President Bola Tinubu has granted presidential pardon to Herbert Macaulay, Mamman Vatsa, and Farouk Lawan, alongside 14 others, following the approval of the national council of state.
Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, announced the decision in a statement on Thursday.
Vatsa, a major general and poet executed in 1986 for alleged treason, was posthumously pardoned nearly four decades after his death.
Similarly, Macaulay, Nigeria’s nationalist and co-founder of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), also received a posthumous pardon.
Macaulay, who was unjustly convicted by British colonial authorities in 1913, was banned from holding public office. He died in 1946, but the blemish of his conviction remained on record until now.
Tinubu also pardoned four former convicts —former house of representatives’ member Farouk Lawan, Anastasia Daniel Nwaobia, Hussaini Umar, and Ayinla Saadu Alanamu—for showing “sufficient remorse” and readiness to reintegrate into society.
Nweke Francis Chibueze, who was serving a life sentence for cocaine trafficking, was also pardoned, while Nwogu Peters, convicted of fraud and jailed for 17 years, was freed after serving 12.
The president further granted clemency to 82 inmates and reduced the prison terms of 65 others. Seven inmates on death row had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment.
In addition, Tinubu formally pardoned the “Ogoni Nine” — Ken Saro-Wiwa, Baribor Bera, Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine.
He also awarded national honours to the “Ogoni Four” — Albert Badey, Edward Kobani, Samuel Orage, and Theophilus Orage.
The decision followed the recommendations of the presidential advisory committee on the prerogative of mercy (PACPM), chaired by Lateef Fagbemi, attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice.
Other members of the committee include Akinlolu Olujinmi, Alkasum Abba, Nike Sidikat Ijaiya, Augustine Utsaha, and Onwusoro Maduka, the secretary.
Institutional representatives on the committee include officials from the ministry of special duties and inter-governmental affairs, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Nigerian Correctional Service, the National Human Rights Commission, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
The report, presented to the council of state in Abuja, showed that 175 inmates were interviewed and 294 applications reviewed.
According to the report, “Eighty-two inmates were recommended for clemency, two for pardon, sixty-five for reduction of prison terms, and seven on death row for commutation to life imprisonment.”
It added that 15 ex-convicts were recommended for presidential pardon, including the late Ogoni Nine, while four others were proposed for posthumous national honours.
The committee adopted criteria such as old age, terminal illness, long-term imprisonment, good conduct, and rehabilitation in its recommendations.
George Akume, secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), inaugurated the PACPM on January 15, 2025, to advance justice, rehabilitation, and human rights in the country.
The Presidency has strongly opposed Omoyele Sowore’s plan to hold a protest march to the Presidential Villa in Abuja, demanding the release of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, who remains in detention.
Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, condemned the protest through a statement on his official X account @aonanuga1956, labelling Sowore “an anarchist masquerading as a rights activist.”
Sowore announced the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest would take place on October 20 at 7 a.m., calling the march “historic” in seeking Kanu’s freedom.
In response, Onanuga insisted the planned demonstration threatens law and order, emphasising that Kanu is currently undergoing trial on treason charges that must proceed without interference.
“You are nothing more than an anarchist masquerading as a rights activist. You very well know that Nnamdi Kanu is facing trial for treason, and you want to cause a breakdown of law and order by mobilising for a protest?” Onanuga questioned.
He further challenged Sowore’s notion of revolution, asking,
“Is this the kind of revolution you envisage for Nigeria, where the rule of law will be violated and your idea of justice would be the law of the jungle?”
Onanuga also criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for endorsing the protest, accusing him of opportunism.
“I am surprised that ex-VP Atiku Abubakar, who is always opportunistic, has supported the planned mob action. As a statesman, he should know better that matters of justice are not resolved on the streets but in the law court,” he said.
Despite the Judiciary’s slow pace, Onanuga affirmed the government’s commitment to justice regarding Kanu’s case.
“While the wheel of justice can sometimes be grindingly slow, partly caused by Kanu’s lawyers, Nnamdi Kanu will eventually get the justice he deserves for his alleged transgressions,” he concluded.
President Bola Tinubu’s spokesperson, Temitope Ajayi, in a statement on Thursday, described Atiku’s public endorsement of Kanu’s release as “political desperation” and “a disgraceful agenda” unbecoming of a statesman.
Ajayi said Kanu was the architect of his prolonged detention, accusing him and his legal team of deliberately stalling proceedings.
He noted that the prosecution had already closed its case and that the court had ordered Kanu to open his defence after rejecting his no-case submission.
Ajayi accused Kanu and his followers of causing widespread violence and hardship in the South East over the past decade, saying their actions had “killed, ruined lives, and destroyed tens of thousands of livelihoods.”
Ajayi stated, “The political desperation that will make a former Vice President and a supposed statesman to be advancing this kind of disgraceful agenda is mind-numbing.
“If Nnamdi Kanu has stayed long in detention and his case has dragged on, it is because he made it so himself not because the legal system is against him. Kanu and his lawyers have used every trick and legal gymnastics to frustrate his trial.
“The Prosecution has closed its case against him. It is time for him to open his defence. No politically motivated protest will stop that after the court has ruled that he must open his defence. His lawyers entered a no-case submission, which the court threw away.
“Kanu and his foot soldiers have killed, ruined lives, and destroyed tens of thousands of livelihoods in the South East in the last 10 years. Communities in parts of the South East now lie desolate on account of Kanu’s hate campaigns.
“It is unconscionable that a former Vice President of Nigeria wants an anarchist to get a free pass and not be held accountable under the law of a country he still seeks to govern just for his own selfish political ambition. There is a minimum standard a former Vice President should never fall below.”
