NIGERIA NEWS
Tributes for The Guardian ex-COO, late Alex Thomopulos at 78
Tributes have continued to pour in for the late Dr Alexander Aristotelis Thomopulos, former Chief Operating Officer (COO) of The Guardian Newspapers, following the announcement of his passing by the family.
Lady Maiden Ibru, Chairman/Publisher of The Guardian and younger sister to Thomopulos, his cousin, Mr Toke Alex-Ibru, the CEO, Thomopulos’ daughter, friends and former associates mourn his passing and relive his life and times.
Thomopulous, 78, passed on Monday, December 22, 2025, at a Lagos private hospital, into which he had been admitted following an illness. A United States-trained technocrat and environmental scientist, he was the newspaper’s COO from April 2010 to June 2016, a period that witnessed a lot of structural consolidations in the post-founder Alex Ibru era.
Thomopulos, who joined The Guardian from Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island in Lagos, brought in remarkable administrative and visionary experience that turned the newspaper around and prepared it for digital and energy transformation.
Dr Alex Thomopulos was also a non-executive director on the board of Ikeja Hotels Plc. He was an astute corporate leader and environmental advocate who won awards at events for environmental crusaders. While in active service, Thomopulos maintained a high standard of philanthropy, a lot of which he demonstrated as part of the activities of the Rotary Club of Lagos, Palmgrove Estate, of which Thomopulos was a past president and a pillar behind free eye surgeries and other community projects, in collaboration with the Indo Eye Care Foundation.
In his later years, the late Thomopulos was active on the Editorial Board of The Guardian, meetings of which he attended religiously, even when he battled ill-health. Many members of the board have been paying tributes to him and condolences to his family.
In an ann-ouncement by The Guardian management, the newspaper noted that Dr Thomopulos served the company with dedication, integrity, and exceptional leadership and his contribution to the growth and success of the organisation was invaluable and will be remembered with profound respect and gratitude.
“Management extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with them. Further details regarding funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.”
Chairman of the Editorial Board, Professor Wale Omole, expressed sadness at his death. He described his advent into The Guardian as “a God-given appointment which came at a difficult time, when the founder of the newspaper, Mr Alex Ibru, was abroad.” He observed that “Dr Thomopulos did his best, and he was consistent all through. We will surely miss him.”
Mr Kunle Sanyaolu, the Editorial Page Editor, observed that Dr Alex Thomopulos has joined his ancestors at the age of 78. “We fondly remember him for many things. He was a disciplinarian and an astute administrator with an eye for detail. This, he demonstrated when he was Chief Operating Officer (COO) of The Guardian, many years ago. He made it a duty to interact with associates no matter the level, and he would be remembered for personally giving a
Reporter money, as encouragement for using his phone to capture a news event published in the newspaper. He was a philanthropist with a great deal of humanness, and he was very witty; not one to miss a chance to put a smile or laughter on somebody at every opportunity.
“On this board, many of us will remember his interjections of the proceedings with short, concise comments that struck at the heart of the topic being discussed. And he was consistent on this even when he was obviously contending with serious health challenges. I do not doubt that his death marks the demise of an important part of The Guardian newspaper. He would also be remembered for introducing the word “Associate” to replace the common description “staffer” to describe workers at the newspaper. May Almighty God grant him eternal rest and strengthen Madam Chairman, his other siblings, daughter and all family members with the fortitude to bear his irreplaceable loss. RIP Dr. Thomopulos”
Former Minister of External Affairs, Prof Bolaji Akinyemi wrote: “Eternal Rest grant him O Lord and let Perpetual light shine upon him. He was a good man. A good companion whose company I came to appreciate.”
Former MD/Editor-in-Chief of The Guardian, Mr Martins Oloja, also sent a message: “Good Night, Dr Alex Thomopulos. May his soul rest in perfect peace. I would like to condole with the chief mourner, Madam Chairman and Publisher, Lady Maiden Alex-Ibru. When the history of The Guardian (Nigeria) in the first 40 years comes to be written, the name of the late Dr Thomopulos will not be forgotten. In Nigeria, it isn’t a mourning time. It is a celebration of life @78… Sleep well, Dr. AA.”
Dr Kabir Alabi Garba, Editor of the Weekend Guardian, wrote: “May his soul rest in peace. May the Almighty uphold the family, both the nucleus and the extended, including us in The Guardian. Adieu Dr. Thomopulos!
Mr Francis Onaiyekan, a member of the Editorial Board, expressed his condolences to both the Thomopulos and the Ibru families. “Dr. has moved on to a higher and a better place of bliss than here below”, he stated, wishing the families “strength and peace.”
Mr Alabi Williams also offered condolences and prayers for the families, while Mr Felix Kuye wrote: “May God grant him peaceful rest. Good night, good man.”
