N84.8m Akwa Ibom Fishing Project Fails to Deliver After 16 Months — MonITNG Report

A report by socio-accountability group MonITNG has revealed that an ₦84.8 million federal fishing starter-kit project in Ifuho, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom, has delivered nothing 16 months after funds were released. The money, paid to AGLANP Logistics Services Ltd by the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology, was meant to provide boats, engines, nets, smoking kilns, life jackets, and training for the fishing community. Residents say no item has reached them, prompting accusations of diversion and a pattern of failed constituency empowerment projects. MonITNG has demanded immediate accountability, calling on the EFCC and ICPC to investigate and retrieve the funds.

#CorruptionReport #AkwaIbomProjectScandal #MonITNG

Aliko Dangote Named Pioneer Chair of New ECOWAS Business Council

Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote has been appointed the first Chairperson of the newly established ECOWAS Business Council, a regional platform created to strengthen private sector investment and deepen economic integration across West Africa. The appointment was announced by ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray during the 95th Ordinary Session of the Council of Ministers in Abuja.
The Business Council is expected to mobilise regional private capital, reduce dependence on foreign investment, and enhance collaboration between businesses, governments, and ECOWAS institutions. Leaders at the event—including officials from Sierra Leone and Nigeria—emphasised the need for stability, democratic governance, youth empowerment, and improved cross-border trade.
Dangote’s leadership is projected to energise private sector participation at a time when ECOWAS faces political instability, security threats, and humanitarian crises in several member states.

First Lady Of Nigeria Celebrates International World Disability Day in Osun

Two hundred and fifty people living with Disability across Osun State have benefited from the Renewed Hope initiative Economic empowerment of Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu in commemoration of 2025 International Day of People with Disabilities.

The distribution of cash gifts was done through the wife of Osun State, Mrs Titilola Adeleke at the Government House, in Osogbo, the Osun State Capital.

Gov. Buni Approves Scholarships for 28,346 Yobe Students, Doubles All Allowances

Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni , has approved the disbursement of scholarships and bursaries to 28,346 Yobe State indigenes currently studying in tertiary institutions across Nigeria, in what has been described as one of the most far-reaching educational interventions by any state government in recent times.

The approval underscores the Governor’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, access to education, and human capital development as critical pillars for sustainable growth.

According to the Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Scholarship Board (YSSB), Dr. Kagu Abubakar, Yobe State University recorded the highest number of beneficiaries with 7,636 successful applicants, reflecting the steady growth of the institution and the increasing enrolment of Yobe indigenes in higher education. Students of other universities, polytechnics, colleges of education and specialized institutions across the country are also captured in the comprehensive beneficiary list.

Dr. Kagu disclosed that Governor Buni has further approved a 100 percent increment in all categories of scholarship payments, effectively doubling what students previously received.
Under the new payment regime, PGDE, Master’s and PhD students will now receive ₦110,000, up from the former ₦55,000.

While undergraduate students will receive ₦46,000, as against ₦23,000 previously paid. HND, NCE and National Diploma students will now receive ₦34,000, instead of the former ₦17,000, while students pursuing other Diploma, Certificate and Consultancy programmes will now receive ₦26,000, up from ₦13,000.

The increment, he noted, is in recognition of the prevailing economic realities and the rising cost of education across the country.

To ensure transparency, efficiency and smooth implementation of the exercise, the Scholarship Board recently convened a joint stakeholders’ meeting involving representatives of the House Committee on Higher Education, officials of the Ministry of Higher Education, Youth and Sports, education Focal Persons, as well as student leaders from various tertiary institutions.

The meeting reviewed the operational framework, harmonized schedules and addressed logistical issues to guarantee the successful execution of the exercise nationwide.

In line with established procedures, Dr. Kagu stated that the names, admission details and academic records of all successful beneficiaries will be forwarded to their respective institutions and recognized student bodies, while a comprehensive timetable for the disbursement exercise will be officially released to guide students and institutions accordingly. This, he emphasized, is to prevent congestion, ensure orderliness and eliminate sharp practices.

The Executive Secretary conveyed the gratitude and appreciation of students, parents and guardians across Yobe State to Governor Mai Mala Buni for his continued and consistent investment in education.

