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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nigeria and its Nordic partners have pledged to deepen their collaboration across green energy, digital technology, health, and agriculture.

They also agreed to forge partnerships that promise sustainable impact for years to come.

They made this known at the conclusion of Nordic Nigeria Connect 2025 Business Forum held last week in Lagos under the thematic: ‘Forging Partnerships for Sustainable Impact’.

Organised by the Nordic Embassies in Nigeria and their Trade Offices, the forum, which was the fourth edition, provided a platform for government leaders, innovators, and private sector executives to explore collaboration across four critical sectors: green energy, digital technology, health innovation, and sustainable agriculture.

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy Dr. Bosun Tijani, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Samuel Egube, Enugu State Deputy Governor Ifeanyi Ossai, State Secretary for Trade and Investment for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Denmark H.E. Lina Gandløse Hansen and Deputy Minister for International Trade in Finland H.E. Jarno Syrjälä were part of dignitaries who attended the event.

Other significant Nordic dignitaries present included H.E. Johan Frisell, Deputy Director-General and Director for Africa at the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs; Ambassador of Finland to Nigeria, H.E. Sanna Selin; Ambassador-Designate of Sweden to Nigeria, H.E. Anna Westerholm; Ambassador of Denmark to Nigeria, H.E. Jens Ole Bach Hansen; and the Ambassador of Norway to Nigeria, H.E. Svein Baera.

Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Anambra State Command has arrested five suspected illegal private security operatives in Awka, the state capital.

State Commandant of NSCDC, Commandant Maku Olatunde who disclosed this on Tuesday said the suspects were apprehended during series of raids conducted by operatives of the Command.

Parading the suspects at the State Command Headquarters, Maku said a pump action rifle was recovered during the operation targeted at riding the State of individuals masquerading as private security operatives.

He added that the suspects are currently being interrogated and would be charged after investigation.

He said: ‘The raids conducted in Awka on Tuesday October 28, 2025 at about 11: 00 hrs was based on credible intelligence indicating the presence of individuals dressed in attire resembling that of a security outfit, who may have been hired by political actors with the intention of utilizing them to cause chaos during the election.

‘The arrested suspects include: Mmeka Ekene, male, aged 43; Peter Detuchi Kelvin, male, aged 28; Sunday Akpan Idiong, male, aged 45; Enemuo Ifeanyichukwu, male, aged 26; and Francis Ugochukwu Nwosu, male, aged 28.

‘The operation, carried out by the Private Guard Companies Department, was aimed at curbing security threats, illegal possession of firearms, and preventing any form of violence or intimidation likely to undermine the peaceful conduct of the election.

‘We are resolute in our commitment to providing a secure environment for the conduct of the forthcoming gubernatorial election, slated for November 8, 2025.

‘We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that Anambra State remains peaceful and secure.’

While reassuring the Command’s readiness not to be swayed by tactics of individuals pretending to be private security operatives in a bid to disrupt electoral process, Maku pledged continued enhancement of the Command’s robust security measures to stay ahead of individuals suspected of being used as political thugs.

‘The Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, will take all necessary measures within its operational guidelines to counter and suppress any act that could potentially destabilize the peace enjoyed in the state.

‘Strengthened surveillance and enhanced intelligence gathering have been implemented by the Command to thwart any attempts by disruptive elements or desperate politicians to compromise the electoral process,’ he added.

Losing a loved one is hard enough but dealing with paperwork shouldn’t make it harder.

This is why understanding who a Next-of-Kin (NOK) is and how to complete verification is so important. PTAD’s verification process ensures pension benefits go directly to the rightful person without stress.

In this report, PTAD explains everything you need to know about NOK verification, the documents required, and how to handle special cases like being abroad or unfit to travel.

Who is a Next of Kin (NOK)?

A Next-of-Kin (NOK) is the individual chosen by the principal to inherit his or her entitlement in the event of his/her death. The NOK could be the child, wife, brother, parent, friend or any relation of the deceased, selected by the deceased while he/she was alive.

If there are more than one NOK, do we all need to be present for verification?

Yes. You all need to be present as NOKs. Verification can only be successful and recognised when all NOKs are present in compliance to the will of the deceased pensioner.

What are the documents needed for NOK verification?

