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Majority Leader of Youth Parliament Calls for Outlawing Under-18 Marriage

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Majority Leader of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, Hon. Ridwan Barade, has called for the outlaw and criminalisation of marriage of male or female under the age of 18.

Speaking at a National Roundtable Dialogue with high-level policy makers in commemoration of the Day of the African Child 2025 organised by the African Youth and Adolescent Network on Population and Development (AfriYAN) Nigeria and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Abuja, Barade said: “A child who is not yet done with education, who doesn’t even have the intellect of herself, is already in a house giving birth to children, which is very wrong, and if we don’t change that narrative, then we won’t be able to move forward as a country.”

He added: “The normal age for an adult is 18, so I believe if we can have a rule that you can’t marry before 18, then I believe we’re going to have what we’re looking for,” stressing that “the government should make a rule that no parent should give their child out before 18.”

He noted that if we can be able to penalise people that are doing such things, then we are going to be great country.

He revealed his readiness to work with other members of the Nigerian and other stakeholders to prepare the legal framework for outlawing marriage of minors, people below 18 years.

On her part, the Nigeria National Coordinator of AfriYAN, Adek Bassey, has called for the involvement of more youth in governance, saying: “We should be on the roundtable where decisions are taken.”

She also advocated transparency of programme initiated for youth by government, noting that as at now there are dearth of programmes for youth in the country.

She added that governments in the country should embark on programmes centred around youth and release funds to build youth in the country.

Bassey, while commending UN and its agencies for funding programmes, meant to advance the course of youth in Nigeria, said the youth will be happy when the major funds for them are from Nigerian government.

She said: “So that when we see a call from our own pool of funds from the government, all of us will be excited that this funding, we are funded by the Nigerian government. No, we are always funded by UNFPA, we are always funded by UN Women’s Agency. We want to be funded by our own Nigerian pool fund for young people, you know, let it be that accessible.

“Put your criteria for us to meet, which we are definitely going to meet and we have track records of our work. So that is what we want to see. Every year, annual call from the government, youth apply for this fund and get to do programmes and you have a tracking system to see that this funding is actually being used for this issue.”

Otu: We’ll Harness Hydrographic Science for Maritime Devt, Economic Growth

The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bsssey Edet Out, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to leveraging hydrographic science to boost maritime development and drive economic growth in the state.

He emphasised the transformative potential of hydrography in regional development especially for coastal states like Cross River. The governor, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made this declaration during the World Hydrography Day 2025 commemoration in Abuja.

He said: This year’s theme, “Seabed Mapping: Enabling Ocean Action,” resonates deeply with our commitment to leveraging hydrographic science for sustainable maritime development, security, and economic growth,” He said. “As a coastal state, Cross River recognizes the indispensable value of accurate seabed mapping in unlocking the vast potential of our blue economy.”

Commending the Nigerian Navy and the National Hydrographic Agency (NHA) for their role in the recent Bakassi Deep Sea Port Survey, Otu said: “We are particularly grateful for the recent conduct of the Bakassi Deep Sea Port survey, a landmark initiative that underscores the importance of precise hydrographic data in driving infrastructural development and regional trade. This effort aligns with our vision to position Cross River as a hub for maritime excellence and economic transformation.”

He reiterated Cross River’s readiness to collaborate with federal agencies, private sector players, and international partners to support sustainable marine development, climate resilience, and equitable access to ocean resources.

Earlier at the summit, the Chief Hydrographer of the Federation/Chief Executive Officer, NHA, Rear Admiral Ayo Olugbode, delivered a keynote address, highlighting the growing significance of hydrography in national development, policy-making, and climate resilience.

“Hydrographic data today is central to maritime safety, transportation, and trade. It also influences coastal urban planning, marine biodiversity conservation, fisheries management, and disaster risk reduction.” he said

The NHA chief described hydrography as the “cornerstone of our collective ocean future,” emphasising that while advanced technology plays a crucial role, it is people who remain the true drivers of innovation and progress. He called on students and young professionals to explore careers in hydrography and marine sciences, noting that “the compass for the future is now in their hands.”

Olugbode noted that World Hydrography Day 2025 was more than a celebration of surveys and charts, it was an opportunity to reflect on the immense responsibilities to map, safeguard, and sustainably manage the nation’s vast maritime domain for the benefit of future generations.

