DSS Warns of Imminent ISWAP Attack in Ondo, Kogi States.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has raised an alarm over an alleged plot by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) to launch coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi states.

In a confidential memo to the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, and signed by H. I. Kana on behalf of the State Director of Security, the DSS warned of “imminent attacks” and urged the Nigerian Army to intensify surveillance and security patrols across vulnerable areas.

Titled “Imminent attacks in Ondo State by Members of ISWAP,” the letter identified Eriti-Akoko and Oyin-Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo town, as possible targets.

“Intelligence confirmed plans by members of ISWAP to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States anytime soon,” the DSS stated, adding that the terrorists had begun monitoring potential soft targets. 

The agency called for proactive measures and community vigilance to forestall any attacks.

Confirming the development, Ondo State Police spokesperson, Mr. Olayinka Ayanlade, said the police were already acting on the intelligence. “That’s partly why we were in Akoko on Sunday. Everyone is taking steps to ensure no event takes us unaware,” he said.

This alert comes three years after the June 5, 2022, attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, which left 41 worshippers dead and dozens injured. 

The suspects, believed to be ISWAP members, were later arrested by the DSS and are currently facing trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Tinubu Urges World Leaders To Declare Theft Of Mineral Resources An International Crime.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on world leaders to recognise the stealing of countries’ mineral resources through illegal mining and smuggling as an international crime.

Speaking at the 7th Annual General Assembly of the Network of Anti-Corruption Institutions in West Africa (NACIWA) in Abuja, the President said the illegal exploitation of Africa’s natural resources has become a global threat to economic stability and peace.

Tinubu lamented that billions of dollars are lost yearly to mineral smuggling, corruption, and illicit trade, which he said fuel insecurity, kidnapping and banditry across the continent.

“The stealing of our countries’ mineral resources should no longer be treated as a local issue. It is an international cr+me that undermines peace and stability,” he said.

The President urged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the broader international community to strengthen legal frameworks that criminalize illegal mining and resource theft.

He also called for collective regional action to trace and recover stolen assets, while emphasizing transparency in their use. Tinubu disclosed that Nigeria has so far channelled over ₦100 billion in recovered proceeds into social intervention projects such as the Student Loan Scheme and the Consumer Credit Scheme.

“No nation can win this fight alone. We must build stronger partnerships and ensure that those who profit from our collective wealth face justice,” he added.

Tinubu further appealed to world leaders to support a global convention against resource theft, similar to existing international laws against drug and human trafficking.

No More Mandatory Maths Credit for Arts Students — FG Announces New Admission Policy

The Federal Ministry of Education has announced that Nigerian senior secondary school students in the arts and humanities will no longer be required to obtain a credit in Mathematics in their Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) — conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) — as a prerequisite for admission into universities and polytechnics.

For decades, admission seekers in arts and humanities were mandated to present five credits, including Mathematics and English Language, just like their counterparts in the sciences and social sciences.

According to the Ministry, the revised National Guidelines for Entry Requirements into Nigerian Tertiary Institutions aim to remove unnecessary barriers while maintaining academic standards.

The new framework applies to universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and Innovation Enterprise Institutions nationwide.

History Made: Robotic Surgeon Performs Nigeria’s First UroLift Surgery.

Nigeria has recorded a major medical breakthrough as a hospital in Lagos successfully performed the nation’s first UroLift surgery, marking a new milestone in the treatment of prostate enlargement and minimally invasive healthcare in West Africa.

The landmark procedure was carried out at The Prostate Clinic (TPC), Victoria Island, under the leadership of Professor Kingsley Ekwueme, a renowned consultant urologist and expert in laparoscopic and robotic surgery.

Announcing the feat over the weekend, Prof. Ekwueme described the UroLift, also known as the Prostatic Urethral Lift (PUL), as “a new era in prostate care for Nigerian men.” He confirmed that the patient recovered well and was discharged on the same day without any complications.