Depending on the department, documents required for verification of NOKs varies. Here is the list of documents required; Letter/Gazette of 1st appointment/Letter of Enlistment; Letter/Gazette of 1st Confirmation of Appointment; Letter/Gazette of Last promotion; Approved Letter of Retirement/Disengagement.; Severance Pay Slip (Disengaged Retirees Only); Evidence of payment of Gratuity; Computation Sheet stamped and signed by the State Auditor General ( for State pensioners with Federal Shares only); and Death Certificate of the Deceased from a Government recognised hospital or National Population Commission.

Others are Letter of Administration from a Federal High Court; Birth Certificate of NOK; Letter of Introduction from MDA (Death in active service); Record of Service; NOK Identity card (Driving Licence, Int’l Passport, National ID Card or Voters Registration Card); Letter of Introduction from the Command Headquarters (Police); Letter of Introduction from the Association of War Affected Police Officers (AWARPO).; Letter of Amnesty from the Police Service Commission (Police); Joint Account of NOKs(Duly Stamped/Signed); Marriage Certificate (For Spouses); Duly signed and stamped NUBAN Joint Bank Account Statement of the NOK (s) with bank logo; Stamped Bank Verification Number (BVN) Slip print out of the NOKs; One colored Passport Photograph for each NOKs; Duly signed and stamped NUBAN Bank Account Statement of the deceased from retirement till date; Birth certificates/sworn affidavit of the NOKs; Evidence of change of name where applicable); and Evidence of Transfer of Service where applicable).

I am not in Nigeria at the moment and I missed the verification exercise that was previously conducted. My monthly pension has been stopped. What do I do?

You can go to the nearest Nigerian Embassy or High Commission to you, obtain an ‘I am alive’ Certificate, attach your resident permit and data page of your international passport.

Also attach all relevant career progression documents and forward to the Directorate through a third party or email to [email protected] or [email protected]. Consequent upon a successful validation, your monthly pension will be restored pending when you make effort to come into the country for verification.

Customs, Immigration and Prisons, as well as Parastatal pensioners are treated every Tuesday; Civil Service Pensioners are treated every Wednesday while Police pensioners and Parastatal pensioners are treated every Thursday However, in light of the COVID 19 pandemic, verification is strictly by invitation. Pensioners must send their documents to [email protected] for review before they are invited for verification

Do I have to submit all my documents when I have a complaint even after I have been verified?

Once a pensioner is verified, the submission of documents is no longer a requirement for forwarding of complaints. It is only the verification slip and statement of account (six months) before the period of complaint that will be required.

Customs, Immigration and Prisons, as well as Parastatal pensioners are treated every Tuesday; Civil Service Pensioners are treated every Wednesday while Police pensioners and Parastatal pensioners are treated every Thursday. However, in light of the COVID 19 pandemic, verification is strictly by invitation. Pensioners must send their documents to [email protected] for review before they are invited for verification

I am not living close to any of your Zonal offices. I am frail and do not have the means to travel. How do I get verified? Is there any other medium that I can use to send in my complaints?

The pensioner can still be verified. He or she should send in the required documents with a full sized photograph, complete contact details, career documents and a medical report ascertaining conditions which are against travels to confirm inability to travel to any of our Zonal offices that is close to him/her through a third party, with a request for Mobile Verification. Once the documents are reviewed and found acceptable, a team of mobile verification officers will be sent to verify him or her.

My spouse is bedridden and cannot attend the verification exercise. How can he/she be verified?

You are required to bring documents with a full sized photograph, complete contact details, career documents and a medical report ascertaining conditions, towards being verified and subsequent enrolment for Monthly Pension (MP). You should arrange all the documents stated and go to the nearest Zonal Office close to you and inform the Team Lead. He will make arrangement for your husband or wife to be verified at home.

United Kingdom-based Nigerian culture ambassador, Omolara Augustina Seweje, popularly known as Olori Seweje-MC Alaga Extraordinaire, continues to project African traditions and values to global audiences through her media platforms, cultural events, and community mentorship.

A bilingual radio host and professional traditional wedding moderator, Seweje’s work bridges continents, connecting African heritage with the wider world while celebrating the richness of cultural diversity.

For Seweje, culture is not just performance but a calling. ‘My background has always been arts and culture. While in secondary school, I loved acting and dance. I participated in Yoruba, Igbo, and French cultural activities, and that passion keeps driving me even more every day,’ she said.

Her journey as a culture ambassador began when she took up the mantle of Alaga Iduro and Alaga Ijoko, traditional wedding moderator roles deeply rooted in Yoruba custom.