Michael Olugbode in Abuja The Majority Leader of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, Hon. Ridwan Barade, has called for the outlaw and criminalisation of marriage of male or female under the age

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June 23, 2025
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NRC Boss Pushes for National Policy to Drive Sustainable Transportation System

Sunday Okobi

The Managing Director of Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, has said the enactment of a holistic national transport policy would help drive sustainable transportation in Nigeria.

He also called for a new strategic national rail transportation and logistics master plan to drive rail transportation development and growth in the country.

Opeifa disclosed this at the 11th yearly Transport Day lecture in Lagos, which had in attendance some captains of industry, the academics and other industry stakeholders.

The NRC boss, in his paper: ‘Sustainable Transportation System in Nigeria: A path to economic prosperity’, explained that though Nigeria is not performing poorly on sustainable mobility indices, the sector could achieve more with a proper framework for sustainable mass transit operations.

He also called, among others, for the establishment of the Ministry of Transportation by all the state governments, a review of the current integrated infrastructure master plan, as well as an integrated strategic transportation master plan that would encompass rail, water, air and road by all the state governments.

Also critical for a sustainable transportation across the country, according to Opeifa, are the establishment of motor vehicle administration (MVAA) a Driver Licencing Administration Agency (DLAA), a functional Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS), and a Driver Training Institute by all the state governments.

Opeifa, who drew a nexus between sustainable transportation and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), urged all state governments and other stakeholders to continue to prioritize accessibility, affordability, inclusion efficiency and environmental responsibility.

He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for daring to free scarce resources wasted on fuel subsidy, the harmonisation of the currency exchange rates, and other reforms, all of which in just two years have set the tone for more impact on the transportation sector.

According to him, “The unprecedented investment in rail infrastructure, revitalisation of the national rail transportation, especially the railing with states and freights by rail revolution and supporting states has given grants for rail system infrastructure in just two years of the administration, thereby setting the pace for more impact in the transportation sector.”

Earlier in his welcome address, the convener and Publisher of Transport Day, Frank Kintum, lauded President Tinubu for the compressed natural gas initiative which is setting a new tone for the deployment of newer energy to replace fossil fuel.

He said Nigeria cannot be left behind in the march towards the adoption of cleaner energy, especially electric vehicle for the transportation and mobility.

Sunday Okobi The Managing Director of Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, has said the enactment of a holistic national transport policy would help drive sustainable transportation in Nigeria.

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UNILAG VC Rallies Alumni to Drive Global Excellence, Infrastructure Growth

Funmi Ogundare

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Folasade Tolulope Ogunsola, weekend, called on the alumni and stakeholders of the institution to intensify their support as it pushes towards global relevance and long-term sustainability.

Speaking at the stakeholders/partners/alumni engagement held at the Jelili Omotola Hall, Ogunsola explained that the alumni are not just the legacy of the institution, but the key to its future.

“We are not just asking for donations, we are inviting you to invest in something larger than all of us; the continued excellence and impact of the university that helped shape who we are,” she said. “Alumni are the lifeblood of any great university.”

The VC stressed that the alumni association remains central to forging new industry relationships, attracting strategic investments and nurturing innovation.

She cited the university’s collaborations with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on braking systems and student-led renewable energy projects as examples of research with real-world impact. “We must ensure UNILAG is positioned to proffer solutions,” she said, urging other alumni to support these ventures.

Ogunsola outlined a series of major infrastructural developments and contributions made possible through alumni and stakeholder support over the years, including; Sir Kenssington Adebutu Research Centre at the College of Medicine, Rehabilitation of J.F Ade-Ajayi Auditorium by the Lagos State government, and AI Unipod Laboratories through UNDP collaboration, among others.

She also announced upcoming projects including a state-of-the-art School of Postgraduate Studies building, three high-rise staff accomodation blocks and a new student hostel largely driven by donations from Chief Tunde Fanimokun.

The VC appealed to the alumni to consider their roles not only as past beneficiaries but as co-architects of the university’s future. “Whether through mentorship, philanthropy, strategic partnerships, or simply advocating for our mission, your involvement can shape what comes next. Together we thrive, forever we strive,” Ogunsola stressed.

