Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

No fewer than 850 Nigerian students are currently schooling in various universities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, The Nation learnt.

No fewer than 3,200 Nigerians have so far graduated from the country’s universities in the last one decade.

Vice President for Educational and Academic Affairs, King Khalid University, Prof. Saad M. Bin Dajem, disclosed this yesterday at the opening of the Forum of Saudi Arabia Universities Alumni in Nigeria and Neighboring Countries.

The forum, which was held in Abuja, has as theme: ‘Alumni of Saudi universities in the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Surrounding countries and their impact on sustainable development.’

Dajem said: ‘In Saudi Arabia, there are more than 850 students from this country (Nigeria) studying in Saudi Universities.

‘Already, since decades, there are more than 3,200 graduates from Nigeria. Now, in study, there are almost 850 in progress of study.’

He said his country is open to admitting more Nigerians to study in their universities, adding that prospective students from Nigeria will be given acceptable rate.

‘We are actually proud to accept more Nigerian students in our university in different disciplines, education, engineering, science, Arabic language, religious studies and medical sector. Hopefully, we will arrange a good acceptance rate for this country because it contributes a huge number of population to the African continent,’ he added.

He also revealed that his country has a scholarship scheme, which is available to all irrespective of religion.

The Khalid University don said scholarships are for both Muslims and non-Muslims.

He said: ‘According to our regulation, admission will be accessible to all even scholarships.

‘And we have King Abdullah University for Science and Technology, most of the scholarships for students are for Muslims and non-Muslims as well. And King Fahd University for Mineral and Petroleum also employs and accepts students from all cultures, all religions, all continents,’ he added.

Speaking on the forum, the don said it is to open communication with alumni from the universities and see how they are impacting on their environment.

He said: ‘We found them very active and we expect that when they come back to their country, they will contribute to sustainable development, either for personal living or in the country.’

On the prospect of Nigerian graduates in Saudi Arabia, Dajem said graduates who wish to pursue higher degrees after their first degree are allowed to continue and also those whose skills are needed stand the chance to be employed.

‘Actually, when they graduated from Saudi university, they could continue their higher studies in Master or PhD. And if they are well-qualified, they will be hired by the university as a professor.

Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, in her opening remarks, lauded the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its long-standing commitment to educational cooperation and cultural institutions with Nigeria.

Dr. Ahmad said: ‘Such partnerships enrich our human capital and strengthen bilateral ties for mutual good. As we celebrate this gathering, I urge the alumni to continue to serve as ambassadors of knowledge, peace and development.

‘Your role in mentoring young Nigerians, advancing intercultural understanding and contributing to national development cannot be overstated. The Federal Ministry of Education will continue to support initiatives that harness alumni network for national advancement, for educational advancement and sustainable nation building.’

She also recognised the invaluable contributions of Nigerian alumni of Saudi universities to the national growth, peace, education, culture and development of the country.

She added: ‘Beyond academic achievement, you embody the bridge of friendship, cooperation and shared values between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Education, as we know, is the bedrock of progress.

On his part, Secretary of the Alumni, Dr. Mohamed Munir Ilyas, who was a graduate of Islamic University of Medina, said since returning home, he has been contributing towards peaceful co-existence between the two major religious groups in Nigeria.

He stressed: ‘Of course, when you look at development, where there is no peace, it’s very hard to have development. We have been encouraging our members to be law-abiding citizens and peacemakers, peace builders and peace keepers also. And also to make an impact as far as academics is concerned, as far as moral is concerned, as far as even earning livelihood is concerned.’

?Amaju Melvin Pinnick, the Deputy Chair of the FIFA Men’s National Teams Competitions Committee, has congratulated the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Musa Gusau; legal luminary Abdulhakeem Mustapha (SAN) and seasoned football executive Ayishat ‘Aisha’ Falode on their appointments to key FIFA Standing Committees.

?In a landmark development that solidifies Nigeria’s influence in global football governance, these appointments place Nigerian expertise at the heart of FIFA’s decision-making structure: Gusau joins the FIFA Men’s Club Competitions Committee. Mustapha has been appointed to the Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Committee while Falode takes a seat on the Media and Communications Committee.

