₦airaland Forum

***patients go home same day


Eleos Specialist Hospital, Abuja, has commenced Thulium Fiber Laser Enucleation of The Prostate (ThuFLEP). The procedure involves using a special LASER technology which was recently introduced to completely remove the enlarged prostate without any surgical cuts to the body.

With this new LASER, the enlarged prostate is completely removed no matter the size. It offers the advantage of no surgical cuts, little or no blood loss, with the patient going home either same day of the procedure or just a day after the procedure.

Other advantage of the procedure includes the fact that the procedure is done with the patient awake and there is no loss of erections following the procedure.

This new LASER technology has some modifications that have given it advantages over previous LASERS. It is also used for other medical purposes like the treatment of kidney stones, etc.

In our discussion with the Head of Operations of the Hospital, Mr. Joshua Amayanvbo, he stated that the hospital has successfully done ThuFLEP for more than 30 patients now with each going home same day or just the day after the procedure.

Also, in a recent interview on Arise Television Morning Show, Dr. Paul Ngwu, a Consultant Urologist and Laparoscopic Surgeon, underscored the importance of ThuFLEP as a New and improved LASER technology in handling cases of prostate enlargement.

While explaining the procedures of using the modern equipments and how effective they are, Dr. Ngwu, said, the new technology reduces to the barest minimum, some of the complications traceable to old and traditional procedures.

"We'll finish the surgery and the urine is clear. And there is no bleeding there, even for a very big prostate”

"You will just discover that, you are not seeing any bleeder at all as you are moving on. So you will discover that you have removed 300g prostate or 400g prostate , and there is no need for transfusion at all”.

He also emphasized that the procedure does not affect erections at all.

“The essence of this program is for public health education. Of course, this is not advertisement, but to create an awareness for members of the public to know that there are solutions to these problems and that such technology exists. Of course, when you go on Google and search ThuFLEP, a lot of information will pop up. They're also there in some of our hospitals", he added.

For consultation or further details, contact the Customer Care on 07066244467, 09067768799, 09011820593. Website: www.eleoshospital.com; or social media handles - Eleos Specialist Hospital (Facebook) and Eleos Specialist Hospital (Instagram).

Abuja hospital now offers LASER postrate treatment with no surgical cuts, patients go home same day

Eleos Specialist Hospital, Abuja, has commenced Thulium Fiber Laser Enucleation of The Prostate (ThuFLEP) treatments/operations. The procedure involves using a special LASER… pic.twitter.com/XYZveRTWLv

— Prime Reporters News (@PrimeReportersn) June 27, 2026

***as Asiwaju Youths Group Insists No Elections in Some Parts of Ekiti North II


"There were no elections in Usi ward, Ward 5 of Ido-Osi LGA, same in Ifaki ward 1 & 2, Ilogbo ward, Otun ward 1 & 2, Igogo ward 1, and other wards that are strongholds of Hon. Akinlayo Davidson Kolawole, like Ifaki ward 1 and 2, and all the wards in Ilejemeje LGA, no election was held. And where elections were held and genuine results emerged that he won, the returning officers would go to Ado Ekiti and announced another person.

This is not the original ideology of our party. This very act is alien to us. We must hult it before it hurts us in the general elections".

-Ekiti APC Stakeholders and Ekiti Network of Asiwaju Youths (ENAYo), tell President Bola Tinubu and APC Leadership in an open letter.








https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwmlriFGn54?si=hueRXfX_mPia3U8G

The attention of the Office of the Deputy Speaker has been drawn to a misleading report published by an organization known as “TrackNG” regarding the construction and furnishing of an ultra-modern conference and e-learning facility at Bende Secondary Grammar School, Bende, Abia State, as captured in the 2024 Federal Government budget.

The Office of the Deputy Speaker categorically states that the role of a legislator is to attract projects and development initiatives to his constituency. The legislature neither serves as the procuring agency nor supervises the execution of such projects. Implementation remains strictly the responsibility of the executive arm of government and its relevant agencies.

Ordinarily, this office would not have dignified the publication with a response, but for the need to prevent unsuspecting members of the public from being misled by what is clearly a politically motivated narrative.

It is therefore curious and mischievous that the image of the Deputy Speaker was used in connection with a project over which he has no implementation or supervisory responsibility.

We call on the appropriate procuring agency to take immediate steps to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure that whoever was awarded the contract is held accountable in line with the law.

For us, our primary concern remains that the project is completed and delivered for the benefit of the people of the constituency.

On the issue of the project location, it is important to clarify that the initial naming of Bende Secondary Grammar School was an error, as the school already has an ICT Centre. The project was originally intended for Onuinyang, and a corrigendum was subsequently issued to correct the location accordingly.


Signed: Udora Orizu, SA Press Affairs to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Committee on Works, Transport and Aviation of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), chaired by Hon. Peter Eze, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening oversight, transparency, and equitable representation across government institutions following a strategic interactive session with the Surveyors Council of Nigeria (SURCON) and the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT).


The high-level engagement, held at the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja, formed part of the Committee’s ongoing oversight and institutional collaboration efforts aimed at deepening compliance with the Federal Character Principle and advancing the reform agenda of the Commission.

The SURCON delegation was led by the Surveyor-General and Registrar, Surveyor Olugbemiro Kunle, while the NITT delegation was headed by Dr. Bayero Salih Farah. The meeting provided an opportunity for policy-driven discussions on institutional efficiency, equitable representation, administrative compliance, and inter-agency cooperation within Nigeria’s public service system.

Speaking during the session, Hon. Peter Eze stated that the Committee remains committed to ensuring effective oversight of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) under its jurisdiction.

According to him, the engagement was not merely a routine exercise but a strategic platform to promote accountability, transparency, inclusiveness, and adherence to the constitutional mandate of the Federal Character Commission.

He emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration between the Commission and regulatory institutions such as SURCON and NITT in promoting national cohesion, administrative fairness, and balanced representation in appointments, recruitment, staff development, and resource distribution.

Hon. Eze further noted that strong institutional partnerships remain essential to the realization of the Commission’s reform agenda and national integration objectives.

In their separate remarks, the leadership of SURCON and NITT commended the Committee for creating an avenue for direct engagement on critical policy and operational matters. They reaffirmed their commitment to professionalism, institutional accountability, regulatory excellence, and compliance with government directives guiding public service administration.

The discussions also explored ways of strengthening compliance mechanisms, improving communication channels, and enhancing synergy between the institutions for improved service delivery.

Following the deliberations, members of the Committee alongside the SURCON and NITT delegations paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, Hon. Hulayat Ayo Omidiran.During the visit, the Committee commended the Executive Chairman for her visionary and purposeful leadership, which they said continues to reposition the Commission towards greater efficiency, inclusiveness, and administrative credibility. They also reaffirmed their support for the ongoing reforms and institutional transformation initiatives being implemented under her leadership.

Members of the Committee present at the session included the Vice Chairman of the Committee and Member representing Nasarawa State, Hon. Halima Ahmadu Jabiru; Member representing Osun State, Hon. Eludayo Eluyemi; Member representing Edo State, Rt. Hon. Victor Sabor Edoror; Member representing Borno State, Hon. Engr. Modu Mustapha; and Member representing Zamfara State, Hon. Sani General Garba.

The session underscored the Federal Character Commission’s resolve to deepen institutional collaboration, strengthen oversight responsibilities, and ensure effective compliance with the principles of fairness, equity, and national unity across all sectors of governance.

By Emmanuel Eche'Ofun John

The business of newspaper vending is an age-long endeavour that has weathered the storm, sustained families, provided the means for parents to train their children in school and enabled many to own properties.

Sellers of newspapers, popularly called 'vendors' have contributed so much in information dissemination around the world. Before the advent of the internet, 'vendors' were the only source of news, for those who were used to newspapers.

It's only through 'vendors' that newspapers are found in the streets and offices. Without a 'vendor', the president of the country cannot have access to dailies. Same with other VIPs. Unfortunately, despite this noble role, 'vendors' are always treated with so much disdain.

In the streets where they run after vehicles and risk their lives to pass information to the reading public, they are not respected. They are abused and humiliated by motorists. Most times, they are harassed and intimidated by agents of government. They are hounded around and treated like common criminals.

In offices where they supply newspapers, 'vendors' are owed several months without any iota of consideration for their wellbeing. Nobody cares that they have families to cater for. Nobody cares that they have to take loans to sponsor their supplies and are mentally tortured.

Many of them have been frustrated out of the business and thrown into the already saturated labour market, thereby worsening our national situation.

Newspaper vending is one business that plays pivotal role in the country and should not be allowed to die. While internet has done the business and the entire print media industry a heavy blow, the activities of government and its agents continue to hurt the trade.

Street vending and office supplies cannot be erased as long as we continue to have the hardcopies of newspapers. The aggressive approaches by agents of government towards 'vendors' need to be looked into and reviewed. A situation where 'vendors' are arrested arbitrarily and thrown into cell over trumped-up charges must stop.

"Vendors" are not criminals but legitimate and very hardworking people earning a decent living.

Government offices that owe 'vendors' and don't consider their pains should do better and ensure prompt payments for ease of doing the business. Those long-term debts hurt everyone, including the media organizations that produce the dailies. Their payments should be prioritized.

On the issue of monetization that helped to cripple the business, the various media organizations through NPAN should put pressure on the federal government to reverse the policy so that more money can flow into the industry through 'vendors' who supply newspapers to government offices.

If all the allocations in our annual budgets for purchase of newspapers are properly utilized, the newspaper industry and 'vendors' would be better off.

Finally, as partners-in-business, media organizations should take the newspaper-vending business and welfare of 'vendors' more seriously. They have louder and more respected platforms to push for policies and programs that can benefit 'vendors'.

They can push for the abolition of monetization policy, to put more money in the pockets of 'vendors', and also draw government's attention to the suffering 'vendors' who are about the most hardworking Nigerians one can find around.

'Vendors' dedication and consistency even in the face of grave challenges can't be found in many trades. They need to be encouraged and supported. Some have struggled to train their kids in school but no job for those children. Media houses can use their influence to facilitate job opportunities for them.

Some 'vendors' are down with life-threatening ailments while others have been knocked down by vehicles in the course of vending and are bed-ridden, but no help. They can be assisted medically.

Many have been frustrated out of the business and are wallowing in abject poverty with no hope of help from anywhere. They can be empowered financially or with skills for diversification.

The list is endless.

The time is now for all the relevant stakeholders to rise up and salvage what remains of the newspaper vending business.

Yes, the time is NOW!

Emmanuel Eche'Ofun John is the President of Abuja Newspapers Distributors Association (ANDA). He can be reached on 08060304271

A Professor of Political Science, Onyekachi Osuagwu, has launched a scathing criticism of former Abia State governor and serving senator, Orji Uzor Kalu, accusing him of orchestrating a sustained media smear campaign against the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu.

In a strongly worded statement during an engagement with journalists, Prof. Osuagwu described Senator Kalu’s alleged actions as “deceitful, envious, boastful and greedy,” warning that such conduct falls short of expected statesmanship.

The professor alleged that Senator Kalu has, over the years, deployed media platforms and proxies including individuals posing as academics to discredit the Deputy Speaker, particularly during election cycles. He claimed that some academics have monitored what they described as a “pattern of coordinated attacks” aimed at undermining Benjamin Kalu’s reputation.

According to Osuagwu, Senator Kalu allegedly boasted in private circles about controlling media outlets and using them to influence public perception against the Deputy Speaker. He further accused the senator of sponsoring negative write-ups, petitions, and campaigns of calumny without substantiated claims.

“We can no longer remain silent,” Osuagwu said. “This sustained blackmail and credibility destruction must stop. We have reviewed the records and found these allegations against the Deputy Speaker to be misleading.”

The professor defended Benjamin Kalu’s track record, noting that he had served as spokesperson of the House for four years and as Deputy Speaker for three years without failing “integrity and patriotic tests.” He also dismissed claims that Senator Kalu played a decisive role in the Deputy Speaker’s rise, insisting that Benjamin Kalu was already established before entering politics.

Osuagwu further accused the senator of attempting to rewrite political history by presenting himself as a benefactor, a claim he described as “deceptive to the public.”

