Emir Sanusi returns to school as 200-level Law student in Kano.

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has started lectures at Northwest University, Kano, after enrolling as a 200-level law student. 

Photos shared online show the monarch in class on Tuesday, Jan. 20, with other undergraduates. 
 
The university offered Sanusi special admission into its Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) programme in Common and Sharia Law. 
 
According to the institution, the admission was granted in recognition of his vast experience in governance, economics and public service. 

Sanusi, a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), is already a PhD. holder.….
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PRESS RELEASE

Gov. Ododo Mourns Yakubu Mohammed, Co-Founder of Newswatch Magazine

Kogi State, 14 January 2026 – Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed, co-founder of Newswatch Magazine, and to the Nigerian Union of Journalists over the passing of the veteran journalist and elder statesman.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, Governor Ododo described Mohammed as a pioneer of modern investigative journalism in Nigeria and a proud son of Dekina Local Government Area, whose contributions to nation-building went beyond the media space.

“As a co-founder of the iconic Newswatch Magazine, Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed belonged to a rare generation of journalists who redefined courage, professionalism, and integrity in Nigerian journalism. He was a man whose influence shaped public discourse and strengthened accountability in our democracy,” the Governor said.

Governor Ododo highlighted Mohammed’s instrumental role in establishing Newswatch in the mid-1980s alongside Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Dan Agbese, noting that the magazine marked a turning point in Nigerian media history by setting enduring standards for investigative reporting and editorial independence.

The Governor also acknowledged Mohammed’s distinguished public service record, including his tenure as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and his invaluable contributions to the development of Kogi State.

“His love for Kogi State was evident in his commitment to its growth and his willingness to serve in different capacities. He was a bridge-builder, a mentor to many, and a voice of conscience in national affairs,” Governor Ododo added.

He prayed that Almighty Allah grants the departed soul eternal rest and comforts his family and all who mourn his loss.

Why Is Bayelsa Government House Budgeting ₦1.2 Billion for Foreign Trips, ₦500 Million for VIP Hosting, and ₦100 Million for Christmas Decorations in 2026 While Hospitals Remain Underfunded?

Fresh scrutiny has been placed on the Bayelsa State Government following revelations from the 2026 budget estimates showing massive allocations for luxury and administrative spending at the Government House, even as critical public institutions, particularly the healthcare sector, remain severely underfunded.

A review of the budget by SaharaReporters indicates that ₦100 million has been earmarked for Christmas decorations at the Government House alone. In addition, ₦500 million is allocated for hosting VIPs throughout the year, while an even more staggering ₦1.2 billion is budgeted for international travel by the Governor’s office in 2026.

These figures have triggered public debate over priorities, especially in a state facing infrastructure gaps, rising cost of living, and fragile healthcare services.

The spending plan appears even more controversial when placed beside Bayelsa’s health-sector allocations. Budget performance documents reveal that between January and September 2025, ₦401 million was spent on international medical trips, yet only ₦5.5 million was allocated to capital expenditure for the state-owned Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital (NDUTH) within the same period.

A similar pattern was recorded in previous years. In 2024, the state reportedly spent ₦306 million on foreign medical treatment between January and September, while just ₦71 million went into capital projects at NDUTH, despite a total annual budget of ₦780 million for the hospital. In 2023 alone, Bayelsa reportedly spent ₦872.8 million on overseas medical care, reinforcing concerns that public funds are being channelled abroad instead of strengthening local health infrastructure.

Critics argue that the 2026 allocations for foreign travel, VIP hospitality, and festive décor reflect a continued culture of elite comfort over public welfare. They say the government’s financial choices raise serious questions about governance priorities in a state where public hospitals struggle with outdated equipment, limited facilities, and underfunding.

The controversy also revives earlier national debates on medical tourism by public officials. In 2022, lawmakers at the federal level attempted to amend the National Health Act 2014 with a bill proposing a ₦500 million fine or seven years’ imprisonment for public officers who fund overseas medical treatment with public resources. Although the bill failed after intense debate, its intent was clear: to force leaders to invest in Nigeria’s healthcare system rather than abandoning it.

With Bayelsa’s 2026 budget now in focus, many citizens are asking whether the state government is prioritising public service or political comfort. Should billions be spent on foreign trips, VIP entertainment, and decorations while hospitals lack basic equipment and capital funding? And at what point does official spending become a symbol of misplaced priorities?

As economic pressures mount and calls for fiscal responsibility grow louder, the Bayelsa budget has become a test case for accountability, transparency, and the true meaning of governance in a democracy.