??As the Deputy Chair of the committee that oversees the organization and management of all FIFA Men’s National Team Competitions, Pinnick commended the trio for their recognition, describing it as ‘a reflection of Nigeria’s strategic relevance and intellectual capital within the international football community.’

?He expressed particular admiration for Aisha Falode, noting her trailblazing achievements in sports journalism, women’s football administration and media leadership.

?’I am deeply honoured by my continued service within FIFA and humbled to work alongside Robert Harrison, Chair of the Men’s National Teams Competitions Committee,’ Pinnick said.?’I wholeheartedly congratulate President Gusau, Abdulhakeem Mustapha, SAN, and Aisha Falode on their well-deserved appointments. Together, we represent a new era of professionalism, integrity, and innovation for Nigerian football on the world stage.’

?Pinnick further praised each appointee for their individual contributions to the game:?’To President Gusau, your steady and unifying leadership continues to uplift Nigerian football.

?’Abdulhakeem Mustapha, SAN, your integrity and intellect will strengthen FIFA’s stand against discrimination and injustice in the sport.

?’Aisha Falode, your evolution from journalist to global football executive inspires countless women across Africa. I am proud to serve alongside you all as we advance Nigeria’s legacy within FIFA,’ he noted.

?Ayishat ‘Aisha’ Falode’s appointment is particularly historic, as she continues to break barriers for women in African football administration. ?The former Chairperson of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) holds the distinction of being the first female member of CAF’s Media and Communications Committee. This trailblazing record, coupled with her tireless championing of visibility, professionalism, and equity in the sport, cements her place among Africa’s foremost voices in football governance. Her inclusion on FIFA’s Media and Communications Committee is no doubt a momentous step.

The controversy over alleged certificate forgery by Innovation, Science and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, raged yesterday with the minister and his lawyer insisting that he graduated from the University of Nigeria(UNN), Nsukka, Enugu State

While Nnaji told reporters in Abuja that his name was duly captured in UNN’s convocation brochure as part of the 1985 graduating class, his lawyer, Sebastian Hon, accused an online newspaper that made the allegation of scandalising his client by ignoring court orders.

Robert Ngwu, an aide of the minister, spoke for him at a news conference in Abuja. Hon, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria(SAN), carpeted the online publication at a Federal High Court(FHC) also in Abuja.

Nnaji had, in September, sought an order of mandamus from the court compelling UNN and its officials to release his academic records to him.

He also asked the court to order the Minister of Education, Morufu Alausa and the National University Commission (NUC) to exercise their supervisory powers to compel UNN to release his transcript.

Besides, the Education minister and NUC, others listed as defendants in the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1909/2025 are the UNN, its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Ortuanya; the Registrar, a former acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Oguenjiofor Ujam and the Senate of the university.

On September 22, Judge H.J. Yilwa granted some of the minister’s prayers but did not issue any injunctive order against the defendants. She adjourned to October 6 (yesterday) for further hearing.

The matter was, however, stalled due to the inability of the lawyer to the UNN and its officers to file their responses.

I graduated from UNN in 1985, says Minister

At the news conference where his aide made available via WhatsApp, two pages of the university’s 1985 convocation brochure, Nnaji is listed as number five on one page. His picture is number 17 on the second page.

But Ngwu did not say why his boss did not go for his certificate 40 years after graduation.

He said the minister is a proud UNN alumnus who obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology/Biochemistry, Second Class (Honours) Lower Division.

Describing the controversy as a case of political desperation disguised as academic inquiry, Ngwu said, apart from the 1985 convocation brochure, the university’s registry confirmed that Nnaji’s academic history was not in doubt.

According to him, the only valid and authentic communication issued by the university regarding the minister’s academic record is a letter dated December 21, 2023, signed by Mrs I.A.S. Onyeador on behalf of the Registrar, Dr Celine Nnebedum.

According to him, the letter explicitly confirmed that ”Mr Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji, with registration number 1981/30725, was admitted in 1981 to study Microbiology/Biochemistry and graduated in July 1985 with a Bachelor of Science, Second Class (Honours) Lower Division.”

‘This remains the official position of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, properly stamped, duly issued, and still valid,’ he emphasised.