The Chairman, Advancement Management Board, Chief Bayo Ojo, stated that UNILAG is aiming to significantly improve its standing through intensified efforts in funding, partnerships and institutional development.

“For every generation, there’s a defining moment. This is ours,” Ojo said. “If we get education right, we secure the future, not just for the university, but for society.”

The event, jointly organised by the Advancement Board, the University Governing Council, management, and the Alumni Association, brought together key stakeholders, alumni and partners.

It served as a strategic platform to review UNILAG’s achievements, confront ongoing challenges, and lay out plans for future advancement.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Lagos, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), commended the alumni for their continued support and urged them to remain active partners in advancing the institution’s future.

He emphasised that the burden of funding education cannot rest on government alone. “We intend to change the face of the university,” he said, calling on the alumni to contribute generously to the university’s development.

He also appealed for deeper commitment, saying: “Through your donations, this institution can soar to greater heights. We will make you proud. Let us continue to build a university we can all be proud of.”

The National President of the alumni worldwide, Ifeoluwa Oyedele, expressed concern that only few people have the spirit to donate and encouraged members to support their Alma Mata which has played a significant role in shaping and positioning them for success on the global stage.

He highlighted several projects currently in the pipeline and drew a comparison to Harvard University, which has approximately $51.1 billion in endowments.

“No government can solely fund education,” he said.

Funmi Ogundare The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Folasade Tolulope Ogunsola, weekend, called on the alumni and stakeholders of the institution to intensify their support as it

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Sandy Onor’s Pursuit of Political Relevance Revisited

Linus Obogo

In recent times, a handful of political enthusiasts and loyalists have taken to the social media space, attempting to revive the fading memories of the once-formidable “Caterpillar” brand—an identity that suffered a decisive political defeat in the 2023 governorship election at the hands of Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu’s popular mandate.

A few days ago, a video began circulating online, capturing a visibly agitated individual expressing views that bordered more on incitement than informed discourse. Initially, it seemed like another familiar episode of fringe actors seeking attention, but it soon emerged that the individual was part of a coordinated group presenting itself as the ‘PDP Support Group’—a platform now used to echo criticisms of the current administration under the guise of advocacy.

Their press engagement had the makings of a carefully choreographed attempt to reclaim public sympathy, yet it fell short of substance. That this group would choose Senator Sandy Onor—still clearly reeling from his electoral loss in 2023—as their rallying figure raises legitimate questions about their grasp of present realities and political optics.

Rather than reflect, recalibrate and contribute meaningfully to the democratic process, Senator Onor has, unfortunately, aligned himself with divisive rhetoric and unfounded allegations. His post-election trajectory has focused less on constructive engagement and more on discrediting the visible progress being made under Governor Otu’s leadership. It’s a troubling posture that appears driven more by political regret than by public interest.

The statement released by the group—purporting to speak for the PDP—read more like a politically charged broadside than a well-reasoned critique. Their assertions on economic performance and governance reflect selective analysis and overlook the broader national challenges confronting all subnational governments. That they would seek to frame ongoing reforms as failure is more a reflection of their intent than of any grounded assessment.

One must wonder: is this truly a call to service, or simply an attempt to stay relevant by targeting a government steadily gaining public confidence? It appears more like the latter. Using the governor’s rising popularity as a platform to reintroduce familiar political voices does not constitute a rescue mission—it reflects a strategic bid for attention in an increasingly discerning political climate.

Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s administration has, in less than two years, recorded significant strides across key sectors—from infrastructure and tourism to healthcare and investment. His calm, deliberate style of leadership has restored confidence in government and given Cross Riverians a renewed sense of belonging. That these achievements are downplayed by detractors is unfortunate but not unexpected.

The people of Cross River are not yearning for nostalgia. They are forward-looking and increasingly aligned with a leadership that prioritizes service, stability, and tangible results. The attempt to portray a return to the past as progress is not only misleading—it underestimates the political maturity of the electorate.

Ultimately, this latest critique from the PDP Support Group and its allies may amount to little more than political theatre. Cross River has already made its choice—and under Governor Otu’s stewardship, that choice continues to yield dividends. While others may resort to rhetoric, the state is focused on results—and in that commitment, it remains unshaken.

