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Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has emphasized the need for academics to expand their roles beyond traditional teaching.

The Governor was addressing a gathering of educators and higher education stakeholders at the Higher Education Stakeholders Forum at Women’s Development Center, Awka, on Wednesday.

During his speech, Governor Soludo challenged the notion of academia as a secluded profession solely focused on teaching.

He stated, ‘As academics, you cannot afford the secluded prestige thing of just teaching. You must have the capacity to multi-task.’

He pointed out the importance of integrating teaching, research, and community service into the academic framework, placing particular emphasis on the latter, which he referred to as ‘more important.’

Highlighting the challenges faced by educational institutions in a developing country context, Governor Soludo expressed his belief that it is still possible for educators to excel across multiple domains.

‘You can multitask and still excel in all sectors,’ he asserted, urging attendees to recognize their potential to impact society positively.

The governor issued a ‘call to action,’ encouraging educators to move beyond merely producing articles and research.

‘These contributions are necessary but not sufficient,’ he remarked, stressing the importance of translating academic knowledge into practical applications that can address societal needs.

Concluding, Governor Soludo offered words of encouragement, acknowledging the wealth of talent and innovative ideas present among the academic community.

‘A lot of you have a lot of brilliant things to do,’ he said, inspiring attendees to embrace their roles in driving social change, promising to continue to contribute his bit in developing Anambra state across sectors.

In a compelling keynote address, Barr. Osita Chidoka tackled the critical intersection of education and development in Nigeria, emphasizing the imperative for Anambra State to remain steadfast in its course under Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s leadership.

He noted the imminent changes on the global horizon, asserting that ‘the world is about to change,’ and highlighted Governor Soludo’s understanding of this pivotal moment.

Chidoka stated that success is not a matter of luck but rather a result of focus and perseverance, urging stakeholders to harness these qualities in their efforts to advance education.

Barr. Chidoka also framed education as a fundamental justice issue rather than a mere charity initiative, calling for a collective recommitment to the educational transformation already underway in the state.

He stressed the importance of investing in education as a vital component of sustainable development, advocating for another four-year commitment under Governor Soludo to deepen the ongoing changes in the state.

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Professor Kate Omenugha, emphasized the importance of introspection within the current educational landscape.

She noted that education and politics are intricately connected, highlighting the significance of leadership in guiding affairs. ‘Who is at the helm of affairs is important,’ she stated, underscoring the responsibility of educators to actively participate as leaders of thought.

Professor Omenugha called for a collective effort to ‘build, not destroy,’ stressing the need for a constructive approach that will benefit future generations.

Prof Casimir Ani also lent his voice in supporting the educational revolution Governor Soludo has brought to bear in the education sector.

He called on the members of the academic community, and indeed, ndi Anambra to continue to support Governor Soludo as the State gears up for Governorship election come November 8th, 2025

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to strengthen the education sector through massive investment in infrastructure, improved welfare for students, and renewed emphasis on technical and vocational training.

Addressing student leaders from tertiary institutions across the state during a meeting held at the Governor’s Office, Akure, Aiyedatiwa commended the students for maintaining peace and order, noting that their cooperation had brought unprecedented stability to the state’s education sector.

The governor commended the conduct of the students in the state as a reflection of maturity and understanding, saying, ‘Since I became governor, there has been no student unrest as it were. You have engaged clearly without any form of violent agitation,

He acknowledged the economic difficulties confronting citizens due to national economic reforms, but assured them that the hardship was temporary.

According to him, the policies of the Federal Government were already beginning to yield results that would ultimately strengthen the economy.

‘It’s a temporary hardship that is easing up. The reforms are yielding results and benefits, and they are making the economy better. If these reforms had not been implemented, Nigeria would have been worse off today,’ he explained.

He emphasised that his administration had placed education at the heart of its development agenda, with ongoing projects designed to improve learning environments and ensure safety, citing the reconstruction of the Akungba-Ikare road, a major route linking two university towns, as an example of a project inspired by student and community safety concerns.

‘We had to reconstruct that road because of the high rate of accidents near Akungba University. It’s a technical road, but we’ve started it and we will complete it,’ he assured.

