Malian singer Rokia Traore will be released from custody in Belgium, after striking a deal with her ex-partner over a child custody dispute, lawyers said Wednesday.
The musician has been incarcerated in Belgium since November after being extradited to the country from Italy over an outstanding two-year prison sentence.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, yesterday, appealed to northern elites to support programmes and policies of President Bola Tinubu under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to a statement signed by Alake’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, Alake made the appeal while delivering his acceptance speech following the conferment of the award as the ‘Most Impactful Minister’ of the current administration by the Arewa Think Tank. In it, he (Alake) said the impact recorded was made possible by the collaborative style put in place by the President.
The Minister asserted that under the Tinubu-led administration, sanity had been established in the nation’s solid minerals sector, where the government went ahead to establish the Mining Marshals through the joint efforts of the Ministries of Interior and Defence and the success of marketing the mining sector abroad through the support of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Investment as evidence of Tinubu’s style of governance in action.
However, he pointed out that single-outing the most impactful Minister may not tell the whole story, as each Minister’s success results from the collaboration of many ministries.
Meanwhile, the Minister went down memory lane as he told the audience, including Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, former Defence chief, Retired General Martin Luther Agwai, former Kaduna State Governor Ramalan Yero, and Special Adviser to the President on Public Communications, Sunday Dare, about the remarkable feats achieved by President Tinubu. At the same time, he served as a Senator in the Third Republic and Lagos State Governor between 1999 and 2007.
He said, “As Governor, he (Tinubu) brought his skills as a visionary development strategist and financial tactician to the governance of Lagos. He restructured the domestic economy to create wealth for those who could take the risk and welfare for those left behind.
“His 25-year projection for the Lagos State economy has recorded a roaring success and given birth to a new economic template. If logos are working, Nigeria, in his hands, is destined to work better.”
Meanwhile, he (Alake) maintained that the current pains Nigerians are going through arising from the policies of the Tinubu administration entailed sacrifices to secure the future of generations unborn, adding that citizens of the countries where Nigerians are emigrating to today made similar sacrifices.
The Minister also reiterated that the Tinubu administration’s policies seek to transfer power to the people by liberating their energy for wealth creation and plugging the loopholes that stalled the nation’s development.
“He has taken the battle to the profiteers of the subsidy regime in the downstream petroleum sector, cabals who took advantage of the cheap fuel meant for the masses to become rich by smuggling them across the border.
“Now that the margin has become unprofitable, he has taken the elephant from the room. You can bet that the next challenge of bringing down the cost has already started with the resumption of petroleum production at the Port Harcourt Refinery. It is a testimony to his doggedness to put smiles on the faces of the masses at all cost”, he said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Gen Martin Luther Agwai (Retd), urged the Tinubu-led government to prioritize agriculture in view of the threats posed by climate change and insecurity.
In another remark, the Kaduna State Governor, Sen. Sani Uba, who represented, and other governors commended the Arewa Think Tank for its consistency.
Uba also highlighted several achievements of his administration in agriculture. According to him, the standard of living of farmers in his State has significantly improved due to the policies implemented.
In a poignant moment, the Special Adviser to the President on Media & Public Communications, Chief Sunday Dare, reiterated in the Hausa language the achievements of the Tinubu administration, emphasizing that it needs the support of all Nigerians to succeed.
ABUJA — THE Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has berated the Federal Government over the 50 per cent telecom tariff hike, tagging it as an additional burden too heavy to bear by the suffering masses.
President of the NLC, Comrade Joe Ajaero in a statement on Wednesday, decried the hike, stressing that the Federal Government’s recent approval, through the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, came at a time when Nigerian workers and the masses were grappling with unprecedented economic hardship.
Ajaero also threatened that all Nigerian workers and masses will unite to reject the unjustifiable tariff hike.
He said, “We urge citizens to prepare for collective action, including the possibility of a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services, to compel the reversal of this punitive increase. This is for our dignity, our rights, and our survival as a people.”
He also described the decision, as a clear assault on workers welfare and an abandonment of the people to corporate fat cats.
According to Ajaero, telecommunication services are essential for daily communication, work, and access to information. Yet, an average Nigerian worker already spends approximately 10 per cent of their wages on telecom charges.
Lamenting the situation, the NLC President argued that for a worker earning the current minimum wage of ₦70,000, this means an increase from ₦7,000 to a staggering ₦10,500 per month or 15 per cent of his salary is a cost that is unsustainable.
