Year: 2025

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DSS, Army Rescue Abducted Catholic Priest and 42 Others

DSS, Army Rescue Abducted Catholic Priest and 42 Others

The Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army have successfully rescued Reverend Father Alphonsus Afina, a Catholic priest kidnapped by Boko Haram terrorists on June 1, along with 42 other kidnap victims.

The rescue operations were carried out in two separate locations: Borno State and Zamfara State.Rescue Details:Borno State: Father Afina, who previously served as a priest in Alaska, United States, was rescued alongside 10 women by DSS operatives with the support of Nigerian Army troops.

The priest was kidnapped on his way from Mubi in Adamawa State to Maiduguri when his convoy was ambushed, resulting in one fatality. The rescue was executed without paying any ransom.

Zamfara State: In a separate operation, DSS officers and Nigerian Army troops rescued 32 kidnap victims, including 27 women and five young boys, who had spent between two to four months in captivity.

The victims were handed over to the Zamfara State Government for medical attention and documentation.

Reactions: Catholic Bishop of Maiduguri Diocese, John Bakeni, commended the DSS and Nigerian Army for their bravery and professionalism, rescuing Father Afina and the other victims. He described the rescue as a moment of profound relief and joy for the Church and lovers of peace and justice. The bishop also called for sustained collaboration between security agencies and local communities to defeat insurgency.

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How Nigerians Contribute to Politicians’ Misuse of Public Funds

The Enabling Environment: How Nigerians Unintentionally Support Politicians’ Corruption

By Comr. Sulaiman Abdulfatai

Nigeria’s political landscape has long been plagued by corruption, with politicians often accused of looting public funds with impunity. While politicians bear the primary responsibility for these actions, it’s essential to examine the role Nigerians play in enabling this behavior.

Electoral Apathy and Lack of Accountability

Many Nigerians often prioritize personal interests over national concerns, failing to hold elected officials accountable for their actions. This apathy creates an environment where politicians feel emboldened to engage in corrupt practices without fear of consequences.

Vote Buying and Patronage

The widespread practice of vote buying and patronage in Nigerian politics perpetuates corruption. By accepting bribes or promises of personal gain in exchange for votes, citizens inadvertently contribute to the corrupt system.

Tolerance for Corruption

Some Nigerians tolerate or even celebrate politicians’ corrupt activities if they benefit personally or perceive benefits for their community. This tolerance sends a signal that corrupt behavior is acceptable, further entrenching the problem.

Demanding Unnecessary Financial Support

Additionally, some Nigerians demand unnecessary financial support from politicians, expecting handouts or gifts in exchange for loyalty or support. This expectation can lead politicians to prioritize personal gain over public service, further fueling corruption.

Fabricated Stories for Financial Gain

Some individuals fabricate stories or lies to extract money from politicians or those who work for them. This behavior not only diverts resources meant for public good but also contributes to the corrupt system.

Lack of Civic Engagement

Limited civic engagement and lack of participation in public discourse allow corrupt politicians to operate with relative impunity. When citizens don’t engage in meaningful discussions about governance and accountability, politicians may feel less inclined to act with integrity.

Cultural and Social Pressures

In some cases, cultural and social pressures can lead Nigerians to prioritize loyalty to politicians or parties over accountability and good governance. This can create a culture where corruption is normalized and whistleblowers are ostracized.

Breaking the Cycle

To break this cycle, Nigerians must demand better governance and hold politicians accountable for their actions. This requires:

  1. Increased civic engagement: Citizens must participate in public discourse and demand transparency and accountability.
  2. Electoral reform: Electoral processes must be reformed to prevent vote buying and ensure credible elections.
  3. Whistleblower protection: Mechanisms must be put in place to protect whistleblowers and encourage reporting of corrupt activities.
  4. Cultural shift: Nigerians must prioritize accountability and good governance over personal or community interests.
  5. Smart vote strategy: Even if a politician is trying to buy your vote, collect his money and vote for the right candidate.

By working together, Nigerians can create an environment where politicians are incentivized to act with integrity and serve the public interest.

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Nigerian Railway Corporation Commences Train Services in Jos Starting Monday, 14th July 2025

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

Nigerian Railway Corporation Commences Train Services in Jos Starting Monday, 14th July 2025

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) is pleased to announce the commencement of daily passenger train services on the Jos–Bukuru corridor starting Monday, July 14th, 2025.