He noted that the scholarship scheme has remained a major source of relief for thousands of families, improved school retention rates, and strengthened access to tertiary education for indigent but brilliant students across the state.

Dr. Kagu assured that the Office of the Public Relations Officer of the Yobe State Scholarship Board will continue to provide regular updates to all schools, beneficiaries and the general public on developments relating to the exercise, stressing that the Board remains committed to accountability, transparency and timely service delivery in the execution of its mandate.

ADC’s Dare Bejide Declares Readiness For 2026 Ekiti Governorship Race, Promises Victory Despite Party Crisis

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and its governorship candidate, Ambassador Dare Bejide, have reaffirmed their readiness for the 2026 Ekiti election. Bejide, welcomed by supporters in Ado-Ekiti, urged unity despite recent crises at the party secretariat and vowed that the ADC is set for victory. Party leaders, including Pastor Omolayo, Akin Omole, and Otunba Emmanuel Fayose, pledged full support while addressing internal conflicts and outlining plans to strengthen the party. Bejide condemned the attack on the party office, linking it to political motivations, and highlighted insecurity and unemployment as national challenges he aims to address through skills empowerment and agricultural revitalization.

Ekiti 2026: ADC’s Dare Bejide Declares ‘Certain Victory’ as Party Rallies After Secretariat Crisis

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has renewed confidence ahead of the 2026 Ekiti governorship election as its candidate, Ambassador Dare Bejide, reassured supporters of victory after returning from Abuja. Addressing party members in Ado-Ekiti, Bejide urged unity despite the recent crisis at the party secretariat, describing it as a temporary setback. ADC leaders, including State Chairman Pastor Omolayo and former Commissioner Akin Omole, pledged full support while emphasizing loyalty, cohesion, and strategic preparation. Bejide linked national issues like insecurity and unemployment to leadership failures, promising empowerment, agricultural development, and stronger party structures as the election approaches.

JUST IN: Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched empowerment programmes for Persons Living with Disabilities in Anambra State...

First Lady's Message on International Day of PWDs

A truly inclusive Nigeria must ensure that persons with disabilities are supported and empowered to be independent.

Nigeria's First Lady Oluremi Tinubu stated this in her message marking 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

She says the theme of the celebration, “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress,” calls for renewed commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment, noting that Nigerians have a collective duty to build a society where everyone, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive, participate, and contribute meaningfully to our shared progress.

His Excellency Governor Abba K. Yusuf led head of securities in Kano to paid an on-the-spot assessment to the JTF operational bases in ‘Yan Kamaye community in Tsanyawa LG and Farunruwa and Tsaure communities in Shanono LG.

During the visit He assured the residents of his Govt’s full support, promising enhanced logistics, operational resources l, all necessary assistance to sustain and strengthen ongoing security operations in the areas.

The Governor emphasized that infrastructure improvements will be implemented in the areas to enhance accessibility to remote communities, while community empowerment initiatives are being introduced to strengthen local self-defense and vigilance.

The governor reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protect every resident, warning criminals that the state will relentlessly pursue bandits until peace is fully restored.

Gov. Buni Constructs Major Drainage Systems, Bridges to End Flooding in Damaturu

The Yobe State Government under the leadership of Governor Mai Mala Buni,, has made remarkable progress in the construction of major bridges and drainage channels across Damaturu metropolis aimed at permanently addressing the problem of flooding while also supporting dry-season farming.

The large-scale project cuts across key parts of the state capital, stretching from Nasarawa through Nayi-Nawa, extending behind Shagari via Pompomari New Layout, and further beyond Waziri Ibrahim and Sumsumma, where floodwater is being redirected for the benefit of dry-season farmers in areas such as behind the High Court, Waziri Ibrahim, Sumsumma and adjoining communities.

So far, major milestones have been recorded with the completion of a bridge at Waziri Ibrahim Bypass, another at Pompomari New Layout, as well as the completion of one side of the Pilgrim Bridge along the Potiskum Road.

To ensure timely delivery, the construction company which is currently executing the project simultaneously in five different locations, including Waziri Bypass, where road rehabilitation and drainage construction are ongoing; the Buratai residence axis, where a major floodwater channel is being constructed; the Pilgrim area, where one side of the bridge is under construction; and Nasarawa, where large drainage infrastructure is also underway.

