Category: The Nation – Nigeria

The Lagos State government has arrested five persons over illegal dredging and land reclamation on the Lekki shoreline.

It also sealed multiple sites in a sweeping enforcement executed by a joint ministerial task force.

The task force comprising the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, and the Lands Bureau, targeted ongoing infractions along the Lagos Lagoon.

Leading the exercise, the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Bush Alebiosu, announced the sealing of a property at 13A, Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1, over illegal reclamation and unapproved extension of its fence. He described the defiance of the owners, who allegedly ignored previous government warnings, as an act of ‘legendary audacity.’

‘This property has been sealed several times since last year, yet the owners continue construction and social activities. Today, we have returned with other ministries to enforce the law,’ Alebiosu said.

He said the culprits would be prosecuted, adding that they risk forfeiting the illegally reclaimed land.

Commissioner for Physical Planning, Dr. Olumide Oluyinka, said while the owner originally presented plans for 1,200 square metres, the reclaimed area had expanded to over 8,000 square metres.

The Chairman Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu, has felicitated President Bola Tinubu, the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and all Nigerians as the nation marks her 65 years of in independence.

Asadu, the traditional ruler of Edem Ani Ogugwu Ancient Kingdom in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, also felicitated with Enugu Governor Peter Mbah and the good people of Enugu State.

The traditional ruler conveyed his felicitations in a statement to newsmen on Tuesday in Abuja.

Asadu, also known as the Ogadagidi of Edem Ani Ogugwu ancient kingdom, extolled the unwavering spirit of Nigerians whose sacrifices and dedication continue to sustain the nation’s unity and progress.

He also hailed the courage of Nigeria’s founding fathers and celebrated the resilience and diversity that characterised the strength of the nation.

Asadu, who is the immediate past Chairman of South East Traditional Rulers, commended the ongoing efforts to reposition the economy, strengthen democratic institutions, and foster national renewal.

He urged Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to remain steadfast in love for the country, united in purpose, and committed to the shared vision of a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

Asadu, who is member Board of Trustee Council of Traditional Leaders of Africa (Nigeria Chapter), prayed for God’s wisdom, strength, and protection for President Tinubu, Governor Mbah and others at the corridors of power, as they steer the affairs of the nation and called for continued peace, equity, and development across all parts of Nigeria.

‘On behalf of Enugu State Traditional Rulers and the good people of Edem Ani Ogugwu ancient kingdom, I extend my heartfelt felicitations to His Excellencies, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Governor Peter Mbah, the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.

‘Sixty-five years ago, our beloved country attained the priceless gift of sovereignty, setting us on a journey of unity, peace, and progress.

‘Today, as we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we pay tribute to the resilience, industry, and enduring spirit of the Nigerian people whose sacrifices and hopes continue to drive our nation forward.

‘I commend the dedication to national renewal, economic transformation, and the strengthening of democratic institutions. These efforts reflect a commitment to the Nigeria of our dreams, one where equity, justice, and prosperity are shared by all.”

According to him, the anniversary is a solemn reminder that the task of nation-building belongs to every Nigerian.

‘Let us therefore remain steadfast in love for our country, united in purpose, and unwavering in our collective resolve to overcome current challenges and secure a brighter future for generations yet unborn.

‘May the Almighty God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria, guide our leaders, and grant us lasting unity and prosperity.

‘Happy 65th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria!’ Asadu said.

The Abuja Youths Forum has expressed grief over the death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, an anchor with Arise TV, who was reportedly killed during an armed robbery at her Katampe residence in the early hours of September 29.

In a statement signed by its president, Comrade Ayuba Danladi, the group described her death as a tragic loss and urged authorities to intensify efforts in addressing insecurity in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The forum stressed that the incident highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures across Abuja, adding that if such crimes could occur in Katampe, residents in other parts of the city may be at greater risk.

It called on President Bola Tinubu and the FCT administration to prioritize security and ensure that criminal elements are swiftly apprehended.

The group also extended heartfelt condolences to Maduagwu’s family and the Arise News team, urging law enforcement agencies to bring her killers to justice without delay.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and look beyond present challenges as the nation celebrates its 65th Independence Anniversary.

In his goodwill message on Tuesday, Abbas said Nigeria’s journey through a chequered history points to a brighter future of unity and prosperity.