Beyond infrastructure, Aiyedatiwa said the government was exploring partnerships to tackle student accommodation challenges, noting that public funds alone could not address all educational needs.

‘Government cannot provide everything. Resources are limited. That’s why we are calling on investors to build hostels for students on or near campuses. It’s a viable venture that will also enhance student security.’

He also pledged quick intervention in the electricity crisis at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), promising that his government would engage relevant agencies to restore power supply and improve academic productivity.

To further ease students’ mobility and encourage learning, the governor announced the approval of five new buses for student bodies across tertiary institutions, with plans to increase the number in the coming months.

The governor reiterated his administration’s renewed focus on technical and vocational education, describing it as a cornerstone of Ondo State’s industrial future.

He explained that as new industries emerge, there will be greater demand for skilled manpower, and the government was positioning young people to fill those roles.

‘We are paying more attention to technical education. Investors are coming, and they will need skilled labour. We want our students to be ready to take advantage of these opportunities,’ he said.

Aiyedatiwa, however, pledged to continue prioritising the welfare of students and investing in youth development and said his government sees young people as partners in progress, not subjects of control, adding that sustainable development begins with well-educated and empowered youth.

‘Education remains the bedrock of development. We will keep investing in our schools and in our students, because the future of Ondo State depends on them,’ he affirmed.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Segun Omoyofunmi, commended the governor’s youth-friendly policies and described Aiyedatiwa as a ‘listening leader’ who engages young people not just for politics but for genuine development.

He lauded the governor for doubling bursary and scholarship payments for the first time in the state’s history and initiating the state’s under-17 football competition as part of broader youth empowerment.

Similarly, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Students’ Affairs, Comrade Kelvin Solomon Olaolu (KSO), commended the governor for what he called ‘calm but effective leadership,’ which has promoted peace among the student community.

‘In the history of student unionism in this state, we have maintained peace and order because of your leadership style. You have been a father to us, and we appreciate your efforts in increasing bus allocations and extending support to private institutions,’ he noted.

The student leaders also seized the occasion to outline key challenges confronting tertiary institutions, including transportation, accommodation, security, and electricity.

President of the Niger Delta Students’ Union, Comrade Martins Ayemoluwa, called on the government to view the Niger Delta region as a hub for innovation rather than just oil exploration, urging investment in solar energy and the establishment of a marine science project.

The Chairperson of the National Female Students Association of Nigeria (NAFSAN), Ondo chapter, Comrade Precious Ikuenomore, appealed to the governor to prioritise female safety, especially for students residing far from campus.

‘Many of our hostels are located far from the University of Medical Sciences campus. We need government intervention to ensure our safety,’ she said.

The NANS JCC Chairman, Comrade Mayomi Adekanye, praised the governor’s developmental strides but urged consistency in addressing student concerns, while NAOSS President, Comrade Temitope Alade, called for the establishment of campus security outposts and the revival of NDDC scholarship programmes.

NAUS Chairman, Comrade Adegoriola Abejoye, applauded the governor for fulfilling about 80 per cent of previous promises, urging the timely delivery of buses, more road repairs, and employment opportunities for student stakeholders.

Dignitaries present included the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Commissioner for Education, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun; Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo, SAN; and several senior aides.

Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed concern over the persistent wave of violence and insecurity across the country, especially the targeted attacks on Christian communities in parts of Northern Nigeria.

In a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN said the ongoing violence and destruction of lives and worship centres have become painful reminders of the urgent need for government and security agencies to act decisively to protect every citizen, regardless of region or religion.

CAN affirmed that Christian communities have continued to bear the brunt of religiously motivated attacks, leading to widespread displacement, trauma, and destruction of places of worship.

It lamented that despite several appeals for justice and protection, the response from relevant authorities has often been met with delay or denial.

‘Our concern remains that these cries for justice and protection are too often met with delay or denial. We therefore renew our call on government and security agencies to take urgent, transparent, and equitable action to end the killings,’ Okoh said.

