another suspect in custody is 48-year-old Olawale Oyebola Hakeemot who is a UK-based Public Health Assistant.

According to the statement, she was arrested on Sunday 12th October at the departure hall of terminal 2 of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja following the discovery of frozen snails used to conceal 2,300 pills of tramadol 225mg in her luggage while heading to Manchester, United Kingdom, on a Qatar Airways flight.

Babafemi said an attempt by another syndicate to export 810 pills of bromazepam hidden in female clothes going to the United States was also thwarted by NDLEA officers at a courier company in Lagos on Thursday 16th October.

The Agency’s Spokesman said in Adamawa, a suspect Bello Buba was intercepted at an NDLEA check point in Namtari, Yola South LGA with 38,270 pills of tramadol concealed in the spare tyre, boot, and door compartments of his Honda Civic car he drove all the way from Benin Republic to smuggle the consignment into Nigeria on Sunday 12th October.

The statement read: ý’He said not less than 53,250 kilograms of skunk were destroyed on 21.3 hectares of cannabis farm in Ilawe Ekiti, Ekiti state, with 70 bags of the same psychoactive substance weighing 1,140kg recovered by NDLEA operatives during an operation that lasted between Sunday 12th and Monday 13th October.

‘Suspects arrested include: Matthew Emmanuel, 26; James Moses, 27; and Israel Samuel, 20. This followed the destruction of 17,400kg skunk on 6.96 hectares of plantation by NDLEA operatives at Aponmu forest reserve, Akure, Ondo state on Sunday 12th October.

‘ýIn Oyo state, Aliyu Muhammed, 50; Babarinde Segun,32; Ogunbiyi Sanjo, 30; and Ajani Oluro,30, were nabbed with 596kg skunk at Apata-Ako, Igboora, while Jacob Afolabi, 30, and Salako Oluwatobi, 25, were arrested with 273kg of same substance at Odo-Oyan, Igangan, on Thursday 16th October.

‘While Joseph Andrew was arrested in possession of 88kg skunk on Wednesday 15th October by NDLEA operatives at Ona – Imeko, Ogun state, another suspect Festus Udoh, 42, was nabbed with 13,000 pills of opioids along Onitsha- Owerri road, Imo state. In same vein, a total of 74.5kg skunk was recovered from the store of a suspect Joseph Chukwujamaa at Umuogbo – Agu village, Enugu state on Saturday 18th October.

‘In Lagos, no fewer than 11 bags of skunk weighing 117kg were recovered from the base of a suspect Ramoni Olukowi in Mushin area on Saturday 18th October while a total of 80,000 bottles of codeine-based syrup were intercepted in a container earlier watch-listed by NDLEA coming from India during a joint examination of the shipment with men of Customs service and other security agencies at the Apapa port on Tuesday 14th October.

‘In like manner, Commands and formations of the Agency across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization activities to schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week. These include: WADA advocacy lecture to students and staff of Commercial Grammar School, Igogo Ekiti; Junior Secondary Smart School, Kasarawa, Katsina; Government Technical College, Ahoada, Rivers; Government Girls Junior Secondary School, Yau Danzabuwa, Babura, Jigawa state; Attarbiyya Community College, Hotoro, Kano; Fuga Mixed Secondary School, Fuga, Edo state; St. Cyprian Special Science School, Nsukka, Enugu and St. Peter’s College, Olomore, Abeokuta, Ogun state, among others.

‘While commending the officers and men of MMIA, Apapa, Lagos, Ekiti, Adamawa, Oyo, Enugu, Ogun, Ondo, and Imo Commands for the arrests, and seizures, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) urged them and their colleagues across the country not to relent in their ongoing balanced approach to the drug control efforts of the Agency.’

For High Chief Kehinde Abimbola Dawodu-Avoseh, the esteemed Akogun of Oto-Awori Kingdom, one day will forever linger on in his memory till death.

The reason for this is not far- fetched as he was recently confirmed as a gazetted White Cap Chief in Lagos State.

After achieving so much for himself as an astute businessman and community leader, High Chief Dawodu-Avoseh’s day of honour also became a proud moment for the entire Oto-Awori Kingdom.

Following his historic confirmation as a gazetted White Cap Chief in Lagos State, High Chief Dawodu-Avoseh is now set to take the Oto-Awori Kngdom of Ojo Local Government to another level with his community building abilities.

The confirmation ceremony, held at Iba LCDA on Tuesday, October 2025, according to those close to the monarchs of the kingdom, was a testament to Dawodu-Avoseh’s dedication, hard work, and commitment not only to the Oto-Awori Kingdom, Ojo Local Government but also to Lagos State as a whole.