President Bola Tinubu yesterday commissioned the $400 million Green Energy International Limited (GEIL) crude oil export terminal in Otakikpo crude oil export terminal in Ikuru Town, Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, Rivers State, the first by any Nigerian company, and the only one built in the country in over 50 years.
Tinubu described the project, also the first to be fully developed by an indigenous company, Green Energy International Limited (GEIL), as a key achievement that aligns with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to expand energy infrastructure, deepen local participation, and ensure energy security.
Represented by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the president said: “This project is very significant because one of the biggest challenges we face in the oil and gas industry is evacuation.
This terminal will not only serve Green Energy but also other operators in this region. It aligns perfectly with our objective to ramp up production and showcase the capacity of indigenous companies.”
He reaffirmed that oil and gas will continue to play a crucial role in Nigeria’s development despite global shifts toward renewable energy.
According to him, “Oil and gas will never go away. The International Energy Agency has now admitted that the world must invest over $540 billion yearly in the upstream sector to avoid an energy crisis. We cannot abandon our God-given resources.”
The President also disclosed that the Federal Government was engaging with Ogoni leaders to resolve longstanding issues that have hindered oil production in their communities. “Once the Ogoni issue is resolved, this terminal will serve as a key evacuation point for crude produced there,” he said.
Tinubu further announced that the African Energy Bank, to be hosted by Nigeria, would soon become operational to address Africa’s funding challenges in the energy sector, noting that the country has met all legal and financial obligations.
He urged Niger Delta communities to maintain peace and collaborate with operators, stressing that oil and gas only create value when produced.
Also speaking, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, described the Otakikpo Terminal as a turning point in Nigeria’s upstream oil landscape.
Komolafe noted that the terminal, with an initial storage capacity of 750,000 barrels and expandable to three million, would enhance Nigeria’s export efficiency, reduce pressure on aging infrastructure, and empower indigenous operators to compete globally.
“For over half a century, our crude export infrastructure has been dominated by Bonny, Escravos, Forcados, Qua Iboe, and Brass terminals, all built by international oil companies.
The commissioning of the Otakikpo Terminal today changes that story and marks the dawn of a new era of indigenous participation, he stated.
Earlier in his remarks, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of GEIL, Professor Anthony Adegbulugbe, described the commissioning as a historic day that showcases Nigeria’s capacity to deliver world-class oil and gas infrastructure.
He explained that the facility, designed and executed entirely by Nigerian professionals, was completed in less than two years, ahead of schedule.
Adegbulugbe said the terminal would serve as a catalyst for national renewal, unlocking over 40 stranded fields in the region with estimated reserves exceeding three billion barrels of crude oil.
“For over fifty years, Nigeria has relied on only five major onshore crude export terminals. With the commissioning of the Otakikpo Onshore Terminal, that story changes.
“This is the first new onshore terminal in over half a century, and the only one conceived, built, and operated by an indigenous exploration and production company.
These fields alone could contribute more than 200,000 barrels per day to Nigeria’s production,” he said.
The naira has appreciated massively in both the official and parallel markets as the market resumes trading after the independence day celebration on Wednesday, October 1. The latest closing rate of N1,464 achieved on Thursday, October 2 is the highest level on Central Bank of Nigeria record since 2024.
Naira has appreciated massively in both official, unofficial markets. Photo: Bloomberg Thursday’s rate represents a 0.88% or N13.15 appreciation of the naira compared with Tuesday’s rate of N1,478.
Naira vs pound, euro
Naira exchange rate against US dollar rises to highest level in 2025.
The Nigerian currency also appreciated against the British pound, strengthening by N23.50 to trade at N1,956.42/£1, compared with N1,979.92/£1 in the previous session.
While against the euro, it advanced by N22.56, closing at N1,706.99/€1 from N1,729.55/€1. At Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), one of CBN’s authorised dealers, the naira closed at N1,475/$1, firmer than the N1,485/$1 rate posted a day earlier.
World Bank has projected that Nigeria’s public debt is expected to decline for the first time in over a decade from 42.9 to 39.8% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and on the fiscal side, federal deficit is expected to remain at 2.6% of GDP in 2025, despite lower oil prices.
This is contained in the latest Nigeria Development Update (NDU) released by the World Bank on Wednesday.
The World Bank said, “The country’s external position has strengthened, with foreign reserves exceeding $42 billion and the current account surplus rising to 6.1% of GDP, supported by higher non-oil exports and lower oil imports.
“On the fiscal side, despite lower oil prices, the federal deficit is projected at 2.6% of GDP in 2025, broadly unchanged from 2024, while public debt is expected to decline for the first time in over a decade from 42.9 to 39.8% of GDP”.
It noted that Nigeria has taken important steps toward stabilizing its economy through recent policy reforms, but more needs to be done to ensure these gains translate into better living standards for its citizens.
Titled “From Policy to People: Bringing the Reform Gains Home,” the report notes progress in economic growth, domestic revenue mobilization, monetary policy, and external balances while underscoring persistent challenges such as high food inflation, widespread poverty, and structural barriers that constrain inclusive growth.
According to the NDU, Nigeria’s economy expanded by 3.9% year-on-year in the first half of 2025, up from 3.5% in the same period of 2024.
However, the report cautions that these macroeconomic gains have yet to translate into tangible improvements in people’s lives. Many households continue to face hardship, with poverty and food insecurity remaining high.
Food inflation remains a major concern: poor households, who spend up to 70% of their income on food, have seen the cost of a basic food basket rise fivefold between 2019 and 2024.