Ngwu expressed shock that nearly two years after the university’s official confirmation, another letter emerged in May 2025, purportedly denying the existence of the minister’s records.

He questioned the timing and motive of the new claim, noting that it coincided with the emergence of two card-carrying members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as Acting Vice-Chancellor and later substantive Vice-Chancellor of the university.

‘The question every well-meaning Nigerian should ask is: what changed between December 2023 and May 2025 apart from the change in leadership at the University? Ngwu asked.

The minister’s aide explained that alleged attempts within the university to tamper with the academic file of his boss necessitated the suit at the FHC.

He said that on September 22, 2025, the court not only issued protective orders restraining UNN management from altering the minister’s records but mandated it to immediately release his academic transcript.

‘These are not speculative claims. They are certified orders of the Federal High Court, which should have settled the matter once and for all,’ Ngwu added.

He lamented that instead of complying with the court’s directives, the Vice-Chancellor, who is a lawyer by training, allegedly resorted to cyber-bullying and politically-motivated media campaigns against the minister.

Ngwu alleged that the controversy was fuelled by a coordinated attempt to tarnish the image of a reputable public servant for political gain.

He blamed a governor, whose name he did not give, of being behind the saga

The governor, according to him, wants to remove his boss as the APC leader in the state to enhance his (governor ) second-term ambition.

His words: ‘It is no coincidence that the so-called exposés are being driven by partisan actors and amplified by certain media outlets like Premium Times.

‘This is a deliberate campaign to weaponise institutions and discredit a serving minister committed to national innovation and development.

‘It is increasingly clear that this entire episode is not about education or integrity-it is about political desperation, disguised as academic inquiry.

”The timing, the sources, the false documents, and the paid narratives all point to a coordinated campaign to drag a reputable public servant into the mud of partisan politics.

‘UNN must uphold its proud motto of restoring the dignity of man. It must regain its integrity by distancing itself from political manipulation and reaffirming the authenticity of its own official record.

”This is not about one man’s record-it is about protecting truth, preserving institutional honour, and ensuring that no university in Nigeria ever becomes a pawn in partisan politics.

‘The minister will not be distracted by falsehoods or propaganda. He will continue to serve with integrity, dedication and focus.’

Judge adjourns minister’s suit till Nov.10

During yesterday’s proceedings, Nnaji’s lawyer, Hon, told the court that all the parties in the suit had been served with the necessary court documents.

The Dolphin Swimming League has recorded a surge in participation with over 20 schools and clubs confirming their entry for Season 7 of the prestigious inter-school swimming tournament.

The new season kicks off with Grange School hosting the opening leg on Saturday, October 11.

Widely regarded as a grooming ground for Nigeria’s top swimming talents, the league continues to produce athletes who represent the country at continental and international competitions. Many of its alumni also made a strong impact at the recently concluded National Youth Games in Delta State.

Organised by Dynaspro Sports Promotion in collaboration with Advanta Interactive, the tournament is officially sanctioned by the Nigeria Aquatic Federation, Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF), and the Lagos State Swimming Association.

For season 7, confirmed teams for the elementary category include Grange School, Riverbank School, Lagos Preparatory Secondary School (LPSS), Children International School (CIS), Greensprings School Lagos, Boken Aquatics Club, Meadow Hall, Temple School, C – Tribe Club, Corona Schools, St Saviour’s School Ikoyi, Foreshore School Ikoyi, Makosail Swimming Academy and Damswimm Academy.

The participating teams in the secondary division are Grange School, Riverbank School, Lagoon School, Whitesands School, James Hope School, Boken Aquatics Club, CIS, LPSS, British International School, Corona Schools, Atlantic Hall, C – Tribe Club, Meadow Hall, Greensprings School Lagos, Temple School, Makosail Swimming Academy and Damswimm Academy.

According to Oluseyi Oyebode, CEO of Dynaspro Sports Promotion, the impressive turnout reflects the league’s reputation for transparency and excellence over the past six years.

‘We’re thrilled that schools and clubs are embracing the vision behind this tournament. Our goal is to produce Olympic champions. We know the talent is there-we need to nurture it and inspire these young athletes to aim high.’