The project when completed will deliver enormous benefits to Damaturu and environs. It will significantly reduced the recurring menace of flooding, thereby protecting lives, homes, and public infrastructure from destruction.

By preventing floodwater from cutting off major roads, especially around the Waziri Ibrahim and Pompomari areas, the project will greatly enhanced the free flow of traffic and easing movement within the city.

In addition, the drainage system will preserved road networks from damage caused by stagnant water, while at the same time improving environmental sanitation by preventing waste accumulation and pollution.

Beyond flood control and urban safety, the project will contribute immensely to agricultural development. By redirecting floodwater for irrigation, it is boosting dry-season farming and supporting hundreds of farmers engaged in the cultivation of crops such as cucumber, watermelon, onion, Irish potato, lettuce, tomato, pepper, rice, wheat and other produce across the Waziri and Sumsumma axis.

This intervention is also creating opportunities for youth empowerment, reducing unemployment and discouraging social vices through productive engagement.

The project covers major areas including Nasarawa, Nayi-Nawa, Pompomari, Behind the High Court, Behind Waziri Ibrahim and Sumsumma, where floodwater is systematically channelled for agricultural use.

The work is progressing steadily in line with specifications, and it is expected to be completed in the near future .

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, on Monday declared that Nigeria’s ambition to evolve into a trillion-dollar economy hinges significantly on the growth and empowerment of small and medium-sized enterprises.

"Our Goal Is To Use Education To End Poverty", President Tinubu Tells Duke of Edinburgh.

President Bola Tinubu emphasized that his administration’s economic and institutional reforms aim to equip Nigerian youths with globally competitive skills to secure their future. Speaking during a meeting with the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, at the State House, Abuja, on Monday, Tinubu stated, “Our goal is to use education to drive down poverty.”

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, revealed that discussions also covered plans for the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award events in Lagos.

Tinubu highlighted that Nigeria’s participation in the G-20 this week will focus on youth empowerment and economic growth, stressing that reforms prioritize demography, skills development, and opportunities for young people.

He noted the introduction of a special education loan fund to ensure university students receive support to complete their studies, alongside broader reforms to enhance infrastructure, including fibre optics, security, and crime reduction initiatives. Tinubu also acknowledged humanitarian agencies for their role in supporting terrorism victims.

Finance Minister Wale Edun briefed attendees on the country’s median age of 17 and explained that policies are designed to expand youth participation, skill acquisition, and growth prospects. Prince Edward praised Nigeria’s reforms and highlighted the Lagos events, where 320 youths will be recognized for pursuing their passions, developing skills, and contributing to national development.

Also present were the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Sir Richard Montgomery; the Duke’s Private Secretary, Alex Potts; the Award’s Secretary-General, Martin Houghton-Brown; and International Trustee Muhoho Kenyatta.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global program promoting non-formal education through schools, youth organizations, and community groups to develop skills, resilience, and service among young people.

No policeman should search your phone on the road – Lagos CP.

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has reiterated that no security ooerative has the right to search people’s phones on the road.

CP Jimoh said this on Thursday during the closing ceremony of the 2025 Police–Youth Dialogue Programme organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development at Alausa, Ikeja, where he also told Lagosians that their phones are their personal belongings.

“Some people put me on TikTok where I said it that no policeman should search your phone on the road, I still stand by that order,” he said.

Jimoh said that the Lagos State Police Command is committed to strengthening its relationship with young people through continuous dialogue, community partnerships, and empowerment initiatives.

Speaking further at the event, with the theme, “The Power of Partnership: Cultural Trust and Understanding Between Youth and Law Enforcement Agencies,” which brought together police officers, youth representatives, civil society groups, and government officials, the CP described the youth as the “mirror of the society”.

NEVER FORGIVE A WOMAN’S PAST — HER BODY COUNT MATTERS

A man who has driven many cars is called experienced. But a car driven by many drivers is called scrap. That’s the cold truth society refuses to say out loud — and it’s why a woman’s past will always matter. You can sugarcoat it with “love is love,” but deep down, every man knows the truth: a woman’s history shapes her loyalty, purity, and peace.

You can’t build a future with someone whose past still screams chaos. You can’t build trust with someone who gave her best years to strangers and now comes to you with a recycled heart. Forgiveness doesn’t erase patterns — it just blinds you until reality hits harder.