According to the statement, CAN has consistently worked to draw both national and international attention to the plight of persecuted Christians in Nigeria.

The Christian apex body noted that it has established mechanisms for documenting religiously motivated killings, engaged with international partners, petitioned the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, and collaborated with global Christian organisations such as the World Evangelical Alliance and the Lausanne Movement.

‘These sustained efforts, demonstrate our consistent advocacy for justice, peace, and the protection of Christian communities under threat’, CAN noted.

While acknowledging the ongoing efforts of government and security agencies in responding to security challenges, CAN urged authorities to redouble their efforts toward ensuring equitable protection for all citizens and bringing perpetrators of violence swiftly to justice.

‘The pain of Christian families torn apart by violence must never be treated as mere statistics,’ Okoh stressed, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency in the handling of security matters.

CAN also appealed to Christian leaders across the country to continue to speak and act with wisdom, unity, and faith, warning that peace remains too fragile to be taken for granted.

CAN, therefore, called for national courage and honesty in addressing Nigeria’s deep-rooted divisions, insisting that healing and peace will only emerge when Nigerians confront their collective failures and rebuild trust within their communities.

‘Nigeria’s healing will not come from denial or blame, but from courage, the courage to face our collective failures, to grieve together, and to rebuild trust. Only then can our nation rise from its wounds and embrace a future of genuine peace,’ the statement added.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining monetary policies and economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu, assuring that the measures are already yielding positive results in stabilising the economy.

CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, who made the disclosure in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, said recent indicators point to a gradual ease in inflation and noticeable stability in the foreign exchange market.

Speaking at the CBN Fair themed ‘Driving Alternative Payment Channels as Tools for Financial Inclusion, Growth and Accelerated Economic Development,’ Cardoso said the bank remains resolute in achieving price and monetary stability necessary to drive sustainable growth.

Represented by the Acting Director, Corporate Communications Department, Mrs Hakama Sidi Ali, the CBN Governor noted that the exchange rate unification policy has not only reduced volatility in the forex market but has also cleared over $7 billion of verified forex forwards backlog.

‘The B-Match system for forex trading has strengthened market integrity and facilitated better price discovery. This initiative is expected to improve uniformity in trading and ensure seamless operations among market participants,’ he explained.

Cardoso listed other key initiatives of the apex bank to include the ongoing bank recapitalisation drive, designed to bolster the resilience and global competitiveness of Nigerian banks, positioning them to support the administration’s target of a $1 trillion economy.

He also cited the introduction of the non-resident BVN scheme to connect Nigerians abroad with home banking services, and the Nigeria Payments System Vision 2028 (PSV 2028), which seeks to accelerate digital transformation, broaden financial inclusion and ensure faster, safer transactions.

According to him, the recent introduction of a 75 per cent Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) on non-TSA public sector deposits is aimed at enhancing liquidity management and mitigating inflationary pressures.

Explaining the rationale behind the CBN Fair, Cardoso said it was designed to sensitise Nigerians on the Bank’s policies, promote financial literacy, and deepen understanding of reforms that impact livelihoods.

He appealed to the public to respect the Naira, describing it as a vital national symbol.

‘I encourage you to respect and keep the Naira clean. Do not spray, hawk, mutilate or counterfeit the Naira,’ he said.

Earlier in her remarks, the CBN Branch Controller in Uyo, Mrs Njideka Nwabukwu, said the fair was also a feedback platform to gauge public perception and strengthen stakeholder engagement.

She reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting Akwa Ibom State’s economic aspirations through financial inclusion drives, literacy campaigns, and effective service delivery.

‘Through strategic policies and regulatory frameworks, the Bank continues to enhance payment systems, promote financial inclusion and support sustainable economic growth,’ Nwabukwu added.

.Unhappy over NBS’s report indicating ransom payment to kidnappers between May 2023 and April 2024

Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen reiterated that the creation of state Police remains a viable option to tackle insecurity.

He added that the resolve of the National Assembly towards strengthening the nation’s security architecture and institutionalization of standards that will promote professionalism and accountability in the private intelligence and investigation sector.

