Author Archives: News All Around

The Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN), Delta State Chapter, has strongly condemned the lavish book launch of former military ruler Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB), calling it an insult to the millions of unemployed Nigerian youths struggling to survive.

Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, speaking on behalf of the association, expressed outrage over the billions of naira spent on the event, arguing that such resources should have been directed toward other critical sectors, from job creation to education, and poverty alleviation.

“It’s shameful that while millions of Nigerian youths remain jobless, unable to afford basic necessities of life, our leaders continue to squander resources on self-serving projects,” Fajoye lamented. “The billions splashed at this book launch could have been invested in skills development programs, small business, grants, and other initiatives that would directly benefit the ever growing population of struggling Nigerians youths.”

Fajoye also criticized the elite donors who funded the event, alleging that most of their wealth was built on a corrupt system that continuously sidelines the poor. “While the prices of essential goods keep rising, with ordinary Nigerians barely making ends meet, these billionaires have no problems, throwing money into unnecessary luxuries, at the expense of the teaming suffering Nigerians populace,” he said.

The UYAN chairman further condemned the systemic corruption that has long plagued the country, asserting that Nigeria’s leadership has failed to prioritize the welfare of its people. He pointed out that IBB, who has been accused over the years, for annulling the country’s freest and fairest election in 1993, and has finally confessed to this fact in his book, should not be celebrated in a sane clime, but rather held accountable for his role in Nigeria’s economic and political wows.

Fajoye called on all Nigerian youths to unite and demand accountability from the country’s leadership, emphasizing that until corruption is tackled, the cycle of poverty and unemployment will persist, and by extension continue to create an unsafe environment. Stressing that “The suffering of Nigerian youths will not come to an end, unless we collectively stand up against bad governance at all levels, and demand that our leaders prioritize the interests of the people over their selfish gains,” he declared.

UYAN vowed to continue advocating for job creation and youth empowerment, urging the government and private sector to focus on meaningful investments that benefit the nation rather than wasteful celebrations of controversial figures.

Women Rights and Justice Forum (WRJF),a coalition of women’s associations working to protect the interest of women has concluded arrangements to storm the Federal Capital Territory on Monday , March 10 to hold one million people march in protest against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio over alleged harassment of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan .

According to women Rights group, part of reasons, it resolved to embark on the protest is call for resignation of the Senator President .

The group with members across the 36 states of Nigeria said it has already commenced mobilisation of women to come out and remain on the roads until President Bola Ahmed and the National Assembly remove Senator Akpabio from the highly exalted position of Senate President .

The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uguaghan had accused the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, of sexual harassment.She also alleged that Akpabio blocked her motions from being heard on the floor of the Senate because she rejected his advances.

In a Statement issued today and made available to Journalists in Kaduna, the Women Rights and Justice Forum,which condemned in strong terms any attempt by men in high positions to harass women for personal gains, hinted that,”The Million People March will be the first of a series of protests to call for the resignation of the Senator Akpabio, who allegedly harassed a woman”.

The statement signed the Coordinator of the Forum, Hajiya Hauwa Suleiman Usman explained: ” The decision to embark on the one million man March is equally to make strong statement that women will not tolerate such oppression and harassment against women in politics.

“We have waited and watched with keen interest to see if the Senate President will tow the honourable lane and apologize to Natasha after she was compelled to speak out on Arise Television, but we later discovered that some of the lawmakers and members of the public have taken side against her .

“As women, have decided to unite to stop these overt attempts to shut women down and make them second class citizens in their own country.

“To serve as deterrent to other men, we resolved to not only talk, but take decisive action to ensure that Senator Akpabio suffer for his actions to harass and undermine a woman for rejecting sexual advances.

“It unfortunate that without investigating the allegation, Akpabio’s wife, who should know her husband better concluded prematurely and dragged senator Natasha to court . But note this she will shocked after she sees evidence.