* Mr. Obogo is Chief Press Secretary/Special Adviser to the Cross River State Governor on Media and Publicity

Linus Obogo In recent times, a handful of political enthusiasts and loyalists have taken to the social media space, attempting to revive the fading memories of the once-formidable “Caterpillar” brand—an

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Enugu SSG Urges More Support for Mbah’s Programmes

The Secretary to Enugu State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, has urged the people of Igbo-Eze North LGA and the people of Enugu State at large, to continue to support the State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, in his efforts to transform the state.

He assured the people of the governor’s pledge of equitable and transparent development of the coal-city state remains not only unbroken but also “very realisable.”

One of Governor Mbah’s campaign promises is to move Enugu from a $4 billion economy to $30 billion through quality (ICT-based) education; infrastructure upgrade to create a business-friendly environment to attract both foreign and local direct investments; quality healthcare delivery and security of life and property.

Speaking at the Igbo-Eze North Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Maiden Conference 2025, held at the Local Government Pavilion, Ogrute, Enugu-Ezike, Onyia, the keynote speaker who spoke extempore and largely in Igbo, while reeling out the Mbah administration’s achievements in the areas of physical and social infrastructure construction/reconstruction, education and healthcare delivery, told the people that with their support and encouragement, the Mbah’s administration would not only accomplish its already stated objectives but would even do more.”

“There is no other state government in Nigeria that I know that has pledged to, and is doing a N1 billion project in each of its electoral wards, as Enugu is doing in its 260 wards with its Smart Schools and Type 2 Primary Health Centres,” Onyia said, adding,

“That goes to show how committed to grassroots development of the state, Governor Peter Mbah is.”

According to Onyia, part of the support Mbah seeks of Ndi Igbo-Eze North and Ndi Enugu as a whole is for them to “own” the projects in their communities by contributing to their safety and continuity, through tax payment and ensuring that neither the contractors nor misguided elements in their communities do anything that could have adverse effects on the projects.

Explaining the implication of the state government emplacing a N1 billion project in each of the state’s 260 electoral wards, Onyia noted that the state’s current N46 billion IGR pales into insignificance when compared with the N260 billion cost of the 260 Smart Schools already constructed or still under construction, adding that the shortfall of N215 billion has to be sourced through a progressive and transparent tax system that has become the hallmark of Enugu State government’s IGR administration.

The Enugu SSG stressed that the option in the face of the shortfall is not to abandon the projects but to think outside the box in order to find money to fund the projects to completion, exactly what the government in Enugu is doing with the disruptive innovation mantra of the Mbah’s administration.

Addressing the conference ‘Empowering Grassroots Party Executives for Strategic and Sustainable Leadership,’ Onyia commended Igbo-Eze PDP chairman, Solomon Ogili and his team for the conference, noting that the theme couldn’t have come at a better time, given the state government’s emphasis on training and retraining at all levels of the governance value chain for effective management of the state’s resources, both human and material.

He also commended the Igbo-Eze Local Government chairman, Uchenna Ogalla, for his leadership of the party and the local government, urging the people of Igbo-Eze North to support Ogalla and, by extension Governor Mbah for the realisation of the noble governance objectives of both the local and state governments.

In his welcome address, Dr Ogili described his PDP administration in Igbo-Eze North as a movement “dedicated to a real change at the grassroots.”

“First and foremost, grassroots engagement has been at the heart of our strategy. We believe that true democracy begins with the people and we are working tirelessly, ensuring unbroken engagements within our constituencies,” Ogili explained.

Our regular party meetings have helped us in a sustained connection with constituents, empowering them to engage with local governance more actively.”

In his own address, Chairman of Igbo-Eze, Ogalla expressed his happiness at the conference, commending the theme of the conference, “Empowering Grassroots Party Executives for Strategic and Sustainable Leadership” as both timely and critical and noting that “the strength of our party lies not only in its national structure but also in its roots in every ward, every polling unit, every committed party executive and every faithful, working silently and tirelessly at the grassroots.

“We cannot talk about winning elections, implementing policies or leading with purpose without first acknowledging and strengthening those who are the engine of our political movement,” Ogalla stressed.

He added: “It is at the grassroots that trust is built. It is at the grassroots that the people feel our presence or our absence. And it is at the grassroots that the journey to victory begins.”