On party politics in Abia State, the professor credited the Deputy Speaker with revitalizing the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, particularly during challenging periods. He questioned Senator Kalu’s absence during those times and warned that his leadership could weaken the party ahead of future elections.

He also alleged that Senator Kalu may be working at cross purposes with the party’s interests in the state, cautioning that such actions could negatively impact electoral outcomes if not addressed.

In addition, Osuagwu criticized what he described as the use of religious and academic titles by individuals allegedly aligned with the senator to lend credibility to attacks on the Deputy Speaker.
The professor concluded by urging Senator Kalu to embrace statesmanship, halt what he termed divisive tactics, and allow internal party unity to prevail.

… Bishop Chukwu Udensi is faceless with a non existent church . Consider his vituperations as that of OUK’s reply to BenKalu’s questions . Orji kalu uses pseudo names to cowardly reply to opponents .

… How can you rehabilitate a man who donated to your campaign on your first meeting and took you on first class quarterly to Belgium on business meetings ?
—— Chief Daniel Ogbonna A

When truth confronts a man and he has no defense he cowardly scratches for a pseudo name to help continue his reply of lies . Sen Orji kalu who has for years informed the public he made Benjamin Kalu without telling us how , was finally responded to privately which he leaked publicly to score a political mark and to seek to drag further the name of the man he is afraid of for reasons best known to him in an effort to stop his political career to run for Governor just gave one of the weakest response to core issues raised privately with him.

Reading through the reply he used the fake non existing Bishop to present to the public we could not see any semblance of truth outside name calling . The message to Orji kalu had specific events mentioned , he ought to have explained it rather than wave it off with name calling . It is quite diversionary to reply to issues in such manner . It means the truth is still standing because the blanket of lies could not hide it .

You bragged for years you brought him to politics and he said it is not true . The question was , how did you bring him to politics when he was already in politics before meeting you ? You and your pseudo Bishop could not answer it .

Try your pseudo Professor and the next will be traditional ruler or Immam okonkwo or okorie, is that not your usual style ? To use big names and titles to attempt to give credibility on your lies for the gullible to accept ? Same old strategy but people are smarter now . Ask the the next pseudo Arch bishop you will present to answer how you brought him into politics . He mentioned names and we know those real names .

You bragged for years you made him and he kept quiet allowing you glory in your ego and that started sounding like the truth . He has finally replied that you didn’t make him and gave specific reasons , instead of replying his private chat with you , you released it to the public and went ahead to use a pseudo name to respond . Why not reply to him privately if that leaked we will read as well or you can leak it like you did with this one for us to review .

Unfortunately, you didn’t reply how you made him , he said he was a man leading made men and you saw with your eyes when you visited him in diaspora, he led PDP, one of the founding fathers of Ohaneze Ndi igbo there , NIDO etc , an un made man could not have been leading made men .

You did not counter the existence of his businesses in finance , real estate , furniture, ICT, security cloth manufacturing, contractor to the security agencies etc before meeting you with any documentary evidence , you could not show us the contract you gave him as a governor , just a weak name calling of fraudster without any evidence of any criminal charge or conviction any where in the world . Sen Orji Kalu that was a weak reply . Show us how you made him .

He said he paid money into your personal platinum bank account in the first days of knowing you in 2002 and you claim it is not true without evidence . He has the bank statement showing your details and showing the amount . Calling him a Fraudster is like Labour Party calling the president a criminal just to score a weak point . How did you make him please tell us Sen Orji Kalu or else save us the noise of “I made him, I made him “. Go make your blood brothers .

Fraudulent act is you packing pieces of paper in cartons in Maidugiri and donating as money in a lunching . I don’t want to go far to reveal what some of us watching you for some times have observed . Didn’t you go to prison for defrauding Abia state ? Was your certificate from Abia university not collected from you for fraud ? Should I go on ? We are still waiting for you to tell us how you made him . It is only in igbo land that a man who suppose to be a stateman will be dragging a younger leader . Check out Asiwayu that you compete with as a former governor collegue and see sea of men made by him without noise and you are here shouting “I made him , I made him “ Asiwayu made vice presidents , governors , ministers , speakers , giants in commerce without noise . Here you are shouting I made him I made him and they ask you where , you started calling him Fraudster. Please answer of forever keep quiet. He said he was with you when you had nothing to offer him . From 2002 to 2019 what did you offer him and at what time ie 17years . He challenged you to point to one thing that you can claim you did for him and you are there calling him names .

Senator Orji kalu you have been publicly acknowledged as one of those elders who don’t want any young person to grow. You hate young leaders emerging and that’s why you struggle with the rising of this young man , but we are older than you and we supported you when you came in your 30s to run for the governorship of our state with a terrible past , we gave you a chance which you wasted , why not allow us give others a chance . Must it be your younger brother mascot or Nnanna that Abians must support ? So terrible that you are in meetings with opposition to destroy the party the young man rebuilt in Abia state ?

Funny to read BenKalu ran from South Africa , who runs from a place of his heavy investments . Do you know how much real estate investment he has there ? Are you aware that he is in the Pan african parliament that sits in midrange South Africa where he sits every three months to handle the budget and finance administration of the AU parliament? If he ran from SA why has he not been arrested during such visits or his assets confiscated ?

Yours is to throw labels on him ours is to verify . Again OUK you lied . If you like hire a thousand liars with unverifiable attacks we will not take them seriously until you answer the question “ how did you make him!”.

How did you make BenKalu? Does every one who comes close to you in politics become those you picked from the gutter ? Did you say “The white people started going to police and then he ran back to nigeria “ just listen to your self and see that you depict a man not willing to address the issues privately raised to you but out to paint a star with a brush of dirt .

Let me ask, do you have any police report on his investigation or conviction? Because we have it and it is clean record , we will post for people to see you for who you are ; the real fraudulent man with lies on a shinning star.

When your fake bishop that you created in your bedroom said you didn’t make BenKalu you created him from zero to hero , it sounded hilarious reading such . So did you create BenKalu ? How ? When ? How many of his type have you created since the last edition that was created 55 years ago?

Your blood brothers are still waiting to be recreated and made zero to hero when are you starting ? A man who has studied first degree , second degree , in his 30s with businesses and investments to his name built the home he still lives in till date , joins you in politics he becomes a man you made and brought into politics .

You call him a political no body, yet you set a reconciliation committee meeting for him to support your candidate and later gave him LGA chairmanship as agreed during reconciliation as it was his condition .

I was in Abia state when the primaries for Hon Mba Ajah happened and yes there was no primaries and it was chief Emma Umokwe from igbere who did the bid of ouk to avoid the primaries seeing that BenKalu would have won, they drove back to umuahia from Uzuakoli practicing school to announce the fake result which was immediately challenged by BenKalu , it took the late Eze Dr kalunta and Eze patrick Eko to reconcile them . Yes BenKalu fought OUk publicly condemning that then . If you brought him to politics would that had happened ?

Dear fake Bishop , OUK was seeking for Senate President, the reason he worked for Senator Lawan to become the President but BenKalu chose Asiwaju to become the President, their problems got deeper there to the extent that he worked for Labour Party against both the president and BenKalu at the last elections ( his vote was invalid vote for Asiwaju), he was deceptive to Asiwaju on the other hand BenKalu stood his grounds for the president from beginning till end . After the elections he forgot how he worked against the president and suddenly wanted to be the senate president to impeach Asiwaju later , the system supported who supported the president , it was not him, it was BenKalu . He got mad and cried publicly on tv during plenary . He had zero hand on the emergence of BenKalu as the deputy speaker infact he fought like he is fighting now to destroy his image .

At every election circle he comes with all sorts dirts to throw at a clean man and usually he will fail . BenKalu has never mentioned his name in any of Conversations in the villa . He is reaping from his own sins of betrayal and deceptive moves . Tell him no body need to be told any thing because people have known all about his credibility over the years .

The name of the company Belgium is called Belcarbon ( we have more details on this if challenges this , it is public knowledge) , in Europe you can find details on companies easily dear fake bishop Orjikalu answering bishop Chukwu of the non existing church , tell him that christian , Damien, Giovanni , David , Nick etc are partners and directors in the company that will speak up soon . Tell him that Belfus bank and two others will confirm their credit line that went down during his imprisonment for refusing to replace his name out the business .

Hilarious when Orjikalu hides cowardly behind fake names to say “sue me , I have evidence “. BenKalu will sue you if you come out in your real name to state your lies . He dares you to post your identity publicly with your picture and real details and you will meet in court but because you know you are lying you will always hide.

Finally, BenKalu will like to see all that you have as evidence as he will release all that will confirm all his assertions . You did all these ranting by saying nothing on all the questions he asked . How did you make him, how did you bring him to politics , how did you make him the deputy speaker ? You spend all the paragraphs calling him names and yet the private chat he sent to you he never called you names.

Were you thinking once we see your baseless accusations of fraud or betrayal we will believe you ? You have been accused severally ( although mostly truth ) Asiwayu had been, all past presidents , accusing them does not answer the questions raised . Answer did you or did you not make BenKalu if yes how , when and where ? If not apologise and keep quiet before we release what will shock you .

If BenKalu wants to run for governor just like your own mascot Uzor kalu wants to , that should not be a problem . We will vote him same way we voted you saint Orji Uzor Kalu .

Shame on you if you don’t present the evidence of your name calling on BenKalu as we wait for any one who you arrange to criminally defame in court . Answer the question you boastful Senator , what did you do for him that made you say you made him , say it publicly ? How did you bring him into politics say it publicly ? How did you make him the deputy speaker say it publicly . he has shifted the ball to your court and you are still dribbling your self looking for pseudo bishop and archbishops to use . Shameful leadership out of the south east .

Following a last-minute alleged move by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC and the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC that has effectively crippled the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from fielding presidential, Governorship and Assembly seats candidates in the 2027 elections, opposition leaders are considering alternative parties to safeguard their electoral ambitions in the event the legal issues are not sorted out before may 8th when the deadline for register of political parties are supposed to be set for submission.

According to inside sources, the legal entanglement orchestrated against the ADC are designed to extend beyond the party primaries and the submission of the party register, thereby putting the ADC candidate at a significant disadvantage. The ongoing crisis has prompted emergency consultations among key opposition figures, scheduled to take place in Abuja immediately after Easter, to chart a practical strategy to avert what they describe as a premeditated political trap.

Several opposition leaders, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed a split within the ranks. While some leaders insist on pursuing the internal ADC dispute, a majority are reportedly wary of escalating a crisis that could jeopardize the opposition’s chance of having any candidate at all.

The opposition sources explained that the submission of the party register, with its looming deadline, was a deliberate maneuver.

“If this crisis continues and members contest within ADC, and the party loses recognition, they cannot simply move to another party,” a source explained.

With INEC refusing to recognize the current leadership, any convention or congress conducted under the disputed administration would be invalid.

Legal analysts suggest that by the time court proceedings reach the Federal High Court and possibly the Appeal Court, a process that could take five to six months, the constitutional timelines for primaries and submission of registers will have expired, effectively blocking ADC from fielding a candidate.

In light of these developments, opposition leaders have reportedly agreed to meet in Abuja after Easter break to deliberate on a strategic “way forward,” including measures to shield themselves from similar entrapments.

Sources indicate that rushing to change ADC leadership was considered a misstep; a more measured approach through convention could have mitigated the fallout.

Additionally, the leaders plan to lobby the international community, highlighting concerns over the Tinubu administration’s alleged attempts to stifle opposition, and to seek support for democratic participation and free, fair elections in Nigeria.

The opposition is now reportedly focused on two crisis-free political alternatives:
Action Peoples Party (APP) - A party with a stable leadership record since its formation, currently holding two parliamentary seats through Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere and Hon. Matthew Nwaogu.

New Democratic Congress (NDC) - A recently formed party promoted by former Bayelsa Governor, Seriake Dickson, which currently has minimal parliamentary representation but no leadership disputes.

Opposition leaders intend to carefully consider these options, keeping their final choice confidential to avoid tipping off the APC. Any official announcement regarding the party they will adopt for the 2027 elections is expected to come only when strategic timing is optimal.

As the opposition navigates this high-stakes political maneuvering, analysts say their decisions in the coming weeks could significantly reshape Nigeria’s electoral landscape.