‘A professional Alaga is expected to uphold cultural values. Beyond moderating weddings, I promote culture daily through my dressing, language, and how I express myself,’ she said.

Through her two radio shows, Eto Omoluabi on Jambo Radio, Scotland and Culture Fusion on Heartsong Live Radio, Seweje has carved a space for cultural dialogue in the diaspora.

While Eto Omoluabi focuses on celebrating Yoruba culture and inspiring Nigerians abroad to take pride in their heritage, Culture Fusion explores global cultures, highlighting shared values and distinct traditions.

‘My shows centre on the beauty and uniqueness of every culture. No culture is superior to another because every culture is beautiful in its own way,’ she said.

Her experience as a traditional wedding host has also expanded her understanding of multicultural connections. Among the many weddings she has moderated, Seweje recalls a Scottish-Yoruba wedding in Inverurie, Scotland, and an Ugandan-Scottish bridal unveiling as particularly memorable.

‘I’ve also hosted more than ten Anglophone-Francophone weddings. Every culture I encounter teaches me something new. The diversity I see at these events reinforces my belief that culture is the heartbeat of humanity,’ she said.

Through her work, Seweje has become a bridge between communities. ‘Many people have been encouraged to explore African culture. Interracial marriages are increasing, and more people now understand others’ behaviour through the lens of culture. It has changed mindsets and broken biases,’ she noted

Despite the progress, she admits that promoting cultural diversity in the diaspora is not without challenges. ‘It can be overwhelming. As an ethnic minority, it takes a lot to get the right platforms. But we’ll keep doing what we do until we’re heard,’ she added.

According to her conviction, she said she is rooted in passion and perseverance. ‘There are opportunities for people who are willing to take them. But your passion must be strong enough to keep you going, because it’s not easy. Many people here prefer to focus on work shifts rather than voluntary cultural promotion.’

True to her advocacy, Seweje’s personal style reflects her values. ‘Everywhere you find me, you’ll see me dressed as African. Even in Glasgow, I wear African prints and fabrics. It gives me confidence, and people commend me for it,’ she said proudly.

Looking to the future, Seweje envisions a world where cultural pride is universal. ‘My goal is to stand on global stages and tell people to be proud of their heritage. The world is beautiful because of its diversity. Imagine a world without agbada, asooke, gele, or the Scottish kilt. Diversity is what makes life colourful,’ she said.

Her upcoming project, slated for 2026, will celebrate African arts through music, fashion, and dance, a continuation of her mission to preserve and showcase cultural beauty.

‘I want to be remembered as the woman who broke biases by preaching the beauty in every culture. Someone who used her platforms to promote unity in diversity and preserve cultural pride across generations,’ she said.

Through her voice, her attire, and her platform, Olori Seweje continues to remind the world that culture is not just a marker of identity, it is a legacy of beauty, pride, and belonging.

As part of efforts to expand access to university education across the nooks and crannies of the country, the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) at the weekend inaugurated a special centre in Ilupeju-Ekiti, in the Oye Local Government Area of Ekiti State.

Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of administration, Professor Shehu Usman Adamu, the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olufemi Peters, said the establishment of the study centre symbolises the institution’s unwavering commitment to bringing education to the doorsteps of every Nigerian, regardless of location, background, or circumstance.

The vice chancellor said the Ilupeju-Ekiti centre became a reality courtesy of the donation of a building by a son of the community and Chairman, Board of Trustees of Ilupeju Development Association (IDA), Architect Sir Dipo Ajayi.

While commending the donor for the gesture, describing it ‘as a monument of hope and a shining example of how individuals can contribute meaningfully to national development,’ the vice chancellor further stated that; ‘Today is not merely about cutting a ribbon; it is about expanding the frontiers of access to quality education, rekindling hope, and celebrating one man’s generosity that will become a legacy for generations to come’.

He noted that the new centre would serve civil servants, artisans, teachers, entrepreneurs, retirees, and others seeking knowledge and empowerment in the true spirit of lifelong learning that NOUN represents worldwide.

The vice-chancellor also appreciated the Ekiti State Government, traditional rulers, and the Ilupeju community for their support and collaboration, urging them to take ownership of the centre and ensure its sustainability.

‘The success of this centre will depend on continued partnership. Together, we can make it a model of academic excellence and community development,’ he said.

In her remarks, the NOUN Consultant in charge of the centre, Professor Olubukola Oyawoye, gave an insightful background on how the centre came into existence, noting that it was born out of a shared vision to bring quality education closer to the people.