The NDU notes that while current reforms are addressing long-standing policy distortions, sustained progress in livelihoods will depend on continued efforts to reduce inflation, foster inclusive growth, strengthen public services, and expand support for the most vulnerable.
Mathew Verghis, World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, said,
“The Nigerian government has taken bold steps to stabilize the economy, and these efforts are beginning to yield results. But macroeconomic stability alone is not enough. The true measure of success will be how these reforms improve the daily lives of Nigerians—especially the poor and vulnerable.”
To help bridge the gap between macroeconomic progress and improved welfare, the report identifies three urgent priorities.
“Tackling food inflation by removing trade barriers such as import bans and excessive duties, while addressing structural bottlenecks in seeds, input supply, security, logistics, and infrastructure (including transport, power, storage, and cold chains).
“Improving the efficiency of public spending through greater fiscal transparency, stronger discipline in Federation Account (FAAC) deductions, and a national pact to align fiscal policy with development objectives, especially human capital investments.
“Expanding and institutionalizing social protection, including regular, domestically financed cash transfers for the ultra-poor and a shock-responsive safety net system to help households manage crises.”
The NDU states that the outlook for Nigeria’s economy remains cautiously optimistic, as growth is projected to accelerate modestly from 4.2% in 2025 to 4.4% in 2027, driven by services and supported by agriculture and the non-oil industry.
Inflation is expected to gradually ease but remain elevated, requiring sustained monetary discipline and structural reforms to tackle food prices, the “biggest tax on the poor,” said Samer Matta, the World Bank’s Senior Economist for Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu has approved a N4tn bond to clear verified debts owed to power generation companies and gas suppliers as part of efforts to stabilise Nigeria’s electricity market and restore confidence in the sector.
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, made the disclosure in Abuja at the Expert Forum on ‘Uninterrupted Power: The Industrial Imperative’ organised by the Nigeria Economic Summit Group, where he outlined ongoing reforms under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda to make the power sector sustainable and commercially viable.
According to him, the bond approval forms part of a broader financial stabilisation plan designed to address legacy liabilities that have hindered investment and liquidity across the electricity value chain.
“To stabilise the market, Mr President has approved a N4tn bond to clear verified GenCo and gas supply debts. Alongside this, a targeted subsidy framework is being developed to protect vulnerable households and ensure a sustainable path toward full commercialisation and a viable industry.”
He explained that the Federal Government is pursuing a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach to reposition the sector for “sustainability, efficiency, and growth”, spanning legislation, policy reform, infrastructure development, energy transition, and local content expansion.
The minister further stated that the government’s tariff policy reforms have begun to yield positive results, noting that through tariff policy reforms which enabled cost-reflective tariffs for select consumers, supply reliability has improved while reducing energy costs for industries.
He revealed that sector revenue had grown substantially in the last year, adding, “Industry revenue has increased by 70 per cent to N1.7tn in 2024 compared to the previous year, and the revenue is expected to exceed N2tn for 2025.”
While highlighting the government’s commitment to ensuring a stable electricity market, he emphasised that the debt clearance would provide relief to GenCos and gas suppliers whose unpaid invoices have long crippled generation capacity and operational efficiency.
The minister also assured stakeholders that ongoing efforts in infrastructure development, including the Presidential Power Initiative, are targeted at expanding generation and transmission capacity across the country.
He urged participants to support the Federal Government’s ongoing reforms, expressing optimism that collaboration with the private sector and development partners will accelerate Nigeria’s journey toward a stable, reliable, and industrially competitive power sector.
In the area of infrastructure development, Adelabu explained that the Federal Government had introduced targeted national programmes aimed at accelerating the viability, expansion, and modernisation of the national grid.
“Under the phase zero of the Presidential Power Initiative, we enhanced transmission capacity, grid stability, and overall system reliability, with over 700 megawatts of additional transmission capacity already achieved.
Under Presidential Power Initiative Phase One, contracts have been signed with Siemens Energy, CMEC, Elswedy Electric, and Power China. Financing arrangements are underway to support implementation.
Phase one is planned to add 7000 MW of operational capacity to the grid,” he said.
In parallel to the grid expansion, Adelabu stressed that generation capacity is being expanded through the rehabilitation of existing NIPP plants to unlock about 345 MW, alongside the successful integration of the 700 MW Zungeru Hydropower Plant into the grid.
The Presidency said it will act after the court verdict on the Minister of Science, Technology , and Innovation, Uche Nnaji’s alleged certificate forgery from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
The special adviser to the president on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the President Tinubu-led federal government will await the court’s verdict before taking any position.
Onanuga stated that the federal government would respect the judicial process as pressure continues to mount on Nnaji to resign over allegations of UNN certificate forgery.
The presidential aide said that commenting on the matter won’t be necessary, as the matter is already before the court.
As reported by Leadership, Onanuga stated this while reacting to the inquiry about Nnaji’s alleged UNN certificate forgery.
“This matter is already in court. We should await the verdict of the court.”
“UNN never issued a me degree certificate.”
Recall that Nnaji finally opened up on his University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) degree certificate.
Nnaji said he has yet to collect his degree certificate from the federal government-owned university.
The minister's statement suggests that he admitted that the degree certificate he presented to the Nigerian Senate during ministerial screening is fake and forged.
The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, met with members of the Rivers State Elders Council in Port Harcourt on Saturday.
Also present at the meeting were the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, and the Chairman of the Rivers State Elders Council, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Minister on Public Communication and New Media, Lere Olayinka, shared photos from the meeting on his official X handle on Sunday morning, stating that the Rivers State “political family is fully united.”
“FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, Chairman of the Rivers State Elders Council, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, Speaker of Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, and other leaders in a meeting in Port Harcourt yesterday.