Brutal Thread:

1️⃣ A woman’s past is a preview of her future. If she was reckless with herself then, discipline won’t magically appear in your relationship.

2️⃣ Don’t believe the “body count doesn’t matter” lie. Every man saying that publicly would still flinch privately if he knew the real number.

3️⃣ Promiscuity changes a woman’s soul. Every man she’s been with leaves an imprint — physically, emotionally, and spiritually. That’s why she can’t bond the same again.

4️⃣ A woman with a high body count has been shared energy-wise too many times. She loses depth, connection, and genuine femininity — she becomes numb.

5️⃣ When a man chooses purity, he’s mocked. When a woman loses hers, she’s celebrated. That’s how twisted this modern generation has become.

6️⃣ Forgiving a woman’s past doesn’t make you noble; it makes you naïve. You can’t fix what a hundred men have already broken.

7️⃣ Women lie about numbers because they know the truth — no man truly respects a woman who has been for everyone.

8️⃣ A woman with too many histories can’t create new beginnings. Her soul is scattered across old memories and men who never valued her.

9️⃣ Modern society sells “şèxual liberation” as empowerment. But if it leaves you empty, bitter, and unable to bond — that’s not power; that’s punishment.

Real men don’t judge women harshly — they just choose wisely. Her past doesn’t need condemnation; it just disqualifies her from certain futures.

FINAL WARNING:
Never ignore her past in the name of love. Love doesn’t erase patterns — it amplifies them. You’re not insecure for caring about a woman’s body count; you’re smart enough to understand that history repeats itself. Protect your peace, guard your legacy, and never apologize for wanting purity in a world that glorifies filth. #fblifestyle

FG to Attempt Guinness World Record for Longest Dining Table.

The Federal Government has announced plans to attempt a Guinness World Record for the world’s longest dining table during this year’s Mega Renewed Hope NIHOTOUR Gastronomy Festival taking place in December in Abuja.

The initiative was revealed on Thursday at a joint world press briefing featuring the Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Aare (Dr.) Abisoye Fagade, and the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa.

This year’s festival, themed “Oriki: Taste of Culture,” will spotlight Nigeria’s rich culinary traditions while creating visibility for opportunities in hospitality and the broader creative sector, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Dr. Fagade disclosed that the centrepiece of the event will be a 3.6-kilometre dining table, designed to accommodate between 2,000 and 3,000 guests.

According to him, the record attempt will be conducted on the morning of December 6, after which the same table will be transformed into a communal dining area for evening festivities.

He explained that the event will blend food, music, culture, and comedy, adding that the initiative aims to showcase Abuja as a capable host for major December cultural events. He also emphasized that the festival forms part of NIHOTOUR’s mission to strengthen Nigeria’s tourism value chain through capacity building, entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment.

The DG noted that the project is expected to attract investments and unlock opportunities in hospitality, food, and agribusiness.

Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa described the festival as a strong avenue for economic inclusion and youth engagement in the creative economy. She highlighted the increasing global recognition of Nigerian cuisine and praised the innovation Nigerians bring to promoting local dishes abroad.

The festival along with the Guinness World Record attempt will be officially launched by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja.

Tonto Dikeh Reportedly Removes Her BBL, Sparks Online Buzz.

Tonto Dikeh has reportedly removed her Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), sparking widespread reactions online.
Fans shared mixed opinions while some praised her natural look, others expressed surprise.

Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh has reportedly removed her Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), drawing widespread reactions and conversations online. The move signals a major shift in her beauty choices and reflects a growing trend of celebrities embracing natural looks.

Fans React to Tonto Dikeh’s New Look
Social media users have been buzzing with mixed reactions since the news broke.
Some fans praised her new appearance, with one commenting, “She looks good honestly.” Others were surprised, asking, “Them deh remove BBL?”

The development has fueled discussions about cosmetic surgery reversals and the pressures celebrities face to maintain certain beauty standards.

A Shift Toward Natural Beauty
Experts say BBL procedures sometimes require revisions over time due to fat loss or body changes. Increasingly, some celebrities are choosing to remove or tone down such enhancements.

Tonto Dikeh’s decision appears to reflect a growing movement toward self-acceptance, health, and natural confidence over artificial beauty trends.

