ABUJA: The Federal Government said it generated about N2.4 billion in 2024 from marriage contracts via its marriage registry at the Ministry of Interior.
Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja during a media interface.
According to him, the ministry also generated over N3.2 billion from expatriate quota applications, saying overall, there was a 150 per cent increase in revenue generated.
Details later…
The federal government, yesterday,said200 million Nigerians are currently at risk of one Neglected Tropical Disease, NTD or the other, reaffirming its commitment to eliminating the diseases by 2030.
Also, the government informed that 165 million people are in need of preventive chemotherapy for at least one of the diseases.
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako,who stated this in a keynote speech he delivered at the commemoration of the 2025 World NTDs Day in Abuja,regretted that Nigeria accounts for about 25 percent of the cases in Africa.
He,however, explained that over the last few years, some progress have been made by Nigeria in eradicating the diseases.
These successes,according to him, were the eradication of Guinea Worm in 2013; Weaning of 29 million people of ivermectin treatment in 10 transmission zones (states) in the country;Elimination of Onchocerciasis in two states (Plateau, Nassarawa) and interruption of transmission in additional eight states of Kaduna, Kebbi, Zamfara, Delta, Imo, Abia, Enugu and Anambra.
Salako also said about 39.5 million people across 20 states and FCT no longer require Lymphatic Filariasis treatment just as he said Nigeria has achieved a reduction prevalence in at-risk population of trachoma infection by 84 percent.
Speaking further at the event held with a theme:”:”Unite. Act and Eliminate NTDs”,
the minister equally informed that 3.5 million persons in 109 endemic local governments across 17 states are no longer in need of mass drug administration.
“Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) as we all know are both communicable and non-communicable diseases, mostly prevalent in children and women and largely associated with poverty, poor sanitation, unsafe water supply, and substandard housing conditions.
“Globally, over one billion (12.5% of world population) people are affected with NTDs across 149 countries (76% of all countries) with Africa bearing about half of the global burden and Nigeria accounting for about 25% of the cases in the continent.
“Nigeria has more than 200 million people at the risk of one NTDs or the other and 165 million people needing preventive chemotherapy for at least one NTDs, “he said.
Noting that the 2021–2030 WHO NTD Roadmap provides ambitious targets and innovative approaches, he said Nigeria remains committed to its implementation, focusing on accountability, multi-sectoral integration, and political commitment to ensure sustainability.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Unlock Healthcare Value Chain initiative offers an opportunity to address pharmaceutical shortages and ramp up local manufacturing. The fight against NTDs is crucial to achieving Universal Health Coverage and Sustainable Development Goals, ”he said.
Speaking further at the event, the minister explained that the significance of the World NTDs Day is to renew global and national awareness to address magnitude of NTDs problems, provide opportunities for stakeholders to highlight the progress being made challenges encountered and advocate support for prevention.
He commended development partners such as WHO, UNICEF, USAID, and NGOs for their unwavering support while urging the media and stakeholders to raise awareness about NTDs in the country.
The National Coordinator of NTDs at the Ministry, Dr Fatai Oyediran, speaking earlier,identified people affected by NTDs as disadvantaged urban populations or those living in rural areas, especially women and children.
While explaining that NTDs were a group of communicable diseases linked to poverty, unsafe water, poor sanitation, substandard housing, a reservoir for insects and other disease vectors, Oyediran said with clean water, sanitation and hygiene, NTDs would be curbed by 70 percent.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of Helen Keller International, Mr. Aliyu Mohammed, reaffirmed his organization’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in its quest to eliminate leprosy and other NTDs by 2030.
He said;“We have been partnering with the government to tackle these issues, and we are stretching our collaboration to ensure we eliminate all phases of leprosy and other NTDs as part of the broader fight against national poverty.”
UNICEF Consultant, Hilary Adie,underscored the importance of clean water and proper sanitation in eradicating diseases associated with poor hygiene.
“Thank you to the Federal Ministry of Health and the Nigerian government for providing a Clean Nigeria Campaign office to ensure communities become open-defecation-free,” he said.
The Country Director of CBM Global, Abdulazeez Musa, emphasized the need for sustainable funding, innovative solutions, and a commitment to equitable healthcare for all.
“To act now means recognizing that time is of the essence. Delayed action leads to lost lives, diminished livelihoods, and prolonged suffering,” Musa said.