“The political family is fully united”, Olayinka stated.
He, however, provided no further details on the meeting or what decisions and resolutions were taken.
Those present at Saturday’s meeting included the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule; Senators Barinada Mpigi, Magnus Abe, Wilson Ake, George Sekibo, and Olaka Nwogu; Hon. Felix Nwaeke (Tai/Oyigbo Federal Constituency); Hon. Kelechi Nwogu (Etche/Omuma Federal Constituency); Deputy Speaker, Hon. Dumle Maol; and House Leader, Hon. Major Jack.
Others in attendance were Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, HRM Sergeant Awuse, Chief OCJ Okocha (SAN), four former Attorneys-General — Frank Owhor, Ken Chikere, Worgu Boms, and Prof. Zacchaeus Adangor (SAN); APC South-South Vice Chairman, Victor Giadom; PDP State Chairman, Chukwuemeka Aaron; and Port Harcourt City Mayor, Alwell Ihunda.
Also present were former Minister of Environment, Udi Odom; HYPRP Board Chairman, Emma Deeyah; former federal lawmakers Chidi Wihioka and Chinyere Igwe; former Speaker Rivers State House of Assembly, Ikuinyi-Owaji Ibani; Boma Iyaye (EDFA, NDDC); Marcus Nle Eji (ED Works/Projects, South South Development Commission); Prof. Henry Ogiri (Federal Commissioner, NPC); Emeka Woke (DG, NOSDRA); Dr. Sampson Parker (Chairman, Rivers State Hospital Management Board); Fred Kpakol (Member, HYPREP Board); former PDP Chairman, Felix Obuah; and Chidi Amadi, Chief of Staff to the FCT Minister.
Bayo Onanuga, special adviser on information and strategy to President Bola Tinubu, has dismissed as “malicious, contrived lies” a claim by US senator Ted Cruz that Nigerian officials are ignoring the mass killing of Christians.
Cruz had alleged that Islamist jihadists are carrying out “mass murder of Christians” in Nigeria with the complicity of state officials.
“Officials in Nigeria are ignoring and even facilitating the mass murder of Christians by Islamist jihadists,” the senator wrote on X.
“It’s time to hold those responsible accountable. My Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act would target these officials with powerful sanctions and other tools.”
In a riposte on the same social media platform, Onanuga said Nigeria does not have a religious war and insisted that terrorists and bandits kill without discrimination.
“Senator, stop these malicious, contrived lies against my country. We do not have a religious war in my country,” the president’s spokesperson wrote.
“The degraded Boko Haram terrorists operating on the fringes of Nigeria’s North east target everyone. They attack farmers, our soldiers.
“The bandits in the North west kill worshippers in their mosques. Christians are not targeted. We have religious harmony in our country. Stop these malicious lies.”
On Tuesday, Tinubu said allegations of religious genocide in Nigeria are unfounded, noting that the country is built on the faith and resilience of its people.
Speaking in Owerri, the Imo state capital, the president said no religion is under threat in the country, noting that Nigerians, after 65 years of independence, have learned to appreciate their cultural and religious diversity.
Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court Abuja, has fixed October 27, 2025, for the arraignment of a human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore.
The scheduled arraignment on Tuesday was stalled as a result of non-service of the five-count charge of alleged cybercrime on him.
At the day’s proceeding, the Director of Public Prosecution from the Ministry of Justice told the court that they were ready to arraign Sowore, X Corporation, and Meta (Facebook) Inc., as first to third respondents, respectively.
Sowore’s counsel, Marshal Abubakar, however, told the court that they had not been served the charges.
The counsel for the third respondent also aligned himself with Abubakar’s submission, noting that he had just served in court. The second defendant was not represented.
The activist was accused of using his official X handle to make an offensive post. The alleged offending post was said to have been made on August 25 within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court.
It was also said to be contrary to Section 24(2) (b) of the Cybercrimes Prohibition and Prevention Act 2024.
Colleagues of late ARISE News correspondent, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, have accused a public hospital in Abuja of negligence following reports that the 29- year-old journalist was denied urgent medical attention after sustaining injuries during a robbery attack.
During Tuesday’s edition of The Morning Show , anchors Ojy Okpe and Reuben Abati described the death as a preventable tragedy, linking it to systemic failures in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
According to Okpe, Maduagwu, popularly called “Sommie,” jumped from her residence after learning that 14 armed robbers had stormed the building. Though she survived the fall, she reportedly died after hospital staff refused to provide immediate treatment.
She said, “I reached out to our correspondent in Abuja, who detailed the circumstances surrounding Sommie’s death.
“According to her, the criminal elements numbering about 14 invaded the house, throwing the deceased into panic. “She jumped from her home when she heard that 14 armed robbers came to her house. “She didn’t die on the spot, she went to the hospital, but she was rejected.”
It was further disclosed that Maduagwu and an elderly security guard injured during the invasion were rushed to the hospital, where both allegedly died after staff demanded identification documents before offering medical assistance.
Abati condemned the hospital’s conduct, calling it a violation of medical ethics and Nigerian law.
“This is an issue of the law in Nigeria. Anybody who is a victim of an accident… should be treated immediately,” he said.
“But those who were taken to the hospital were refused treatment because staff were looking for identification. It is the duty of doctors and nurses to stay faithful to their oath, which is to save lives.”
He added, “I hope the hospital is properly identified, and sanctions where appropriate are applied to those on duty… Lives could have been saved."
Meanwhile, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has expressed sorrow over the death of Somtochukwu. In a statement signed by his media aide, Lere Olayinka, on Tuesday, Wike described her death as painful and tragic for both her colleagues and the nation.