“This is the first UroLift procedure in Nigeria, and it represents a new dawn for men living with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH),” he said. “It’s simple, safe, and effective — relieving urinary obstruction without the usual side effects of traditional prostate surgery.”

The UroLift system is a minimally invasive treatment that uses small implants to lift and hold enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra, thereby improving urine flow. Unlike conventional surgery, it doesn’t involve cutting, heating, or removing tissue, and helps preserve sexual and bladder function.

Prof. Ekwueme noted that the introduction of the UroLift system would significantly reduce medical tourism, save foreign exchange, and attract more investment in advanced medical technology within the country.

Healthcare experts have hailed the achievement as a turning point in Nigeria’s medical landscape, commending The Prostate Clinic for championing innovation in men’s health. They expressed optimism that this success would inspire other hospitals to adopt modern urological technologies and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a regional hub for advanced medical care.

"Finance Minister Wale Edun Recuperating in Abuja, No Plans for Replacement" — Presidency.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, is recovering at his Abuja residence after falling ill, senior Presidency sources confirmed on Sunday. 

Contrary to reports, officials insist his condition is not stroke-related and that President Bola Tinubu has no plans to replace him.

A senior government official told The PUNCH that while Edun’s illness is “a bit serious,” he remains in Nigeria under the care of local doctors. “He’s indisposed but not suffering from a stroke,” the source said, adding that Edun might seek treatment abroad only if necessary.

Earlier reports had claimed that Edun’s condition was “very serious” and that the President had begun discreet consultations to find a replacement. However, multiple Presidency insiders dismissed those claims, emphasizing that the minister is still in his home and being monitored closely.

Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga also confirmed Edun’s situation, stating: “Yes, he’s indisposed. Wale Edun is about 69 years old. He suddenly fell ill, but he’s in Nigeria and recuperating.”

In Edun’s absence, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, will lead Nigeria’s delegation to the World Bank and International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings in Washington, DC, beginning Monday, October 13. The delegation will also include Minister of State for Finance Doris Uzoka-Anite.

Meanwhile, President Tinubu departed Abuja for Rome, Italy, to attend the Aqaba Process Heads of State and Government Meeting, which focuses on security issues in West Africa.

Edun, a seasoned economist and banker, was appointed Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy on August 21, 2023.

Boko Haram Insurgents Attack Military Base in Borno, Soldiers Killed, Others Injured.

Suspected Boko Haram insurgents have launched an attack on a military base in Ngamdu, located in Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State.

Sources told Daily Trust that the assault occurred in the early hours of Friday when a large number of insurgents stormed the camp along the Maiduguri–Damaturu highway.

The attack forced the temporary closure of the Ngamdu section of the highway, leaving motorists stranded for several hours. “I left Damaturu early to reach Maiduguri by 9 a.m., but on getting to Ngamdu, the road was blocked,” a traveller said. “Security personnel asked us to be patient, but locals said Boko Haram attacked soldiers and killed some of them.”

Residents reported that the insurgents took the troops by surprise, engaging them in a fierce gun battle that lasted for hours before retreating. “They killed and wounded some soldiers,” a local source revealed.

A security source, however, told reporters that the casualty figure was not as high as initially feared. “The terrorists attempted an ambush, but our gallant soldiers repelled them. Some of our men were injured and taken to hospital, but many insurgents were also killed,” the source stated.

As of the time of filing this report, the military was yet to issue an official statement on the incident.

The Ngamdu area, which lies between Borno and Yobe states, has witnessed several attacks in recent years, as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters continue to target security formations and travellers along the busy highway.

Burkina Faso Rejects U.S. Deportation Request, Calls It “Indecent” and Against National Dignity

In a bold diplomatic move, Burkina Faso’s military government has rejected a proposal from the United States to accept individuals deported from America who are not Burkinabè citizens. The decision, announced by Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré on national television on Thursday, October 9, 2025, underscores the West African nation’s firm stance on sovereignty and national pride.