He noted that the country is richly blessed with human and natural resources and called for collective efforts, regardless of religious, ethnic, or political differences, to build ‘a nation of our dreams.’

The Speaker expressed confidence that with the implementation of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Nigeria remains on the right path to reclaiming its position as Africa’s biggest economy.

While acknowledging current security and socio-economic challenges, Abbas urged Nigerians to remain steadfast, prayerful, and patriotic.

He assured that the 10th House of Representatives will continue to deliver accountable leadership, good governance, and dividends of democracy, especially to grassroots communities.

Abbas wished all Nigerians a happy Independence Anniversary.

Leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement in Gobirawa Ward, Dala Local Government Area of Kano State, Alh. Amadu Danfulani, on Tuesday joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Gobirawa is the largest ward in Nigeria, with the highest number of polling units in the country, it was learnt.

Alh. Danfulani said he was disappointed in the Kwankwasiyya Political Movement and its leader, Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

He added that he and thousands of his followers were not happy with the anti-people’s policies and programmes of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) that rules the state.

Danfulani’s defection ceremony was held at the Kano State APC Headquarters, located along Hotoro-Maiduguri Road.

State Chairman of the party, Abdullahi Abbas, who was represented by the APC Zonal Chairman, Kano Central, Alh Shehu Aliyu Ungoggo, and the Managing Director (MD) of Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority (HJRBDA), Rabiu Suleiman Bichi, ‘baptized’ the decampees, while receiving them.

Kano State Youths Leader who doubles as the Northwest Zonal Youths Leader, Alh. Labaran Kura, was also present to welcome the decampee and the youth accompanying him.

APC Chairman of Dala Local Government, Alh Munir Haruna, was also present to welcome Danfulani, after he was received by the Gobirawa Ward Chairman of APC.

Speaking at the occasion, Abbas, who was represented by Alh. Ungoggo, stated that the party’s doors were open to welcome members from all opposition parties willing to join the APC, provided they follow the party’s procedure, rules and regulations.

He disclosed that even the Leader of Kwankwasiyya and NNPP (Kwankwaso) was free to return to APC, if he follows the party’s due process and obeys the party’s laws, constitution and principles.

He explained that ‘Gobirawa, being the largest ward in the state and Nigeria, with the highest number of polling units, the decamping of Danfulani and thousands of NNPP members to APC is a plus for the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general election.’

Alh. Amadu Danfulani said he was happy to join the APC, promising to join hands with the MD of HJRBDA, Suleiman Bichi, and the party executives to work assiduously and deliver President Bola Tinubu and all APC candidates at the 2027 polls.

The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare and recognition of teachers in the country.

The government gave the assurance ahead of the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebrated globally every October 5 to honour teachers and recognise their vital contributions to education and society.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, alongside the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad stated this on Monday during a symposium ahead of the World Teachers Day celebration on Sunday.

The theme for the 2025 celebration is ‘Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Profession.’

The day was first proclaimed in 1994 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Education International (EI), and UNICEF, following the 1966 ILO/UNESCO recommendation concerning the status of Teachers.

Minister described teachers as the custodians of knowledge, the builders of character, and the architects of national future.

He lauded teachers as the foundation of every profession, stressing that their sacrifices keep the country alive.

Alausa said, ‘Honestly, you have the most important and the best profession in the country. Who makes a doctor? Who makes an engineer? Who makes a professor? It is the teacher. That is why the government is working assiduously to come up with better packages for you. Light is at the end of the tunnel.

‘For too long, teaching has often been practiced in isolation. But when teachers collaborate, students are the ultimate beneficiaries. They receive richer, more engaging instruction and witness firsthand the power of teamwork and shared responsibility.’

He further assured teachers that the government was determined to provide the recognition, training, and support they needed to thrive.

‘When you want the highest quality of education, what do you need? A high-quality teacher. And when you want a high-quality teacher, what should you do? Give them the recognition, the support, the training, and the cooperation that they need,’ he added.

The Minister commended teachers for producing world-class graduates who continue to excel globally.

‘Anywhere in the world, when they say a Nigerian student becomes a professional, they do so well. That’s the output of your work. We know we can’t pay you enough, but be proud of yourselves. On behalf of the President, I commend you for your sacrifices, your diligence, and your commitment to building our nation,’ he added.