The former Rivers Governor offered prayers for the repose of Somtochukwu’s soul and assured that the police would investigate the circumstances of her death and bring those responsible to justice. He said that her loss affects not only Arise News but the Nigerian media and the country at large.
According to the FCTA Mandate Secretary on Health, Dr Dolapo Fasawe, Somtochukwu was brought in dead to Maitama General Hospital at around 4:30 a.m. on Monday. Fasawe said the preliminary medical report will be handed over to the police to support the investigation.
President Bola Tinubu has extends his heartfelt condolences to the family of Ms Somtochukwu ‘Sommie’ Maduagwu
The President extended condolences to the deceased family, the management and staff of Arise News Television, and the entire Nigerian media fraternity over the death of the journalist in Abuja.
President Tinubu, in a statement on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga , described Ms Maduagwu’s death as a painful loss.
He thereafter ordered security and law enforcement agencies to investigate the incident and ensure perpetrators are arrested and made to face justice.
“Ms Maduagwu was a promising professional journalist whose life was cut short in a cruel and condemnable manner.
“Security and law enforcement agencies should conduct a quick and thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice without delay,” the statement read.
While commiserating with the bereaved family, President Tinubu assures Nigerians that his administration remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens, and will continue to strengthen measures aimed at combating crime in all its forms.
The National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party has said a former Minister of Information, Professor Jerry Gana, does not have the authority of the party to disclose that former President Goodluck Jonathan would become its presidential candidate in the 2027 general elections.
The opposition party said it did not lack presidential materials for the next general election, as there were competent and performing governors from the south that could easily become its presidential candidate, if they so desired.
Gana had at the weekend said Nigerians, having seen the disparity in their lives after eight years of former President Muhammadu Buhari and two years under incumbent President Bola Tinubu, now knew better and wanted Jonathan to return.
The minister stated this on Saturday in Minna after the election of new officials by the Niger State chapter of PDP. He also confirmed that Jonathan would contest the 2027 presidential election on the platform of PDP.
He had said, “In 2015, former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan said his ambition is not worth the blood of Nigerians. After him another president ruled for eight years and now another has ruled for two years.
“Nigerians have seen the difference and the difference is very clear. Nigerians are now asking us to bring back our friend, former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. “I can confirm that Goodluck Ebele Jonathan will contest the presidential election in 2027 as PDP candidate and you will vote for him to return as President again.”
But addressing newsmen on Monday in Abuja, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Debo Ologunagba, said the former minster does not have the party’s authority to speak for the opposition party. Ologunagba stated that the party is focused on its national convention and has qualified candidates to fly its flag in 2027.
He said, “Professor Jerry Gana doesn’t speak for the PDP. I don’t also speak for Professor Jerry Gana. ‘’I don’t speak for Professor Jerry Gana. People can express their opinion. But I will emphasise this. In this party, as we are on Tuesday, President Jonathan is a member, he has not said he’s not a member.
“But I can tell you, on Tuesday, this party has eminently qualified Nigerians, particularly at the governors’ level, who have done exceedingly well, that Nigeria can tap on that and say, step up the place and do the right thing, because their performances in their states show their capacity, which is actually the DNA of the PDP.
‘’So, I don’t speak for President Jonathan. I don’t speak for Jerry Gana, with all due respect. But our party is focused on our convention and when we get to that bridge, we’ll cross it. Those should be semantics.”
Meanwhile, the Presidency said Jonathan is free to contest the 2027 elections but warned that his “dismal record in office” remains fresh in the minds of Nigerians. It described as “absurd” the PDP’s strategy to field Jonathan for the presidency on what it called a “discredited platform” which “bequeathed a legacy of economic ruins, after 16 years of bad governance.”
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, made these assertions in a statement he signed Monday evening titled, ‘Former President Jonathan is welcome to the race. Nigerians will remember his dismal record in office.’ Onanuga said while the administration “wholeheartedly welcomes” Jonathan to the race, should he decide to run, the former leader would have to contend with both constitutional hurdles and public perception.
He said, “President Jonathan reserves the right to run if he wishes. It is his inalienable right to contest the presidency again. “But Jonathan will have his date in the court of the land…and will also have his encounter with the people as to whether he has anything new to offer after his disastrous six years, for which they voted him out in 2015.”
The Federal Government says it has secured about N250 billion funding for development of light rail in Kaduna and Kano respectively.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris made this known at the World Press conference on Monday in Abuja.
According to him, President Bola Tinubu is interested in seeing massive development at the sub-national levels.
“Contrary to the perception being pushed at some quarters, this administration has demonstrated uncommon commitment to balanced and inclusive development since assuming office.
“The distribution of capital projects under President Bola Tinubu is equitable. No zone is taking a back seat.
“The Federal Government is actively going further to support various subnational infrastructure projects, for instance the light rail projects in Kano and Kaduna States, for which funding to the tune of N150 billion and N100 billion Naira respectively has been secured.
“Local Government Areas are also being fiscally reintegrated as catalysts for growth and development, with the financial autonomy that the President is determined to fully make operational,” Idris said.
The Minister explained that all state governments now receive multiples of the revenue they hitherto used to get from the federation account.
“Thanks to the increased headroom from the oil subsidy removal, the sub-national governments are now able to do a lot more and with less debt,” Idris said.
Ramaphosa's angry attack on Israel at UN, then his mic gets switched off
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a forceful condemnation of Israel at the UN General Assembly vote, calling Israel’s actions in Gaza “genocide” and urging the world to recognize Palestinian statehood. Ramaphosa insisted that the only solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a two-state solution based on 1967 borders and demanded an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the removal of barriers preventing Palestinian statehood—including Israel’s separation wall. He also invoked the parallel between Palestinian suffering and South Africa’s own history of apartheid.
Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has said the party has no objection to the reported move by former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to return to the ruling party.
However, Ganduje, also a former governor of Kano State, emphasised that Kwankwaso must accept certain conditions before rejoining the APC.
Daily Trust had reported how credible sources confirmed that Kwankwaso has already initiated talks with the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, regarding his defection.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa on Friday, Ganduje stated that the APC operates by rules and guidelines, and Kwankwaso must comply with them before being admitted.
“We’ve heard about Kwankwaso’s return plans. In democracy, the vote of a thief and that of a cleric carries equal weight. So we won’t shut our doors to anyone.
“Anyone who wants to join is welcome, but they must follow due process. We have rules and a constitution. If they return, we’ll welcome them, but we will name it for what it is: they’ve vomited and now they’re licking it back,” Ganduje said.
No Rift With Tinubu
Ganduje dismissed claims that he fell out with President Tinubu, which some linked to his resignation as APC chairman.
“Politics is layered. APC allocates positions across different geopolitical zones, and one zone may feel a certain position belongs to them. But since we’re not in politics for positions, if a role is assigned to another zone, we step aside. That’s not a big deal".
“The meeting we held was to thank President Tinubu. So the idea of a rift between us doesn’t even arise. There’s nothing between us but love. He’ll support us, and we’ll support him to reclaim Kano in 2027, ” he said.
Ganduje also confirmed that internal divisions within the Kano APC had been settled, insisting that the crisis was never as deep as portrayed.
Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, on Thursday, chaired the Commission’s regular weekly committee and approved the promotion of some junior staff.
This is against social media reports that he has proceeded on terminal leave.
INEC national commissioner and Chairman of its Information and Voter Education Committee, Mr Sam Olumekun, said the meeting also reviewed preparations for the forthcoming Anambra State Governorship election, the Area Council election in the Federal Capital Territory FCT and the conduct of party primaries for the Ekiti and Osun State Governorship elections.
“In addition, the meeting approved the 2025 promotion of 471 deserving junior staff (GL 03-06) of the Commission on the recommendation of the Appointment, Promotion and Disciplinary Committee (APDC) in line with the Staff Conditions of Service.
“A total of 515 staff were shortlisted for the exercise, out of which 214 met the requirements for promotion to GL07, 134 to GL06, 106 to GL05 and 17 to GL04.
“The promotion of junior staff concludes the first phase of the exercise. Next is the promotion of senior staff, which has also commenced in earnest.
“Staff promotion is a routine exercise. The Commission remains committed to regular merit-based promotion and the welfare of staff. We urge all staff to rededicate themselves to service, particularly with regard to elections and electoral activities”, Olumekun stated.
There were speculations late Wednesday that President Bola Tinubu had directed Prof. Mahmood to proceed on terminal leave.
DAILY POST reports that Mahmood’s second five-year tenure ends on December 8, 2025.
The INEC chairman, unlike a certain category of chief executives, is not bound by the civil service rule of proceeding on a three-month terminal leave.
Recall that Mahmood’s predecessor, Prof. Attahiru Jega, stayed until his last day in office.
List of the 33 Federal Science and Technical Colleges in Nigeria:
1. FSTC Yaba – Lagos State 2. FSTC Ilesa – Osun State 3. FSTC Kafanchan – Kaduna State 4. FSTC Uyo – Akwa Ibom State 5. FSTC Otukpo – Benue State 6. FSTC Awka – Anambra State 7. FSTC Jalingo – Taraba State 8. FSTC Tungbo – Bayelsa State 9. FSTC Doma – Nasarawa State 10. FSTC Zuru – Kebbi State 11. FSTC Michika – Adamawa State 12. FSTC Ohanso – Abia State 13. FSTC Orozo – FCT, Abuja 14. FSTC Uromi – Edo State 15. FSTC Aba – Abia State 16. FSTC Ikare-Akoko – Ondo State 17. FSTC Ahoada – Rivers State 18. FSTC Lassa – Borno State 19. FSTC Yauri – Kebbi State 20. FSTC Otobi – Benue State 21. FSTC Enugu – Enugu State 22. FSTC Ikot Ekpene – Akwa Ibom State 23. FSTC Usi-Ekiti – Ekiti State 24. FSTC Ogugu – Kogi State 25. FSTC Bwari – FCT, Abuja 26. FSTC Ijebu-Imushin – Ogun State 27. FSTC Sokoto – Sokoto State 28. FSTC Yaba (Annex) – Lagos State 29. FSTC Ilorin – Kwara State 30. FSTC Garki – Jigawa State 31. FSTC Kuta – Niger State 32. FSTC Biliri – Gombe State 33. FSTC Otukpa – Benue State
Benefits of TVET Programs
TVET programs are intended to assist students in gaining specialized skills in a wide range of industries, such as construction, engineering, hospitality, and healthcare, among many others! By enrolling in this program, children will gain the following:
1. Industry-Relevant Skills for Immediate Employment 2. Job Readiness as Courses are Aligned with Labor Market Needs 3. Self Employed Opportunity as Graduates are able to work for themselves 4. Free Tuition for the 3 years of Training in the College 5. Free Accommodation for the 3 Years of Training 6. Free Meals for the 3 Years of Training 7. Students shall be paid Monthly Stipends for their upkeep. 8. Upon Completion of Studies in 3 years, Students Shall Have Access to Federal Grants or Loans to Start Their Enterprise 9. Students upon graduation will obtain a National Business and National Technical Certificate. 10. Students upon graduation will obtain the Second Certificate in National Skills Qualification Certification (NSQ). 11. The Two Certificates Shall Have Worldwide Acceptability for Those Who Want to Practice Their Enterprise or Vocation Overseas.