In a powerful and reflective message that sets the tone for a heated political season, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe has issued a firm call for civility, unity, and issue-based politics as he formally signals the start of his re-election journey in Cross River North.

Addressing constituents in what he titled “A Piece of My Thoughts,” the lawmaker struck a statesmanlike posture, urging supporters and political actors alike to reject insults, personal attacks, and divisive rhetoric, even in the face of stiff opposition.

“My dear good people of Cross River North, as we embark on this re-election journey, I thank you deeply for your unwavering support,” he began, before quickly setting clear boundaries for the campaign ahead.

He added:“I must speak plainly to you about the path we must take.”

With the political atmosphere already charged, particularly with the presence of formidable contenders such as former Governor Senator Ben Ayade, Jarigbe cautioned against descending into mudslinging.

“I am aware that emotions run high. Our opponents, including my brother, former Governor, Senator Ben Ayade, are formidable,” he acknowledged.

“I charge you: do not use uncouth words against any aspirant. No insult, no personal attack, no abusive language. We are better than that. Our campaign will be defined by ideas, not insults, “he said.

In a notable show of political maturity, the senator also called for respect toward the office of the governor,past and present,regardless of differing opinions about performance in office.

“Furthermore, I demand that you respect the Seat of Governor, whether serving or former, regardless of who occupies it,” he declared.

“Whether you believe the former Governor performed or underperformed, that office commands our collective dignity. No man is infallible. We all have strengths and weaknesses. Let us critique records, not abuse persons, “he stressed.

Jarigbe’s message went beyond campaign strategy, delving into moral reflection and the essence of leadership. He reminded supporters that political ambition should not eclipse humanity and shared values.

“Let us pursue a healthy contest, one that reflects our proper upbringing as sons and daughters of Cross River,” he said.

“Remember: life’s struggles, its cravings, its ambitions, they all amount to vanity at the end. What endures is character, community, and how we treated one another along the way, “he further said.

The senator also challenged fellow aspirants to remain grounded and attentive to public sentiment, warning against political denial.

“I only implore all of us, aspirants, to listen to the voices of our people and not live in denial of the obvious,” he stated pointedly.

Perhaps most striking was his emphasis on party unity, a message clearly aimed at preventing post-primary fractures within the All Progressives Congress ,APC.

“Finally, we remain one united APC family
Even as we further our divergent interests within this primary, we must never forget that after the votes are counted, we will still need each other. No ambition is worth destroying the conviviality we have shared amongst one another, “Jarigbe further said.

He concluded with a resonant appeal that encapsulates his campaign philosophy: “Campaign with passion, but campaign with honour.”

Peach & Prime: Anti Corruption Group Warns Against Smear Campaigns on Adejoh

***Exonerates Benue ADC Guber Aspirant Over Alleged Embezzlement

Foremost pro-democracy, anti-corruption and justice sector Civil Society Organization, has warned social media influencers and content creators against smearing the personality of Dr. Peter Adejoh, a governorship aspirant under the platform of African Democratic Congress (ADC).

This was, even as, the group, made up of Lawyers, has given a clean bill of health to Dr. Adejoh and his management team, over the allegation of siphoning investors’ funds in the defunct 'Peach & Prime' foreign exchange (forex) trading, exonerating him of any wrongdoings or fraud.

In a statement signed by its President, Edward OMAGA, Esq, and made available to newsmen on Friday, the Group, Global Integrity Crusade Network (GICN), said it has conducted preliminary investigation into the said social media outing against 'Peach & Prime' and discovered it was politically motivated, as there was no court in Nigeria that indicted Dr. Adejoh over the failed portfolio management company, which was occasioned by the global economic recession of 2009, neither has anyone complained amongst the investors.

As an upright and sincere business man and politician with integrity, the GICN said, Dr. Adejoh, rather than absconding from the country like others did, decided to stay back in Nigeria despite the pressure at the time, and instead, activated a process to refund genuine and verifiable individuals who invested in the business which lasted barely a year, despite the fact that he was not responsible for the recession.

"During this period, countless legitimate businesses and investment ventures across the world suffered severe losses from the capital market. The records are online for everyone to verify!

"We are aware that the company, in order to demonstrate accountability, responsibility and integrity published a Public Notice through various media platforms including, the Daily Trust and ThisDay newspapers on Monday, April 19, 2021, calling on all past genuine investors to forward their claims and supporting information to a designated email address for urgent and prompt consideration, having being a business that shut down over 16 years ago. Copies of the said publications are hereby attached to this Press Statement.

"We are reliably informed that most of the investors who complied with the instructions in the publication and went through the verification processes are being paid, and this window remains open and repayment is ongoing to date, demonstrating a willingness to address legitimate concerns in good faith and not out of compulsion.

"There is therefore no justification for people to prematurely label the company and its owner as fraudulent without first availing themselves of the opportunity for engagement, fact finding and resolution", the group said.

The GICN therefore, cautioned that, any attempt "by political opponents to use members of the same community to undermine and discredit their own kinsman are not only unpalatable but unconscionable and ought to be rejected entirely", adding that, the records gathered about Dr. Peter Adejoh clearly showed, he has been widely recognized in many quarters as an astute entrepreneur, employer of labour and philanthropist, whose contributions to society and humanitarian efforts are astounding.

The Network stressed that, "Over the years, he (Adejoh) has impacted numerous Nigerians through scholarship initiatives, business empowerment programs, and direct support to individuals and communities in need. These verifiable acts of generosity and social responsibility stand in sharp contrast to the present wave of unsubstantiated allegations being circulated against him.

"It should be known that Dr. Peter Adejoh has never been prosecuted and or convicted by any court of law for fraud relating to the operations of the now defunct Peach & Prime Limited. As a matter of fact, he is the only one among the leading operators and forex traders at the time of the market crash who never absconded or ran abroad but stayed back to pay verified clients through an appointed agent.

"Over the past seventeen years that the forex market crashed, Dr. Peter Adejoh chose to remain in Nigeria and lawfully rebuild his businesses, spanning key sectors of the economy through hard work and determination. Such efforts of probity and hard work should be commended and not condemned".

The group, therefore, condemned in totality, "the attempt by some enemies of progress and social media attack dogs who have made spreading of rumours a stock in trade", to cash out on the ill-fated business of over 16 years ago.

The Network said, "No doubt, the period in question - between 2008 and 2010 when Nigerians invested in foreign exchange (forex) trading, oil and gas business and real estate through Peach & Prime Limited and other market operators at the time coincided with one of the worst global economic recessions in modern history", querying why it would take 17 years later and when Dr. Adejoh is now gunning for elective position, that an already settled issue would reappear on social media, in the name of creating contents.

By Comfort Olayinka

Key government institutions, financial regulators, development partners and disability rights advocates converged in Abuja on February 26, 2026, for the Second Policy Dialogue on Disability-Inclusive Economic Empowerment, with a renewed call to move from commitments to measurable action.

The high-level dialogue, organised by Empower to Thrive Development Initiative (ETTDI) under its Empower Her Ability Project, brought together representatives from the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Bank of Industry (BOI), Sightsavers Nigeria, Christian Blind Mission, JONAPWD, financial institutions, civil society groups, the media and development partners, including the French Embassy Fund for Civil Society Organisations (FEF-CSO).

Welcoming participants, the organisers noted that the dialogue builds on resolutions reached during the inaugural meeting in September 2025, which convened 63 stakeholders across government, finance and civil society to address systemic barriers facing women with disabilities in Nigeria’s economic space.

According to ETTDI, the urgency remains stark: one in five Nigerian women lives with a disability, yet a vast majority live below the international poverty line, with only a small fraction able to access formal financial services. The first dialogue produced recommendations including the creation of dedicated disability desks in banks, mainstreaming disability-inclusive policies, strengthening collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and NCPWD, and expanding awareness of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act (2018) and the National Financial Inclusion Strategy.

Participants also called for improved accessibility in banking halls and digital platforms, sign language capacity within financial institutions, promotion of the CBN’s SABI Money platform for financial literacy, and expansion of BOI’s GLOW product to better serve women with disabilities.

“This second dialogue is designed to move us from commitments to accountability,” organisers stated, outlining objectives that include reviewing progress made, identifying implementation gaps, aligning emerging priorities, and developing a consolidated set of policy asks with clear timelines and responsible actors.

Delivering the keynote address, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, represented by Director, Media and Communications Lanre Oloyede conveyed the goodwill of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive growth under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He described women with disabilities as facing “double marginalization” based on gender and disability, stressing that inclusive economic empowerment must go beyond rhetoric to targeted policies, accessible training, improved access to credit and grants, inclusion in public procurement, and strict enforcement of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act.

Highlighting federal interventions, he referenced programmes under the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), including N-Power, the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP), and Conditional Cash Transfers, noting that deliberate efforts are being made to prioritise persons with disabilities.

He commended ETTDI for sustaining the Empower Her Ability Project, describing civil society as a critical partner in advancing national development goals.

The dialogue also featured testimonies from beneficiaries. Blessing Emunike, an entrepreneur and member of the Urbanism Association of Nigeria, shared how participation in the Empower Her Ability training and boot camp transformed her business approach.

“Before, many of us were just buying and selling without proper structure,” she said. “Now we understand business model canvas development, record-keeping and financial discipline. Our mentality has changed.”

She added that the mentorship component and business supervision strengthened participants’ capacity and exposed them to funding opportunities. However, she emphasised that access to loans and grants remains difficult for many persons with disabilities and called for expansion and funding of such targeted training programmes.

As discussions progressed, stakeholders emphasised the need for savings clusters, flexible loan terms, accessibility audits, disability compliance certification and stronger representation of women with disabilities in economic decision-making spaces.

The consensus at the close of the session was clear: dialogue alone is insufficient. Participants pledged to pursue concrete, time-bound actions that would translate policy promises into institutional reforms, accessible financial products and expanded opportunities for women with disabilities across Nigeria.

With renewed collaboration among government, financial institutions and civil society, stakeholders expressed optimism that Nigeria’s economic growth will be stronger and more sustainable when women with disabilities are fully included in the nation’s development journey.

The joint committees of the Senate and House of Representatives on Interior, on Tuesday, lauded the many reformative efforts of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, since he assumed office.

The commendations came during the joint session of both Committees in the National Assembly, during the appearance of the Honourable Minister and members of the interior team, for the 2026 budget defence session.

Chairman, Senate Committee on Interior, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, while giving the commendations on behalf of the joint session, acknowledged the various reforms being undertaken by the Minister, saying, such efforts are yielding serious results in placing the country's image high, within and internationally.

"Each time I pass through our airports now, I feel honored and elated that our immigration service is wearing a new phase. The reforms currently being undertaken by the Minister is yielding appreciable results" Oshiomhole said.

While he admitted more efforts needed to be done to make the reforms lasting one, the Chairman said the Lawmakers acknowledged the improvements on the various sectors in the ministry.

"Recently, the President directed that the Civil Defence Corps should provide security for the VIPs, though I'm yet to get any, but I have probably seen some with my colleagues. It shows renewed recognition on the part of Mr. President and it shows you're doing well and your service is entrusted with the protection of lives and properties.

"We have the new CG of Fire Service now and just this morning, the Senate passed a resolution for the Interior to go to Kano, to see for themselves, the fire incidents that raised down many stores, private properties in Kano. So, the effort of Fire Service is also well appreciated.

"The Correctional Service now has a new Head, who is trying his best to put efforts in place, in line with the reforms of the Honorable Minister. I know there are couples of things to do, and I'm sure they will get it done", the Senator added.

The Chairman, however, tasked the Civil Defence, Correctional, Immigration and Fire Service Board on the ongoing recruitment process, saying applicants who wrote examinations were angling to get their results out on time.

He charged the Board to as a matter of urgent national importance, conclude the recruitment process and release the list for successful applicants.

*** target 5 million votes from North Central


A Deputy Director, (Organizing) at the national secretariat of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Isah Daniel; former Member representing Ankpa/Omala/Olamaboro Federal Constituency of Kogi State, Hon. Hassan Omale Atayoma; and other stakeholders of the party from the North Central, at the weekend in Abuja, launched a frontline support group for the reelection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

At a well attended inaugural ceremony, the group, North Central Youths Support Group for Tinubu, 2027, was officially launched, with the inauguration of regional and state executives and unveiling of the Board of Trustees.