Professor Oyawoye, who doubles as the Director of Advancement at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), appreciated the initiative and commitment of the donor, saying his passion and determination made the centre a reality.

She described the project as a testament to what visionary leadership and community partnership can achieve.

She said; ‘Education remains the strongest tool for community transformation and national progress. With this centre, we are giving every willing learner a chance to rewrite their story through knowledge,’

Professor Oyawoye, a former Commissioner for Environment in Osun State, congratulated the people of Ilupeju-Ekiti for hosting a federal university centre that provides opportunities for working-class individuals, entrepreneurs, and youths to further their education without barriers of time or location.

She said all courses are available as the centre has commenced various programmes in the centre

Also speaking at the event, the donor, Sir Ajayi, expressed deep gratitude to God and all who made the project possible. He described the centre as a testimony of divine grace and collective effort.

He said: ‘With a heart overflowing with gratitude, I return all glory to the Almighty God, the giver of vision, wisdom, and strength, who alone makes all things beautiful in His time. Today is not merely a day for commissioning a building; it is a day of thanksgiving, fulfilment, and divine grace. Only God could have made this journey possible, from conception to realisation’.

He said the dream was driven by a passion to expand access to education and ensure that no community is left behind in the quest for knowledge.

He thanked NOUN management, describing the VC, the governing council Chairman, Mallam Isa Yuguda, among others, as outstanding leaders, who, he noted, have demonstrated that education is a right, not a privilege.

He also thanked Professor Oyawoye for what he described as her ‘intellectual dexterity and tireless coordination.’ He also acknowledged his wife, Mrs Alaba Ajayi, for her encouragement throughout the project’s execution.

He dedicated the project to his late mother, noting that ‘the house she left behind has now become the foundation of this centre.’

Sir Ajayi lauded Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, for providing an enabling environment, describing the centre as a modest contribution to the governor’s strides in education and community development.

Meanwhile, the NOUN Registrar, Mr. Oladipupo Ajayi, appreciated the people of Ilupeju-Ekiti, noting that they are fully prepared for the take-off of the centre.

‘We have inspected the facilities and are very pleased with what we have seen,’ he said, even as he urges members of the community to spread the gospel and encourage people to enrol.

The Apeju of Ilupeju-Ekiti, Oba David Sunday Awe, (the Akingbade II) expressed delight over the siting of the institution in his community, saying it would enhance the town’s educational and economic development. He appreciated NOUN management and all stakeholders who made the project a reality.

The monarch prayed for the donor for his contribution to the community and Nigeria at large.

In appreciation of their contributions, various dignitaries, including Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Habibat Adubiaro, NOUN vice-chancellor, and his deputy, Professor Peters and Shehu respectively, as well as the monarch, and Professor Oyawoye, among others, were presented with awards of recognition.

Cameroon’s opposition leaders rejected presidential election results that extended President Paul Biya’s rule for another seven years, saying the outcome did not reflect the will of the people in a country already battling a separatist conflict.

The central African nation’s constitutional council on Monday declared Biya, 92, as the winner of the disputed vote with over 53% of the ballots, triggering violent protests in several cities in the oil- and cocoa-producing nation.

The court’s ruling, which is final and cannot be appealed, signals a potentially prolonged post-election standoff.

Issa Tchiroma Bakary , Biya’s main challenger, had earlier declared victory and warned he would not accept any other outcome. His supporters have angrily taken to the streets, clashing with riot police and blocking roads in the commercial capital Douala with burning tires and debris.

The protests killed at least four people over the weekend and two others on Monday, according to the opposition.

There were scattered celebrations in Biya’s strongholds and government ministers held a party. The usually bustling streets of Douala remained quiet yesterday as rain and riot police kept protesters away.

The European Union expressed ‘deep concern’ about the recent violent repression of protests and called on authorities to tackle the excessive use of force. It also urged leaders to engage in dialogue to preserve national stability.

Tension has reportedly heightened in Zamfara State following a new wave of defections from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), raising concerns within Governor Dauda Lawal’s political camp ahead of the 2027 general elections.

It was learnt that Governor Dauda Lawal is expected to visit President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House on Wednesday to discuss ongoing political developments in the state.

On Tuesday, Hon. Maharazu Salisu, representing Maradun II Constituency in the Zamfara State House of Assembly, formally announced his defection from the PDP to the APC at the party’s state secretariat in Gusau.