Revolutionary Socialist Movement Urges Nigerians to Resist Tinubu’s ‘Anti-Poor’ Tax Policies, Warns of Rising Hardship, Inflation, Fuel Hikes, and Growing Economic Inequality in 2026

The Revolutionary Socialist Movement (RSM) has called on Nigerians to actively resist what it describes as “anti-poor tax policies” introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, warning that the measures will deepen economic hardship for workers and low-income earners. In a New Year message issued by its Publicity Secretary, Comrade Salako Kayode, the group said Nigerians are entering 2026 under intense economic pressure driven by high inflation, soaring food prices, unemployment, repeated fuel price increases, and declining public services.

RSM accused the federal government of responding to the economic crisis by shifting the burden onto ordinary citizens through new and increased taxes, while protecting wealthy individuals, big corporations, and political elites. According to the group, the current tax system has failed to improve essential services such as healthcare, education, housing, and employment, instead sustaining corruption, heavy debt servicing, and what it termed extravagant lifestyles among those in power.

The movement argued that Nigerians should not be forced to pay for an economic crisis they did not create and proposed alternatives including recovering stolen public funds, ending wasteful governance and jumbo salaries, taxing big businesses and the super-rich, and investing more in public services and decent jobs. RSM also called on trade unions, civil society groups, students, and communities to form a united front and engage in peaceful mass resistance to defend living standards and democratic rights, expressing optimism that a more equitable Nigeria is achievable.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya Attends Funeral Prayers for Journalists Lost in Auto-Crash, Visits Survivors at FTH Gombe

...'Gombe Govt to Cover Medical Bills of Survivors, Assist with Funeral Expenses'

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has led a state government delegation to the funeral prayers of journalists who lost their lives in a tragic auto-crash.

The deceased were among journalists and media workers involved in the fatal accident that occurred along the Billiri-Kumo Road while they were returning from Kaltungo, where they had attended the wedding ceremony of a colleague.

The funeral prayer, held at the Bubayero Central Mosque, Emir's Palace, Gombe, led by Imam Aliyu Hammari and attracted a large turnout of sympathisers, including grieving family members, colleagues from the media industry and top government officials.

Among those in attendance was the Emir of Gombe, His Royal Highness Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, CFR.

A visibly saddened Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the demise of the seven journalists as a painful loss to Gombe State and the media profession, noting that the state had lost dedicated professionals who served with commitment.

After the funeral prayers, the Governor proceeded to the Federal Teaching Hospital (FTH), Gombe, to personally assess the condition of the survivors who are currently receiving medical attention.

Speaking to journalists after the visit, Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed gratitude to God for sparing the lives of the survivors, while praying for their speedy recovery.

“We must thank Almighty God for sparing their lives, not because they are better than those who passed on, but because it was destined so. Our most important duty now is to continue praying for their quick and complete recovery. For those who lost their lives, we will not relent in praying for the repose of their souls, in view of the enormous contributions they made to journalism and public service,” the Governor said.

He extended the state government’s heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, their respective organizations and the entire media fraternity, urging them to accept the tragic loss as an act of God.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya also announced that the Gombe State Government has taken over the full medical bills of all the injured victims, assuring that the government would provide every necessary support to aid their recovery.

“As a government, we will do everything within our means to support the victims and their families in this difficult time,” he assured.

During the visit to the Accident and Emergency Unit, the Governor was conducted round the ward by the Chairman of the Hospital Advisory Committee, Dr. Bukar Lakube and Commissioner for Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, to assess the condition of the patients. He also extended financial support to other patients in the unit, to help cushion burden on them and their families.

The Governor was accompanied on the visit by his Deputy, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau; the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi; Commissioners; and other senior government officials.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya Deeply Mourns Journalists Lost in Tragic Accident

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has received with overwhelming grief, shock and deep emotional pain the tragic news of the fatal accident involving journalists, staff of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Gombe and Ministry of Information.

The accident occurred along the Billiri-Kumo Road while the victims were returning from the wedding ceremony of their colleague in Kaltungo.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the incident as a heart-rending tragedy that has plunged Gombe State into mourning, noting that the loss goes beyond families and institutions to the very soul of the state’s media and public service community.

Those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident include: Zarah Umar, Manager News and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor in the Office of the First Lady; Manu Haruna Kwami, Manager Administration NTA; Isa Lawan; Musa Tabra, a Retired Manager News; Aminu Adamu, Senior Driver; Adams Danladi of StarTimes; and Judith Kutus, Information Officer with the Gombe State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).