He said the hike exemplified the government’s apparent ease in prioritizing corporate profits over citizens’ welfare.
Ajaero said, “It is shocking that the government approved this 50% tariff increase for telecom companies within a month, yet took nearly a year to approve the recent minimum wage for workers, despite the rising cost of living and inflation eroding purchasing power.
“This glaring disparity underscores a troubling reality: the government appears more aligned with the interests of wealthy corporations than with the needs of the workers and citizens it is meant to serve.
“We must ask: When will the government stand for the people it swore to protect? When will the National Assembly rise to its responsibility and hold the executive accountable for policies that blatantly undermine the welfare of the majority? When will the common man heave a sigh of relief in Nigeria?
He insisted that NLC is not opposed to a tariff review but disagrees with the approved rate of increase.
He however urged the Federal government, the NCC and the National Assembly to stop the implementation of this ill-advised hike to allow a reasonable conversation around it.
His words,” If the dialogue agrees on the need for the hike, then, we can all seek a more humane increase and definitely not this 50% hike.
“The NLC calls on all Nigerian workers and masses to reject this unjustifiable tariff hike. We urge citizens to prepare for collective action, including the possibility of a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services, to compel the reversal of this punitive increase. This is for our dignity, our rights, and our survival as a people.
“The Nigeria Labour Congress remains resolute in defending the interests of Nigerian workers and the masses. We will not allow the people to bear the brunt of policies that further entrench poverty and inequality. Together, we will do our best to resist this injustice and demand that government prioritizes the interests of its citizens over corporate interests”.
Dear Bunmi, I’m 19 and I’ve just started polytechnic. I really enjoy my studies but currently have a crush on one of my lecturers.
Read Also: Dear Bunmi, he won’t have s3x after surviving prostate cancer
Though he’s in his 40s, he looks really sexy. I get excited every time I have lectures with him.
When he comes up to me in class, I get really shy. I’m normally a loud girl, but I’m very quiet during his lessons.
Dear Bunmi, I’m sure he has realised that something is wrong.
All this is making me disorientated with my studies.
Can you help?
Agnes, by e-mail.
Dear Agnes,
As you’ve already observed, when you become attracted to the opposite sex, you think and dream of little other than the person who has suddenly become the object of your attention.
And because you don’t know the person well, you’re able to fantasise that he’s a desirable and perfect person you’re falling for.
It is often inappropriate and not someone that would make a satisfactory mate.
So, enjoy your crush while it lasts. Believe me, the thrilling feelings you now sense will soon pass.
One day, not so far from now, your teacher will seem like just another middle-aged man.
You’ll wonder what you ever saw in him.
Nigeria is to collaborate with the Republic of Russia in the areas of Space Technology, Agriculture, Science, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to strengthen the nation’s socio-economic development.
The Permanent Secretary of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye, who announced this, said the collaboration will also focus on Agriculture, Science, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to strengthen the country’s socio-economic development.
According to Esuabana, Science does not operate in isolation, hence the need for nations to collaborate to strengthen Bilateral relationships.
The Permanent Secretary said this when officials from the Embassy of the Russian Federation, led by the Senior Counselor on Trade and Economic Section, Sergei Pliushchov, paid her a courtesy call today in Abuja.
She informed the delegation that the Ministry is interested in attending scientific Officer and other research-related field training, especially in the area of Space Technology in Russia, if the Russian government can sponsor such officers.
To this end, the Permanent Secretary commended the Russian Republic for her good gesture in extending her training request to the Ministry, noting that Russia is interested in Nigeria’s development.
Earlier, the Senior Counsellor, Trade and Economic Section of the Embassy of the Russian Federation, Nigeria, Serei Pliushchov, said that the Republic of Russia is ready to collaborate with Nigeria in the training and re-training of scientific experts to improve productivity in the country.
He further said that the Republic of Russia, through the Embassy in Nigeria, is engaging Russian online experts to develop Nigerians’ technical skills in various fields.
The Independent Shari’ah Arbitration Panel in Ekiti State held its maiden public sitting in Ado Ekiti to provide arbitration based on Islamic jurisprudence.
The panel, presided over by three Kadhis, Imam Abdullahi Abdul-Mutolib, Imam Abdulraheem Junaid-Bamigbola, and Dr. Ibrahim Aminullahi-Ogunrinde, adjudicated two marriage-related disputes.