On his part, the National President of IDEA Nigeria, Mr. Peter Iorkighir, expressed his displeasure over the prolonged unavailability of life-saving Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT) medications in Nigeria, describing the situation as a human rights violation.
Noting that leprosy is curable, he regretted that “yet thousands remain untreated due to unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles. “
Armed with the power of perseverance, determination, passion for learning and hard work, Ibrahim Taiwo, a native of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, has made headlines by earning three master’s degrees from three top universities in the United Kingdom namely Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Nottingham and Bournemouth University.
Although Taiwo’s early life, which started in Agagagugu compound, Koto Ile Eja, Beere, Ibadan, was marked by challenges, he excelled academically, earning a degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the University of Lagos. His maternal grandmother, who raised him, instilled in him the value of education and hard work.
So, his thirst for more knowledge took him to the UK, where he completed three master’s degrees in Electrical Engineering for Sustainable and Renewable Energy from the University of Nottingham; Data Science and Artificial Intelligence from Bournemouth University, and Adult Nursing from Manchester Metropolitan University.
Throughout his academic journey, he faced numerous challenges, including balancing family responsibilities, work, and studies as well as funding his education.
Driven by his determination to succeed and make a meaningful impact in his community, he persevered as according to him, he plans to establish himself as an emergency nurse and give back to his community by organising healthcare campaigns, promoting awareness, and working towards improving access to quality medical care in underserved areas.
Odize congratulates Oborevwori on Governor of the Year Award
Dr. Victory Oghenerabome Odize, Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Diaspora Affairs, has congratulated Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on his recognition as Governor of the Year by THISDAY/Arise TV. He described the award as a fitting tribute to the governor’s exceptional leadership, which has significantly transformed Delta State through the implementation of his “MORE Agenda.”
In a statement, Dr. Odize commended Governor Oborevwori for his visionary approach to governance, which has brought remarkable progress in infrastructure, education, health care, and economic empowerment. According to him, the award reflects the governor’s relentless commitment to inclusive development and his ability to connect with the aspirations of Deltans both at home and in the diaspora.
“This honor by THISDAY/Arise TV underscores the governor’s tireless efforts to position Delta State as a beacon of excellence in governance,” he stated.
Dr. Odize further urged the governor to see the recognition as a call to redouble his efforts in delivering more impactful projects and policies that will continue to uplift the state and its people. He assured the governor of the unwavering support of Deltans in the diaspora, noting that they remain proud ambassadors of his administration’s achievements.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Tech, Mr Chidi Ikediashi, has congratulated the Delta State Governor Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori on his well-deserved “Governor of the Year” award, organized by THISDAY Newspaper and Arise Television.
Ikediashi commended Nigerians, Deltans, and the organizers for recognizing Governor Oborevwori’s outstanding achievements.
“Governor Oborevwori’s policies have positively impacted millions of youths across the state, and his administration has achieved impressive feats in just 18 months, despite challenges.” he said
“Notably, the governor has ensured fairness in the development of the state, touching every local government area.
Ikediashi thanked the governor for his dedication to the people of Delta State and expressed gratitude to Deltans for their support.
“This award will undoubtedly motivate Governor Oborevwori to achieve even more for the state.” he said
Sandra Agaga, a renowned financial educator and advocate for responsible Forex trading, has issued a crucial call for aspiring traders to temper their expectations when entering the volatile world of Forex markets.
Speaking during one of her many workshops in Port Harcourt, Agaga highlighted how unrealistic expectations often lead to unnecessary risks, financial losses, and disillusionment.
“Many people approach Forex trading believing it’s a shortcut to wealth,” Agaga remarked. “The truth is, Forex trading is a skill that requires discipline, patience, and consistent effort. Reducing these unrealistic expectations can be life-changing.”
The Problem of Unrealistic Expectations
Agaga pointed out that misconceptions about the Forex market are fueled by aggressive marketing campaigns, social media influencers, and unregulated platforms promoting “get-rich-quick” schemes.
“Too often, people are promised massive profits with minimal effort, only to face losses that discourage them from pursuing the skill responsibly,” she said.
A Life-Changing Approach to Forex Trading
Agaga outlined practical steps to help traders manage their expectations and approach Forex with the right mindset:
Embrace Continuous Learning: Forex trading is not about luck but strategy and education. Traders must invest in credible training and stay updated on market trends.