Speaker Tajudeen gave the assurance while declaring open the public hearing organized by the House Committee on National Security and Intelligence, explained that the proposed bill seeks to develop a regulatory framework for overseeing private intelligence and investigation firms, ensuring that they operate ethically, responsibly, and within established professional standards.

In the bid to tackle myriad of security challenges facing the country, he averred that creating state police through a constitutional amendment remains a viable option that deserves serious consideration.

Speaker Tajudeen represented by Hon Muktar Shagaya noted that the proposed bill ‘aims to implement uniform practices that will raise service quality and promote best industry standards.

‘The Bill also provides for continuous training and capacity development to enable professionals in this sector to respond effectively to emerging security challenges.

‘Furthermore, it encourages stronger cooperation between private and public security institutions, ensuring that both sectors complement each other in advancing the overall safety and stability of our nation.

‘Honourable Colleagues and distinguished guests, as l candidly remarked in my speech yesterday, Security reforms remain a top national priority, and the time has come for the debate on multi-level policing to move from theory to decisive legislative action.

‘Creating state police through a constitutional amendment remains a viable option that deserves serious consideration.

‘However, beyond constitutional reform, there is also an urgent need to strengthen community policing as provided in the Police Act, 2020, to make it more effective and responsive to the realities of local communities.’

In his remarks, Chairman, House Committee on National Security and Intelligence, Hon. Ahmed Satomi explained that the proposed legislation to establish a Private Intelligence and Investigation Council will mark a major step toward strengthening Nigeria’s national security architecture through the regulation and professionalization of private intelligence operations.

Hon. Satomi described the bill as a forward-looking initiative that seeks to ensure accountability, professionalism, and ethical conduct within the country’s growing private intelligence and investigation industry.

According to him, the proposed Council will serve as a regulatory body responsible for standardizing industry practices, providing accreditation and certification, and promoting continuous training and collaboration between the private and public security sectors.

‘This marks a significant step towards strengthening our national security framework and ensuring the professionalism of private intelligence and investigation services,’ Satomi said.

‘The proposed bill seeks to establish a regulatory framework that ensures ethical conduct and accountability.

‘If established, the Council will standardize practices, promote continuous training, and foster collaboration between private and public security sectors.’

He noted that the initiative comes at a time when Nigeria is confronted with a web of security challenges ranging from insurgency and banditry to cybercrime and kidnapping, stressing that innovative approaches are required to strengthen the country’s security frastructure.

Citing recent data, Hon. Satomi said the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported over 51.89 million household crime incidents between May 2023 and April 2024, with kidnapping alone accounting for 2.23 million incidents and ?2.23 trillion paid in ransoms during the same period.

‘These figures, underscore the magnitude of the security threats confronting our nation and the need for all stakeholders, governmental and private, to work collaboratively. Security, as it is often said, is everyone’s business.’

The lawmaker emphasised that while the efforts of Nigeria’s security agencies are commendable, the evolving nature of threats demands additional layers of support, regulation, and intelligence coordination.

He said the bill aligns with the National Assembly’s legislative efforts to address security concerns through proactive, intelligence-driven reforms.

According to him, the benefits of the bill are extensive. Beyond establishing a council to accredit private intelligence and investigation services, it seeks to streamline compliance mechanisms, enforce ethical standards, and create partnerships between public and private security agencies for improved outcomes.

However, Hon. Satomi acknowledged that not all stakeholders fully agree on every provision of the proposed legislation.

He disclosed that while many of the submissions received by the Committee were supportive, some expressed concerns regarding possible overlaps with existing laws and the mandates of established security institutions.

‘For instance, there is a concern that upholding Section 1(3)(a-f) of the Bill as it stands may dilute the exclusive statutory responsibility of an agency in matters of security clearance and internal vetting. Another concern referenced Section 4(i) of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, warning that the bill may create duplication, legal disputes, and confusion over authority.’

He noted that these differences reveal deeper institutional issues within Nigeria’s security ecosystem, particularly the long-standing challenge of poor inter-agency collaboration and inefficient intelligence sharing.