Traoré described the U.S. request as “indecent and unacceptable,” stating that it contradicts the values and vision of Captain Ibrahim Traoré, the country’s leader.

“Burkina Faso is not a land of deportation but one of dignity,” he declared.


The rejection came just hours after the U.S. Embassy in Ouagadougou temporarily suspended visa services, redirecting applicants to the U.S. Embassy in Togo. The embassy did not provide reasons for the decision.

In response to a U.S. diplomatic note suggesting that Burkinabè nationals were misusing visas, the foreign minister dismissed the claim as a “pressure tactic.” He reaffirmed that Burkina Faso would not bow to external influence or compromise its integrity.

As of the announcement, neither the U.S. Department of Homeland Security nor the U.S. Embassy had issued an official statement addressing the matter.

This development comes amid rising global diplomatic tensions, as the White House also criticized the Norwegian Nobel Committee over its decision to award the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, citing political bias.

Queen of the House! BBNaija Season 10 Winner Imisi Bags ₦80 Million, SUV & Luxury Gifts in Grand Celebration!


The wait is over — Big Brother Naija Season 10 champion, Imisi, has officially received her grand prize package worth millions at an emotional presentation ceremony in Lagos on Monday.

According to The Cable, the charismatic and witty housemate, who stole the hearts of millions across Africa, was handed her prizes, including ₦80 million cash, a brand-new Innoson G5T SUV, a luxury trip for two to Dubai, and several brand endorsements.

Imisi triumphed over five other finalists in a tense finale that kept fans glued to their screens, securing her spot as one of the show’s most loved winners. Following her victory, social media erupted in jubilation, with #Imisi and #BBNaija10 trending for hours.

During the presentation, representatives of Multichoice Nigeria, Moniepoint, and other brand partners praised Imisi for her authenticity, emotional intelligence, and resilience throughout the show.

“This still feels surreal,” Imisi said tearfully while accepting her prizes.
“I’m grateful for my fans — the ImisiNation — for believing in me from day one. This victory belongs to all of us!”


The event was graced by Dr. Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and West Africa Channels at Multichoice, who revealed that this season shattered all previous records with over 1.5 billion votes cast across all platforms.

“Imisi’s journey represents creativity, courage, and the spirit of entertainment that Big Brother Naija stands for,” Dr. Tejumola remarked.


The prize presentation was a star-studded affair, featuring live performances from past housemates and top Nigerian artists who thrilled fans with unforgettable music and dance moments.

Attendees described the ceremony as “a perfect celebration for a deserving queen.”

With her newfound fame and fortune, Imisi is expected to take on major brand ambassadorial roles, launch creative ventures, and possibly explore philanthropic projects — joining the elite circle of BBNaija alumni who have become powerhouses in entertainment and entrepreneurship.

Christian Genocide: US Rep member wants Nigeria designated as country of particular concern.

The Member representing West Virginia's 2nd District in the United States Congress, Riley Moore, has written a letter to the United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, urging him to take immediate action to address the systematic persecution and slaughter of Christians in Nigeria.

He lamented that Nigeria has become the deadliest place in the world to be a Christian, urging the United States not to stand idly by.

He called on Rubio to use all diplomatic tools available, including designating Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) and halting arms sales and all associated technical support until the Nigerian government demonstrates it is sufficiently committed to ending this reign of persecution and slaughter.

"The sheer number of Christians who suffer persecution daily for their faith, including the staggering number who have been murdered for proclaiming Jesus Christ as their savior is horrific. More than 7,000 Christians have been killed in Nigeria in 2025 already, an average of 35 murders per day. That includes at least 50 Christians brutally martyred on Palm Sunday and another 200 killed in June. This is consistent with reports from Open Doors that more Christians are killed every year in Nigeria than the rest of the world combined. These relentless persecutions have continued for years and show no signs of abating," Moore said.