The Secretary to Enugu State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, has urged the people of Igbo-Eze North LGA and the people of Enugu State at large, to continue to support the

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PDP Support Group Rallies Onoh to Lead Charge Against APC Misrule in C’ River

In a bold and strategic move to reclaim the political direction of Cross River State, a group, the PDP Support Group, has called on Senator Sandy Onoh and other notable chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for a change in the political leadership in the state.

It urged the party to rise to the occasion and lead the charge in dismantling what it described as the “incompetent and anti-people” governance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

At a press briefing in Abuja, the coalition, which comprises various grassroots mobilisation arms of the PDP, including the Presidential Support Group, Community Development Clusters, and Youth Fronts, unequivocally declared its readiness to wrest power from the APC in 2027.

The group emphasised the urgent need for a united and coordinated front by PDP leaders to rescue the state from further socio-economic and developmental decay under the current administration.

Speaking at the press conference, the spokesperson of the group, Mike Ekanem, said that the group is particularly disheartened at Governor Bassey Otu, whose recent actions have drawn public outrage.

He condemned, in strong terms, the disruption of a scheduled Federal Government-backed Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) project inauguration in Calabar, the state capital.

Ekanem said that such tendencies clearly expose the APC government in the state as lacking in strategic vision, maturity in governance and commitment to progress.

“Cross River has become a shadow of itself under APC misrule, the people are groaning, infrastructure is decaying, federal interventions are being resisted for political reasons and legislative representation is nothing short of a disaster,” he further said.

The group also frowned on the economic performance of the state under Governor Bassey Otu’s administration, noting that Cross Rivers State’s abysmal 34th ranking out of 36 states in Value Added Tax (VAT) remittances for Q1 2025 underscores the Otu’s administration’s economic shortcomings.

The group said Cross River generated a paltry N2.86 billion in VAT, compared to much smaller states like Ekiti, Ondo and 20 others and attributing it to failure to stimulate economic activity, attract investments, or create a conducive environment for businesses.

It decried the failure of the state under Governor Otu to capitalize on its tourism and agricultural potential like previous administrations that leveraged on assets like the Obudu Cattle Ranch and utilization of the Calabar Carnival to stimulate the economy of the state.

The coalition further frowned on the governor’s lack of performance across critical sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare and job creation.

According to the group, no tangible democratic gains have reached the people of Cross River since Governor Otu took office, with many communities experiencing worsening hardship and government neglect.

It, however, expressed its resolve to ensure the total removal of APC influence in Cross River’s political landscape, targeting every seat the party currently holds in the Senate and House of Representatives.

“Our mission is clear – to restore competence, responsibility, and people-centred leadership at all levels. We are not just targeting the governorship; every APC lawmaker from Cross River is on notice,” the spokesperson added.

As part of its broader strategy, the group has called on Senator Sandy Onoh, known for his bold stance and proven capacity, to assume a central role in the liberation movement.

“We believe Senator Sandy Onoh has what it takes to galvanize stakeholders and lead the battle to reclaim Cross River for the people. This is not a personal ambition; it is a generational duty,” the group emphasized.

The PDP Support Group concluded by urging other prominent party stakeholders, including former governors, National Assembly members and youth leaders, to close ranks and prioritise the collective goal of ending APC misgovernance in the state.

“This is a rescue mission. The time to act is now. Cross River deserves better.”

In a bold and strategic move to reclaim the political direction of Cross River State, a group, the PDP Support Group, has called on Senator Sandy Onoh and other notable

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Oil Theft: Navy Vows to Sustain War against Economic Sabotage

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Nigerian Navy has vowed to sustain war against pipeline vandalism and oil theft in the Niger Delta region.

The Commander of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder, Commodore Cajethan Aniaku, made the vow at the weekend when he led officers and ratings of the base in the Nigerian Navy’s Second Quarter Route March around the Rumuolumeni axis of Rivers State.

The commander reiterated the navy’s commitment to sustaining the war against crude oil theft and economic sabotage in the Niger Delta and other parts of the country.

He charged the personnel and ratings to remain dedicated to their duties in serving the nation.

According to him, “We are very committed and well prepared to dominate our waterways in Rivers State and equally deny criminal elements freedom to operate.