He explained that separating the elementary and secondary divisions was a strategic move to improve organisation and ensure swimmers compete fairly without being rushed due to multiple event schedules.

‘This structure allows us to manage the competition better and allows each swimmer to perform at their best.’

With Sosa Fruit Drink now on board as the official sponsor, Oyebode expressed optimism about attracting more corporate partners and supporters to help expand the league nationally.

‘The involvement of Sosa Fruit Drink is a big step forward. We’re confident that more well-meaning individuals and organisations will join us in building a truly national platform for swimming development.’

Acting Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Yinka Iyabiyi, at FirstBank, has said the bank will continue to drive initiatives that enhance creative culture in the country.

He spoke at the E1 Lagos GP, which ended on Sunday, noting that the vision of FirstBank as sponsors was to champion a movement celebrating global ideas and innovations that are sustainable and unleash the ‘unstoppable Vybes of Lagos’ onto the global stage.

The E1 series, held in Africa for the first time was a calculated effort by the state as well as the financial backing of several brands, led by FirstBank.

With the success of the all-electric powerboat racing competition in Africa, Ijabiyi noted it was a testimony the brand was not only driving every initiative that prosper the state, but would transform its coastline into global reckoning.

The teams include Aoki Racing Team, Team Alula, championed by LeBron James, Team Blue Rising, Team Brady, owned by Tom Brady, Team Brazil by Claure Group, Team Drogba, owned by Didier Drogba, Team Miami, powered by Magnus, and Team Rafa, owned by Rafael Nadal.

Each team had two pilots sharing driving duties, with regulations requiring a mixed-gender pilot line-up to ensure equal opportunities. While the championship features celebrity-backed owners and has nine competing teams, the core team for racing consists of these two pilots.

The supercharged electric boats are referred to as RaceBirds, which is the name of the one-design electric foiling boat used in UIM E1 World Championship.

Attendees were in various locations overseeing Lagos Lagoon. The fan zone, between Black Diamond Hotel and Oriental Hotel, had several activities.

Other notable viewing venues include Lagos Boat Club, Oriental Hotel, Black Diamond Hotel and an undisclosed location on Oyinkan Abayomi Drive in Ikoyi.

The Controller, Seme Area Command of Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, yesterday said that multiple checkpoints along Lagos Badagry expressway are tarnishing Nigeria’s image.

Adenuga said this at a Stakeholders Engagement with security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, business partners, customs agents and youth in Seme.

According to Adenuga, with support of the Comptroller General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi, the service will not rest until the checkpoints are reduced to the barest minimum on the corridor.

‘The time wasting along Lagos Badagry expressway is disturbing. You will see many vehicles queuing for checking by security operatives. It is embarrassing to see as much as 10 immigration checkpoints, 20 Police checkpoints 15 customs points doing same work along the expressway. Enough is enough, we should have the fear of God in our hearts. I will not rest until I achieve this,’ he said.

Adenuga said the engagement was designed to create a frank platform for dialogue among key players in border operations, with the goal of enhancing trade facilitation and security.

He emphasised the need for collective honesty and cooperation among stakeholders to address the challenges bedeviling the border axis.

‘We need to tell ourselves the bitter truth. The more we facilitate legitimate trade, the better for our country. When trade thrives, crime reduces,’ he said.

Group Capt. M. Medugu, Nigeria Air Force Forward Operations Base at Ahanve, Badagry, speaking on behalf of military formations in the area, assured the controller that the military would support customs in fulfillment of the tasks.

Meanwhile, Chief Tunde Giro, the Depegan of Badagry kingdom, representing Akran of Badagry, said youths in Badagry had been planning to protest on excesses of security agencies on the expressway.

Giro said the operatives along the corridor are causing unnecessary delay and extorting citizens, urging the controller to arrest the situation.

Chief Joseph Agoro, a community leader in Apa, Badagry, decried the persistence of unwholesome practices along the Seme route and urged security agencies and border communities to unite in tackling the issue.

According to Agoro, actions of the operatives are tarnishing Nigeria’s image and hindering regional commerce.

The community leader said that majority of the fight and quarrels on the border corridor is caused by camp boys recruited by security agencies along the border route.