“Senator Akpabio must resign or we remain on the roads till he does so. “

By Sandra Ukeredi

In a heartfelt gesture, Senator Shehu Sani, a former senator representing Kaduna Central in the 8th National Assembly and human rights activist, paid a condolence visit to the family of late Nigerian football legend, Ayo Ogunlana, in Kaduna.

During his visit, Senator Sani described Ogunlana as an icon who inspired many young people during his active football career and after retirement. He expressed his deep sorrow over Ogunlana’s passing, revealing that he had always inquired about the football star and had intended to visit him before hearing of his demise.

Senator Sani comforted Ogunlana’s widow and family members, acknowledging the deep pain of their loss but urging them to remain strong. He emphasized the need to sustain Ogunlana’s legacy and expressed interest in establishing a foundation in his honor.

Ogunlana’s widow, Mrs. Ogunlana, thanked Senator Sani for his visit and revealed that her husband passed away on Friday, February 14, which coincided with Valentine’s Day. She noted that the late footballer was not sick before his sudden death.

Senator Sani’s visit was a testament to his commitment to honoring the legacy of Nigerian icons like Ayo Ogunlana. His words of comfort and support brought solace to the grieving family, and his proposal to establish a foundation in Ogunlana’s honor ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

…Vows to Join Akpabio’s wife in Legal battle

Group under aegis of Northern Democratic Alliance (NDA) has condemned what it termed , Unfounded sexual harassment allegation against the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan.

The Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha Akpoti who protested the relocation of her seat accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of persistent harassment, victimization, and blocking her legislative efforts because she rejected his alleged inappropriate advances.

Natasha, who made the claim while speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Friday, detailed what she described as a troubling pattern of professional sabotage and personal intimidation — a fallout, she claimed, of her refusal to engage in an improper relationship with Akpabio.

However,in a reaction to Senator Natasha Apoti”s claim of sexual harassment, the Northern Democratic Alliance condemned the attacks on the Senate President.Saying her face-off with Senator Akpabio is unwarranted, unprovoked and shouldn’t have come from a family friend of the Senate President.

The statement reads: “We have known the Senate President since he was Governor of Akwa Ibom to his days as minister and now Senate President, and can authoritatively tell you that he’s a man who lots of respect for women .

“So , when we heard about Senator Natasha accusations, especially that of sexual harassment,it didn’t add up for us .

“The good people of Akwa Ibom,the wife of the Senate President and members of the National Assembly can also attest to fact that he’s only a cheerful personality,but a seasoned administrator who understands the implications of such act of irresponsibility while holding public office.

“It against this background that we have come to condemn Senator Natasha unsubstantiated claim of sexual harassment and victimization.”

” After careful study of the whole saga ,we have decided to join Senator Akpabio’s wife in court in legal battle against Senator , Natasha who has no evidence to prove her claim.”

… Demands Unreserve Apology for Abandoning Them

Kaduna based political group has expressed anger over the relocation of former President Muhammadu Buhari to his Kaduna residence after several years of abandoning the State .

The group, which asked Buhari to return to back to his Katsina hometown, said they never expected that he could stay away from Kaduna for 24 hours after he left office as Nigeria’s President .

According to the forum, all the privileges the former President has enjoyed and success achieved over years apparently were due to his link to Kaduna, the historical headquarters of the northern region.

It was widely reported that the former President Buhari relocated from his hometown, Daura in Katsina State, to his residence in Kaduna, marking the end of a 21-month stay since leaving office in May 2023.

In a Statement issued today and made to journalists in Kaduna the forum explained: “Buhari abandoned us after he became the President and worst still, Daura home town became his favorite place of abode .

In the statement signed Dr. Musa Ibrahim Gusau the angry members posited, ” We have always supported Buhari in all aspects of his life from the days of military rule to when he decided to join politics and ran for the highly coveted seat of President.

“He later became President in 2015 and suddenly abandoned Kaduna people from 2015 to 2023 .Today he has returned to Kaduna and expect us to give same unalloyed and organic support.