In the first case, the panel’s head, Imam Abdullahi Abdul-Mutolib, announced that the couple’s dispute was resolved through a consent judgment.
This resolution was facilitated by earlier interventions from family members, which paved the way for a peaceful settlement.
However, the second case, involving allegations by a wife accusing her husband of neglecting his marital responsibilities, was adjourned until January 30 for further hearing after listening to both parties.
The panel explained that the adjournment would allow additional investigations to ensure a fair outcome.
Imam Abdul-Mutolib emphasized the importance of the couple fearing Allah and adhering to His injunctions in marriage, urging wives to be submissive to their husbands and content with their provisions.
Speaking on the panel’s significance, the President of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Ekiti State, Alhaji Hammed Bakare, emphasized that the Shari’ah adjudication process is voluntary and adheres strictly to Islamic principles.
He clarified that litigants can choose to use the Islamic Arbitration system but are not obligated to.
“Shari’ah adjudication is not compulsory for all; it is meant for Muslims or those who willingly choose to submit their grievances to it. Non-Muslims may also participate, but it remains entirely voluntary.” Alhaji Bakare clarified.
The council’s Deputy President, Barrister Tajudeen Hammed, also highlighted that the Shari’ah panel operates in harmony with the state’s civil jurisdiction.
He stressed that its rulings are based strictly on Islamic scriptures, including the Qur’an and Hadith, and do not conflict with existing civil legal frameworks.
“Submitting grievances to the Shari’ah panel is an integral part of our faith as Muslims. However, it is not mandatory for anyone, including Muslims, to seek redress through this system”.
Barrister Hammed hailed the Kadhis for their expertise and dedication, commending their erudition in Islamic jurisprudence and their application of Qur’anic and Hadith knowledge during the proceedings.
The Shari’ah Arbitration Panel in Ekiti State was formally inaugurated by the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in October 2024 in Ado Ekiti. Its primary purpose is to provide a platform for resolving disputes, especially civil matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, etc., in line with Islamic principles for Muslims and willing participants.
The UK Minister of State for Defence, Lord Vernon Coaker has reaffirmed the longstanding defence partnership between his country and Nigeria in the fight against terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in the North-East.
Coaker, who is on a working visit to Nigeria, stated this at the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) in Maiduguri on Wednesday.
The minister accompanied by other senior officials of the UK government, highlighted the importance of the bilateral relationship between the two nations to address security challenges.
“The presence of the Honour Guard was a moving experience, symbolising the respect and partnership between the Nigerian and British militaries.
“His Majesty’s Government recognises Nigeria as a key ally and a leader in West Africa. Together, we stand for democracy, human rights and the rule of law,” Coaker said.
The minister reiterated the UK government’s commitment to support Nigeria in the fight against terrorism and shared impact of global security challenges.
“Your conflict is our conflict and your security is our security. The work you are doing to combat terrorism, particularly through initiatives like Operation Hadin Kai, is commendable.
“We are proud to provide training, expertise and equipment to support your efforts,” he said.
Lord Coaker listed the UK’s contributions to Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations to include counter improvised explosive devices training, provision of equipment, and mentorship for the establishment of the Counter-IED Coordination Cell in the North-East.
Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, the Theatre Commander of the OPHK, commended the UK for its sustained support in combating insurgency in the region.
He described the visit as a testament to the longstanding cordial relationship between Nigeria and the UK.
“It gives me great pleasure to welcome Lord Vernon Coaker and his distinguished entourage to Maiduguri, the ‘Home of Peace,’ which also hosts the Headquarters of JTF (NE) OPHK.
“This visit validates the strong partnership between our nations” .
Shaibu said the mandate of the task force was to restore normalcy to the region, provide enabling environment for socio-economic activities to thrive, as well as resettlement of displaced persons to their ancestral homes.
He noted that the fulfilment of the task force mandate required not only material resources but also regular training and retraining of troops to keep them updated on evolving security challenges.
The commander lauded the establishment of the Counter-IED Coordination Cell, supported by the UK, which became a hub for intelligence gathering and dismantling insurgent IED networks.
“This hub, equipped with detection tools, laptops, tactical intelligence kits, and other resources, has been vital in detecting, neutralising, and disarming IEDs effectively,” he said.
Shaibu also commended the Instructor Development Programme being implemented in collaboration with BDS-WA, to fast track training of personnel from Nigeria and the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF).