Delivering his inaugural address, Hon. Daniel congratulated the youths for keeping faith with the party and the President, saying their labour would not be in vein.

"This is like the ark of Noah, you are already in, and the flood is coming, I only pity those who are outside. Like Dr. Hassan rightly said, we just have to go back to our various states, plant our foot soldiers very well, and let them have what to work with.

"Tell them what to use and let them come and do the needful on the day of the election. It is not any other person, but the man that knows how to do it best, and that's Asiwaju. He has come, he is working, he will conquer, and Nigeria would become a country of envy, a country that foreigners would like to come and invest", he said.

The Deputy Director charged the youth to be rest assured that, "Asiwaju has won his reelection already; not just winning, but winning convincingly. And I am happy that we are here, as members of that family that would be celebrating oga (Tinubu)'s return".

On his part, Hon. Atayoma, called for patience with the President’s economic policies, despite current hardships faced by Nigerians, saying only patience and endurance would make Nigerians enjoy the benefits of the reforms.

“People say they are suffering. Of course. Even when you farm, you must work before you eat. But at the end of the day, there will be food,” Atayoma, who emerged as the Board of Trustees Chairman of the group, said.

The former Federal Lawmaker argued that Tinubu’s policies would yield long-term benefits, noting that future generations would appreciate the reforms being implemented.

Atayoma said the group resolved to back Tinubu’s re-election based on what he described as the President’s record of appointments and infrastructural provisions for the region.

“We know what he has done for us. He has appointed our men and women to very critical positions. We hope that if he returns, there will be more appointments and more development for our youths,” he added.

Also speaking, the National Youth Ambassador for the Forum, Prince Ngbede Odoh, charged the youth across the region to take advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voters Registration exercise and get their cards, which he described as their power.

Odoh lamented how the votes for President Tinubu in the region was scarcely over 4 million, despite the fact that over 12 million people registered to vote in the 2023 elections.

He tasked the group to go all out in sensitizing the people of the region, to not only register to vote, but to also come out enmass to vote massively for President Tinubu in 2027.

Earlier, the Director-General of the group, Comrade Abdullahi Muhammed Jemil, said the organisation was targeting no fewer than five million votes for the President in the next election.

“We promise five million votes within our power to deliver our President. We need your guidance, advice and protection,” Jemil declared.

He said the group would engage communities, institutions and markets across the region to promote Tinubu’s candidacy, describing the President as the best option for Nigeria.

In his remarks, the National Director of Tinubu Support Group, Umar Tanko Yankasi, described the North Central as one of Nigeria’s most resource-rich regions, citing Kogi State as an example.

Represented by Dr. Hassan Sadiq, Yankasi said Nigeria needed a leader with strong economic knowledge rather than mere political experience, arguing that Tinubu had taken bold economic decisions avoided by previous leaders.

“These are economic ideas that countries like America, Germany and the UK followed before getting to where they are today,” Yankasi said.

He urged the youth group to establish a strong presence across the seven states of the North Central, stressing that effective ward-level mobilisation would be key to delivering electoral victory in 2027.

The Legal Adviser of the group, Barr. Isah Iliyasu, while charging the youth to activate their youthfulness in fulfilling the promise of mobilizing over 5 million votes for Tinubu in 2027; also urged them to go about it diligently, saying, the coming election was a fight that must be fought with diplomacy, lobbying and subtle canvassing, devoid of aggression and crises.

The North Central Youths Support Group for Tinubu 2027 has officially announced its formation and forthcoming public inauguration, marking a major milestone in youth-driven political mobilization across Nigeria’s North Central region. The movement is aimed at strengthening grassroots support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership while promoting unity, national development, and inclusive governance.

At the center of the group’s leadership structure is Hon. Hassan Omale Atayoma, who serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees. His appointment has been widely welcomed by stakeholders as a strategic step that adds credibility, experience, and institutional stability to the organization. A former Member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Hassan Omale brings extensive legislative experience and deep knowledge of national policy development to the group.

His background in lawmaking and constituency representation is expected to guide the organization’s strategic direction and strengthen its engagement with government institutions.

Beyond his legislative record, Hon. Hassan Omale currently serves as the Executive Director of the Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority, where he oversees major development initiatives focused on water resource management, agricultural support, and infrastructure expansion.

His leadership in public administration is expected to enhance the group’s operational effectiveness, ensure transparency, and strengthen partnerships with development stakeholders across the region.

Also playing a key advisory role in the organization is Comrade Isa Daniel (Prof), who has been appointed as the Advisor to the group. Isa Daniel is presently the Deputy Director of Organising at the APC National Secretariat, a position that places him at the forefront of national party coordination, grassroots mobilization, and political strategy.

His expertise in political organization and campaign management is expected to significantly strengthen the group’s mobilization framework and ensure alignment with the broader objectives of the All Progressives Congress.

The group also enjoys strong political backing from national leaders, including Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, who serves as the Grand Patron of the movement. His involvement brings added political guidance, mentorship, and national visibility to the initiative.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and leader of the APC, remains the central inspiration behind the group’s mission to consolidate governance reforms and expand youth participation in nation-building.

Leading the operational activities of the organization is the Director-General, Comrade Abdullahi Muhammed Jemilu, who is spearheading youth mobilization efforts across the North Central states. His leadership focuses on building strong grassroots structures, expanding community outreach programs, and empowering young people to actively participate in democratic processes.

The official launching, inauguration, press briefing, and awards ceremony of the North Central Youths Support Group for Tinubu 2027 is scheduled to hold on February 14, 2026, at 10:00am, at the Tinubu Support Group Office, No. 2 Kainji Crescent, Off Lake Chad Crescent, Maitama, Abuja.

The event is expected to attract political stakeholders, party leaders, youth organizations, civil society groups, and media representatives from across the country.

With a well-structured leadership team, experienced political figures, and a rapidly growing grassroots network, the North Central Youths Support Group for Tinubu 2027 is positioning itself as a formidable platform for youth advocacy and political engagement.

The group has reaffirmed its commitment to peace, unity, democratic values, and policies that promote economic growth, job creation, and sustainable national development.

Former Governor of Abia State and Senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, aligned with a growing list of institutions, government bodies and student organisations in applauding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the appointment and inauguration of Honourable Peter Ogbonna Eze as the Federal Character Commission (FCC) Commissioner representing Enugu State.

President Tinubu formally swore in Eze alongside the Chairman of the Commission, Mrs. Ayo Omidiran, and 36 other commissioners at a ceremony held at the State House, Abuja, reminding them they are the conscience of the nation . He also charged them to uphold integrity, fairness and national responsibility in the discharge of their duties.

The ceremony was witnessed by members of the Federal Executive Council, senior government officials and other dignitaries.

Speaking on the appointment of Eze, who served as his aide, Senator Kalu expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu, describing the decision as a deliberate act of encouragement for capable young Nigerians committed to public service.

“I thank President Tinubu for what he did for Peter. The President knows Peter very well and sees him clearly because Peter is someone who is ready to encourage young people,” Kalu said.

He noted that Eze’s young age just about 34 or 35 is an assessment of the President’s ideology in grooming youths in governance and politics, stressing that Tinubu believes in grooming and empowering the next generation of leaders.

Kalu further revealed that the President relates personally with Eze, often addressing him by his first name, a sign of confidence and familiarity. He expressed optimism that Eze’s performance at the FCC could open doors to even greater responsibilities in the future.

“I’m also happy that President Tinubu appointed Peter Eze , he Knows Peter Eze very well he sees Peter in my House and I also go with him to visit President Tinubu and I thank him for what he did for the youth people. President Tinubu also wants to encourage young people like Peter and he calls him by his first name.

“That is what politics is all about, you sit down, ask for what your people need, work for your people, and your people work for you,” the Senator added.

The appointment has continued to attract widespread commendation from academic institutions, grassroots authorities and national student bodies.

In a congratulatory message signed by Prof. E. R. Ukwueze, Head of the Department of Economics, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), the department described Eze as an outstanding alumnus and a worthy ambassador of the university.

The department praised his dedication to both private and public service, noting that his achievement stands as a source of inspiration to current and future students of the institution.

“As you take up this new role, we trust that your light will continue to shine and illuminate your path and that of the nation at large,” the statement read, while also offering prayers for God’s guidance and wisdom as he serves in his new capacity.

At the grassroots level, the Government and people of Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, Eze’s home LGA, also congratulated him on his inauguration. In a statement issued on behalf of the Executive Chairman and signed by Sydney Eze, Chief Media Aide, the council described the appointment as a recognition of Eze’s years of integrity, dedication to service and commitment to fairness, equity and national unity.

The local government expressed confidence that Eze would bring these sterling qualities to bear at the Federal Character Commission, assuring that Enugu State would be proudly represented under his watch. The council further pledged its continued support and goodwill, expressing optimism that his tenure would contribute positively to inclusiveness, equity and balanced development across the federation.

The student community was not left out, as the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Zone F (South-East) extended gratitude to President Tinubu for the appointment and inauguration of Eze. Speaking on behalf of students in the South-East, the association described Eze as “one of our brothers” and wished him a successful and impactful tenure at the commission. The message was signed by Ikechukwu Emmanuel, Coordinator of NANS Zone F.

Similarly, the Association of Graduate Economics Students (AGES), through its National Chairman, Evaristus Ikpa, congratulated Eze on his appointment by President Tinubu, describing it as well-deserved and wishing him the very best in office.

Peter Eze, an economist and public administrator from Aji in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, was confirmed by the Senate on November 27, 2025, following his nomination by the President, which was earlier announced on August 1, 2025, by the President’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga. His confirmation came after a screening exercise conducted by the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs, which reported no petitions or adverse security findings against him.

Chairman of the Senate Committee, Senator Onyesoh Onyesoh, noted that Eze and other nominees demonstrated competence, expertise and a strong understanding of the FCC’s mandate, expressing confidence that the commission would be strengthened under the new leadership.

With endorsements spanning political leaders, academia, local government authorities and student bodies, political pundits are of the opinion that the broad support trailing Peter Eze’s appointment reflects growing confidence in his capacity to contribute meaningfully to national unity, equity and fair representation through the Federal Character Commission.

By Ochiaka Ugwu

Encomiums had been poured on the reputable construction expert and an engineer of high repute, Engr. Adah Ochoechi FNSE, FNIWE, CPM on the conferment of prestigious award of Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) by the Management and Staff of ALIADE ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION COMPANY LTD.

The company in a press statement in Abuja Monday, while congratulating Engr. Adah Ochoechi, on this outstanding achievement noted the award was a well-deserved honour given Engr. Adah’s professional dexterity and thoroughness in both Construction and Engineering services.

According to the statement, “The Management and Staff of ALIADE ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION COMPANY LTD heartly congratulates Engr. Adah Ochoechi FNSE, FNIWE, CPM on his well-deserved conferment of the eminent award of FELLOW of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) on the occasion of the 2025 international Enginemen Conference, Exhibition and Annual General Meeting in Ibadan, Oyo State Nigeria.

“This is a well-deserved honor to an Archetypal Engineer with an excellent structural mindset that has motivated trailblazing integrated projects that culminated into economic benefits to the private and public sectors respectively in Africa. We pray for more wisdom and strength to continue the good works you are doing” the statement concluded.

Recall the award was only reserved for accomplished Engineers in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the Engineering profession and national development.

However, eminent Nigerians had praised the commitment and professional integrity of Engr. Adah, commending his dedication to engineering excellence of upholding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethics.

OFFICE OF THE INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT ( DNKI )

ADDRESS TO ALL NORSEMEN
BY THE SKULL EXECUTIONER, DNKI
January 6th, 2026

Fellow Norsemen,

My attention has been drawn to a video currently making the rounds on various media platforms. In that video, the immediate past Skull Executioner, Chief Chidi Anokwu, is seen handing over a skull-like cup with a horn to Oliver Patrick, while uttering words to the effect that “we drink and suck blood” and instructing him to do same.

Let me be very clear and unequivocal:

De Norsemen Kclub International (DNKI) does NOT drink blood, does NOT suck blood, and has NEVER been a cult or an organization involved in such barbaric practices.

DNKI is a humanitarian, socio-cultural, and advocacy organization committed to rendering services to humanity, being a voice to the voiceless,standing firmly against injustice, and upholding dignity, brotherhood, and lawful conduct at all times.