“We have been doing that and we are going to sustain it and ensure that we maintain our presence in our waterways and equally on lands too.

“I therefore charge the personnel to remain dedicated to their duties and serve this nation with their heart and mind.”

It was observed that the 10 kilometre route march which kicked off from the naval base in Rumuolumeni, saw personnel and ratings, alongside other sister security agencies marched to and fro the entire stretch of Akar road, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of the state.

Addressing journalists, Commodore Aniaku said the exercise was aimed at sharpening the physical and mental fitness of the personnel and ratings to efficiently discharge their constitutional mandate.

Aniaku, who stated that the exercise was in line with the vision and mission of the Chief of Naval Staff in improving the capabilities of personnel, stated that it would further improve the combat readiness of personnel in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.

He said: “In line with the Nigerian Navy forecast of events, today was programmed for a second quarter route march for all Nigerian Navy units and Commands and in line with the vision and mission of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Admiralty Medal.

“The essence of this route march is for us to exercise our body and remain healthy to discharge our constitutional mandate.

“Today’s route march was a 10 kilometre match from here to Aker junction and back. The overall implication of the exercise is for us to be physically and mentally fit to discharge our duty effectively at all times.”

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt The Nigerian Navy has vowed to sustain war against pipeline vandalism and oil theft in the Niger Delta region. The Commander of the Nigerian Navy Ship

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Afe Babalola Varsity Ranks among Leading Global 100

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

The Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), which has been previously ranked among world universities as No. 1 in Nigeria for four consecutive years, for 2022, 2023, 2024 and now 2025 has emerged as one of the World best 100 universities.

The acting Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Olasupo Ijabadeniyi, who made this known at a press conference in Ado-Ekiti over the weekend, disclosed that the development was announced by the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, in its 2025 reports.

Ijabadeniyi pointed out that this outstanding heights were made possible as a result of the resilience, hard work and Frankenstein leadership of renown legal icon and elder statesman, who doubles as the Founder and Chancellor of the Institution, Afe Babalola SAN.

The VC also attributed the feat to the tireless efforts of the Vice- Chancellor, Prof. Smaranda Olarinde, as well as commitment and cooperative attitude of both staff and students.

He revealed further that the university, which was just 15 years old and commenced academic works at its permanent site only on January 4, 2010, now by the latest ranking become the 84th in the entire world. Also it is the 3rd on the African continent and is the only fully residential university in Nigeria today, as none of its several students lives off-campus.

“The only university with students from all the 36 States of the federation, including those from the FCT and foreign countries, while it has full NUC accreditation and professional bodies in all it’s 44 programmes.

“ It had also been ranked as No. 1 in Africa in Sustainable Development Goal in SDG 13 (Climate Change),with a score of 83.1 per cent, No. 1 in SDG 7 (Affordable & Clean Energy), with a score of 83.3 per cent, No. 2 in Africa in SDG 1 (No Poverty), , with a score of 87.9 per cent No. 3 in Africa in SDG 17 (Partnership For Goals), with a score of 92.4 per cent, No.1, among several others.

“ABUAD is the only institution in Nigeria, and possibly Africa, with 124- Unit Industries, (Research Park), the only university with a sophisticated 400-Bed Multi-System Hospital, Independent Power Plant, IPP for regular and uninterrupted power supply, the only institution where fees for study of Agriculture is reduced by 50 per cent , and N250,000 later given to every Agric graduates to start their farming businesses upon completion of studies.

“Aside from compulsory dressing code for both staff and students, and compulsory evening classes, the institution also champions what is known as Youth Empowerment Scheme, under which we have trained well over 1,000, and still counting, expended N186 million, and also doled out the sum of N49.1 million to those under entrepreneur scheme.

“We also have the university dam for regular water, modern Stadium, with Olympic size swimming pool, among several other landmarks, not common to many universities,” Ijabadeniyi said.

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti The Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), which has been previously ranked among world universities as No. 1 in Nigeria for four consecutive years, for 2022, 2023,

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Hajj 2025: Flynas Airlifts 61% of Pilgrims Back to Nigeria

A Saudi- designated Nigerian Hajj air carrier, Flynas, has transported over 61.1 percent of its allocated pilgrims back to Nigeria in one week.