“We used to love Buhari for his regards and respect for the masses .We also strongly believe in his unquenching passion to fight corruption and work for emancipation of the talakawas ,but out mindset had changed now .

“The decision to condemn his renewed decision to relocate to Kaduna was out of anger; pains and feelings of abandonment .

“We are sad that after he became the president, he simply changed and started going to his Daura home town .Kaduna people voted for him;stood for him, but when he became President ,he abandoned Kaduna now he has returned to stay in Kaduna.

“We are therefore call on the former President to apologize to all his supporters or return to Katsina.”

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Oba Oladipo Olaitan on his emergence as the new leader of Afenifere, the influential pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization. The Forum’s President, Dr. Bittus Pogu, conveyed the message on behalf of the diverse ethnic nationalities of the Middle Belt, celebrating the peaceful and seamless transition within the Yoruba group.

In a statement signed by Luka Binniyat, the Forum’s spokesman, Dr. Pogu praised the orderly process through which Oba Olaitan was selected, describing it as a clear reflection of Afenifere’s enduring commitment to internal unity, consensus-building, and the preservation of its core values. He noted that such peaceful transitions further strengthen Afenifere’s credibility as a leading voice for the Yoruba people and the wider Nigerian polity.

Dr. Pogu highlighted Oba Oladipo Olaitan’s deep-rooted dedication to Afenifere, recalling his diligent service as Deputy Leader to the late Chief Ayo Adebanjo. Despite his standing as a respected royal father, Oba Olaitan never wavered in his commitment to the group’s ideals and the larger struggle for justice, democracy, and fairness in Nigeria, the statement added.

The MBF President expressed strong confidence in Oba Olaitan’s capacity to deepen the historic relationship between the Middle Belt Forum and the Southern Leadership Forum, particularly in advancing shared goals like leadership rotation, restructuring, and the push for a truly federal constitution that ensures equity, security, and prosperity for all Nigerians.

While congratulating Oba Olaitan, Dr. Pogu also paid glowing tribute to the late Chief Ayo Adebanjo, describing him as a selfless, principled leader whose relentless pursuit of justice and national progress left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history. He emphasized that Adebanjo’s legacy of courage and integrity would continue to inspire both Afenifere and the Middle Belt Forum.

Dr. Pogu assured Oba Olaitan of the Middle Belt Forum’s unwavering friendship, cooperation, and solidarity as both groups pursue their shared vision for a more inclusive, productive, and democratic Nigeria. He expressed optimism that under Oba Olaitan’s leadership, Afenifere would remain steadfast in promoting the rights of the Yoruba nation and working for the overall good of Nigeria.

The statement concluded with a renewed commitment from the Middle Belt Forum to collaborate closely with Afenifere under Oba Olaitan’s leadership, reaffirming the strong partnership between the Middle Belt and Southern Nigeria in the ongoing effort to build a just, secure, and prosperous nation for all Nigerians.

By Ojo Shola

The Executive Director of Retail and Digital Business at Wema Bank, Tunde Mabawonku, on Tuesday described Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the future of Nigeria, hence the need for the right investment in it.

The bank executive spoke while remarking on the launch of an initiative to establish a state-of-the-art Information and Communication Technology (ICT) centre in Nigeria, with the groundbreaking event happening in Kagarko, Kagarko Local Government area of Kaduna State.

He said, his financial outfit, in partnership with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), decided to partner in putting the centre in place as a way of bringing AI hub to young people at the community level.

According to Mabawonku, “The goal was to create a “skillnovate” platform that enables young people to acquire ICT skills, digital skills, and social skills, ultimately adding income to them”.

Mabawonku emphasized that providing the required resources for basic coding and understanding of AI was crucial to making Nigeria an AI hub.

“Ours is to create what we call “skill novate” to empower young people and enable them to ICT skills, digital skills and social skills, and then it adds income to them.

“When people come to the NYSC for the national service, they are largely unsure of what to do within and outside the service.