Trains will operate four daily trips between Bukuru and Jos Terminus, with stops at Old Airport and Dogon Karfe stations.

The full schedule is as follows:

First Trip – Morning (Bukuru to Jos)

Departure from Bukuru: 06:50 AM

Stops:

Old Airport – Arrives 07:08 AM, Departs 07:10 AM

Dogon Karfe – Arrives 07:16 AM, Departs 07:18 AM

Terminus (Jos) – Arrives 07:26 AM

Second Trip – Mid-Morning (Jos to Bukuru)
Departure from Jos Terminus: 09:20 AM

Stops:

Dogon Karfe – Arrives 09:28 AM, Departs 09:30 AM

Old Airport – Arrives 09:36 AM, Departs 09:38 AM

Bukuru – Arrives 09:56 AM

Third Trip – Late Morning (Bukuru to Jos)
Departure from Bukuru: 10:36 AM

Stops:

Old Airport – Arrives 10:54 AM, Departs 10:56 AM

Dogon Karfe – Arrives 11:02 AM, Departs 11:04 AM

Terminus (Jos) – Arrives 11:10 AM

Fourth Trip – Evening (Jos to Bukuru)
Departure from Jos Terminus: 04:20 PM

Stops:

Dogon Karfe – Arrives 04:28 PM, Departs 04:30 PM

Old Airport – Arrives 04:36 PM, Departs 04:38 PM

Bukuru – Arrives 04:56 PM

Passengers are encouraged to arrive at the station at least 10 minutes before departure.

For inquiries and further information, please contact the Nigerian Railway Corporation or visit your nearest station.

We look forward to serving you with safe, reliable, and efficient rail services.

Nigerian Railway Corporation – Moving Plateau Forward.

Announcer,
Information Officer
For:
Hoorable Commissioner, Plateau State
Ministry of Transport.

@highlight

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BIG NEWS!The 2nd Phase of the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative by the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) is here!Registration Portal Opens:

BIG NEWS!
The 2nd Phase of the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative by the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) is here!
Registration Portal Opens:
Monday, 28th July 2025
Closes: Monday, 11th August 2025.

Are you unemployed, underemployed, or seeking skills for self-reliance?
Now is your chance to benefit from free vocational, digital, agricultural, and entrepreneurial training – all under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
✅ Empower your future
✅ Learn a skill
✅ Get connected to job opportunities
Visit the official portal to register!

NDERegistration

RenewedHopeEmploymentInitiative

JobCreation

NDE

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Kwara govt recertifies 12 transport operators, committed to clean, safe motor parks.

Kwara govt recertifies 12 transport operators, committed to clean, safe motor parks.

Kwara State Government has renewed certificates of operation for 12 private motor parks within the metropolis after satisfying basic requirements in transportation system and environmental protection standards.

The parks are the Ilorin Emirate Transport Service; KASMAG Line; Success Express Transport Service; RASYAU Travel & Tours Ltd; Fayos Motors Transport Service; Okin Motors & Sons Nig. Ltd; Alubarika Decency Motors; Femali (FM) Nig. Ltd; Bekki & Sons Motors; Young Legacy Line; Royal Ryders Super Express; and Laraku Motors.

Presenting the certificates in Ilorin, Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Aliyu Kora Sabi, said the recertification exercise was to enforce environmental standards and enhance the safety of general public especially the passengers.

The Commissioner, while describing motor parks as important and life-saving mechanisms, said the gesture will give the commuters an opportunity to board certified motors within the identified parks for a better service delivery.

“By certifying these motor parks, we are equipping our community with the tools necessary to ply our roads safely. Today, as we certify you as recognized motor parks, let it be a reminder of our collective duty to protect one another. Let us work together to ensure that everyone understands the importance of taking safety measures while plying our roads,” he said.

“Our roads are a source of livelihood, but they also pose risks that must be addressed.”

Sabi hailed Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his administration’s commitment to the protection of the lives of the citizens.

He also commended the Governor’s commitment to creating a better livelihood for citizens through the recently launched CNG buses, saying the initiative was meant to cushion the effect of economic hardship in the state.