The Governor said the deceased were committed professionals who dedicated their lives to informing, educating and serving the people, describing their deaths as a devastating blow to journalism, public service and governance in Gombe State.

“This tragedy is deeply painful. We have lost colleagues, partners in progress, and devoted public servants who served with passion and a strong sense of duty. Their absence will be felt for a long time,” the Governor said.

He extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, the leadership and members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, the management and staff of the Nigerian Television Authorityand the entire media fraternity within and beyond Gombe State.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya also expressed grave concern for the injured victims currently receiving medical attention, including Emmanuel Akila (NTA Government House Correspondent), Steven Doddo of NTA Marketing Department, Nina Gadal (Ministry of Information), and Jonathan Bara, Manager, Marketing, NTA, assuring them of the government’s full support.

“Our hearts are with the injured, and we pray earnestly for their speedy and complete recovery. The Government of Gombe State is following the situation closely and will ensure that all necessary assistance is provided,” he said.

“This is a dark moment for Gombe State. We mourn together, we grieve together, and we pray that Almighty God protects us all from such tragic occurrences,” the Governor added.

The Governor prayed Almighty God to grant the departed souls eternal rest and give the bereaved families, colleagues and loved ones the strength to bear the heavy loss.

Malawi Vice President Jane Ansah Sparks Outrage After Spending $1.3million Public Funds To Attend Husband’s Lavish 80th Birthday Celebration In UK

Malawi’s Vice President, Jane Ansah, has come under intense public criticism following revelations that she spent an estimated K2.3 billion (about $1.3million) in public funds to travel to the United Kingdom with a large government-funded entourage to attend her husband’s 80th birthday celebration. The trip, described by sources as a private visit with no official or diplomatic agenda, is scheduled to take place in Nottingham between December 26 and January 10, according to official documents from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The delegation reportedly includes about 16 people, comprising personal aides, security officers, medical and protocol staff, the Vice President’s brother, and a close family friend, raising serious concerns about abuse of public resources. Critics argue that the expenditure contradicts the government’s austerity measures at a time when Malawians are grappling with food shortages, fuel scarcity and collapsing public services.
Civil society groups and governance advocates have condemned the trip as emblematic of elite excess, warning that such actions erode public trust and undermine economic recovery efforts. Despite mounting backlash, the Vice President’s office has declined to disclose the full cost or justification for the trip, further fuelling demands for accountability and transparency.

Man Shares What He Noticed About Buhari’s Son After Seeing Him at Mosque, Sparks Mixed Reactions Online

A young Nigerian man has sparked widespread reactions on social media after sharing a personal encounter with Yusuf Buhari, the son of former Nigerian president Muhammadu Buhari. The man recounted seeing Yusuf Buhari at a mosque in Baze University, Abuja, where he reportedly arrived quietly without security escorts, prayed calmly, and left without drawing attention to himself. Describing him as simple and modest, the post resonated with many Nigerians who shared similar experiences and praised his humility. However, the viral post also attracted criticism, with some users warning against idolising political families without evidence of public service or achievements. The discussion has since evolved into a broader debate about leadership legacy, privilege, and public expectations of politicians’ children in Nigeria.

FG INTRODUCES MANDATORY PRE-EMPLOYMENT DRUG TESTING FOR PUBLIC SERVICE APPLICANTS

The Federal Government has approved the introduction of mandatory pre-employment drug testing as a requirement for prospective applicants into the Public Service. This move is part of ongoing efforts to curb the rising menace of illicit drug use and its attendant consequences on national development and security.

In a statement from the SGF's office, Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments/Parastatals are hereby directed to include mandatory drug testing as a core requirement in the recruitment of new personnel. Additionally, MDAs are to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in conducting the tests, in line with established standards and procedures.

This directive to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), including extra-Ministerial Departments, aligns with the present Administration's determination to decisively tackle the menace of drug and substance abuse and insulate the national workforce from unwholesome practices.

The introduction of mandatory pre-employment drug testing is premised on the concern raised by the Federal Government about the alarming rate of drug and substance abuse, particularly among the teeming youth in the country, with disturbing trends and far-reaching implications for public health, socio-economic development, workplace productivity, and national security.

Tinubu Government Mandates Pre-Employment Drug Testing for All Nigerian Public Servants to Combat Rising Substance Abuse

The Nigerian government, under President Bola Tinubu, has introduced mandatory pre-employment drug testing for all prospective public service applicants. The directive, issued via a circular from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), requires Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to collaborate with the NDLEA in testing recruits. The initiative aims to curb illicit drug and substance abuse among Nigerian youth and enhance workplace productivity, public health, and national security. Permanent Secretaries and heads of parastatals must now make drug testing a core recruitment requirement.