“So the thinking is that for that one year or thereabouts they will spend during the national service, can they have a centre like this where they can upgrade themselves digitally so by the end of the service, they can do a lot on their own.

“So we are in partnership with the NYSC to create that platform for development for Nigerian youths.

“The best approach to making the country an AI hub is to provide the required resources for the basic coding and basic understanding of AI.

“These days, you don’t need to be a computer guru to learn AI. They are human-created tools that one can just listen to and learn greatly.

“So, we are going to equip the centre and subsequent ones with the best technology so that the young people can learn and start doing things with AI as seen in countries like China and Japan, among others.

“You can see on your social media handles how the service providers are imbuing AI in them.

“The idea of putting this facility here in Kagarko and not Kaduna is that we have noticed that when we are planning development, we always abandon the hinterlands.

“Everybody is concentrating in State capitals. So, working with the NYSC, we chose this area so we can bring the youths around together to learn and fortunately, the location is close to Abuja and Kaduna”, he added.

Tired of waiting for their entitlements to be paid after being sacked in 2017, the Kaduna State Illegally Disengaged Teachers Forum has publicly condemned former Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s administration for its actions. The teachers, who were dismissed after allegedly failing a competency test, claim the test was unfair and designed to reduce the workforce.

According to the teachers, God will punish El-Rufai for making them suffer untold hardship over the past seven years without paying their entitlements. They also expressed happiness that El-Rufai is already facing the consequences of his actions.

The El-Rufai-led government had sacked 21,000 out of 30,000 primary school teachers who failed the competency test. However, the State Coordinator of KSIDF, Comrade Aminu Maitama, revealed that the test was not conducted in good faith. Maitama personally scored 70% on the test but was still sacked, leading him to question the motives behind the test.

Maitama accused El-Rufai’s administration of using the test as a pretext to reduce the number of teachers and cut costs, without considering the impact on education in the state.

The teachers have appealed to Governor Uba Sani to reconsider their case and pay their entitlements. They also commended Governor Sani for releasing N548 million in withheld funds to the Nigerian Union of Teachers Endwell scheme. Additionally, they requested another competency test to assess their eligibility for reinstatement.

Lawrence Anderson

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) said the alarming situation surrounding the abduction of Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, the President of the Afenifere Youth Council called for urgent attention , demanding for hi immediate release by the kodnappers.

AYCF in a statement by it’s President General Yerima Shettima averred that since the forcible seizure on Monday, February 17, 2025, of the Afenifere Youth President, he has remained in captivity since then, a situation he described as worrisome .

According to Shettima, more worrisome is.the.fact that the kidnappers are demanding an exorbitant ransom of ₦100 million, a situation he said is compounded by the kidnappers’ ultimatum, threatening to take his life if their demands are not met.

“The recent escalation in the kidnappers’ demands, which now includes the provision of two Keke NAPEP vehicles, alongside a menacing deadline set for Tuesday, at 3 PM, underscores the urgent need for immediate action.

“The threat to execute Prince Ojajuni if these demands are not met is not just a reflection of the lawlessness that has gripped our nation, but also a stark reminder of the fragility of life in the face of greed and desperation.

He posited that Prince Ojajuni is not merely a name but a beacon of hope and a symbol of the aspirations of our youth, adding that his unwavering commitment to championing the cause of the Yoruba people has resonated deeply within our communities.

“His abduction represents not only a personal tragedy for his family and friends but also a grievous affront to the collective conscience of our race and the nation as a whole. It is a stark reminder of the challenges our society faces in safeguarding the lives and futures of our youth.

“The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, representing the interests and voices of the northern youth, unequivocally condemns this act of violence and lawlessness. We recognize that the abduction of Prince Ojajuni is part of a larger crisis that has plagued our nation, where kidnappings for ransom have become an all-too-common occurrence.
This trend is not merely a regional issue; it is a national emergency that demands the immediate and concerted efforts of all levels of government.