The event was attended by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security, Alhaji Muyideen Aliyu; Senior Special Assistant on Transportation, Hon. Ibrahim Orire; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation, Alhaji Salau Kabiru Abdullahi; Technical Assistant to the Governor on Transport, Alhaji Musbau Abubakar; representative of the Commissioner of Police, DCP Ladi Suleiman; and representative of the State Commandant for Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), AC Salman Surajudeen.

Others were Chief Vehicle Inspection Officer, Engr. Ayuba Isiaka; former Director of Transport in the Ministry, Engr Durotoye Joshua; representative of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC); Chairman, Association of Independent Transporters (AIT) and CEO KASMAG Line, Alhaji Abdulganiyu Omoola; Chairman Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), Alhaji Abdulganiyu Ademola Akintola; and Chairman, Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria (TOAN), Kwara state branch, Alhaji Saliu Gidado.

Salau, for his part, said officials of the Ministry had inspected facilities in all garages in the city and were satisfied with what they found in the selected ones, adding it is a continuous exercise.

Director of Transport, Engr Micheal Bamidele, said 12 out of 49 existing private motor parks in the state met the regulatory requirements for recertification, adding that the process sought to achieve a safe and clean working environment.

CEO KASMAG Line, Omoola, who spoke on behalf of other recipients, thanked the government for the recertification exercise and pledged their continued support towards improving the safety of people.

Alabere Ahmed Babatunde
Press Secretary,
Ministry of Transportation, Ilorin.

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A Call to Serve: Putting People Over Politics to Hon. Lukman Agbelere, Ilorin East Chairman

A Call to Serve: Putting People Over Politics
Dear Hon. Garba Olayinka Lukman Agbelere, The Chairman Ilorin East, Local Government.

The N200 million hospital project can bring much-needed healthcare services to your community. As a leader, prioritize initiatives that benefit your people. Welcome development projects with open arms and allocate your funds to other pressing needs. Don’t let petty politics hinder progress. If the Senator is facilitating the project through federal funds, let him.

Your stance on the hospital reconstruction project facilitated by Senator Soliu Mustapha seems more focused on scoring political points than serving the people who elected you. Although we all know the Governor gave you the ticket, and the people voted you in, if you think you’re serving the Governor and not your people, it’s very dangerous to your political future.

Your legacy will be defined by the impact on your people’s lives, not by how well you follow the party line. When the misunderstanding between the Governor and Senator is settled, where will you stand? Put your constituents’ needs first and let progress happen. The people will appreciate it, and history will judge you kindly.

Sincerely,
Comr. Sulaiman Abdulfatai O.

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Benefits for the Family of Late President Muhammadu Buhari

“Benefits for the Family of Late President Muhammadu Buhari:

A Breakdown”The family of late President Muhammadu Buhari is entitled to several benefits, including:Annual Allowance: ₦1 million annually, paid in four quarterly installments of ₦250,000, for the upkeep of the spouse and education of the children up to university level.

  1. Personal Staff: A senior administrative officer and a personal secretary (not below Grade Level 12) selected by the deceased’s family but paid by the Federal Government.Security: Three to four armed police officers and a State Security Service (SSS) officer of at least Grade Level 10 attached to the family for life.

2. Vehicles: Three vehicles purchased by the Federal Government, replaceable every four years, with drivers selected by the family and paid by the government.

3. Free Medical Treatment: Medical treatment for the family within Nigeria and abroad when necessary, at Federal Government expense.

4. Office Accommodation: A well-furnished and equipped office in a location of their choice within Nigeria.

5. Residential Accommodation: A well-furnished five-bedroom house in a location of their choice within Nigeria.

6. Diplomatic Passport: A diplomatic passport for life, entitling them to protocol within and outside Nigeria.

7. Postal Privileges: The ability to send non-political mail within and outside Nigeria as franked mail marked “POSTAGE PAID”

8.Telephone: One direct telephone line provided at Federal Government expense.

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Surprise Move: Muhammed Babangida Declines Appointment as Bank of Agriculture Chairman”

“Surprise Move: Muhammed Babangida Declines Appointment as Bank of Agriculture Chairman”

Muhammed Babangida, son of former Nigerian military leader Ibrahim Babangida, has rejected his appointment as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In a letter dated July 21, 2025, Babangida cited “personal and professional convergence” that wouldn’t allow him to give the assignment the level of focus and commitment it demands.