AAC Accuses Tinubu Government of Legalising Poverty with Altered Tax Laws, Calls for People-Centred Economic Policies

The African Action Congress (AAC) has condemned the Tinubu administration for allegedly altering Nigeria’s tax laws in a way that punishes ordinary citizens while benefiting the elite. In a statement signed by National Publicity Secretary Rex I. Elanu, the party described the move as “economic violence” that worsens poverty amid insecurity, unemployment, and failing public services. The AAC argued that the tax system has long been unjust and called for immediate suspension of regressive tax measures, full fiscal transparency, and people-centred policies prioritising job creation, living wages, healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

On Sunday, December 22, 2025, thousands of students and activists in Novi Pazar, Serbia, protested against what they describe as government interference in state universities. This marked the first major student-led demonstration in the southwestern town.

The protest is part of a broader movement opposing political influence in higher education, following last year’s collapse of a railway station roof in Novi Sad that killed 16 people. Students from Novi Pazar had previously walked for days to join mass protests in Novi Sad on the anniversary of the tragedy.

Protesters demanded the resignation of the university's managing board and the election of a new rector. Participants observed a moment of silence for the victims of the roof collapse and chanted slogans like “Pump up!” while waving flags representing their towns and universities.

The movement includes students, academics, and opposition figures, who accuse President Aleksandar Vucic and his party of fostering corruption, nepotism, poor public services, and media restrictions. Vucic and his party deny these allegations.

Novi Pazar, Serbia’s youngest town demographically, has a majority Muslim population, with 60% under 30, and no clashes with Orthodox Serb neighbors have been reported since Yugoslavia’s breakup.

Source: Reuters, December 22, 2025.

Breaking: President Bola Tinubu Congratulates Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan on His 68th Birthday, Praises Humility, Statesmanship, and Democratic Contributions

President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to former President Goodluck Jonathan on his 68th birthday, celebrating his life, leadership, and contributions to Nigeria’s democracy. In a message reflecting on Jonathan’s humility and diplomatic approach, Tinubu praised the former president’s statesmanship during the 2015 elections, noting how it strengthened democratic institutions and elevated Nigeria’s global standing. He recalled their past collaborations, highlighting Jonathan’s guidance and support that influenced Tinubu’s own political journey. Beyond domestic politics, Tinubu acknowledged Jonathan’s international efforts in promoting democratic values across Africa. The President also offered prayers for Jonathan, his wife Patience, and their family, wishing them continued health and happiness. The message underscores a rare moment of unity and respect between current and former Nigerian leaders, celebrating the legacy of public service and integrity. This tribute, following similar felicitations to other political figures like former Ekiti Governor Peter Ayodele Fayose, reflects Tinubu’s commitment to honoring leadership, resilience, and dedication to nation-building.

Obaseki: God Will Punish Leaders Who Use Power for Themselves, Not the People

Godwin Obaseki, former governor of Edo State, has warned that politicians who use power for personal gain rather than public service will face divine punishment. In a video shared on his official X page, Obaseki said politics should be about improving lives, not acquiring power for selfish reasons.

According to him, leaders who enrich themselves and their close associates after attaining office betray both God and the people. He described political power as a divine trust that must be used in service to humanity and to glorify God.

“If you are in politics to get power, and you get the power and it’s only for you and your friends and the people close to you, then God will punish you,” he said. Obaseki added that failing to use power in line with God’s purpose is a serious moral failure. “Because if God has given you power, and you cannot use that power directly for Him, glorify Him, then I don’t see how you will do it,” he stated.

Reflecting on his time in office, the former governor said he had no regrets and would not change his approach if given another chance. “What would I do differently if I had another opportunity? Nothing. I will do it in the same way… even quicker and faster,” he said, noting that he wished some education reforms had started earlier to produce more visible results.

He also explained that his backing of a successor was intentional, aimed at ensuring continuity of policies and reforms. Obaseki warned that dismantling programmes introduced by his administration would ultimately hurt ordinary citizens, not former leaders. “You add to what you met, not destroy it,” he said, stressing that removing social services like health insurance and hospitals would only deepen the suffering of the people.

Kaduna South Senator Sunday Katung Defects from PDP to APC

Senator Sunday Katung, representing Kaduna South Senatorial District, has formally resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the All Progressives Congress (APC). The defection was announced during a plenary session by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who read Katung’s resignation letter, effective October 31, 2025. Katung cited changing political dynamics, the need to better serve his constituents, and the APC’s promise of inclusiveness, stability, and sustainable development as key reasons for his switch. He emphasized that his decision was carefully considered and driven by a desire to advance public service and political aspirations.