This was revealed by the Managing Director, First Planet Travels and General Sales Agent (GSA) of Flynas in Nigeria, Alhaji Umar Kaila.

A statement signed by the airline’s information officer, Umma Salama Kyaure, yesterday quoted Kaila as saying that “Flynas has airlifted 8,051 pilgrims back to Nigeria within one week out of the 13,188 allocated to it by the country this year.”

“We have airlifted all the pilgrims from Osun and Ogun states safely back home on Saturday. And we have also completed the airlift of Lagos state pilgrims back to Nigeria by Sunday,” Kaila said.

The Flynas chief said the 8,051 pilgrims were transported back to Nigeria by Flynas in 19 flights.

Flynas, which was allocated pilgrims from Osun, Lagos, Ogun, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi and the Federal Capital Territory, started the second phase of the pilgrims airlift on Friday, June 13.

The airline is operating from four airports which are: Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos; Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport Birnin Kebbi, Sultan Abubakar III International Airport Sokoto; and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

The statement added that a total of 3,359 pilgrims have been airlifted to Lagos, 1,709 to Sokoto, 2,554 to Birnin Kebbi, and 4,29 to Abuja.

Kaila also thanked all stakeholders that include NAHCON and pilgrims boards and commissions for their cooperation, assuring that the second leg of the airlift would be as smooth as the first one.

A Saudi- designated Nigerian Hajj air carrier, Flynas, has transported over 61.1 percent of its allocated pilgrims back to Nigeria in one week. This was revealed by the Managing Director, First

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Zulum Gets NUJ Media Friendly Gov Award

Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri

The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has awarded Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum with its prestigious media friendly award.

The event was held on Saturday in Abuja, to mark the 70th anniversary of the union.

Zulum had won multiple awards in the past owing to his outstanding achievements and style of leadership. Some of the earlier awards were the NUJ Good Governance Award, 2024; NUJ Most Promising First Term Governor in 2019; Forbes Magazine African Leadership Award, 2024, among others.

In his remark shortly after receiving the award, Governor Zulum, represented by his acting Chief of Staff, Dr. Babagana Mallumbe, expressed gratitude to the union for the recognition bestowed on him as the “Media-Friendly Governor.”

He said: “This award is not just an accolade for me personally, but a testament to the thriving partnership between Borno State Government and the media. It underscores our unwavering commitment to fostering an environment where a free, vibrant and responsible press can flourish.”

He remarked that the NUJ, for decades has stood as a bulwark for truth, a voice for the voiceless, and a critical pillar of our democracy, performing their core function of informing, educating and holding leadership accountable, which has in a no small measure shaped the nation’s narrative and guide its progress.

“In Borno State, we have witnessed firsthand the invaluable role journalists play, often at great personal risk, in bringing to light the challenges we face and celebrate our resilience,” he stressed.

Zulum described the media as an ‘indispensable ally’, emphasizing that their objective reportage helps to communicate his administration’s effort, address misconceptions, and gather vital feedback from the populace. We believe that a well-informed citizenry is essential for good governance and sustainable development.

“On this significant anniversary, I reaffirmed my commitment to supporting the media in Borno State and beyond. I congratulate the NUJ on 70 years of impactful service to Nigeria. May your noble profession continue to thrive, and may you continue to be a beacon of truth and integrity,” the governor added.

The governor also used the opportunity to urge the NUJ and media professionals to take full advantage of Artificial Intelligence (AI), especially in the areas of automation of routine tasks, personalisation and audience engagement, efficiency and speed, and be wary of misinformation, disinformation and ethical concerns.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, who represented President Bola Tinubu pledged to continue to uphold the principles of freedom of speech and the media.

“I want to reassure you, that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will continue to uphold and advance policies that promote media freedom and to partner with NUJ to changing media landscape in the country,” he promised.

The acting Chief of Staff was accompanied by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dauda Iliya, and the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Information and Internal Security, Alhaji Aminu Chamalwa.

The NUJ at 70 anniversary award was graced by many distinguished personalities including deputy governors of Kano, Bauchi, Oyo and Ondo states, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, Heads of federal media establishments, past presidents of the Union, veteran journalists and media professionals across the country.

Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has awarded Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum with its prestigious media friendly award. The event was held on Saturday in Abuja, to mark