In its bid to make technical education accessible to all Nigerian children, the Federal Government has announced tuition-free education in all Federal Technical College (FTC) across the country.
The government said this will cover other approved charges including boarding fee, uniforms, textbooks, exercise books, prospectus and identity cards.
Others are stationery, clubs and societies, medical, vocational, utilities, security, website/e-result, Skool Media, extra lessons, and insurance. This, it explained, is in line with its free-education policy and ensure that Federal Technical Colleges fulfil their mandate of producing skilled graduates for national transformation.
A statement late Wednesday by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo, urged parents to report illegal demands directly to the Ministry through: Hotline: 08036576733, 08036373796; email: tse@education.gov.ng.
The statement quoted the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa as warning that no principal or administrator is permitted to demand unauthorized payments from parents or guardians.
It noted that the Minister has also directed that circulars reinforcing this policy be sent to all Federal Technical Colleges and parents.
Dr. Alausa clarified that while tuition and core expenses are fully covered, students of Federal Technical Colleges, as boarders, are expected to provide their personal items.
“This initiative reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a pathway to human capital development.
By equipping youth with employable skills, the government seeks to strengthen national progress and competitiveness[/b].
“No Nigerian child should be denied access to technical education because of illegal charges. By investing in education today, we are building a stronger, self-reliant Nigeria,” Dr. Alausa affirmed.
The Ministry confirmed that monitoring mechanisms are in place to address any infractions swiftly.
The statement, however, clarified that students are to purchase their personal items including Sunday/Jumat wears, bathroom slippers, blankets, bedsheets, pillowcases, towel, underwears as well as 1 ream of A4 paper (80 grams) for registration as well as other personal items and cleaning materials.
1. Lately, whenever I create a new thread in politics section, it automatically pushed to Investment Ads section. I would have to report it before being moved back to the right section. A new thread was created a few hours ago and it happened again, even though I have reported it, the thread is still hanging in there ( investment ads ) for the past two hours.
2. Yet again, another thread was opened and this time, I was automatically banned. This happened twice.
I think this platform should be doing a lot better. A lot of people cannot be wrong while only you is right. This absurdity is getting too much.
A coalition of opposition stakeholders, civil society groups, and political movements has unveiled AGOBI ’27—short for Atiku Givus Obi 2027—calling on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to step aside and back Labour Party’s Peter Obi as a united presidential candidate in the 2027 elections.
The Save Democracy Mega Alliance (SDMA), African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition partners, and allied civil societies warned that separate bids by Atiku and Obi would hand President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) an easy victory.
“This is the hugest question anyone will ever ask Atiku Abubakar in his lifetime: Will you be remembered as the man who sacrificed his ambition to liberate Nigeria, or who sacrificed Nigeria for his ambition?” the communiqué declared.
The coalition alleged that the APC has already laid “practically insurmountable obstacles” to tilt the polls, citing INEC’s plan to replace PVCs with computer-generated slips, which they claim could enable digital vote manipulation; heavily armed security lockdowns on election day to stifle opposition monitoring and movement; and judiciary influence through patronage, referencing reports of housing projects for key judges ahead of 2027.
The groups said their research showed that 90% of voters across Southern Nigeria and the Middle Belt would rather back Tinubu for a second term than risk another Northern Hausa-Fulani presidency—making an Atiku candidacy a liability for opposition unity.
The AGOBI steering committee, drawn from six geopolitical zones, includes Labour Party’s interim National Publicity Secretary Prince Tony Akeni, CUPP National Secretary High Chief Peter Ameh, and other civic leaders.
A prominent northern elder, speaking anonymously, described AGOBI as “the most historic nationalist movement since the independence rallies of the 1950s.”
The four-day Abuja parley that birthed the campaign featured representatives from political parties, professional associations, youth groups, and traditional rulers (joining via Skype).
Organisers say AGOBI ’27 will roll out nationwide mobilisations in the coming months to pressure opposition leaders into a single ticket.
“A hundred Tinubus cannot win if Atiku backs Obi,” the statement read. “But if they run separately, Tinubu’s victory is guaranteed.”
The coalition framed the campaign as a patriotic rescue mission: “Time will tell and retell the AGOBI story,” they said, invoking Qur’anic verses urging justice and selflessness.
Nigeria’s external reserves climbed to $42.03 billion on September 19, 2025, marking the highest level since late September 2019 and setting a six-year (72-month) peak.
The latest data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as of Monday show reserves at $42.03 billion, up from $41.99 billion the previous day and well above $41.42 billion at the start of September.
The last time reserves were higher was on September 26, 2019, when they stood at $42.05 billion. The latest figure extends a sustained rally that began in July and has gained speed this month.
The new high is significant for market confidence, boosting Nigeria’s import cover and the Central Bank’s policy credibility.
How have the reserves performed so far in September
Nairametrics observed that the buildup is not a one-off spike. Throughout September, every recorded session has shown an increase, delivering 13 consecutive daily gains across 14 reporting days.
From the start of September to the 19th, reserves have grown by $610.8 million, or 1.47%. The accretion has been steady, averaging about $47 million per reporting day. The second half of the month has been particularly strong.
On September 8, reserves stood at $41.5711 billion. By September 19, they had risen by $461.8 million. In the span of four business days between September 15 and 19, reserves added almost $583.0 million, a reflection of more robust FX inflows and restrained outflows.
Compared with August 29, when the balance was $41.3055 billion, reserves are now stronger by $727.3 million, a 1.76% increase.