Controversy as Kwara Government Includes SUBEB Chairman’s Wife in Singapore Debate Delegation

The Kwara State Government is facing criticism after the wife of the KWASUBEB chairman was included in an official delegation to Singapore for the 2025 Asia Parliamentary International Debate Competition. While the PDP alleges nepotism and abuse of office, the state government insists her participation was based on professional expertise and was not funded by public resources, sparking broader debates on ethics and transparency in public service.

Bayelsa Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo Dies, State Observes Three-Day Mourning

Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo, has passed away at 60 after collapsing at his office. Governor Douye Diri declared a three-day state mourning, with flags at half-mast, in honour of his distinguished public service career.



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Kano, Osun Top List as 13 Nigerian States Spend N22.6bn on Foreign Trips Amid Economic Hardship

A review of expenditure records from 13 Nigerian states shows that a combined ₦22.669 billion was spent on foreign trips between January and September 2025, despite worsening economic hardship across the country. Kano led the list with ₦7.7 billion, followed by Osun with ₦3 billion and Benue with ₦2.7 billion. Other major spenders include Nasarawa, Jigawa, Taraba, Ekiti, and Adamawa. Enugu recorded the lowest at ₦94 million. The figures, released amid rising inflation and shrinking public services, have sparked fresh concerns over fiscal priorities. Civil society groups are demanding transparency and justification for the costly trips. At the federal level, earlier data revealed that the Tinubu administration spent ₦36.3 billion on international travel in 2024, bringing total local and international travel expenses to ₦83 billion.
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NAHCON Commissioner Defies VP Shettima’s Order, Retains Retired Staff Amid Nepotism Allegations


The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) is facing fresh controversy as insiders accuse Commissioner of Operations, Anofi Elegushi, of ignoring Vice-President Kashim Shettima’s directive by retaining a retired officer, Mr. Gaffar, who left the commission in 2023. The retired officer reportedly attends official meetings, travels with the commissioner, and maintains offices in Abuja and Saudi Arabia — actions seen as violations of Public Service Rules. Elegushi is also accused of keeping a former NYSC corps member allegedly related to him, granting her full staff privileges despite her service ending months ago. These actions allegedly defy a written directive from VP Shettima rejecting NAHCON’s request to re-engage retired staff and ordering all such appointments reversed. Staff fear retaliation, with claims that Elegushi is consolidating power ahead of a possible bid for the NAHCON chairmanship. Efforts to reach him were unsuccessful.

Northern States Governors' Forum Appoints Ezekiel Gomos as Director-General to Strengthen Regional Coordination

The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), under the leadership of its Chairman and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has approved the appointment of Mr. Ezekiel Gomos, OFR, as Director-General of the Forum’s Secretariat.

The appointment is in line with the Forum’s renewed commitment to strengthening its institutional capacity and improving coordination among the 19 northern states in addressing the region’s pressing challenges.

According to the Forum, creating the office of Director-General is a strategic step towards repositioning the Secretariat as a more effective hub for policy coordination, collective action and long-term development planning.

Mr. Gomos, a former Secretary to the Plateau State Government, is an accomplished development economist and policy expert with a distinguished career spanning public service, governance reform, private-sector development and human capital advancement.

His experience includes senior roles in high-impact institutions such as the New Nigeria Development Company (NNDC) and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

In addition, he has been Lead Consultant and Head of Faculty at the Jos Business School (JBS), a centre dedicated to entrepreneurship development, leadership training, and policy dialogue.

For nearly two decades, Mr. Gomos has served as a resource person at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, contributing to the training of senior leaders across Nigeria in policy, strategy and national development.

The new DG's academic credentials include graduate and postgraduate degrees from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and the University of East Anglia, UK. He is also a recipient of several prestigious international fellowships, including the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship (University of Minnesota), the British Chevening Scholarship and the UNDP Fellowship at the ILO Training Centre in Turin.

Gomos has attended senior executive programmes at Harvard Kennedy School, the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and Durham University Business School.

Presenting the appointment letter, Governor Inuwa Yahaya charged Mr. Gomos to apply his extensive expertise in strategic leadership, institutional development and policy management to strengthen the NSGF Secretariat into a robust platform for collective security coordination, regional economic cooperation and sustainable development across the North.

The NSGF Chairman expressed confidence that the appointment will usher in a new era of deeper collaboration, improved coordination and more coherent regional responses to the North’s most critical challenges.