‘The obvious disparities in the stance adopted by various security agencies on oversight of intelligence matters once more bring to the fore the problem of non-collaboration in intelligence sharing and utilization,’ Satomi observed.

‘This issue has hampered efficient delivery of security services, and this Bill may present us an opportunity to address that important aspect of our national security governance structure.’

Hon. Satomi commended the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, and other members of the House for their support in prioritizing legislative measures that seek to modernize Nigeria’s security framework.

He therefore urged all participants and stakeholders at the hearing-including representatives of security agencies, civil society, and the media-to make meaningful contributions that would guide the Committee’s final report.

‘We assure you that all contributions will be taken into consideration by this Committee.

‘The discussions, observations, and submissions from this hearing will significantly shape the report that will be presented to the House for further legislative action.’

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has charged the 10,000 newly recruited Police constables to carry with them the values of honour, diligence, and patriotism that have been instilled during their course of their training at the various Police training institutions across the country.

This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Benjamin Hundeyin.

It stated that the Force has successfully passed out 10,000 newly trained constables, following the completion of their intensive training across various Police colleges and training institutions nationwide.

According to the statement, the Passing-Out-Parade (POP), which took place simultaneously across all designated training institutions, marked a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts of the force to strengthen its manpower base and enhance operational capacity in line with global policing standards

It stated that Egbetokun commended their commitment and perseverance throughout the rigorous training processes.

The statement reads, ‘During their training, the recruits were exposed to modern policing standards, ethical values, and practical field operations designed to prepare them for the complex realities of 21st-century law enforcement.

‘The curriculum emphasised community partnership, intelligence-led policing, respect for human rights, and the judicious use of authority, all aimed at promoting professionalism and public trust in policing.’

It explained that the passing out of the new set of constables formed part of the force’s strategic manpower development plan under the current administration, geared towards enhancing security presence, improving response capacity, and reinforcing public safety across the nation.

It further added that earlier in the year, a set of 10,000 constables passed out of various Police training institutions.

According to it, IGP Egbetokun reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to continuous training, welfare improvement, and institutional reforms that would sustain the gains of modern policing and ensure a safer and more secure Nigeria for all.

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has announced the commencement of the seventh round of the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), aimed at generating reliable data to guide Nigeria’s development policies in key sectors such as health, education, nutrition, and child protection.

MICS, a globally recognised statistical initiative, provides comprehensive and internationally comparable data on the situation of women and children.

It serves as a critical tool for measuring progress under Nigeria’s national and regional development frameworks, including the Renewed Hope Agenda and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

Head of the NBS Communication and Public Relations Department, Mr. Alesanmi Folorunso, said in a statement that MICS7 represents Nigeria’s most extensive data-gathering effort to address information gaps affecting women, children, and vulnerable groups.

Conducted every five years, the survey will collect data from selected households across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory using digital tools to ensure accuracy and efficiency.

It will also track key indicators linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), enabling policymakers to design targeted interventions.

Statistician-General of the Federation, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran, described MICS as Nigeria’s ‘trusted tool for understanding the lives of women and children since 1995,’ noting that the data ‘transform complex realities into actionable insights that drive policy and progress.’

The NBS urged the public to cooperate with its trained field officers, who will begin household visits from December 3, 2025, to collect essential information for the survey.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasised the importance of global integration, stressing that no nation can live in isolation without engaging meaningfully with the rest of the world.

He said this during the first-ever Bauchi State International Business and Investment Summit, which opened on Wednesday, while inaugurating the newly constructed Ahmadu Bello International Conference Centre (ICC) in Bauchi.

Obasanjo described the edifice as a ‘symbol of progress under Governor Bala Mohammed’s visionary and performing administration.’

He commended Governor Bala Mohammed for his developmental initiatives, particularly in infrastructure, which he said would enhance Bauchi’s capacity to host international events and attract investors.

The former President further noted that such facilities promote unity and economic growth, adding that Nigeria must continue to position itself as an active participant in global affairs.

Obasanjo said that Nigeria’s tourism sector can be developed to attract foreign investments, saying: ‘We can be developed and be made one of the tourist attractions in Nigeria. And those who will come will be able to stay in a hotel.