“In light of this dire situation, we call upon the Federal Government and all relevant state authorities to take immediate action to ensure the safe release of Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni”.

The Arewa youth leader said, it is imperative that security agencies are mobilized to locate and rescue Prince Ojajuni without delay., stressing that the Federal Government must ensure that law enforcement are adequately equipped and empowered to address the rising tide of kidnapping and violence in our society.

He further urged the Federal Government to collaborate with state governments, local communities, and civil society organizations to create a robust framework for combating kidnapping and improving the overall security situation in the country.

“Engaging with community leaders, youth organizations, and other stakeholders is essential to understanding the root causes of this crisis. A dialogue that prioritizes the safety and aspirations of our youth will foster a more secure environment for all.

The government must launch public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about safety measures and encourage community vigilance. Empowering citizens with knowledge is a crucial step in combating the menace of kidnapping.

“We call for the immediate review and strengthening of existing laws regarding kidnapping and ransom. The legal framework must reflect the seriousness of these crimes and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable”.

In the present situation, Shettima said, the AYCF stands in solidarity with the Afenifere Youth Council and all those advocating for the safe return of Prince Ojajuni while imploring all Nigerians to unite in this critical moment, transcending ethnic and regional divides to demand justice and security for our people.

He reiterated the urgent plea for the safe release of Prince Ojajuni, “Let us not allow fear and despair to dictate our future; instead, let us rise together as a nation, resolute in our commitment to justice, safety, and the well-being of our youth. Time is of the essence. We call upon everyone to act swiftly and decisively. The life of Prince Ojajuni hangs in the balance, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure his safe return” he stressed.

ENDS

In a recent press briefing held on Monday, February 24, 2025, Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, Chairman of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN), Delta State Chapter, lauded High Chief ENGR Kestin Pondi, Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited, for his pivotal role in elevating Nigeria’s crude oil production to over two million barrels per day.

Fajoye attributed this significant achievement to the diligent efforts of Tantita Security Services Limited in combating oil theft and illegal bunkering in the Niger Delta region. He emphasized that the enhanced security measures have not only bolstered oil output but also revitalized local aquatic ecosystems, allowing communities to resume fishing activities.

“Before now, if you threw bread into the river, you would hardly see any fish eating it. But today, thanks to Tantita Security Services Limited, the fishes are back,” Fajoye remarked, highlighting the environmental restoration witnessed in the region.

The youth leader also extended gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for entrusting High Chief Engr Pondi and Tantita Security Services Limited with the mandate to secure Nigeria’s oil fields. “I wish to thank President Bola Tinubu for reposing trust in Delta State and for giving our illustrious chief the opportunity of protecting Nigeria’s oil fields,” Fajoye stated.

In addition to enhancing national oil production, Fajoye praised High Chief Engr Kestin Pondi for creating employment opportunities for thousands of youths in Delta State, thereby contributing to the state’s safety and economic development.

Fajoye urged the Delta State Government to collaborate more closely with High Chief Engr Kestin Pondi to further benefit the state’s youth. He suggested initiatives such as tax relief for Pondi’s enterprises and granting greater access to state and federal facilities to facilitate job creation and development projects.

Reflecting on the state’s progress, Fajoye noted, “Delta State has never had it so good since the coming of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.” He expressed optimism that the combined efforts of Governor Oborewvori and High Chief Engr Kestin Pondi would continue to drive positive change and prosperity in the region.

Recent reports indicate that Nigeria’s oil production, including condensate, rose by 4% month-on-month to 1.737 million barrels per day in January 2025, with projections to reach 2.06 million barrels per day by the end of the year. The collaborative efforts of security agencies and local stakeholders have been instrumental in this upward trajectory.

Tantita Security Services Limited, under the leadership of High Chief Engr Kestin Pondi, has been recognized for its unwavering commitment to eliminating crude oil theft and safeguarding the nation’s vital oil infrastructure. Their operations have not only deterred illicit activities but also fostered a safer and more prosperous environment for the communities in the Niger Delta.