"Since 2015, at least 250 Catholic clergy have been attacked in addition to another 350 clergy from other denominations. On Ash Wednesday this year, a priest in north-central Nigeria was kidnapped and brutally murdered. Between the Boko Haram uprising in July 2009 and September 2025, 19,100 Christian churches in Nigeria have been attacked or destroyed, representing an average of 1,200 churches per year, 100 per month, or more than three per day. In addition, at least 850 Christians are currently being held for ransom in jihadist camps in extreme conditions. These individuals are tortured or killed if ransom isn't paid. Reports estimate at least 15 million people have been displaced by the rampant acts of violence and terror in Nigeria. Simply put, this must end.

"Muslim extremist groups such as ISIS-West Africa, Ansaru, and Boko Haram are major perpetrators. Just last week, Boko Haram ravaged Kirawa, Nigeria, displacing thousands. But just as concerning are reports that corrupt cells of the Nigerian government may be complicit, and even directly involved, in some of these attacks. In Northern states such as Kano, regional governments have backed and facilitated the closing of Christian orphanages and forced the children to be reeducated as Muslims. The Nigerian federal government also maintains and enforces anti-blasphemy laws, and several states within Nigeria have even harsher anti-blasphemy laws than the federal government. This includes sentencing an individual to 24 years in prison for 'insulting the Prophet Mohammed.'

Moore lamented that the Nigerian government has sought to downplay the genocide of Christians, arguing that Nigeria has a broader issue with terrorism that affects people of all faiths.

He, however, pointed out that while Nigerians of all faiths face terrorism and death at the hands of extremists, Christians are far and away the most targeted for persecution and violence.

“Rebuilding Trust in Nigeria: Citizens, Not Politicians, Hold the Power” — Experts Challenge Government at 31st Economic Summit

At the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit (NESG) in Abuja, top government officials, civil society leaders, and private sector experts united in a powerful call for citizen accountability, transparency, and participation in governance.

Moderated by Frank Aigbogun, Publisher and CEO of BusinessDay, the engaging panel featured Hadiza Bala Usman, Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination; Aisha Yesufu, activist and co-founder of Bring Back Our Girls; Yemi Adamolekun, Executive Director of Enough Is Enough (EiE) Nigeria; Tola Adeyemi, CEO of KPMG West Africa; and rapper and entrepreneur MI Abaga (Jude Abaga).


Government Promises Measurable Accountability

Hadiza Bala Usman defended President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, revealing that the administration’s Citizen Delivery Tracker is now live — allowing Nigerians to monitor ministry performance in real time.

“Every appointee must show results. Governance is no longer about promises; it’s about measurable performance,” she said.

Aisha Yesufu Fires Back: “The Arrogance in Governance Is Sickening”

Activist Aisha Yesufu countered sharply, saying government rhetoric rarely reflects citizens’ lived realities.

“Which Nigeria is she talking about? The one where leaders act like emperors and arrest those who speak truth to power?”


She emphasized that trust cannot exist without humility, urging Nigerians to stop normalizing bad leadership.


Yemi Adamolekun: “Democracy Is Not a Spectator Sport”

Yemi Adamolekun stressed that citizens must be part of the decision-making process, not just observers.

“It’s not enough to tweet outrage — we must vote, attend town halls, and demand transparency,” she said.


Corporate Insight: Trust Grows from Results

KPMG’s Tola Adeyemi argued that Nigeria’s trust deficit can only be fixed through consistent delivery and open communication.

“Citizens don’t want rehearsed talking points; they want sincerity and proof of progress,” he said.


MI Abaga: “Nigeria Must Stop Pretending”

Rapper and entrepreneur MI Abaga brought a cultural lens, describing the nation’s crisis of trust as “spiritual and systemic.”

> “We clap even when we know the truth. Integrity must start with us — from the top to the bottom,” he said.


Despite their differences, all panelists agreed that rebuilding trust requires partnership between citizens and the state — grounded in honesty, performance, and humility.

Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso set to expose Nigerian politicians aiding bandits.

Intelligence agencies from Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso say they are preparing to reveal the names of senior Nigerian politicians alleged to be supporting bandit groups operating in Nigeria’s North-West.

According to security analyst, Zagazola Makama, officials of the security agencies disclosed that they are already in possession of the names of some politicians suspected of providing assistance to the criminal gangs.

They added that some individuals involved in supplying arms to the bandits had been arrested and investigations were underway.

According to the agencies, the move forms part of ongoing regional efforts to dismantle cross-border criminal networks that fuel insecurity in West Africa.

The development comes against the backdrop of growing collaboration between Sahelian states on security, especially in tackling armed groups and illicit arms trafficking across borders.

Ghana Accused of Dumping West African Migrants Deported From U.S. in Togo.

West African migrants deported from the United States to Ghana earlier this month have been transferred to neighbouring Togo by force, according to their lawyers, who are pursuing lawsuits in US, Ghanaian and regional courts alleging violations of fundamental human rights.

Of 14 people who landed in Ghana from the US on 6 September, lawyers say 11 were kept in detention. After around two weeks at a military camp near Accra, six of them were allegedly taken across the border to Togo.

"The deportees were forced by armed military guards to climb wire fences," said Samantha Hamilton, an attorney for Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC), a civil rights organisation that has filed a lawsuit in the US on behalf of the migrants.

"A woman in her late 50s was thrown on the back of a motorcycle and smuggled across the border."

The lawyers believe that Togo was chosen for its proximity. It is two and a half hours' drive from where the deportees were held in Ghana.

Only two of the people removed between 18 and 19 September are Togolese nationals, according to their lawyers, the others hailing from other countries in West Africa.

"A Malian woman who only speaks Bambara was left to fend for herself in Togo. She was sexually assaulted and now she's been kidnapped, and her kidnappers are demanding a $50,000 ransom from her family," Hamilton told RFI.

U.S. Lifts Visa Restrictions on Ghana After Deportee Agreement; restores eligibility for five-year, multiple-entry visas.

The United States has lifted visa restrictions on Ghana, restoring eligibility for five-year, multiple-entry visas and enhanced consular services. Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced the development in a post on X after meetings with U.S. Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

The decision follows months of diplomatic engagement and comes after Ghana agreed to accept West African deportees transferred by the U.S. from Nigeria and other countries.

President John Mahama had earlier explained that Ghana’s move was consistent with ECOWAS free-movement rules, which allow citizens of West African states to enter Ghana without visas.

The visa restrictions were first imposed in July as part of a broader U.S. review affecting Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon and Ethiopia. The measures had cut down visa validity periods and limited entries, creating difficulties for travelers, students and businesspeople.

By agreeing to take in deportees and engaging Washington diplomatically, Ghana has secured a reversal of the restrictions. Ablakwa described the development as “a big win for Ghana” and a reflection of improving relations between both countries.

Ghana Returns U.S. Deportees After Torture Lawsuit.

Eleven West African nationals who were deported to Ghana by U.S. authorities have been sent to their home countries. The group was among other deportees who arrived in Ghana earlier this month as part of a deal reached with the U.S. government

The eleven deportees had previously filed a lawsuit to stay their deportation to their home countries, citing the possibility that they could face torture, persecution, or inhumane treatment. When their case came to court on Tuesday, however, their lawyer said they had already been removed, and the suit was therefore irrelevant.

We are in Full Support of Pres Tinubu’s Borrowing Plan – House of Reps Speaker , Tajudeen Abbas.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has reaffirmed that the Green Chamber fully supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s borrowing plan, describing it as vital for Nigeria’s economic growth and poverty reduction.

Speaking in Abuja on Monday at the 8th Annual African Network of Parliamentary Budget Offices (AN-PBO) Conference, Abbas dismissed claims that lawmakers were against the President’s borrowing policy, calling such reports “mischievous and misleading.”