His move, along with that of several ward leaders, reflects the increasing realignments among political actors in the state as different parties prepare for upcoming elections.

The APC currently holds a majority in the Zamfara State House of Assembly, while some PDP lawmakers are said to be reviewing their political options.

Governor Lawal has continued to engage stakeholders and political leaders across the state in efforts to strengthen democratic participation and promote unity among political groups.

Meanwhile, the Northern APC Stakeholders Forum has rejected any attempt to allow Lawal to defect to the APC.

In a statement signed by its national coordinator, Alhaji Mubarak Liman, the forum said, ‘Any attempt to welcome him into the APC will spell doom for the party in Zamfara and the North-West at large.’

The forum further noted that the steady stream of defections by lawmakers and grassroots leaders was proof of the governor’s growing unpopularity.

Observers believe the governor’s scheduled visit to President Tinubu may focus on consultations regarding political stability and ongoing development projects in the state.

Nigeria may be on the verge of losing another promising talent to Europe as the Greece Football Federation (EPO) reportedly closes in on completing the paperwork that will allow West Ham United U21 defender Rayan Oyebade to represent Greece internationally.

Oyebade, born to a Greek mother and Nigerian father, is eligible to play for both countries. According to reports, the 17-year-old has already expressed his desire to switch allegiance to Greece, with the EPO expected to finalize the process in the coming days.

Once approved, Oyebade will become available for selection to the Greece U19 team under coach Vangelis Moras.

The highly-rated youngster joined West Ham United in 2021 and has steadily risen through the youth system. A composed, left-footed centre-back, Oyebade is admired for his calmness in possession and sharp reading of the game.

He made his youth international debut for England U15, showcasing his versatility and technical ability at an early stage. During the 2023/24 campaign, he featured 13 times in the U18 Premier League South, registering a goal and an assist despite battling injuries for much of the season.

Now in his second year as a scholar, Oyebade has captained Lauris Coggin’s U18 side several times and played a pivotal role in West Ham’s Premier League Cup final victory at Reading. His progress earned him a first professional contract with the club on April 3, 2025-a clear sign of his growing stature.

With Greece acting swiftly to secure his international future, Nigeria appears set to miss out on another defensive gem with dual eligibility.

Asiwaju Mandate Group (AMG) has inaugurated its women’s wing in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State, with a call for unity, mobilisation and grassroots engagement ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

The state Women Coordinator of AMG and former commissioner, Yetunde Adeyanju, expressed appreciation to the leadership of the group and hailed the women for their steadfastness and courage despite intimidation and harassment.

She said the purpose of the gathering was to sensitise women across the state on the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027, emphasising that Ondo State women must take the lead in mobilising massive support for his victory.

Adeyanju lauded President Tinubu for his developmental projects in Ondo State and across the country, as well as his empowerment initiatives that had positively impacted women through federal schemes.

She also commended the Minister of Interior and convener of AMG, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for his people-oriented leadership and continuous support for women in Ondo State.

She described him as ‘a minister with a human face, ever willing to listen and always ready to help.’

She said his stabilising role in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State could not be overemphasised.

The women offered prayers for the minister’s continued success in office and in all his endeavours.

Adeyanju reaffirms that as the AMG state women coordinator, her mandate is to ensure every woman in Ondo State votes for the APC and President Tinubu in the 2027 general election.

She said AMG women’s wing would intensify its campaigns across the nooks and crannies of the state, with ward-level meetings and grassroots engagements to guarantee overwhelming victory for the President.

The women’s gathering unanimously endorsed President Tinubu’s re-election bid, pledging total commitment to the cause.

In their remarks, several speakers praised the Minister of Interior for his steadfastness in strengthening APC in Ondo State, noting that through his influence and grassroots connections, many individuals from opposition parties had joined APC.

The Director General of AMG, Asiwaju Olumuyiwa Asagunla, hailed the state women coordinator and the entire women’s structure for their passion and loyalty to the AMG movement. He conveyed greetings from the convener, Dr. Tunji-Ojo, reiterating that AMG was birthed to propagate the achievements of President Tinubu and ensure his overwhelming re-election victory in 2027.

The event was attended by prominent members of the AMG, including the Chairman, Leaders Council, Senator Yele Omogunwa; Ondo State Commissioner at Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Otito Atikase; Deputy DG, Ondo South, Afolabi Iwalewa and AMG Secretary, Corporal Nanaopri, among others.