Alhaji Yusuf Bashir, the Community Development Committee (CDC) Badagry-West Local Council Development Area, urged customs to support the community with infrastructural projects.

Speaking earlier, the Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic, Mr Olukayode Aluko, represented by the Defense Attache, Col. S. Yahaya, assured that the takeaways from the meeting would be fully implemented.

Allocation to states have increased by over 111 per cent, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Olawale Edun said yesterday.

He said: ‘States are now awash with cash’, adding that the additional funds empower states to drive growth and service delivery at the sub-national level.

Speaking during a session titled: ‘The Reform Imperative: Building a Prosperous and Inclusive Nigeria by 2030’ at the ongoing 31st Nigerian Economic Summit (#NES31) in Abuja, Edun identified exchange rate unification and fuel subsidy removal as the most significant reforms, freeing up about five per cent of Nigeria’s GDP into the Federation Account.

The minister said the government had reached an agreement with the National Assembly to ensure timely budget execution and restore adherence to the normal fiscal calendar.

He said: ‘No more extensions of budget into the next year, which has created so much confusion in the system.

‘We have talked to the National Assembly and agreed to restore normalcy in that space.’

The minister explained that consistent and disciplined budget implementation is key to transparency, better project delivery, and credible public expenditure tracking.

Budgets 2024 and 2025 are simultaneously running and there is the likelihood of the extension of Budget 2025 till 2026 given the late commencement of its implementation.

On debt management, Edun said the government is adopting a new borrowing mix to reduce exposure to Eurobonds and other external loans.

‘The government will make greater use of Sukuk, green bonds, and diaspora bonds instead of Eurobonds,’ he said.

He noted that this strategy would expand domestic investment participation while aligning debt issuance with Nigeria’s sustainable development goals.

Edun also said that fiscal transparency has significantly improved, revealing that ‘it was not until August 1 this year that the Federal Government had full visibility of its accounts with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).’

He added: ‘We are determined to bring all Federal Government funds into visibility. There is a lot of government money lying outside the CBN.’

To strengthen financial accountability, Edun said a new federal billing system had been launched to track payments for goods and services.

The system, he said, ensures that every transaction is traceable and accurately captured.

On inflation, the minister said government interventions began with deliberate fiscal policy adjustments and smarter spending priorities.

DMO: Focus on revenue, not just debt size

Director-General of the Debt Management Office (DMO), Ms. Patience Oniha, said that Nigeria’s public debt level remains sustainable, stressing that the real challenge lies in revenue generation, not debt accumulation.

‘When people talk about Nigeria’s debt-to-GDP ratio, they often forget that the international benchmark for countries like ours is about 70 per cent,’ she explained.

‘At 40 per cent, Nigeria remains below that threshold.’

Ms Oniha noted that the critical issue is the debt service-to-revenue ratio, which determines how much of the nation’s income goes into paying debts.

‘If a large portion of revenue goes to debt service, less will be left for development projects,’ she said.

Ms Oniha emphasised that raising revenue is the most effective way to manage debt sustainably.

‘The focus should be on growing revenue so that the debt service-to-revenue ratio can be lower,’ she said.

‘When revenues rise significantly, the rate of borrowing will slow down, and the government can service debts conveniently while still funding critical projects.’

She added that all debt servicing provisions are integrated into the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and the national budget, ensuring predictability and transparency in Nigeria’s debt strategy.

Both Edun and Ms Oniha agreed that ongoing fiscal reforms – including stronger revenue mobilisation, transparent spending, and disciplined borrowing – are crucial to achieving a stable and inclusive economy by 2030.

Bagudu: we will implement development plans

Bagudu said Nigeria’s next National Development Plan (NDP 2026-2030), guided by the Nigeria Agenda 2050, targets a $1 trillion GDP by 2030.

He said achieving this goal would require an average annual GDP growth rate of 8.78 percent, a 17.18 percent manufacturing contribution to GDP, and a 24.78 percent manufactured export share by 2030.

He said: ‘The process of developing the NDP 2026-2030 will be consultative, participatory, and inclusive. We will involve the private sector, state and local governments, political parties, civil society organizations, labour unions, and other key stakeholders.’

The minister explained that the Renewed Hope Ward-Based Development Programme would be one of the key focus areas of the summit.