The ceremony was graced by esteemed traditional rulers from Badagry and Lagos Island, including HRM Oba Sulaimon Adeshina Raji, the Oniba Ekun of Iba Kingdom; HRM Oba Dr. Josiah Olanrewaju Ilemobade Aina, Ikuyamiku I, the Oloto of Oto-Awori Kingdom; HRM Oba Momodu Afolabi Asafa MFR, FNMC, JP, the Aladi Onijanikin of Ijanikin Kingdom; – HRM Oba Galib Adeniyi-Rufai, Adeife I, the Olojo of Ojo Kingdom; HRM Oba Abideen Adekanbi Durosimi, the Osolu of Irewe Kingdom; and HRM Oba Nofiu Dauda Odu-Owo Iya Adaraloye 1, Elete of Ete Kingdom.

The presence of the royal fathers underscores the significance of Dawodu-Avoseh’s importance and the respect accorded to him by all and sundry as a community builder.

The remarkable achievement reflects in Dawodu-Avoseh’s outstanding leadership, integrity, and service to the community and his confirmation as a Lagos White Cap chief is a badge of honor not only to himself but also to his family, the Oto-Awori Kingdom, and the

The Chairman, Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), Prof. Tunji Olaopa, has disclosed how the late renowned geographer Prof. Akin Mabogunje, mentored him, others and the nation at large .

Olaopa made the disclosure in a tribute during the 2nd Public Lecture and Launch of the PALM Foundation in honour of Prof. Akin Mabogunje in Lagos yesterday.

Stressing that the impact of the life of Mabogunje was both at individual and national levels, Olaopa relived what he identified as his ‘unbroken mentor-mentee learning engagement walk with him for over three decades’ and that ‘Papa offered himself as sounding board, think tank and teacher for all seasons, all through my career years as a federal officer.He would patiently listen to hear you out. Having observed the gaps or limitation in one’s knowledge, ideas and insights, like the modern-day Socrates, he would methodically stretch the necessity of closing the gap, first through a lengthy seminal conversation, ending up by recommending and offering available materials and authorities.’

Olaopa who described Mabogunje as a national icon, global scholar and unarguably, an intellectual hero said that his contributions to the country would continue to inspire the way committed patriots see life of service.

‘Indeed, his contributions to our conceptual, intellectual and development policy architecture remains indelible, and will be hard to erase from our memory’, he said.

Olaopa said that ‘Prof. Mabogunje personified disciplinary geography, especially as a spatial perspective, an intellectual compass and praxis for self-regeneration and for nation-building. He gave geography and its limitless nuances uncommon prominence and influence in the Nigerian policy space for decades; not just as his calling and lifelong frontier shifting mission; and, in so doing, he succeeded in binding the theoretical to the practical, in a most situated and contextualised application of its cartographic essence to the Nigerian space.’

He added that ‘Mabogunje showed himself an eternal patriot in his service to his country through the 1962 task of demarcating the enumeration areas in the preparation for the national census , and the numerous supportive surveys; from his membership of the Udoji reform commission of 1972 and contributions to institutional reforms; to DFRRI, to the conceptualisation and technical support to the implementation of the Nigeria’s community bank model; the planning of the Federal Capital Territory, the technical iterations of mortgage banking, university governance, poverty reduction, housing reform and his intellectual mentorship at the Ibadan School of Government and Public Policy (ISGPP).’

Thus, for Olaopa, contrary to the Yoruba adage that people are deified after death, Mabogunje was revered while alive as a colossus. ‘And now in death, he has become a monument’, he added.

Noting the eternal influence of Mabogunje’s ideas on governance after his death, Olaopa said: ‘With the clinical patience with which he documented in A Measure of Grace, his autobiography, his development thoughts and foresights for the emerging greater Nigeria, I can tell that his thoughts and ideas are still flowing free in the development space, not just amongst core specialists, but also policy workers and development practitioners. These eternal corpus and contributions are therefore available for perspicacious governments to tap into in time and space. This is what constitutes immortality for this colossal genius and patriot’.

The China International Business and Development Corporation (CIBDC) yesterday signed a strategic partnership agreement with some firms to strengthen and improve the eligibility of the companies to access investments in projects and develop the country’s economic sectors.

The agreement was facilitated by the Nigeria-China Investment Club (NCIC). Through this partnership, CIBDC will fast track investment by supporting the firms in accessing the resources they need to grow, create jobs and drive long term economic growth.

In his brief remark during the event held at the Kings Court in Ikeja GRA, Lagos, the president of the Nigeria-China Investment Club (NCIC), Dr. Chidi Ulelu, explained that the signing of agreement was the first phase of the strategic collaboration and investment on development projects in the critical sectors of the Nigerian economy which China is more than ready to support.