“The programme fosters synergy and camaraderie among troops from the Lake Chad Basin countries, strengthening regional cooperation,” he said, adding that the UK government’s timely and relevant support were imperative towards achieving the task force mandate.
Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has disclosed the Federal Government’s plan to establish an aircraft manufacturing firm in the country.
Keyamo made this known at the launch of XeJet’s Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul, MRO, facility, and flight support center in Abuja.
He said the aircraft manufacturing firm is a collaboration between XeJet and indigenous banks.
According to him, the initiative aims to transform Nigeria into a regional hub for aviation services, adding that it aligns with the government’s vision to support local operators.
“Since we came to office, we’ve been focused on attracting MRO facilities to our aviation ecosystem, just as they exist in other parts of the world.
“We’ve searched far and wide for investors, but now we see that what we were looking for elsewhere is right here at home. This collaboration between an indigenous operator and local banks is a dream come true,” he said.
Keyamo added that the inclusion of additional facilities, such as a training centre for the firm would be “a huge achievement.”
“This development will not only serve Nigeria but will attract users from across the West African sub-region. That’s the dream — to make this facility a regional center for excellence,” the minister said.
Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, a former Minister of Foreign Affairs, has called out Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the UK’s Conservative Party, for her frequent negative remarks about Nigeria.
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Akinyemi accused Badenoch of using disparaging remarks about Nigeria to advance her political career.
Recall Badenoch has been under fire in Nigeria for a series of negative comments about her homeland.
Before taking the helm of the Conservative Party, Badenoch had described Nigeria as a socialist country plagued by a corrupt political class and widespread insecurity.
She also criticised the Nigerian police and lamented the poverty she experienced while growing up in Lagos, the nation’s commercial hub and most populous city.
Recently, Badenoch added to her controversial remarks, saying Nigeria destroys lives and expressing her determination to prevent a similar fate for Britain.
“And why does this matter so much to me? It’s because I know what it is like to have something and then to lose it,” she said.
“I don’t want Britain to lose what it has. I grew up in a poor country and watched my relatively wealthy family become poorer and poorer, despite working harder and harder as their money disappeared with inflation.
“I came back to the UK aged 16 with my father’s last £100 in the hope of a better life. So I have lived with the consequences of terrible governments that destroy lives, and I never, ever want it to happen here.”
Prof Akinyemi reacts
Akinyemi, however, condemned Badenoch’s approach, arguing that attacking the nation of her birth was both unwise and a betrayal of her heritage.
“How can the daughter of a professor of UNILAG (University of Lagos) — her father was a medical doctor — a girl who went to the international school at UNILAG, make it sound like she was selling groundnuts and selling water in Lagos in order to advance her political career?” he asked while speaking on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’.
“She would soon learn that you don’t throw your people and your culture under the bus in order to advance your career.
“She is making a mistake, but she would soon learn.
“After all, right now, there is even a right-wing political party in the United Kingdom that is even to the right of the Conservative Party.
“So, what she should be focusing on is how to regain that right-wing profile of the Conservative Party and leave Nigeria alone,” Akinyemi concluded.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has called for the amendment of the law for a more cost-effective alternative methods of filling vacancies at the national and state assemblies.
The INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu made the call during the commission’s consultative meeting with political parties on Wednesday in Abuja.
He urged stakeholders to prevail on the national assembly to amend the law for a more cost-effective alternative means as it was being practiced in many jurisdictions around the world.
Yakubu said that INEC had been appealing to stakeholders, including political parties, to join the advocacy and for the national assembly to amend the law accordingly.
He said that over the last one and a half years since the inauguration of the current national and state assemblies in June 2023, vacancies had occurred in 23 constituencies.
According to him, this is as a result of death of serving members or voluntary resignation for executive positions at federal, state, local governments.
He said some also resigned due to their appointment as ministers, commissioners, chairman of a local government or as a board member or chairman.
“While the commission has conducted nine by-elections early last year, 14 more vacancies have occurred since then.
“They are unpredictable, unbudgeted for and difficult to plan in advance. Worse still, some by-elections lead to another.
“There are situations where a by-election in one senatorial district was won by a serving member of the house of representatives from the same district, thereby creating another vacancy.
“In turn, a member of the state assembly won the by-election to the house of representatives and this led to another vacancy in the state assembly.
“Consequently, one by-election led to three by-elections.
“Not only are these by-elections costly, they also divert the commission’s attention from its other extensive electoral responsibilities,’’ he said.