He described it as ‘an ambitious, people-centred initiative designed to uplift economically active citizens and ensure that ordinary Nigerians, particularly those at the grassroots, directly feel the positive impact of government reforms.’

Fed Govt mobilising 49% of $2b fibre optic investment

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijjani, said that the Federal Government is mobilising 49 per cent of Nigeria’s $2 billion fibre optic network project to deepen broadband access nationwide.

Speaking at a session hosted by IHS Towers, Tijjani said the project will connect every state, local government, and ward with fibre infrastructure.

‘For Nigerians to have connectivity, we must invest in fibre optic networks, which will cost about $2 billion,’ he said. ‘Government is bringing 49 per cent, and the private sector will provide the rest.’

Tijjani said improving broadband access could raise national GDP by 2.5 per cent for every 10 per cent increase in connectivity.

He noted that 11 states have already eliminated Right of Way (RoW) charges, facilitating faster deployment.

Beyond broadband, Tijjani said the government is integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and innovation policies to position Nigeria as a digital hub.

IHS Nigeria CEO Mohamad Darwish added that bridging the digital divide will require ‘massive investments in broadband coverage, innovation, and talent.’

He stressed that public-private partnerships and digital literacy programs are essential to ‘unlock productivity, drive growth, and position Nigeria as a future-ready economy.’

NESG urges focus on job creation

NESG Chairman Niyi Yusuf advised that Nigeria’s next phase of reform must focus on job creation, productivity, and inclusive growth.

‘The challenge before us is to move decisively into the consolidation phase, embedding reforms in ways that drive jobs, growth, and inclusion, while simultaneously laying the foundations for long-term transformation that secures prosperity for every Nigerian,’ Yusuf said.

He stated that while past policies had concentrated on macroeconomic stabilisation, the time has come to translate those efforts into sustained job creation and real improvements in living standards.

NESG advised that Nigeria needed to create at least 4.5 million jobs annually for five years to curtail rising unemployment.

The group, in a report titled: ‘From Hustle to Decent Work: Unlocking Jobs and Productivity for Economic Transformation in Nigeria,’ stated that the nation’s working-age population could expand to 168 million within the decade.

It warned that without decisive action, unemployment and underemployment could double by the end of the decade, trapping millions of Nigerians in low-skilled, low-paying, and vulnerable work.

According to the NESG, the future of Nigeria’s workforce depends on how quickly the country can move from a ‘hustle economy’ dominated by informal activities to one that delivers decent and productive employment.

NESG Senior Economist Wilson Erumebor, who presented the report, said the job crisis in the country has gone beyond employment numbers to a fundamental development challenge.

‘This is not just a labour market issue; it is a huge development challenge. Without decisive reforms to create decent and productive jobs, an entire generation risks being trapped in vulnerable work that neither lifts families out of poverty nor moves the nation forward,’ he warned.

‘The weak private sector capacity and reliance on the government for wage employment in some states have left millions of Nigerians with the option of finding work in the informal economy,’ he said.

‘The informal sector has become the default employer, absorbing a significant share of the country’s workforce.’

Nigeria is in talks with the Export-Import Bank of China for a $2 billion loan to fund a new super grid intended to address the nation’s persistent power shortages. The plan, confirmed yesterday in Abuja by Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, is designed to boost the country’s electricity supply and reduce power outages.

‘It’s part of plans to decentralize power generation in Nigeria’ and get the heavy commercial users that left the power grid because of its unreliability to return, he said.

The loan is designated for the construction of a super grid. The new power line is intended to decentralize electricity generation and increase supply to industrial zones in both eastern and western Nigeria.

The financing for the project has already been approved by Nigeria’s cabinet.

The loan is part of a broader strategy by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to transform the power sector. Other recent efforts include: securing $1.1 billion from the African Development Bank (AfDB) for electricity access; obtaining $70 million from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for mini-grid projects; sealing a $328.8 million deal with a Chinese firm, CMEC, to improve electricity transmission infrastructure.

In October 2023, the Federal Government had signed a $2 billion Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with three Chinese firms to invest in the power generation and digital economy sectors.

There have also been other, unrelated agreements for maritime investment and other infrastructure projects that have been mistaken for the recent power loan.