The statements and actions displayed in that video are unethical,false, misleading, disgraceful, and completely alien to the philosophy, values, beliefs and constitution of DNKI.

Those individuals do not represent DNKI, nor do they speak for this brotherhood in any capacity whatsoever.

Let it be known that nobody is above the law in DNKI. We are an organization founded on due process, discipline, accountability, and respect for constituted authority.

I therefore urge all well-meaning Norsemen worldwide to remain calm, resolute, and law-abiding as we address this matter decisively.

In line with due process, I am hereby constituting a committee to critically investigate this shameful and embarrassing incident.

The committee will critically examine the circumstances surrounding the video and recommend appropriate actions.

I further assure all Norsemen and the general public that any individual found culpable in this disgraceful act will face appropriate disciplinary measures without fear or favour, in accordance with the constitution of DNKI.

DNKI remains a brotherhood of honour, shared values,service, and justice—and we shall not allow the reckless actions of a few to tarnish our collective integrity.

Stay calm. Stay disciplined. Stay true to the ideals of DNKI.

Long Live DNKI.


E - Signed

Dr. Alban Aniekanabasi Paulinus
Skull Executioner
De Norsemen Kclub International (DNKI)


cc'
Chairman B.o.T DNKI
Founding Fathers
All Patrol SK's

A group of security experts in Nigeria has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to as a matter of urgent security measures, stop the activities of illegal miners in Zamfara State and other parts of the north.

Briefing newsmen after a one-day retreat in Jos, Plateau state, on Sunday, Dr. Danlami Shehu, Convener, Arewa Patriotic Neighborhood Watch (APNW), and the Assistant Secretary, Alhaji Yusuf Ahmed, said the activities of the miners greatly hamper the efforts of various security agencies at nipping banditry on the board in the north.

The security experts specifically urged President Tinubu to dust the various reports against former Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Abdulaziz Yari and "his collaborators", saying, the current government would make a great progress from the recommendations therein.

"Senator Abdulaziz Yari, right from when he was the Governor of Zamfara State, up till now that he is a serving Senator, has been frequently implicated in reports linking him and other high-level political figures to the illegal gold mining industry in Zamfara, which is considered a major driver of regional banditry", the experts said.

They argued that, so far the illegal mining business continues in the State, bandits would always have upper hands, saying the Marchants of the illegal activities appear to have strong influence on the bandits, whom they entrust the security of the mining sites to; the situation which they said, makes it difficult for Nigerian security, including the Armed Forces to penetrate.

According to Dr. Shehu, "Illegal mining of gold has been fingered as the main cause of the recent atrocious turn of insecurity in Zamfara State. The federal government, under late President Muhammad Buhari, announced a ban on illegal mining in the state in April 2019, saying there was a 'strong and glaring nexus between the activities of armed bandits and illicit miners, with both mutually re-enforcing each other'.

"The then Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu also issued an order that 'all foreigners within mining sites are to leave immediately', as the police launched 'operation puff-adder' in the government’s attempt to crush the banditry. Despite Federal Government policy, illegal activities persisted, often under the protection of armed groups who make it impossible for security agencies to penetrate the mining sites.

"The Institute for Security Studies and various reports, both national and international, indicate that the massive banditry in Zamfara is fueled by gold mining, with proceeds often used to buy arms.

"Since the battle for the gold of Zamfara has taken a new turn due to external and internal collaborations to steal state resources, Gold mines are now Blood mines. The gold extracted illegally in Zamfara is transported via flights from forests to Middle Eastern countries, and sometimes to Sudan and Cameroon, to be sold. These are known facts and there are reports which linked Senator Yari to all of these. But why is the federal government turning blind eyes to those reports?

"In 2021, there was a Ghana Gold Report which linked Yari to seized gold bars worth millions of dollars in Ghana. There are other reports, including the one carried out by a serving Member of this 10th House of Representatives. Why is the government not revisiting these, to properly address insecurity in the north?

"In 2022, the ICPC secured an interim order to forfeit 10 properties linked to Senator Yari to the Federal Government, alluding that they were 'proceeds of corruption stemming from illegal activities', including that of mining. Even as a sitting Governor, it was in the news everywhere that Yari was always being scrutinized by law enforcement agencies. And when he won senatorial election in 2023, he quickly rushed to court and secured an order restraining EFCC, ICPC and DSS from arresting him.

"But the next month, the DSS arrested and detained him for almost one week. Why has the secret police not told Nigerians their findings? Why the Federal Government not taken up the matter with the view to putting lasting solutions to the insurgencies in the north? Can a single man be more powerful than the government?"

On his pert, Alhaji Ahmed, a native of Zamfara State, lamented that, the activities of illegal miners do not only breed and encourage banditry, it also hampers the health of the locals and cause great economic sabotage to the state and the nation.

He said, "Zamfara State is strangulated by its politics. Its health is disturbed by the ineptitude of its past and present leadership. Over the years its economy is defined by huge illegal mining for gold by the political class, especially Senator Abdulaziz Yari, while the government watched without acting, observing a dark cloud of violence descends on the people by the activities of illegal miners and militias.

"In March 2010, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)/Doctors Without Borders warned the world that an estimated 400 children died from lead poisoning in Zamfara. The cause of the poisoning is unsafe mining activities. The mass poisoning affected villagers in three Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Anka, Bukkuyum and Maru.

"Even Senator Yari himself had admitted previously that, over $500 million was generated annually from mining without significant funds entering the state's coffers. He was able to know this because he leads a very powerful cartel in the illegal mining business which even the current state governor knows.

"Although Yari has always denied these allegations, but the intersection of his governorship, the rise of banditry during his tenure, and the massive illegal mining operations has led to sustained scrutiny. All the time, various security agencies would arrest him and release him the next moment. Nigerians deserve to know what is happening. Our people back home are really suffering the heat from these illegal activities and those of the bandits. But then, they cannot voice out, perhaps, for fear".

Alhaji Ahmed added that, himself, alongside other notable Comrades from Zamfara, led by a renowned journalist Kadaria Ahmed, had a massive protest in Abuja in 2019, when Yari was rounding up his administration, which got the attention of President Buhari and his wife, Aisha, adding that, even the past administration was aware of the activities of Senator Yari in Zamfara and what gave birth to the operations of bandits under his administration, but yet, nobody could question him.

As at the time of filing this reports, Senator Yari was not available to respond to these comments, as he was said to have been busy at the award ceremony in Ibandan, Oyo state, even though, he has severally denied all the allegations as previously reported in the media.

The Senate on Thursday confirmed President Bola Tinubu’s appointment of Hon. Peter Ogbonna Eze as the Federal Commissioner representing Enugu State in the Federal Character Commission (FCC) following the presentation of a detailed screening report by the Senate Standing Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs.

The report was presented by the committee’s chairman, Senator Allwell Heacho Onyesoh, who represents Rivers East Senatorial District during plenary presided by the Senate President , GodswillAkpabio. .

His presentation paved the way for the upper chamber to adopt the committee’s recommendations after a hitch free consideration process.

Senator Onyesoh informed the Senate that the nominees including Peter Eze, FCC Executive Chairman-designate Hon. Ayo Hulayat Omidiran, and 36 other nominees were thoroughly screened by the committee on Tuesday, November 13, 2025.

“The committee did not receive any criminal complaints on any of the nominees. They appeared before us, submitted all required documents, and demonstrated capacity for the roles they were nominated for,” he stated.

Onyesoh explained that the vetting process involved the submission and review of curriculum vitae, Code of Conduct clearance certificates, police reports, DSS screening reports, and other eligibility documents. Each nominee made a formal presentation and engaged in an extensive question-and-answer session.

He further added that all 37 nominees submitted earlier by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu including representatives from the 36 states and the FCT fulfilled constitutional requirements to serve in the Commission.

Presenting his committee’s findings, Senator Onyesoh described the nominees including Peter Eze as “eminently qualified, competent, and a person of proven integrity,” noting that he demonstrated a strong grasp of the FCC’s mandate and the reforms needed to reposition the commission.

“The committee found them to be eminently qualified. His appointment will strengthen the capacity of the Federal Character Commission to review outdated statutes and harmonise them with current realities,” the chairman said.

Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, moved the motion for the Senate to dissolve into the Committee of the Whole for the chamber to consider the nominees.

While supporting the motion, Deputy Minority Leader, Senator Olalere Oyewumi, said:
“I rise to support their nomination. From their résumé, they have held different positions both locally and internationally, and I hereby thank Mr President for finding them worthy for nomination.”

Following the submission, the Senate dissolved into the Committee of the Whole to consider each nominee.

After a state-by-state review and no objections raised, the Committee of the Whole adopted the report and reverted to plenary.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio thereafter subjected the nominations to a voice vote, which received unanimous approval.

President Tinubu had earlier named Peter Eze among the Commissioners in a statement released by Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.

Eze, an accomplished economist and public administrator, comes into the commission with a broad background spanning international business, corporate leadership and public service.

A native of Aji, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area, Enugu State, Eze currently serves as Executive Assistant to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, a role in which he has contributed to business, political, developmental, and philanthropic initiatives. His academic journey reflects distinction at every level:

B.Sc. Economics (Second Class Upper) - University of Nigeria, Nsukka ; Master’s in Customs Management ( School of Public Administration – University of International Business and Economics (UIBE), Beijing; Recipient of multiple honours, including the Most Outstanding Student Award (UIBE, 2019), Rotary International Leadership Excellence Award (2023), and China-Nigeria Friendship Award (2022)

His career spans roles such as Head of the International Desk, Chinese CEO Group in Beijing; Executive Secretary at the Orji Uzor Kalu Foundation; Special Correspondent with The Sun Newspapers; Director of Procurement and Logistics at Slok Nigeria Ltd; Director of Strategy at The Sun Publishing Ltd; and Director of Operations at The New Telegraph.

Until his appointment he currently led Bullion Standard Nigeria Ltd, overseeing operations in mining, importation, production, and international partnerships.

With expertise in economic policy, strategic management, development planning, and institutional reform, Eze is widely viewed as a strategic addition to the Federal Character Commission.

After the final vote, Senate President Godswill Akpabio charged the newly confirmed appointees to approach their duties with patriotism and a clear commitment to national development. Addressing the chamber after the unanimous confirmation, he said:

“Go and serve in the interest of the nation. I congratulate all the nominees and wish them a successful tenure.”, he said.

Other Confirmed Nominees from other states, include: Lawal Ya’u Roni (Jigawa); Abubakar Atiku Bunu (Kebbi); Eludayo Eluyemi (Osun); Abdulwasiu Kayode Bawalla (Lagos); Hon. Obinna Oriaku (Abia); Bema Olvadi Madayi (Adamawa); Dora Ebong (Akwa-Ibom); Nnoli Nkechi Gloria (Anambra); Babangida Adamu Gwana (Bauchi); Sir Tonye Okio (Bayelsa); Aligba Eugene Tarkende (Benue); Engr. Modu Mustapha (Borno); Dr. Stella Odey Ekpo (Cross River); Ederin Lovette Idisi (Delta); Barr. Nwokpor Vincent Nduka (Ebonyi); Hon. Victor Sabor Edoror (Edo); Hon. Sola Fokanle (Ekiti); Ibrahim Baba Mairiga (Gombe); Hon. Jerry Alagbaoso (Imo); Ruth Jumai Ango (Kaduna); Muhammad Awwal Nayya (Kano); Hon. Anas Isah (Katsina); Bello Idris Eneye (Kogi); Dr. Ibrahim Abdullahi (Kwara); Alh. Isah Jibrin (Niger); Comrade Ajimudu Bola (Ondo); Prince Ayodeji Aleshinloye (Oyo); Hon. Pam Bolman (Plateau); Aaron Chukwuemeka (Rivers); Alh. Aminu Tambar (Sokoto); Bobboi Bala Kaigama (Taraba); Hon. Jibir Maigari (Yobe); Sani Garba (Zamfara); Solomon Ayuba Dagami (FCT).

Senator Onyesoh expressed confidence that the newly confirmed Commissioners, particularly high-capacity technocrats like Peter Eze, will help reposition the Commission in line with the demands of modern public administration.