According to him, a recent statement by the House Leader at the West African Parliamentary Conference (WAPC) was wrongly reported, creating the false impression that the House opposed Tinubu’s borrowing approach.

“The 10th House and the National Assembly have consistently maintained that, given our urgent developmental needs, strategic and responsible borrowing is a necessary fiscal tool. Like other modern economies, Nigeria must at times rely on credit to fund critical infrastructure, drive growth, and protect vulnerable groups. What matters, and what the President has assured, is that borrowing remains targeted, transparent, and sustainable under Nigeria’s Medium-Term Debt Strategy and in line with global best practices,” he explained.

Abbas stressed that under President Tinubu, borrowed funds are being channelled into transformative projects in sectors like power, transport, and agriculture to boost revenue generation rather than consumption. He noted that the House fully supports Tinubu’s vision of using prudent borrowing as a catalyst for growth and poverty reduction, while also ensuring strong oversight to guarantee accountability.

Ebonyi gets Acting Governor as Nwifuru embarks on annual leave.

Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has embarked on annual leave.

Ebonyi State House of Assembly yesterday gave effect to a letter transmitting executive powers to Her Excellency, Princess Patricia Obila, who has been discharging her duties as the Acting Governor since the Governor proceeded on annual leave.

It was gathered that this is in compliance with section 190 (1) of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.

Meanwhile, the Acting Governor of Ebonyi State, Princess Patricia Obila, has highlighted the potential of irrigation to significantly enhance crop yields and contribute to food security in Nigeria and across West Africa and the Sahel subregions.

Princess Obila made these remarks at the opening ceremony of the National and Regional Hand in Hand Investment Forum on Irrigation, organized by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations in Abuja.

The Acting Governor affirmed that the forum was aimed to chart a course for enhancing agricultural productivity in Nigeria, West Africa, and the Sahel subregions.

She commended President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative in Agriculture, leveraging Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential.

Princess Obila reiterated the commitment of the state Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru’s People’s Charter of Needs Agenda to agricultural development.

She noted that the administration was pursuing initiatives to enhance agricultural productivity, promote irrigation, and support farmers to ensure economic diversification and job creation.

“I Was Expelled and Silenced for Standing by My Principles” — Hon. Fatumata Speaks on Senator Natasha’s Suspension

The controversy surrounding the suspension of Senator Natasha Ako Dwanga from the Nigerian Senate continues to draw widespread debate across the country and the African continent.

Speaking during an Arise TV interview on September 11, 2025, Honorable Fatumata Nay, a member of the Pan-African Parliament and former ECOWAS Parliamentarian, condemned the prolonged suspension of the Kogi Central senator, stressing that her six-month suspension has already expired and should not be unlawfully extended.

Drawing from her personal political journey, Fatumata recalled how she was expelled from her own party and removed from parliament for refusing to compromise her values.

“I’ve been expelled from my party and removed from parliament for standing by my principles. I know what it feels like to be silenced,” she said, linking her experience to Senator Natasha’s plight.


Legal experts have also weighed in, warning that keeping Natasha away from her legislative duties beyond the suspension period undermines parliamentary credibility. By law, once a suspension ends, a senator is free to resume duties unless a fresh motion is passed.

Fatumata emphasized that this issue goes beyond Natasha as an individual — it reflects the systemic challenges women face in politics. She argued that arbitrary suspensions and administrative delays discourage women from aspiring to leadership and weaken the push for gender equality in governance.

Observers are now calling on the Senate President to uphold due process, reinstate Senator Natasha, and restore proper representation to the people of Kogi Central. Many warn that failing to act will damage Nigeria’s image as a standard-bearer for democratic practices in West Africa.

The case is seen as a test of Nigeria’s commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and the protection of democratic principles — with women’s political participation at the heart of the debate.

Kogi Joins Other States To Ban Basic And Secondary Schools Parties.

Kogi State Government has banned graduation ceremonies in basic and secondary schools across the state.