”NCIC is powered by NCIBD. We have millions of entities backed by the China government. Our objective is to attract investment opportunities from China to Nigeria in various sectors such as health, education, agriculture, banking, among others.

”Everyone that signs an agreement becomes a member of the club automatically and by November, all the firms or people whose projects have been approved will visit China to consummate the agreement.

‘In addition, we are offering 30 to 50 percent reduction in prices of goods and items from China through the entities involved in our club.

‘We need you (CIDC) to build capacity, because we need to re-invent Nigeria and we have been more than impressed with your sincerity of purpose and initiatives toward providing strategic investment that can aid growth and advancement in the projects approved notable sectors of Nigeria’s economy, ‘ Ulelu said.

HFZ Group is involved in the Itowolo Smart City project in Ikorodu, Lagos, the 2,000 electric buses and Eko Ferry projects.

On the other hand, CIBDC Group is behind the Lagos-Abuja Rail project and the construction of the 4th Mainland Bridge in Lagos.

Responding, the Chairman of HFZ, Chief Remi Folorunsho said that he was more than happy about with NCIBD on strategic investment partnership saying: ” We are going to work with you hence we are signing the agreement today. There is no regret’.

In his words, the chairman of CIBDC, Chief Kenny Martins said: ‘We are also nation builders just like China.

I am impressed with your capability and capacity to work for the growth of investment with a view to building legacy projects in Nigeria.”

In her speech, the chairperson of CIBDC, Sarah Lee said: ‘We are here to work in concert with our partners to collaborate not only on project investment but also to help in developing medical treatment, electricity infrastructure, education , agriculture digitization, shelter through eco-friendly building materials among others.

”Also, we are bringing almost the entire companies in China to build trust and teach people with skills to become entrepreneurs,” she added.

Jean-Philippe Mateta yesterday scored a hat-trick, including a stoppage-time penalty, as Crystal Palace fought back from two goals down to draw with Bournemouth in a six-goal thriller at Selhurst Park.

In an incredible finish, Mateta completed his treble in the 97th minute after Marc Guehi had been wrestled to the ground by Bournemouth’s Bafode Diakite as a left-wing corner was being taken.

There was still time for further drama but Mateta, who has now scored seven goals for the Eagles this season, blazed a potentially match-winning chance over the bar in the ninth minute of stoppage time.

Teenage striker Eli Kroupi, 19, had earlier scored twice on his first Premier League start as Bournemouth were on course for a victory that would have taken them temporarily top of the table.

Mateta scored twice in a five-minute spell to make it 2-2, before Ryan Christie restored Bournemouth’s lead in the 89th minute, but it was not enough for the victory.

It continued a great spell in Mateta’s career as he made his France debut on 10 October against Azerbaijan and then scored his first international goal three days later in a 2-2 draw with Iceland.

Palace are now eighth in the Premier League, while Bournemouth are fourth.

As Nigeria marked her Sapphire Jubilee Year recently, the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the Philippines joined other well-wishers to commemorate the event at the prestigious Dusit Thani Hotel, Makati, Metro Manila.

The event brought together a diverse mix of diplomats, host government officials, business leaders and Captains of industries, and members of the Nigerian community in a colorful celebration that reflected Nigeria’s pride, unity, and global presence.

The event was graced by Resident Ambassadors in the Philippines, Chargé d’Affaires from various Missions, members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, Representatives of International Organizations, Philippine government officials, private sector executives, captains of industries, and members of the Nigerian community, including NIDOPHIL Executives.

The atmosphere was one of unity and pride, as attendees joined in celebrating Nigeria’s resilience and achievements over the past six and a half decades.

The celebration was hosted by Mr. Adeshina Edward Oloje, the Acting Head of Mission and Chargé d’Affaires ad interim, alongside the dedicated officials of the Nigerian Embassy in Manila. In his opening remarks, Mr. Oloje warmly welcomed guests and highlighted the enduring friendship between Nigeria and the Philippines. He emphasized the Embassy’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, fostering economic collaboration, and deepening cultural understanding between both nations.

The evening featured moments of cultural exchange, inspiring speeches, and expressions of goodwill from friends and partners of Nigeria. It served as a reminder of the importance of diplomacy, collaboration, and people-to-people connections in advancing shared prosperity.

The event also showcased the vibrant Nigerian spirit that continues to inspire hope across the diaspora community in the Philippines.