Former Commissioner for Finance and budget planning in Abia State, Hon. Obinna Oriaku, has added his voice for the calls for transparency and accountability in handling the monthly Federal allocations and other accruals to the State.

In a well simplified article personally signed and published via Abia Watch on Monday, Hon. Oriaku, who was Finance Commissioner under Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), called on Governor Alex Otti, to be kind to Abians by disclosing what he has been doing with various allocations from the Federation Account and the Internally Generated Revenues (IGR) of the state.

The call is coming barely one month after the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, RT. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, called for prudent management of the resources from the Federal Government to the state, urging for proper utilization of the revenue allocations and other generated funds within the state, in attending to critical infrastructures in Abia state.

Kalu, while addressing the Renewed Hope Partners in Abia last month, also hinted that the State was in receipt of N38 billion in excess of federal allocations and other accruals, monthly, in the second quarter of 2025.

Governor Otti, has however, dismissed the claim, insisting monthly revenues for the state stand at N15 billion.

But in an article titled: Abia’s Q3 2025 Financial Report: Unanswered Questions, Conflicting Figures and Rising Transparency Concerns, the former Finance Commissioner, Oriaku, faulted the claims of Governor Otti, describing it as "suspicious" and "confusing".

He said, the recently published Abia Q3 2025 Financial Report, reviewed by Progressives Abia Youth, has stirred a fresh wave of concern across the state. Although the sectoral breakdown appears detailed at first glance, a deeper look reveals figures that sharply contradict what is obtainable on the ground and what the government previously claimed.

"The report indicates that Abia received a total revenue of 91 billion naira in Q3, a noticeable drop from the 114 billion recorded in Q2. This reduction confirms that the state enjoyed substantial non-FAAC inflows in Q2, which pushed the earlier figure upward. Yet Q3 was a period marked by some of the highest FAAC disbursements nationwide, including 1.9 trillion naira in July, 2.3 trillion naira in August and 2.1 trillion naira in September. During this same period, Abia’s internally generated revenue reportedly increased from 13.3 billion to 18 billion naira", Oriaku said.

He expressed disappointment that, "despite these realities, the state government continues to deny that Abia received an average of 38 billion naira monthly between April and June. For clarity, Abia received 84 billion naira in Q1 which translates to about 28 billion monthly. In Q2, the figure rose significantly to 114 billion naira which is about 38 billion monthly. In Q3, the total revenue of 91 billion naira translates to 30.3 billion monthly.

"These inconsistencies have triggered public doubt, especially because the same government has been busy discrediting a financial report prepared and signed by its own authorized officials. Many Abians are now asking why states such as Enugu and Imo have visible landmark projects funded from these same revenues, while Abia citizens are expected to celebrate patchwork road repairs. Officials insist on being judged using the standard of past administrations, even though current economic realities are far more favourable.

"It is therefore legitimate to ask what the Abia State Government does with over N30 billion it receives monthly from FAAC alone, excluding the 17 local governments allocations that average about N11 billion monthly. When both figures are combined, Abia’s total monthly inflow rises to well over 40 billion naira, making the lack of transparency in the state’s financial reporting even more troubling.

"Suspicious patterns in the expenditure report further heighten public concern. A recurring tactic observed under the present administration is the continuous shifting and renaming of expenditure sub-heads in ways that appear designed to obscure questionable spending. The previously controversial Security Vote, which recorded nearly 1 billion naira, and the much-criticized 300 million naira Government House feeding bill, which triggered public backlash and was highlighted by Reuben Abati on Arise TV, have suddenly vanished from the report.

"These same classifications have now reappeared under the vague title “Research and Development,” an expenditure line that has consumed more than 34 billion naira since 2023 without any clear or measurable output".

On the newly released sectoral analysis for the third quarter of the year, the former Finance Commissioner faulted the N14.4 billion claimed to have been spent on Land and Housing, urging the Governor to come clean on this claim with more clarifications.

"This allocation raises serious concerns. Was it used for land compensation? If so, who were the beneficiaries between July and September? Abia currently has no visible housing project to justify this spending. The state also cannot identify the 6.7 billion naira recreational facility reportedly funded since Q3 2023.

"Furthermore, the claim that 82 billion naira has been spent on repairing public schools from January 2024 to September 2025 does not align with what is physically observable across the state", he posited.

Hon. Oriaku also queried the N9.1 billion allocated to the Transport sector, probing further if the fund was related to the electric bus project that "mysteriously increased from 20 buses to 100 without any public justification", whereas, the delivery deadline has passed, adding that, "Abians deserve to know how many buses were purchased and at what actual cost".

He stressed further that, "what Abia needs now is honest accounting. Citizens deserve transparent and verifiable financial disclosures, not conflicting numbers and shifting expenditure heads that raise more questions than answers. Until the government provides clear explanations and reconciles these contradictions, the credibility of its financial reporting will remain under serious doubt".

By Comfort Olayinka



The House of Representatives has moved to overhaul Nigeria’s livestock industry as it opens an investigation into the Federal Government’s failure to pay ₦498.7 million in compensation to 307 poultry farmers who lost their birds to avian influenza outbreaks between 2021 and 2023.

Chairman of the House Committee on Livestock Development, Hon. Wale Raji, announced the probe during a public hearing on six livestock-related bills on Thursday at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.

The proposed bills seek to establish new livestock colleges, research institutions, and capacity-building centres aimed at boosting animal production and veterinary training nationwide.

Raji said the public hearing offered a platform for stakeholders to propose solutions to the mounting challenges in the livestock sector while addressing the unresolved compensation claims of poultry farmers hit by bird flu.

“We are deeply concerned about the prolonged delay in compensating affected poultry farmers,” he said. “Our committee will ensure fairness, accountability, and transparency in the entire process.”


Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr. Chinyere Akujobi, the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Adeniyi Adedoyin, disclosed that while ₦3.16 billion had previously been paid to 1,055 farmers impacted by earlier outbreaks, the latest batch remains unpaid due to insufficient funding.

He explained that since the suspension of the Animal Diseases Emergency Fund in 2021, no dedicated financial structure has existed for rapid response to disease outbreaks. He also revealed a fresh outbreak in Wukari, Taraba State, where 2,050 birds were culled without compensation yet processed.

Adedoyin attributed the delays to budget gaps and poor insurance coverage among farmers, as mandated by the revised Federal Executive Council compensation formula requiring federal, state, and farmer contributions of 50%, 25%, and 25% respectively.

Hon. Raji noted that the House Committee’s actions support the broader National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP), which seeks to modernize livestock practices, strengthen veterinary services, and enhance food production.

“Our priority is a sustainable livestock sector that drives food security, job creation, and economic diversification,” he said. “We will ensure affected farmers get their due compensation and that government establishes emergency funds to avoid future setbacks.”

Among the bills under review is one sponsored by Hon. Bello Ka’oje (Kebbi State), seeking the establishment of the Federal College of Animal Husbandry, Ka’oje. The institution aims to serve as a centre of excellence in breeding, livestock management, and innovation.

Ka’oje stressed the urgency of improving Nigeria’s global ranking in livestock output, noting that the country currently stands at 94th in milk production and 33rd in meat production as of 2022—falling behind regional peers like Egypt, Kenya, and Ethiopia.

Raji concluded that the House of Representatives is committed to transparency in livestock administration and ensuring that all stakeholders—from smallholders to large-scale operators—benefit from government policies.

“We will leave no stone unturned in repositioning the livestock industry as a backbone of national growth, rural development, and economic resilience,” he said.

It is quite unfortunate that some still struggle to separate political cynicism from factual evaluation of leadership. The recent attempt to caricature the person and political stature of Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, is not only misplaced but also betrays a lack of understanding of what true leadership and national relevance mean in today’s Nigeria.

Let’s get the record straight. Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu is not just “No. 6” as the writer mockingly describes him; he is a symbol of modern-day Igbo resilience and political reawakening. His ascendancy to the Deputy Speakership was not an accident of zoning or political favoritism, it was the result of years of credibility, loyalty, and service marked by intellectual depth and legislative excellence.

Since 1999, no Igbo son has navigated the power corridors of Abuja with such refined diplomacy, emotional intelligence, and bridge-building capacity as Benjamin Kalu. He has redefined political engagement by combining humility with high-level performance. Under his watch, the Office of the Deputy Speaker has become a national platform where the issues of Ndi Igbo are respectfully articulated and advanced without unnecessary noise or confrontation.

Those who attempt to dismiss his outings as “abuse of power and privilege” clearly misunderstand the purpose of leadership outreach. When Rt. Hon. Kalu visits any part of Abia or the Southeast, he is not flexing power, he is connecting with his people, renewing hope, and reinforcing a sense of belonging in a nation that often sidelines his region. The massive crowds that receive him are not rented mercenaries; they are ordinary men and women who see in him a bridge to national inclusion and a leader who speaks their language both politically and emotionally.

Unlike many before him who were content with occupying offices without impact, Benjamin Kalu has combined visibility with value. His legislative footprint, from bills that promote national unity to motions that protect local interests, speaks louder than any armchair criticism. His advocacy for peace in the Southeast through the Peace in South East Project (PISE-P) alone has positioned him as one of the few politicians who truly understand the difference between political theatrics and purposeful leadership.

Let it be said clearly, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu is not seeking applause from cynics. His work speaks for itself. His leadership is calm, intelligent, and strategic, the kind that doesn’t need to shout to be heard or bully to be respected. In an era when politics is often reduced to propaganda and personality clashes, he represents substance over showmanship.

So rather than peddle satire under the guise of commentary, it would serve us better to celebrate competence when we see it. Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu has not only climbed the ladder of national relevance; he has built bridges across it for Ndi Igbo and for Abians in particular. That, by every measure, is not a “gubernatorial kiss of death”, it is the mark of a visionary who understands the weight of destiny and the discipline of leadership.

Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu is not just our “No. 6.”
He is the voice of the Southeast at the center, the conscience of Abia in Abuja, and a rising symbol of intelligent politics in Nigeria.

~ Samuel Okenyi TV
11/11/2025
#samuelokenyi

A socio-political organisation, the Abia Renaissance Group (ARG), has called on Nigeria’s top security authorities to investigate Governor Alex Otti over alleged threats of violence and increasing intimidation against citizens in Abia State.

In a petition addressed to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the National Security Adviser (NSA), and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), the group said Otti’s recent public comments could incite unrest and undermine the state’s peace and democratic stability.

The group, in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Surv. Kelechi Uwakwe, and Secretary, Comrade Emma Nwangwu, expressed deep concern over what it described as “reckless and inciting utterances” by the governor. It alleged that some of Otti’s supporters had since been emboldened to issue open threats against perceived political opponents and ordinary citizens.

“It is worrisome that a sitting governor, whose duty is to protect lives and property, is the one issuing veiled death threats against Abians exercising their democratic rights,” the statement read. “This confirms long-standing fears that the governor has been tacitly encouraging his supporters to attack or intimidate citizens who hold opposing political views.”

The ARG cited Otti’s reported remarks during a media chat at his country home, where he allegedly warned anyone harbouring political ambitions in the state to “first write his will”. The group described the statement as a “direct incitement to violence” and an “abuse of his office as Chief Security Officer of the state.”

It further alleged that some of the governor’s loyalists had threatened to “stone or machete” political actors who attempted to campaign in certain areas, especially within Aba.

“Abia has enjoyed a history of peace and political tolerance. Sadly, the governor’s recent conduct has introduced fear and tension,” the statement continued.

The group urged security agencies to invite Governor Otti for questioning, investigate threats issued by his supporters, and guarantee the political safety of all Abians ahead of future elections.

“No individual, no matter how highly placed, should be allowed to undermine the peace and security of the state,” the ARG declared. “Abia belongs to all, not to a single man or party.”

The leader of the 7th Osisioma Ngwa Legislative Council, Hon. Victor Ngwakwe, has lamented what he described as a growing wave of anger, hunger, and frustration among residents across Abia’s local government areas, blaming the situation on the state’s alleged tight control of local government funds.

Ngwakwe, who represents Osokwa Ward, said that councillors in Osisioma Ngwa are under immense pressure from their constituents who expect them to deliver basic services despite the absence of direct funding.

“Our people are not asking for much. They just want the basic things government is supposed to do for them,” he said.

“But the grassroots don’t know the people at the state level — they only have access to their councillors, who unfortunately have no funds to work with.”