Key Points:

  • Reason for Rejection: Babangida stated that his decision was not made lightly and stems from personal and professional considerations that currently prevent him from dedicating the necessary time and effort to the role.
  • Appreciation and Support: Despite declining the appointment, Babangida expressed gratitude for being considered and reaffirmed his support for President Tinubu’s administration, pledging to contribute to national development in other capacities where his expertise may be valuable.
  • Reaction: Dele Momodu, publisher of Ovation Magazine, shared the letter on Instagram, commending Babangida’s decision with the comment, “Well done, Muhammed, for rejecting a Greek gift”.
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Weather Alert: NiMet Predicts Thunderstorms and Rains Across Nigeria

Weather Alert: NiMet Predicts Thunderstorms and Rains Across Nigeria

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a weather forecast predicting widespread thunderstorms and rainfall across various parts of the country from Monday, July 21 to Wednesday, July 23, 2025.

Monday’s Forecast:

  • Early morning thunderstorms and rain expected in Taraba, Adamawa, Kebbi, Borno, Yobe, Gombe, Bauchi, Sokoto, and Kaduna States.
  • Cloudy skies anticipated in the central region, with thunderstorms and light rain likely in Niger State.
  • Afternoon showers expected in Plateau, Nasarawa, FCT, Kogi, Benue, and parts of Niger.
  • Light rainfall anticipated in Imo, Abia, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom States in the south.

Tuesday’s Forecast:

  • Sunny conditions with cloud patches expected in the northern region in the morning.
  • Moderate thunderstorms forecast in Bauchi, Gombe, Yobe, Jigawa, Adamawa, Taraba, Kano, Katsina, and Kaduna States by evening.
  • Morning rains expected over Plateau, Benue, and Nasarawa in the central states.
  • Moderate rains expected in Ondo, Imo, Enugu, Anambra, Edo, Rivers, and Bayelsa in the south.

Wednesday’s Forecast:

  • Sunny skies with cloud patches expected over the north.
  • Morning rains forecast in Katsina, Kano, Bauchi, Sokoto, and Taraba.
  • Afternoon storms expected in Yobe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Borno, and Kebbi.
  • Moderate to heavy rains forecast across FCT, Plateau, Niger, and Kwara in the central belt.
  • Significant rainfall expected in southern states like Ebonyi, Abia, Edo, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom.

Safety Precautions:

NiMet advises the public to take necessary safety precautions, including:

  • Avoiding driving in heavy rain.
  • Disconnecting electrical appliances during storms.
  • Securing loose items that could be blown away by strong winds.
  • Staying away from tall trees.
  • Airline operators are advised to obtain up-to-date weather forecasts for flight planning.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through NiMet’s official platforms.

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“The Vicious Cycle: How Nigerian Politicians Exploit the System”By Sulaiman Abdulfatai O.

“The Vicious Cycle: How Nigerian Politicians Exploit the System”
By Sulaiman Abdulfatai O.

As Nigerians, we’ve seen time and time again how politicians exploit our weaknesses to further their own interests. But what are these weaknesses, and how can we break free from this cycle?

The Weaknesses:

  • Lack of Civic Education: Many Nigerians lack a deep understanding of their rights, responsibilities, and the inner workings of government.
  • Ethnic and Regional Loyalties: Politicians often exploit ethnic and regional divisions to garner support.
  • Poverty and Economic Desperation: When people are struggling to make ends meet, they may prioritize short-term gains over long-term benefits.
  • Lack of Critical Thinking: Without critical thinking skills, citizens may be more susceptible to misinformation and manipulation.
  • Apathy and Disengagement: When citizens feel disconnected from the political process, they may become apathetic and disengage.

The Consequences:

  • Electoral Manipulation: Politicians exploit these weaknesses to win elections through unfair means.
  • Poor Governance: Without accountability, politicians prioritize personal gain over the needs of the people.
  • Perpetuation of Corruption: Corrupt politicians continue their practices, knowing citizens are unaware or unwilling to hold them accountable.

Breaking the Cycle:

  • Civic Education: Promote civic education to empower citizens.
  • Critical Thinking: Encourage critical thinking skills.
  • Economic Empowerment: Address poverty and economic desperation.
  • Engagement and Activism: Citizens must engage with the political process and demand accountability.

Actionable Steps:

  1. Educate yourself about your rights and responsibilities.
  2. Evaluate information critically.
  3. Support economic development.
  4. Participate in the political process.

Together, We Can Build a Better Nigeria!