In a gesture of gratitude, the Embassy extended special appreciation to its partners and sponsors who played vital roles in making the event a resounding success. Among them were:

International Container Terminal Services, Inc., DAEWOO E and C, MPL International Corporation, Ethiopian Airlines. FIR International Service Corp., Wipro Splash. Century Pacific Food, Inc., Wesley and Blessing Consultancy Inc., Highlander Overseas Manpower Employment. NIDOPhil Executives, Mindset, Management and Consultancy Services Inc.. TEAM Ministries International, Josmef Medical Corporation. Their generous support and partnership underscored the collaborative bond between Nigerian and Filipino institutions and individuals working together toward shared goals.

Highlights of the event was the singing of national anthems of Nigeria and the Philippines, welcome remarks by the Acting Head of Mission, Mr. Adeshina Edward Oloje, congratulatory remarks by the host government representative from the Department of Foreign Affairs, Assistant Secretary, Madam Germinia V. Aguilar – Usudan, video display of independence day salutation from Nigerian medical students in Gullas College of Medicine, Cebu City, official toast by Bishop Anthony Marioghae and President of NIDOPHIL, cutting of the anniversary cake and several photo sessions.

The Embassy used the event to showcase various videos of investment and tourism opportunities that abound in Nigeria to the invited guests at the ceremony. As the evening came to a close, guests were thrilled to a display of rich cultural dance performed by Nigerian students from St. Dominic Savio University in Caloocan, Philippine; taste of deep flavored Nigerian cuisines and musical display by known Nigerian Social Media Celebrities Ishaku Ishaya Isaac Monday (Sabaw) and Daniel Oluwadamilola Oke (Tugue Zombie). The event was not just a commemoration, it was a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s strength, diversity, and global relevance.

Naija Diaspora Magazine congratulates the Embassy of Nigeria in the Philippines and the entire Nigerian community for organizing such a successful and memorable celebration. May the friendship between Nigeria and the Philippines continue to flourish in peace, unity, and mutual respect.

The European Cultural Centre, Nigeria (ECC Nigeria) and the Platform for Cooperation on Mixed Migration (PCMM) have signed a landmark 15-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cultural diplomacy, promote migrant inclusion, and advance cross-continental collaboration between Africa and Europe.

The agreement establishes a long-term framework for cultural exchange, policy dialogue, migrant reintegration, youth empowerment, and creative collaboration. One of the first joint projects under this partnership is the Cultural Hangout Festival (CHF) – a flagship Afro-European event that celebrates migration through art, music, trade, and storytelling.

Speaking during the signing, Ambassador Sunny Victor Onuoha, Director of International Cooperation, and board member, ECC Nigeria, described the partnership as ‘a bridge of culture and cooperation between continents.’

Mr. Aihawu Victor, Director of PCMM and CEO of the Cultural Hangout Festival, noted that ‘migration should be seen not as a crisis, but as a story of resilience,creativity, and shared humanity.’

Both organizations will jointly implement programs that include the Migrant

Excellence Awards, youth and children’s cultural programs, and the creation of Cultural Exchange Resource Hubs.

The partnership’s first major outcome will be showcased at the Cultural Hangout Festival 2025 (CHF Abuja), holding December 12-14, 2025, in commemoration of the United Nations International Migrants Day.

Forever in Christ Evangelical and Deliverance Ministry has concluded plans to hold its 2025 Annual Convention and 15th anniversary celebration, themed, ‘Fear Thou Not, For I Am With You.’

The event, scheduled to hold on the 27th, October to 2nd, November at the church’s headquarters, Km 25, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Alapako Village, Eri City, opposite GOFAMINT Camp, Ogun State, promises to be a spiritually uplifting gathering featuring intensive prayer sessions, prophetic ministrations, and soul-stirring worship.

Speaking on the forthcoming programme, the Convener and Founder of the ministry, Prophet Israel Ajadi Eri Mbe, described the convention as a ‘life-changing encounter with God,’ where divine power will be revealed to save sinners, heal the sick, and deliver those in bondage.

He said, ‘This year’s convention is not just a celebration of 15 years of God’s faithfulness but also a prophetic season of renewal. We believe God will move mightily to transform lives and restore hope to His people.’

Among the anointed ministers expected to grace the event are the General Overseer of Christ Apostolic Church, Covenant of Mercy (Majemu Aanu), Prophet Taiwo Abel Ojo; the General Superintendent of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Nigeria and Overseas, Pastor (Dr.) J. D. Onagwa; the Founder and General Overseer of Jesus Liberation Ministries (JLM), Apostle Oladele Johnson; and the General Overseer of Weep No More Prayer Ministry, Prophetess Olubunmi Okeowo, among others.

According to Prophet Eri Mbe, the convention will also feature thanksgiving, deliverance services, and sessions of worship aimed at rekindling believers’ faith and deepening their relationship with God.