He expressed deep concern that public confidence in local representatives was fading, particularly among elderly voters who no longer trust their councillors to deliver on campaign promises.

Ngwakwe accused the Abia State Government of violating the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Local Government Act by appropriating and spending local government allocations from Umuahia, instead of allowing councils to manage their own funds.

“Everything is done at Government House in Umuahia, which is against what’s clearly stated in the Constitution,” he said.

“It’s only in Abia that this section of the law is implemented 100% against local councils.”

The lawmaker disclosed that councillors often resort to personal funds or private assistance to carry out even the smallest projects.

“Whatever you see any councillor doing now is either funded personally or supported by a friend or political boss,” he added.

Ngwakwe urged Abia residents to understand that local councillors are willing and ready to serve if granted access to statutory allocations.

“The funds allocated to Osisioma Ngwa are enough to show that we care for our people,” he said. “But I must be clear — Abia State controls the local government money, and we don’t have access to our monthly allocations.”

By Comfort Olayinka

The push for disability-inclusive growth in Nigeria gained fresh momentum on Thursday as the Empower To Thrive Development Initiative (ETTDI) convened a high-level Policy Dialogue on Disability-Inclusive Economic Empowerment in Abuja.

Themed “Unlocking Opportunities for Women with Disabilities in Business and Entrepreneurship,” the forum is part of the Empower Her Ability Project, funded by the French Embassy in Nigeria.

The one-day dialogue gathered stakeholders from across government, the financial sector, civil society, development agencies, and the private sector, alongside women entrepreneurs with disabilities. Discussions focused on breaking systemic barriers that hinder women with disabilities from accessing finance, skills, and markets, while charting practical commitments to ensure inclusion in Nigeria’s economic engine.


Opening the dialogue, Dr. Ima Chima, Executive Director of ETTDI represented by Dr Olushola Adeoye programme manager Empower Her Ability Project described the gathering as “a continuation of a journey toward a Nigeria where no one is left behind.”

She highlighted the gap between policy and practice, stressing that although Nigeria has more than 25 million persons with disabilities, women within this group remain doubly marginalized by gender and disability.

“MSMEs account for over 96% of businesses and 84% of jobs in Nigeria, yet women with disabilities are largely absent from this engine of growth,” Dr. Chima said. “They face daily barriers credit exclusion, inaccessible training, weak policy enforcement, and persistent stigma. But behind the statistics are human stories of resilience, innovation, and potential waiting to be unleashed.”

She noted that through the Empower Her Ability Project, women with disabilities have already demonstrated their capacity to build thriving businesses, from tailoring to digital entrepreneurship. The dialogue, she added, seeks to ensure “frameworks are not just words on paper but living instruments that open doors.”


Delivering the Keynote Address on behalf of the Presidency, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities represented by Mr Lanre Oloyede Director Media and communications assured stakeholders that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is actively integrating disability inclusion into its Renewed Hope Agenda.

He outlined priority actions including:

Mainstreaming disability-inclusive quotas in government and private sector programs.

Expanding vocational, digital, and entrepreneurial training tailored to women with disabilities.

Strengthening access to grants, loans, and microcredit.

Creating accessible workplaces and market spaces.

Ensuring women with disabilities are represented in decision-making.


“This dialogue must mark a turning point where ideas translate into policies and policies into concrete programs. Women with disabilities must be recognized not as a group to be pitied, but as equal contributors to Nigeria’s economy,” he said.


From the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Amadi Kenneth, representing the Gender and Special Segments Financial Inclusion Office, reaffirmed that financial inclusion for women with disabilities is a policy priority.

He emphasized CBN’s focus on digital financial penetration, which reduces physical barriers to banking, and targeted initiatives like the Women Entrepreneur Financial Inclusion Growth program.

“We are looking at ways of making finance more accessible for persons with disabilities. The goal is simple: wherever you are, man or woman, disabled or not, you must be financially included,” he said.


In an interview with women directly impacted by the project. Esther Isaac Chidera, a farmer and entrepreneur, said the training had transformed the way she runs her agribusiness.

“Before this project, I didn’t know how to keep records or separate cost from profit. I just cultivated and sold without accountability. Today, I understand bookkeeping, I track my cash flow, and I’m more confident as an entrepreneur. This training has really helped me thrive,” she explained.


However, she appealed for further support with land access and infrastructure, noting that mobility challenges make it difficult to operate effectively during the farming season.

Representing the French Embassy in Nigeria, Pierre Louis Bonnel, Programme Officer, said France’s support aligns with its feminist diplomacy agenda.

“We see Nigerian civil society organizations like ETTDI bringing innovative solutions. Sometimes they just need a little support to scale. The Empower Her Ability Project carries great hopes because it empowers women with disabilities toward autonomy and sustainability. It is a virtuous circle,” he said.


The dialogue will culminate in the adoption of the Abuja Communiqué on Disability-Inclusive Economic Empowerment, which will capture collective commitments from government, financial institutions, and development partners. Organizers stressed that the communiqué would not be “another report on a shelf” but a call-to-action for inclusive entrepreneurship in Nigeria.


With women with disabilities facing multiple and intersecting challenges discrimination, lack of accessible infrastructure, exclusion from credit and skills training stakeholders agreed that their exclusion is not just a social injustice but a lost economic opportunity.

As Dr. Chima reminded participants: “Inclusion is not charity. It is smart economics. If Nigeria is to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and unlock the full potential of its economy, then women with disabilities must be empowered to participate fully.”

A Nigerian Christian, Mr. Joseph Waya has sent a petition to the Vatican, calling for the urgent intervention of Pope Leo XIV over what he describes as the damaging conduct of Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State. The petition had raised serious concerns about Alia’s involvement in partisan politics, allegations of corruption, incitement to violence, and his strained relationship with the Church, which had previously played a significant role in his election.

Mr. Waya, a devout Catholic, and kinsman from the same Alia's Vandeikya LGA of Benue State, emphasized that his appeal was rooted in moral and religious duty.

He noted that Alia, who was elected governor on May 29, 2023, was initially trusted by the Christian population of Benue State to provide honest and moral governance, given his background as a priest.

However, after more than two years in office, the petitioner laments that Alia's conduct has been disappointing and damaging to the reputation of the Church.

“The state has descended into despair, and alarmingly, public resentment is beginning to extend beyond the governor to the Church itself,” the petition warns, highlighting the widening discontent among the populace.

The petition which is copied to the Archdiocese of Abuja, Ignatius Kaigama and the four Catholic Bishops in Benue State, stresses that Governor Alia has engaged in unprecedented levels of corruption, with online reports documenting allegations of misappropriation amounting to over ₦345 billion (roughly $225 million) through dubious contracts awarded without proper approval or due process. Despite this massive expenditure, the state reportedly lacks basic amenities, and the economy is in disarray, with roads impassable and public services failing.

“Despite these enormous expenditures, no meaningful projects have been commissioned, leaving the state with impassable roads and a complete absence of basic amenities. This financial mismanagement created such tension between the governor and the State Assembly that the state was effectively paralysed for weeks, culminating in the forced resignation of the Assembly Speaker”, the petition states.

In addition to financial mismanagement, the petition accuses Alia of fostering political divisions and institutional conflicts. It stated that he has classes with political mentors, attempted to control party leadership, and created factions that have led to violence and instability.

The governor's actions have also resulted in the closure of courts for several months due to disputes over the judiciary, further destabilizing democratic processes in Benue, the petition states.

Most troubling, according to the petition, is Governor Alia’s open hostility towards the Church itself. Despite Benue State being home to four Catholic dioceses, the governor is said to have maintained frosty relations with bishops and priests, publicly abusing the Bishop of Makurdi during the campaign and systematically excluding the Church from public functions. The petitioner warns that this antagonism has undermined the Church’s moral authority in Nigeria.

The petition further accuses Alia of inciting violence ahead of the 2027 elections. It states that the governor has been touring Benue State, instigating supporters to violence against political opponents, and has formed a group of thugs called "No Alia, No Benue," which he claims will secure re-election "by whatever means, including diabolical." Formal petitions have been filed with security agencies over threats of physical assault and intimidation, the petition says.

The petition further accuses Governor Alia of compromising the security of his own people. The petitioner alleges that the governor vowed to repeal the anti-open grazing law that had significantly reduced attacks by Fulani jihadists. Following Alia’s election, the petition says the governor suspended the law, leading to a surge in deadly attacks on Benue people, including the recent massacre in Yelewata where over 200 people were killed.

The petitioner criticizes Alia’s insensitivity during the President Bola Tinubu’s condolence visit, where the governor is said to have celebrated amid the national mourning.

The petitioner therefore urged the Vatican to take decisive actions to address the situation, warning that Alia’s continued misconduct risks dividing the Church and damaging its reputation in Nigeria.

A coalition of Niger Delta Youth leaders on Wednesday, stormed the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Towers in Abuja, calling for the removal of the Group Chief Executive Officer of the company, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, over alleged corruption and mismanagement.

The coalition under the auspices of Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders' Forum, also demanded for the appointment of an indigene of the region as the GCEO of the NNPCL.

The youths arrived the towers in their numbers as early as 6am, carrying placards with different inscriptions and continuously chanting solidarity songs.

Some of the placards read, "Ojulari Has Resigned - He Must Vacate Office Now!"; "NNPCL Cannot Function Without Credible Leadership"; "Tinubu Administration Must Not Shield Corruption In NNPCL"; "Mr. President, We Want Economic Empowerment"; "Make Our Refinery Work And Employ Our People"; and so on.

Security agents including men of the Nigeria Police Force were drafted to the scene in their numbers to maintain decorum and ensure that the protest was peaceful.

Addressing newsmen on behalf of the protesters, Jonathan Lokpobiri, Chairman Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders' Forum, stated that Ojulari's tenure as the GCEO of the NNPCL has been the worst for Niger Deltans.

He alleged that the NNPCL boss sacked Niger Delta indigenes in the company and replaced them with his cronies.

Lokpobiri demanded for the reinstatement of the sacked Niger Deltans and employment of more indigenes of the region into the company, stressing that without Niger Delta, there will be no NNPCL.

"There is no NNPCL without Niger Delta. As a people, we want our people employed here. We want the businesses in the oil and gas industries. [Bashir Bayo] Ojulari has never felt the pain of oil pollution in his land. No GCEO of NNPCL has punished Niger Deltans like Ojulari has done within the short period of his time.

"He sacked our people, he has replaced our people, he locked the offices of our people who are working here. Many Niger Deltans have been sacked. D We demand for their reinstatement," he stated.

Lokpobiri further alleged that Ojulari sabotaged operations at the recently rehabilitated Warri and Port Harcourt Refineries despite experts allegedly saying they have capacities to function, in order to sell the refineries to his cronies "at scrap value."

He also claimed that Ojulari has withheld salaries of oil pipeline surveillance workers in the Niger Delta region for months while sending public funds into private accounts of his cronies up to the tone of 25 million dollars.

Lokpobiri said, "One man wake up one morning and decided that he was going to shut the refineries down so that the small fuel and diesel businesses our parents and siblings use to survive must end so he can sell the refineries at the scrap value to his friends and cronies. Even when those who are operating the refineries have cautioned that the refineries are optimally functioning.

"Mr Ojulari decided that those of our brothers who are working here must not have a space, therefore, he has locked them out by executive power. That is an abuse of power. Every Niger Delta son has the right to work anywhere in this country. And also has the right to be leaders in this organisation. Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are here today not because we love what we are doing, but we are left with no choice.

"Our brothers and sisters who only form 5 per cent of the NNPCL are being punished for being from the Niger Delta. We cannot allow that to happen. Those of our brothers sacked by Ojulari must be reinstated. The refineries in the Niger Delta must work now!

"Our brothers who are doing surveillance jobs to secure oil and gas infrastructures in the Niger Delta are being owed salaries of several months. Yet, monies meant for such purposes are transferred to private accounts of Ojulari's associates and friends to the tone of 21 million dollars."

However, the protesters later agreed to meet with some officials of the NNPCL following an appeal by a representative of the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Mr. Heineken Lokpobiri.

The leaders of the protest promised to brief the public of the outcome of the meeting subsequently.

Ethnic Youth Leaders have vowed to occupy the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Abuja if the suspects of refineries probe are arrained without the former Executive Vice President, Downstream of NNPCL, Dapo Segun.