Understand the Risks: Recognizing the high volatility of the Forex market is crucial. “Losing is part of the process,” Agaga noted, emphasizing the importance of risk management.
Start Small: Unrealistic goals of overnight wealth often lead to over-leveraging and significant losses. Starting with small, manageable trades is key.
Focus on Long-Term Gains: Agaga encouraged traders to view Forex as a long-term skill rather than a quick-fix income source.
Ensuring Responsible and Sustainable Trading
To ensure my students trade responsibly and sustainably, Agaga stated:
Risk Management Emphasis: I stress the importance of risk management, teaching students how to set stop-loss orders, adjust position sizes, and manage their emotions.
Trading Psychology: I educate students on trading psychology, helping them understand how to manage their emotions, avoid impulsive decisions, and develop a winning mindset.
Sustainable Trading Strategies: I teach students sustainable trading strategies that focus on long-term success, rather than short-term gains.
Ongoing Support: I provide ongoing support to my students, offering guidance, mentorship, and regular check-ins to ensure they stay on track.
By focusing on these key areas, I’m confident that my students will be well-equipped to trade responsibly and sustainably, achieving long-term success in the Forex market.
The Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) has announced the commencement of its 2025 recruitment exercise for various positions across the Federal Civil Service.
In a statement released on Monday, signed by the Head of Press and Public Relations, Taiwo Hassan, the Commission invited eligible Nigerians to submit applications for available vacancies.
The announcement, published on the Commission’s official website, calls on interested applicants to submit their applications online via the portal https://recruitment.fedcivilservice.gov.ng.
Candidates are allowed to apply for only one position and must submit their applications before the deadline of Monday, March 10, 2025.
The Commission also encouraged physically challenged individuals to apply, asking them to indicate the nature of their disability.
Applicants are required to upload relevant documents such as their curriculum vitae, degree certificates, birth certificates or declarations of age, local government identification, and NYSC discharge or exemption certificates.
The FCSC assured Nigerians of a transparent process aimed at recruiting qualified candidates to serve in the Federal Civil Service.
For more details, applicants are encouraged to visit the Commission’s official website.
The value of electronic payment transactions rose by 59.3 per cent, year-on-year (YoY) to N284.4 trillion in 2024 from N178.5 trillion in the corresponding period of 2023.
Vanguard analysis of data from Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS) epayment data for 2024 showed that the NIBSS Instant Payment (NIP) had the highest volume (10.47 billion) and value (N105 trillion) of e-payment transactions during the period.
This was followed by Mobile Money Operation transactions with a value of N79.7 trillion and a volume of 3.92 billion transactions.
Further analysis showed that the volume of NIP transactions grew YoY by 92 per cent to 10.47 billion in 2024 from 8.49 billion in 2023 while the value fell by 8.69 per cent to N105 trillion in 2024 from N115 trillion in 2023.
Similarly, the volume of Mobile Money Operators, (MMOs) transactions increased by 28.9 per cent, YoY to 3.92 billion in 2024 from 3.04 billion in 2023 while the value rose by 70 per cent to N79.7 trillion in 2024 from N46.77 trillion in 2023.
In its 2023 Fraud Landscape report , NIBSS said that the number of fraud counts reduced to 95,620 in 2023 from 101,669 in 2022.
It also noted that the mobile epayment channel saw a five percent rise compared to 2022 emerging as the most selected means of fraud during the period.
The federal government should award contracts only to construction companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) to enable broader wealth distribution to Nigerians.
Chief Executive Officer of Nairametrics, Mr. Ugodre Obi-Chukwu, who made the assertion, noted that there should be mandatory listing of companies executing major infrastructure projects in Nigeria, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, on NGX.
Speaking at a seminar hosted by the Finance Correspondents Association of Nigeria (FICAN) in Lagos, themed, “Outlook for the Nigerian Economy in 2025,” Obi-Chukwu highlighted that listing such companies on NGX would significantly enhance capital formation for critical infrastructure development and enable broader wealth distribution across the country.
Obi-Chukwu explained that when infrastructure companies are listed on NGX, it would unlock a new funding avenue for projects while allowing the public to invest and share in the collective wealth.
He stated: “For a lot of the projects going on in Nigeria now, such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and other government infrastructure projects, the companies executing those projects for the government should be made to list on NGX, because when they list, capital flows across the country.