‘They will be able to interact and have discussion conferences in this international conference centre and make Bauchi the centre of attraction, the centre of tourism for Nigeria.

‘I congratulate you once again. And not only are we commissioning this, we are starting with a conference to talk about investment and what we need in Nigeria today.

‘We need to mobilise investment from local and international.

‘Governor, let me say this. I will go anywhere with you to get investments for Bauchi State.’

The former President also commended Mohammed on the level of development in the state, saying that, ‘In terms of developing Bauchi State, I was happy with what I saw and what I heard. I didn’t know that it would not be too long before you would invite me here.

‘And this is particularly unique, and an international conference centre named after one of the greatest Nigerians in our history, particularly in our history of achieving independence and of leading our country, Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto.’

Earlier in his welcome address, Bauchi State Governor, Sen Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, expressed appreciation for Obasanjo’s support in all ramifications.

He assured that his administration remains committed to projects that foster education, tourism, and socioeconomic development across the state.

Bala Mohammed further stated that the Ahmadu Bello International Conference Centre stands as a testament to his administration’s vision of transforming Bauchi State into a hub for dialogue, innovation, and investment in Northern Nigeria.

The governor also revealed that the Centre would serve as a multipurpose facility for both local and international engagements, including academic conferences, business summits, and cultural exhibitions.

Bala Mohammed assured that any investor who comes to the State will have the full support and complement of the state government.

Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu says his administration has delivered no fewer than 10 housing units in six years to bridge the accommodation deficit.

The governor disclosed this during the inauguration of Lagos State Housing Estate, Ajara, Badagry, on Wednesday.

Major highlights of the year were the groundbreaking of phase two of the project and the renaming of the estate after the former Head of Service in the state, Sunny Akinsanya Ajose.

The event marked the opening of the 24th housing estate by the administration, an achievement the governor described as ‘ a major milestone on our path to creating a Greater Lagos.’

In the past six years, the governor said his administration has successfully rolled out 23 housing estates, creating over 10,000 homes for people across all income levels-low, middle, and high-throughout the five divisions of Lagos.

‘As we near the end of this administration, our commitment to closing the housing gap remains strong, focusing on smart infrastructure investments that push development beyond just the city center,’ he said.

According to Sanwo-Olu, the housing project being inaugurated has created over 1,300 jobs, both directly and indirectly, during its construction phase.

He added that more jobs will come from managing the facilities and other estate services once everything is fully occupied.

Started by the previous administration, he said his government breathed new life and purpose into it, thereby transforming the gateway to a great city and enhancing the newly expanded Lagos-Badagry Expressway.

‘Today, we are excited to launch Phase I, which includes 420 housing units that are now fully completed and ready for residents.

‘Our dedication to thoughtful city planning, quality living, and sustainable development has also led us to kick off the groundbreaking for Phase II of this project.

‘This new phase will dramatically change Badagry’s skyline with high-rise buildings that will be at least seven stories tall.

‘It is a strategic move to make the most of our land resources, accommodate more families, and highlight the vast investment potential and untapped opportunities that exist in this corridor,’ the governor said.

This new estate in Badagry, he said, was a testament to his dedication to creating livable communities.

‘It comes fully equipped with modern amenities – well-paved roads, a water treatment facility with both overhead and underground storage, an efficient drainage system, secure perimeter fencing, a gatehouse, a sewage treatment plant, ample parking spaces, walkways, and a comprehensive electrification network complete with transformers,’ he said

He pointed out that his administration took pride in aligning efforts with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Housing Agenda, aiming to provide affordable and sustainable homes for the citizens.

He said the government is also in talks with financing organizations eager to partner with Lagos State to deliver mass housing and introduce innovative solutions that make home ownership more attainable and accessible.

‘To enhance affordability, we plan to subsidize the selling prices of the housing units. Twenty percent of the homes will be set aside for members of the Medical Guild, the Nigerian Union of Teachers (Lagos State Chapter), and other public and private sector unions. ‘Additionally, public servants will receive rebates as a token of appreciation for their dedicated service to our state, ‘ he said.