They expressed dismay over what they described as the shielding of
Dapo Segun, the present Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of NNPC Limited and harassment of people from a section of the country over the refinery rehabilitation scandal being probed by the anti-graft agency.

In a statement issued by its coordinator, Meliga Godwin, the leaders of young Nigerians from the various ethnicities lamented that the present NNPCL’s CFO who served as the Executive Vice President, Downstream in the previous management of NNPCL is excluded from the probe of the refinery rehabilitation scandal.

They recalled the recently alleged detention of the former Chief Finance Officer of the NNPC Limited, Umar Ajiya Isa by the EFCC over involvement in the $7.2 billion refinery rehabilitation fraud while Segun is not only shielded but rewarded with the former's position.

"Though Isa had said he rather submitted himself to the anti-graft agency and not arrested, an official of EFCC reportedly confirmed that the commission's operatives had arrested him in connection with an alleged $7.2bn fraud related to the rehabilitation of the Kaduna, Warri, and Port Harcourt refineries.

"Also, EFCC reportedly arrested the former Managing Director of the Warri Refinery, Jimoh Olasunkanmi. However, the commission turned blind eye to the major role played by Segun who as the Executive Vice President for the downstream, was directly responsible for refinery operations, shipping, trading, and treasury.

"Also, EFCC listed the following officials mostly from a section of the country in the probe. They include: the former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mele Kyari; the former Managing Director of the Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited (PHRC), Ibrahim Onoja; and the former Managing Director of Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC), Mustafa Sugungun.

"Others are former Group Managing Director of NNPC, Abubakar Yar’Adua; a former NNPC group executive director, finance & services; Isiaka Abdulrazak; a former Chief Financial Officer NNPC Limited, Umar Ajiya; the former Managing Director of the PHRC, Dikko Ahmed.

"As we learnt of EFCC's planned arraignment of the suspects in the probe, the commission should be reminded that failure to include Dapo Segun will be resisted by Ethnic Youth leaders. We are mobilising our members across the length and breadth of the country so we will occupy the agency's headquarters if the former EVP who should be the prime suspect is not part of those to be arained."

The Arewa Consultative Youth has scolded the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for excluding Dapo Segun, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of NNPC Limited from the over N5 trillion refinery rehabilitation scam probe.

The group of youths from 19 northern states asked the anti-graft agency to stop shielding Dapo Segun and harassing northerners over refinery rehabilitation scandal, adding that NNPCL top official also has hand in the OVH acquisition deal.

In a statement by its President, Mallam Kabiru Yusuf, Arewa Consultative Youth acknowledged the development that EFCC recovered over $10 million and N5 billion from those who mismanaged the refinery rehabilitation and will also be charging the culprits to court soonest.

They however insisted that Dapo must be part of those offenders to make the case looks real and not just a ploy to witch-hunt northerners and shelve southerners who were actually responsible for the anomalies.

"Our attention have been drawn to the joyous news that EFCC recovered over 10m dollars and 5b naira from those who mismanaged the refinery rehabilitation and will also be charging the culprits to court soonest.

"Dear Hard working EFCC, remember Mr. Dapo Segun, a yoruba man who was NNPCL treasury Head, later became NNPCL Executive Vice President Downstream and was incharge over the Refinery rehabilitation as EVP Downstream when all these alleged anomalies happened.

"He was also incharge of the Ovh/Nnpcl retail controversial acquisition and to make matters worse he was elevated and currently the NNPCL Chief Financial Officer during all these period.

"So the country will be shocked if the man who was incharge of the refinery activities, gave instructions to the MD of refineries, later became in charge of all payments etc is excluded but the MD he gave instructions, contractors of contract he presided over the award, and if former officers mainly from the North who occupied the position he held and holding is charged and he is exempted, this will lead to national outrage and anger against efcc as engaging in ethnic profiling in the fight against corruption and it will rubbish the good works you are already doing.

"Nobody is above the law no matter the tribe or else stop the investigation."

The troubles facing the controversial NNPCL Chief financial officer Dapo Segun who was in charge of the failed refinery rehabilitation, seems far from being over as Ethnic Youth Leaders of Nigeria from different parts of the country alongside constitutional lawyers have dragged Mr Dapo Segun before the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

In the suit, they are seeking for mandatory sack, arrest, investigation, and prosecution of the former EVP downstream whose tenure saw the mismanagement of the refinery rehabilitation that cost Nigeria over five trillion naira.

This is the third legal challenge coming at the controversial CFO from different groups and committed Nigerians seeking reforms and transparency in the oil industry.

The pressure for his sack, resignation, and arrest seems not to be dying down as more Nigerians are now joining the call.

The suit which was filled today with suit number FHC/CS/157/2025 is a Judicial Review, seeking numerous declarations and mandamus against the EFCC and Dapo Segun by a group of constitutional lawyers and leadership of ethnic youth leaders of Nigeria.

The Counsel M.O Osuji, Esq on behalf of the Applicant prayed the court for the following: "An Order of this honorable court granting leave to the applicant to bring an application for mandamus directing the 1st Defendant to commence investigation of the activities and role of the 2nd defendant as the Chief Financial Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, in connection with the acquisition of the of OVH Energy by the NNPCL and rehabilitation of the PortHarcourt and Warri Refineries.

"AN INTERIM ORDER OF COURT directing the 2nd Respondent (Dapo Segun) to forthwith step aside as the Chief Financial Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and cease the performance of any duty pertaining thereto, tampering with or altering any documents or records material to the investigation into his conduct and/or role in the acquisition of the of OVH Energy by the ‘NNPCL and rehabilitation of the Port-Harcourt and Warri Refineries, pending the hearing and determination of the Substantive Motion on Notice for Judicial Review.

"AN ORDER OF COURT granting Leave to the Applicant to serve the, the order granting leave to the Applicant, Motion on Notice for Judicial Review and any other process(es) in this Suit on the 2nd Defendant by substituted means to wit: delivering all the aforementioned court processes to the Legal Department of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited at its head office at Central Business District, Abuja. AN ORDER OF COURT directing an accelerated hearing and determination of this Suit."

Addressing journalists at the court shortly after, in PortHarcourt, River state, Osuji noted that their major concern as lawyers is that despite the good and commendable steps taken by the EFCC to investigate the dealing in Port harcourt refinery as a result of the turnaround maintenance, the gentleman who is at the helm of affairs during that period is not being investigated.

He said, "Our major concern is despite the good and commendable steps taken by the EFCC to investigate the dealing in Port harcourt refinery as a result of the turnaround maintenance, the gentleman who is at the helm of affairs during that period is not being investigated. That’s Dapo Segun, he was also involved in OVH acquisition and yet we are yet to see its true potential. It’s not hasty, April from now is about 4 months ago, in the circular issued that they have commenced investigation. What I expected that this invitation would have been extended to the man at the helm of affairs, the Chief Operating Officer of NNPCL . He’s at the helm of affairs during the turnaround maintenance and acquisition of OVH.

"He has a vital role to play. As I speak to you several people are being investigated by EFCC, including the Former GMD, Mele Kyari. We as lawyers we have a duty, to assist the EFCC, the law, the presidency in fighting corruption, that’s why we’ve brought this action for the court to mandate them to investigate the man who’s at the helm of affairs."

^{By Comfort Olayinka}

A groundbreaking empowerment initiative titled "Empower Her Ability" was officially launched in Abuja to equip 25 young women with disabilities in Abuja with practical entrepreneurial and financial management skills, marking a significant milestone in the push for inclusive economic participation.

The project, spearheaded by Empower to Thrive Development Initiative in partnership with the MimiJane Foundation and the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), is funded by the French Embassy and aims to dismantle structural, cultural, and institutional barriers that impede the economic advancement of women with disabilities.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Ima Chima, Convener of Empower to Thrive, emphasized that the core objective of the project is to “equip 25 women with disabilities aged 18 to 40 with practical entrepreneurship and financial management skills.” She explained that many aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women with disabilities, are often left behind due to lack of foundational knowledge and support systems.

“Entrepreneurship can be lonely and challenging. That’s why beyond the training, we are building a strong ecosystem of mentors, funding cooperatives, and psychosocial support tailored to their realities,” Chima stated.

She outlined the project’s phased approach beginning with a nine-week virtual inclusive business training, followed by a one-week intensive boot camp and a six-month mentorship program. The training will culminate in the development of personalized business plans and investor-ready pitches, with accessible materials and reasonable accommodations including sign language interpretation and mobility support.

Ambassador Mube Awala Beatrice, Executive Director of the MimiJane Foundation, highlighted the societal triple burden faced by women with disabilities.

“To be a woman in Nigeria is a challenge. To be a woman with a disability is a triple tragedy. Even fellow women sometimes discriminate. This initiative comes at a time when we must push for deliberate and inclusive policies,” she said.

Ambassador Beatrice also emphasized the need for training that is passion-aligned and disability-sensitive, citing past empowerment efforts that failed due to lack of individual customization and reasonable accommodations.

She passionately called for inclusive education, elimination of derogatory labels, and systemic reforms in schools, religious institutions, and public infrastructure, urging that “every school should be made inclusive” rather than isolating children with disabilities in distant, special needs facilities.

In a show of solidarity, Emmanuela Jigbjigb, representative of JONAPWD, assured continued collaboration with all stakeholders to break down barriers and promote inclusive development.

“Empower a woman with a disability and you empower an entire community. JONAPWD remains committed to advocating for the rights and inclusion of all persons with disabilities,” she affirmed.

As the Empower Her Ability project unfolds, organizers say they will be tracking key outcomes such as increased business revenue and full business launch for participants who began with only an idea. The long-term vision is to not only build sustainable women-led businesses but also to spark policy reforms that make Nigeria’s economic space more inclusive for all.

A groundbreaking empowerment initiative titled "Empower Her Ability" was officially launched in Abuja to equip 25 young women with disabilities in Abuja with practical entrepreneurial and financial management skills, marking a significant milestone in the push for inclusive economic participation.

The project, spearheaded by Empower to Thrive Development Initiative in partnership with the MimiJane Foundation and the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), is funded by the French Embassy and aims to dismantle structural, cultural, and institutional barriers that impede the economic advancement of women with disabilities.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Ima Chima, Convener of Empower to Thrive, emphasized that the core objective of the project is to “equip 25 women with disabilities aged 18 to 40 with practical entrepreneurship and financial management skills.” She explained that many aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women with disabilities, are often left behind due to lack of foundational knowledge and support systems.

“Entrepreneurship can be lonely and challenging. That’s why beyond the training, we are building a strong ecosystem of mentors, funding cooperatives, and psychosocial support tailored to their realities,” Chima stated.



She outlined the project’s phased approach beginning with a nine-week virtual inclusive business training, followed by a one-week intensive boot camp and a six-month mentorship program. The training will culminate in the development of personalized business plans and investor-ready pitches, with accessible materials and reasonable accommodations including sign language interpretation and mobility support.

Ambassador Mube Awala Beatrice, Executive Director of the MimiJane Foundation, highlighted the societal triple burden faced by women with disabilities.

“To be a woman in Nigeria is a challenge. To be a woman with a disability is a triple tragedy. Even fellow women sometimes discriminate. This initiative comes at a time when we must push for deliberate and inclusive policies,” she said.



Ambassador Beatrice also emphasized the need for training that is passion-aligned and disability-sensitive, citing past empowerment efforts that failed due to lack of individual customization and reasonable accommodations.

She passionately called for inclusive education, elimination of derogatory labels, and systemic reforms in schools, religious institutions, and public infrastructure, urging that “every school should be made inclusive” rather than isolating children with disabilities in distant, special needs facilities.

In a show of solidarity, Emmanuela Jigbjigb, representative of JONAPWD, assured continued collaboration with all stakeholders to break down barriers and promote inclusive development.

“Empower a woman with a disability and you empower an entire community. JONAPWD remains committed to advocating for the rights and inclusion of all persons with disabilities,” she affirmed.

As the Empower Her Ability project unfolds, organizers say they will be tracking key outcomes such as increased business revenue and full business launch for participants who began with only an idea. The long-term vision is to not only build sustainable women-led businesses but also to spark policy reforms that make Nigeria’s economic space more inclusive for all.