In late 2024, China and Nigeria renewed a separate $2 billion currency-swap arrangement to boost trade and investment between the two nations.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) are collaborating to promote credible elections and strengthen democratic institutions across Africa.

As part of the collaboration, NEBE, alongside the Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organisations for Elections (CECOE), led by NEBE’s Deputy Chairman Tesfaye Neway, was at the INEC office in Abuja on a working visit.

Receiving the delegation, the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, underscored the importance of inter-institutional cooperation in improving electoral governance across the continent.

He said: ‘INEC and NEBE share similar constitutional responsibilities. Over the next week, we will share various aspects of the Nigerian experience in conducting elections, including innovations in technology, inclusivity, and stakeholder engagement.

‘This visit is happening at a time voter registration is ongoing in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) ahead of the February 2026 FCT Area Council Elections, giving our guests the chance to observe real-time voter registration.’

Yakubu expressed appreciation to the German Agency for International Development in Ethiopia for facilitating the visit.

The INEC chairman assured the delegation of a meaningful and interactive engagement.

On behalf of the delegation, Neway highlighted the significance of the visit in fostering mutual learning and strengthening electoral institutions across Africa.

‘Our presence here is part of an experience and exposure visit aimed at building strategic partnerships between our institutions. We believe democracy grows stronger when institutions learn from one another

‘We hope to learn from Nigeria’s innovations in voter registration, electoral technology, civic education, and stakeholder engagement while also sharing the challenges we face, such as electoral violence and misinformation,’ he said.

CECOE’s Executive Director, Abera Hailemariam, said there was a need for continued collaboration between the civil society and electoral bodies, particularly in strengthening voter education efforts.

‘We value this partnership and look forward to deeper cooperation between NEBE and INEC, with support from development partners. We are especially interested in how Nigeria conducts voter education in diverse languages,’ Hailemariam said.

The Freedom Apostolic Revival International Ministry (FARIM), led by Prophet Samuel Adebayo Ojo-popularly known as Baba Authority, marked its 20th anniversary in a vibrant and spiritually charged celebration that drew thousands of worshippers and high-profile guests from across Nigeria and abroad.

Held under the theme ‘New Glory’, the week-long commemoration took place at FARIM’s headquarters in Ibadan, Oyo State, and featured a series of revival services, worship concerts, crossover vigils, and prophetic ministrations.

The event, which began on Sunday, September 28, reached its climax on Sunday, October 4, 2025, with a grand thanksgiving service attended by prominent religious leaders and government officials.

Among the dignitaries present was the Ondo Commissioner for Information, who represented Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, alongside several other senior public figures, ministers of the gospel, and traditional rulers.

In his address during the final service, Prophet Ojo expressed heartfelt gratitude for the ministry’s two-decade journey, describing it as ‘a testimony of grace, obedience, and divine faithfulness.’

He praised his congregation, spiritual sons and daughters, and ministry partners for their enduring support.

‘Twenty years of consistent revival, deliverance, and prophetic fulfilment could only be by the mercy of God,’ he said.

‘This is not just an anniversary-it’s the beginning of New Glory for FARIM and for everyone connected to this altar.’

The celebrations were marked by dynamic praise and worship, electrifying musical performances, and emotionally moving testimonies.

Live-streamed visuals captured packed auditoriums filled with worshippers, hands lifted in reverence, vibrant choir renditions, coordinated dance troupes, and immersive lighting and stage design that underscored the scale and spiritual atmosphere of the event.

A rotating line-up of ministers and worship leaders joined Prophet Ojo throughout the week, delivering messages of revival, breakthrough, and renewal. Special crossover sessions, including midnight-to-morning worship services, were also held to symbolically usher participants into a new season of divine manifestation.

Guests and attendees lauded Prophet Ojo’s leadership and legacy, describing him as a figure of ‘uncommon prophetic grace’ whose ministry has extended beyond national borders through evangelistic crusades, humanitarian initiatives, and spiritual mentorship.

As FARIM enters its third decade, Prophet Sam Ojo reaffirmed the ministry’s mission to continue fostering revival, prophetic insight, and spiritual transformation across Nigeria and the global church comm