“By making these companies accessible to the public through the stock market, Nigeria could benefit from increased transparency and accountability in how projects are financed and executed.”
He also pointed out that such listing would ensure that Nigerians could receive dividends from these projects, allowing them to partake in the country’s economic growth.
Obi-Chukwu stressed that private companies executing large infrastructure projects without significant public involvement could result in a concentration of wealth among a few.
“However, if these companies were listed on NGX, the wealth generated would be more widely distributed. “Once you do that, you will see a change in how the economy is growing, and you will see how wealth flows around the country,” he said.
The news of 2Baba and Annie Idibia’s divorce has sparked a heated debate among Nigerian celebrities, with some slamming 2Baba for his insensitivity and others backing him for his decision.
2Baba and Annie made headline, Sunday, after the former confirmed that he has finally broken up with his wife of 12 years, Annie. Their union has been on trial since 2021, after the families of the couple engaged in a dirty ‘fight’ on social media, with the latter accusing her husband of disrespecting their marital vows by engaging in an illicit affair with his first baby mama, Pero Adeniyi.
However, 2Baba’s confirming their break-up sparked reactions on social media, yesterday, with many celebrities, including media personality, Toke Makinwa; reality TV star, Abiri Oluwabusayo aka as Koko by Khloe, and actress Mary Njoku, among others, slamming the legendary singer for his insensitivity, while others backed 2Baba for his action.
Makinwa expressed her disappointment with 2Baba for bringing their divorce saga into the public domain, saying he should be ashamed of himself.
In an instagram post, Makinwa wrote: “This is wrong at all levels, and you should be ashamed of yourself for bringing this here. Bring it on. If you think she’s alone, let me tell you now that you’ll have to fight all of us.”
On her own part, actress Mary Njoku blamed 2Baba for announcing the separation at a time when Annie was already facing public criticism over her appearance in a reality TV show. She accused him of embarrassing his wife when she was at her lowest.
“Annie has a family. Your sisters-in-law are many, and we’ve stayed quiet out of respect for her tough choices.
But since you’ve decided to humiliate her at her lowest, no wahala. It’s your choice. Just make sure she’s healthy and okay. Because when the time comes, we’ll have plenty of questions for you,” Njoku wrote on IG.
For reality TV show star, Khloe, the timing was wrong. She warned the singer that he would face not only Annie, but also all her supporters and friends as well.
“This period? Like this time? This season? Hell no. “Make me just not talk about anything right now because this is a prank. Fight Annie, fight all of us. Love is really wicked,” Khloe also wrote on IG.
Also, reacting, a businesswoman, Ifedayo Agoro said 2Baba had treated Annie badly for years and should not have made things worse by announcing the divorce publicly.
“First, they groom you, then you lose yourself, and then they dump you. I am so angry! I usually don’t talk about things like this, but this is disgusting behavior by this man.
“In a time when this woman is already being insulted, you had to say this? Knowing you’ve been embarrassing her publicly for years? Why now? Why make things worse for her?
“Never ever choose a man over yourself. No one is indispensable,”Agoro fumed.
Meanwhile, controversial actress , Nwachukwu Ifeoma Esther, who goes by the Instagram name, esthersky_77, blasted Toke Makinwa for calling 2Baba out over his action.
She said that she’s proud of the singer, adding “If 2baba said he’s done with Annie it means he is done. Annie is so t0x!c.”
Esther described Toke Makinwa’s comments as “gilbrish” adding “Charms have lost their efficacy. . No matter how long it takes. Charms go clear. So finally,” the actress wrote.
Also, a popular blogger Oluwatosin Damolekun, a.k.a Tosin Silverdam blasted Toke Makinwa, for dragging 2Baba, saying “all his female fans would fight with him for announcing his divorce publicly.” Tosin, however, questioned some people who alleged that 2Baba groomed Annie.
According to him, she saw that the singer had multiple baby mamas and still decided to marry him. He opined that the couple should be allowed to go their separate ways since their union wasn’t working again.
A check yesterday by Vanguard revealed that the singer had deleted all the divorce-related posts, including the video he made to announce the divorce. He had, in a controversial post on his Instagram page Sunday, announced his divorce from Annie, his wife of 12 years.
This is even as it was rumoured yesterday that Annie, who’s currently featuring in the reality TV show, Young, Famous & African Season 3 on Netflix was rushed to a rehab amid their divorce saga.