Year-to-date trend
Reserves are also in positive territory for 2025. They have risen by $1.15 billion, or 2.83%, from $40.8780 billion at the end of December 2024 to $42.0329 billion in mid-September 2025.
The trajectory was not smooth, with a sharp decline in the first half of the year dragging reserves to a low of $37.1806 billion on July 3, 2025. Since then, the stock has recovered by $4.85 billion, or 13.05%. The September peak is now the highest point of the year, surpassing all prior 2025 readings and reversing earlier losses.
Implications for the economy
The return of reserves above $42 billion strengthens the Central Bank’s capacity to smooth volatility in the FX market and meet external obligations with greater credibility.
It also raises Nigeria’s import cover, a key metric tracked by investors, lenders, and ratings agencies. The six-year high provides a psychological boost that may help encourage portfolio inflows into local assets, provided yields remain attractive and policy direction stays consistent.
Still, the durability of this rally will be tested. Sustaining reserves at or above $42 billion requires a steady pipeline of FX supply from crude oil sales, non-oil exports, diaspora remittances, and foreign portfolio investments. Any slump in oil production, fall in global prices, or resurgence of demand pressure could stall the gains.
On the other hand, further improvements in production volumes, transparent FX operations, and consistent fiscal-monetary coordination could consolidate the milestone and possibly push reserves above late-2019 levels.
In essence, September has flipped the 2025 reserves story from weakness to strength. The test now is whether this momentum can carry through to the fourth quarter and provide lasting stability for Nigeria’s currency and external sector.
The Forum of State Chairmen of the defunct Congress for Progressives Change on Saturday distanced itself from the recent visit of a few of its members to the Abuja residence of former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar.
It described the visit as the personal decision of a few individuals, stressing that it did not represent the position of the group.
The Forum also urged the Presidency and the ruling All Progressives Congress to address what it called the continued marginalisation of the CPC bloc within the APC.
Atiku who has since renounced his membership of the PDP, is reportedly wooing many opposition figures to rally round him in a bid to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the. 2027 presidential election.
Although, he is yet to declare for any of the existing political parties, there are indications that the ex-Vice President will formally join the African Democratic Congress ahead of the polls.
Already, CPC chieftains including former governors of Kaduna and Rivers States, Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi respectively as well as ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal have teamed up with Atiku to work against Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
Earlier in the week, the Atili took to his social media handles to announce the visit of some ex-CPC State Chairmen, stressing that he advised them to encourage their supporters to participate in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration.
However, in a statement issued on Saturday and signed by Kasim Mabo (National Chairman); Sulaiman Oyaremi (National Secretary); Olalekan Obolo (South West Coordinator); Enyinnaya Nnachi (South East Coordinator) and Ahmad Dawayo (North East and North West Coordinator), the Forum clarified that out of its 37 members, only 16 have pledged their support to Atiku while 20 are in the same boat with President Tinubu.
The statement claimed that allies of the opposition have been pressuring the forum with offer of financial incentives to dump the APC in preparation for 2027.
The statement read in part, “We wish to categorically state that 20 members of the group remain committed to the All Progressives Congress. We wish to state clearly that for some time now our Forum has been put under intense pressure which includes financial gratification by opposition leaders which accounts for why nine of our members succumbed to their pressure a few months ago and seven others joined them only last week as it appears they could no longer resist the pressure.
“As we speak however, 20 of us remain unwaivering as we have lost one of our members from Borno State. This moment however calls for reflection, especially by the presidency and the APC leadership to urgently address the continued neglect of the CPC bloc, particularly the Forum of State Chairmen who are feeling increasingly alienated.
“Without the fear of sounding immodest, we remain the direct link to the grassroots structures that gave the CPC its national relevance and we were the Chairmen that worked with President Muhammadu Buhari of blessed memory to achieve the much touted 12.5m votes.”
The group noted that the gathering of the CPC elements at Atiku’s residence was nothing short of a move to give the former Vice President a misleading impression of “Widespread support.”
Reaffirming its loyalty, the Forum expressed support for the leadership of the defunct CPC bloc, led by Senator Tanko Al-Makura, Aminu Masari, and Tajudeen Abbas.
“We remain loyal, patient, but firm in our resolve to demand for better patronage just as we pray that the Almighty God shall continue to guide Mr President and indeed all our leaders,” the statement added.
Lere Olayinka, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has described former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore as a dictator in a militocracy.
He asserted that Sowore points accusatory fingers at others but has failed to practice what he preaches.
Speaking via social media on Friday, the aide tackled Sowore for calling President Bola Tinubu a criminal.
He insisted that Sowore cannot handle what he dishes out to others.
Olayinka wrote, “People shouting Democracy up and down. He is the Party Chairman.
“He is the Presidential Candidate. He is everything, Dictator in Millitocracy.
“Now imagine President Tinubu also as the Chairman of APC. Imagine what our Professional Human Rice and Beans Activist will be saying.
“Like I have maintained, they preach what they can’t practice. They do to people what they can’t let anyone do to them. They are hypocrites.
“AAC was founded in 2018. The 2019 Presidential Candidate was Sowore. 2023 Presidential Candidate was Sowore.
“The same Sowore has been the Chairman of AAC since 2018. He trusts no one apart from himself. No one is right apart from Sowore.
“Reason he is the Party Chairman, Treasurer, Financial Secretary and Presidential Candidate.
“Same Human Rice and Beans Cashtivist making noise about Democracy.
“With his 14,603 votes, he wants to be President, Vice President, Senate President, Speaker and Chief Justice of Nigeria.”
Politics › Names Of Some People Tinubu Granted National Pardon by Pakute(op): 2:05pm On Oct 10, 2025