Tonto Dikeh’s Influence and Legacy

Tonto Dikeh has built a successful Nollywood career, starring in hit films like Dirty Secret and Mirror of Life.
Beyond acting, she is known for her humanitarian work and outspokenness on social issues.

Her decision to remove her BBL once again places her in the spotlight — this time as a symbol of self-empowerment and authenticity in an industry often defined by image.

"I Got Pregnant When I Was 16 Years Old and the Guy Denied It" – Singer Waje.

Nigerian singer Waje, recently revealed on the Honest Bunch podcast that she got pregnant at the age of 16.

She recounted, “I was 16 when I got pregnant and I didn’t tell my mum till I was about five months gone.” When they approached the father’s family, he denied responsibility, insisting, “It’s not him, it’s not him,” making it his word against hers.

At some point, he returned and expressed remorse, saying, “I was young, I wasn’t quite inmature then but now I would love to meet my daughter. I’m sorry Vivian but this child needs to know who her dad is.” Waje initially resisted, clarifying that her hesitation wasn’t due to bitterness as she was in a stable relationship at the time.

She explained that when single parents restrict access to the other parent, it is often because that person could destabilize the child’s life.

Eventually, Waje agreed but set conditions. She told him, “You are a citizen in Canada so file for your child,” noting that her daughter wasn’t interested in citizenship at the time. They agreed on a DNA test, but he delayed the process, and she never heard from him around 2015.

Waje, celebrated for her inspiring career in the Nigerian music industry and advocacy for women and youth empowerment, shared her story on the Honest Bunch podcast to highlight the challenges of teenage pregnancy and single parenthood, emphasizing resilience and determination.

Cheerful-looking Enugu Reps dump LP, PDP for APC.

The entire Enugu State caucus in the House of Representatives has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). 

Speaker Tajudeen Abbas announced the move during Thursday’s plenary after reading their resignation letters from the Labour Party (LP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). 

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, was present during the announcement.

The lawmakers cited unresolved internal crises within their former parties as the reason for their exit. After the 2023 elections, LP held seven of the eight House seats in Enugu, while the PDP had one. With this defection, the APC now controls all Enugu seats in the House.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Nnolim Nnaji (Nkanu East/Nkanu West) said the lawmakers chose to align with Governor Mbah’s development agenda and to connect Enugu more closely with the federal government.

He said their decision was aimed at securing more projects, jobs, infrastructure, and empowerment opportunities for Enugu communities, adding that the move was strategic and deliberate.

Other lawmakers who defected include Martins Oke, Anayo Onwuegbu, Nnamdi Agbo, and Mark Obetta. In a separate development, Daniel Asama (Bassa/Jos North) also left LP for the APC.

Rep. Abdussamad Dasuki Steps Aside Ahead of 2027 after 14-years in politics, Says Leadership Must Make Room for Youth.

A member of the House of Representatives representing Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency in Sokoto State, Abdussamad Dasuki, has announced that he will not seek re-election in the 2027 general elections.

Dasuki described his decision as a personal sacrifice to give younger Nigerians the opportunity to contribute fresh ideas to governance. “This is not a decision born out of fatigue or frustration, but a higher calling rooted in hope and belief in Nigeria’s future,” he said.

The lawmaker, who began his political career in 2011, has served in the Sokoto State House of Assembly, the State Executive Council, and now in the National Assembly. He also chairs The Future Is Now Project, a youth inclusion initiative advocating that 70 percent of House of Representatives seats be occupied by Nigerians under 40 by 2027.

Dasuki said his decision to step aside aligns with the principles he has long promoted. “I am still a youth by many standards, but having crossed the 40-year threshold, it is time to match words with action. This is my sacrifice for the vision we proclaimed,” he stated.

Expressing gratitude to his constituents and political mentor, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Dasuki thanked them for their trust and support over his 14-year political journey.

“To the youth of Nigeria, I say no more waiting, no more excuses, no more silence. Take your place, lead with courage, integrity, and vision,” he added.

He assured that even as he exits elective politics, he remains committed to mentorship, youth empowerment, and policy advocacy. “As I step aside, I hope to set a new precedent that true leadership also means knowing when to make space for others,” Dasuki said.