Speaking earlier, Commissioner for Housing in Lagos State, Hon Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, said the project demonstrated that affordable mass housing delivery in the state is not confined to only the metropolis.

‘From Lekki to Igando, from Epe to Badagry, from Ikorodu, Igbogbo to Ikeja, the state government resolve remains the same: to ensure that every resident, regardless of location, has access to decent and dignified accommodation,’ he said

The Ajara housing scheme comprises phases I and II and is situated on a land area of 18.9 hectares. Phase one is fully completed with 35 blocks of 12-in-1 residential buildings. Each building comprises four units of 1, 2, and 3-bedroom semi-furnished apartments with installed complimentary facilities such as a kitchen, kitchen cabinets, light fixtures, and wardrobes.

Infrastructure includes roads, a good drainage system, ample car parks, external electrification, perimeter fence, water treatment plant and reticulation, sewage treatment plant and sewer lines, and landscaping.

The project development covers a total road network length of approximately 2.825 meters, and provision is made for about 1,127 car capacity to ensure adequate and spacious parking capacity for residents and visitors.

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Wednesday shifted the further trial of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, over charges bordering on alleged terrorism, to October 16, 2025.

The trial judge, Justice James Omotosho, adjourned the case to October 16 following the inability of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to conclude its assessment of Kanu’s health status and present its report before the court.

At the last adjourned date, the judge had ordered the NMA President to constitute a board of medical experts to investigate the alleged deteriorating health of the IPOB leader.

The purpose of the medical examination was, among other things, to determine whether the medical facility at the headquarters of the Department of State Services (DSS) could cater for Kanu, or if he should be moved to the National Hospital as requested by the defendant.

The report is also expected to determine whether Kanu is fit to continue with his trial.

However, at Wednesday’s proceedings, counsel to the DSS, Mr Suraj Sa’ad, SAN, informed Justice Omotosho that the medical board had contacted them to indicate that the report was not ready for presentation as directed by the court.

The senior lawyer therefore applied for a one-week adjournment to enable the NMA medical board to conclude its investigation.

Following no objection to the request for adjournment by Dr Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, who represented Kanu, Justice Omotosho fixed October 16 for the board to submit its report and for the court to determine the next line of proceedings.

It would be recalled that Kanu made a no-case submission shortly after the Federal Government concluded the presentation of its case against him, having called five witnesses and tendered some exhibits.

Kanu, through his lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, had on July 18 applied to the judge to dismiss the terrorism charges against him on the grounds that he was not properly or legally linked to any terrorism offences, and therefore asked the court to discharge and acquit him.

The senior lawyer drew the court’s attention to the fact that the charges against Kanu had been amended eight times, yet no witness came forward to testify that he was instigated to violence.

Insisting that the ingredients of the terrorism charges were not established throughout the trial, Agabi urged the judge to hold that no prima facie case had been made against Kanu to warrant calling him to enter a defence.

On its part, the Federal Government told the court that the threat by the Biafra nation agitator to break up the country and establish a Republic of Biafra was not a mere empty threat but a deliberate one.

The government said the detained IPOB leader made a broadcast on Biafra Radio where he openly and publicly declared his intention to break up Nigeria.

The Federal Government’s lawyer, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, said the broadcast by Kanu caused Nigerians to live in great fear and prayed Justice Omotosho to reject Kanu’s claim that he had no case to answer in the seven-count terrorism charge brought against him by the Federal Government.

In a ruling delivered last month, Justice James Omotosho dismissed the no-case submission filed by the IPOB leader and held that the DSS had established a prima facie case against Kanu.

He accordingly ordered Kanu to enter his defence, stating that the prosecution had succeeded in convincing the court beyond a reasonable doubt that he had a case to answer in the alleged terrorism charge brought against him by the Federal Government.

Justice Omotosho held that the evidence presented by the DSS through its five witnesses was such that Kanu needed to provide explanations regarding the allegations in the charge.

The IPOB leader has been in detention since he was brought back to Nigeria from Kenya in June 2021 under controversial circumstances.