This decision was announced by the state Commissioner for Education, Wemi Jones, during a meeting with critical stakeholders in the education sector on Wednesday in Lokoja, the state capital.

Jones said, “The practice of incessant graduation ceremonies in nursery, primary, and secondary schools is hereby prohibited in the state with immediate effect.”

He stressed that the practice has become economically unaffordable, putting undue pressure on parents, and attracts social ills associated with such celebrations.

He emphasised that the ban is aimed at reducing the financial burden on parents and promoting a more meaningful approach to celebrating students’ achievements.

The state government also introduced a new policy requiring parents to provide notebooks for their children to do classwork and assignments, rather than using textbooks converted to workbooks, especially in private schools.

The commissioner emphasised that the policy aims to make textbooks reusable by siblings of the same parents.

“The use of textbooks as workbooks, especially in private schools, must stop, and parents must provide separate notebooks for their children.

“We’ll introduce new celebration modalities to encourage competition and commitment to studies. No more social ills or undue pressure!

“We’ll also ensure students progress through required classes without jumping grades.

“Private school owners should note that writing mock exams is now a prerequisite for West African Examination Council registration,” Jones said.

FG, NASS Back WAEC’s Plans To Start Computer-Based Test In 2026

The Federal Government and the National Assembly have thrown their weight behind the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) as it prepares to fully adopt Computer-Based Tests (CBT) from 2026.

WAEC had earlier announced its plan to phase out paper-based examinations, a move that initially sparked mixed reactions among stakeholders.

Speaking at a sensitisation meeting in Abuja, the Minister of Education, Maruf Alausa, said the migration to CBT would strengthen Nigeria’s assessment system and drastically reduce examination malpractice.

“We have undertaken to migrate public examinations to computer-based technology as a deliberate step to secure the integrity of our education system. The shift will further enhance the credibility of our examinations both locally and internationally,” he said.

The minister added that President Bola Tinubu remains committed to building a sustainable education system that guarantees inclusivity, especially for children with special needs.

On his part, Amos Dangut, WAEC’s Head of National Office, disclosed that the CBT transition began with private candidates in 2024 and had recorded “significant progress.” He assured that mock sessions and online practice platforms would be introduced to prepare students nationwide.

Dangut also noted that candidates’ performance in CBT had proven to be “empirically better” compared to paper-based exams, while assuring stakeholders that infrastructural and security challenges were being addressed.

Source: Channels TV

#WAEC #Education #CBT

I built my wealth from the scratch. I didn’t inherit any money from my Father— Billionaire Dangote reveals.

Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has revealed that despite being born into wealth, he built his fortune independently. In a recent video, the billionaire explained that he began his career working with his uncle before moving to Lagos to start his own cement trading business.

He stressed that he donated whatever assets he inherited to charity. Dangote said: “I came from a wealthy family. My late great-grandfather in the 1940s was actually the richest, you know, West African. My late grandfather was one of the wealthiest Nigerians, you know”.

“The family name is Dantata. That’s from my maternal side. My father too, you know, was fairly rich, you know, but he was both, you know, in business and also in politics. “But you know, David, one thing that I’m very, very proud of is that I did not inherit any money from my father. I built everything from scratch to where I am.

Well, he lived in the world, but you know, I mean, whatever that I inherited from him, which means in assets, I gave that on to charity since then.”

On how he started, he added: “I started work with my, you know, uncle, but this few months and then I went to Lagos and now I started my own business by just, you know, buying cement, selling. You know, it was just a very low-key business.

The issue is that when you look at cement, cement is what builds infrastructure and we need a lot of infrastructural deficits. “In Nigeria alone, we have about 17,000 deficit of housing and it is all over in, you know, Africa.

So when we started cement in Nigeria, we realized that majority of it was actually imported and that is why we went in there, we started and it’s a long story.” Dangote said his vision and persistence turned that humble start into the global business empire he leads today.