Mr Francis Abayomi similarly offered condolences and prayed that his soul rest in peace. Mr Sonnie Ekwowusi observed that Thomopulos’ death marks another depletion of the finest pearls on the (Editorial) Board. “You can say it again and again: he was simplicity personified. A very unassuming gentleman. One of his outstanding qualities on the Board is kindness and concern for others. I remember when Jacob Akindele was very sick, he took it upon himself to visit Jacob and even footed some of his medical bills before the Board officially visited. He would be missed on the Board with his sarcasm and great sense of humour. Condolences especially to the Publisher, the chief mourner on the Board, his family and all of us. We have indeed lost a gem.”
An associate who worked closely with Dr Thomopulos for 12 years described him as “an excellent manager”, strong in discipline and character, and who believed that Nigerians would rather take discipline for wickedness because they don’t want to change their character. He noted that while many people easily misunderstood Thomopulos for being too hard, he was actually humane in many respects
He recalled a gift of N100,000 in 2021 by Dr Thomopulos in aid of the associate’s wife, who was then ill. “He (Thomopulos) urged me to do my best to take care of her. This was a time I had already resigned from my job and had no connection with The Guardian. I also remember how helpless you felt when I resigned”, he recalled, wishing him peace in death.
He added: “Your sense of cleanliness, forthrightness, discipline and humour is unmatched.” Among others who sent condolences to the family are Prof. Ndubuisi Nwokoma and Prof. Sylvester Odion-Akhaine. They prayed for the repose of his soul.
Nigeria recorded an overall balance of payments (BOP) surplus of $4.60 billion in the third quarter of 2025, reversing a deficit in the previous quarter, data released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) shows.
The data were contained in a statement signed by the Acting Director of Corporate Communications at the CBN, Hakama Ali.
Balance of payments (BOP) shows how much money comes into Nigeria and how much goes out through trade, remittances and investment. A surplus means the country earned more foreign currency than it spent, helping to boost reserves, support the naira and strengthen investor confidence.
The improvement was driven by a sustained current account surplus of $3.42 billion, supported by stronger trade performance, resilient remittance inflows, higher financial flows and continued accretion to external reserves, the CBN said.
The goods account remained in surplus at $4.94 billion, reflecting higher export earnings. Crude oil exports rose to $8.45 billion, while exports of refined petroleum products increased by 44 per cent to $2.29 billion, pointing to progress in domestic refining capacity.
Total goods exports stood at $15.24 billion, while imports of refined petroleum products fell by 12.7 per cent, improving the trade balance.
Remittance inflows remained strong during the period. The secondary income account recorded a surplus of $5.50 billion, including $5.24 billion in remittances from Nigerians in the diaspora.
On the financial account, Nigeria posted a net lending position of $0.32 billion. Foreign direct investment inflows rose to $0.72 billion, while portfolio investment inflows stood at $2.51 billion, reflecting improved investor sentiment and continued non-resident participation in domestic financial instruments.
Nigeria’s external reserves increased to $42.77 billion at end-September 2025, up from $37.81 billion at end-June, strengthening the country’s external buffers.
The CBN said the quarter outcome underscored strengthening external sector fundamentals, firmer investor confidence and the continued impact of reforms in the foreign exchange market, monetary policy implementation and the domestic energy sector.
READ ALSO: NNPC E&P Ltd achieves record oil production Official
The surplus comes as Nigeria continues to adjust to wide-ranging foreign exchange reforms, including a more market-driven exchange rate regime and tighter monetary policy aimed at restoring investor confidence.
The expansion of domestic refining capacity, led by new and rehabilitated plants, has also reduced fuel import dependence, easing pressure on foreign exchange demand.
Taraba State Governor Dr Agbu Kefas commiserates with the Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ over the unfortunate demise of Seven members of the Union who lost their lives in a road crash on Monday.
In a statement issued in Jalingo on Wednesday morning and signed by Emmanuel Bello, Special Adviser, Media and Digital Communications to Governor Kefas, the governor also extends his commiseration to the families of Seven Staff of the Nigerian Television Authority NTA who lost their lives in the unfortunate fatal crash on their way to Gombe after attending a wedding in Kaltungo.
Governor Kefas noted that journalists, as members of the Forth Estate of the Realm play pivotal roles in shaping opinion and steering national discuss and so the sudden death of so many journalists at a time is a national disaster.
The statement reads in parts that “Taraba State governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas has received with shock the demise of Seven staff of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in an auto crash on their way to Gombe from a wedding in Kaltungo.
“Governor Kefas described the accident as a national tragedy. He added that the staff died in active service, stressing that their labour to the country would never be forgotten.
“Governor Kefas, who specifically condoled with the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), said that the union has suffered an irreparable loss. Dr. Kefas reiterated his support for the union, stressing that journalist welfare is key to press freedom in the country. He also condoled with the immediate families of the victims. Sympathising further with the family, he assured them that the service rendered by the deceased would remain indelible in the heart of colleagues and the general public.
“Meanwhile, Dr. Kefas has also condoled with the government and people of Gombe state. He prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed”.
The Governor also pray for all those who will be traveling during this festive period that God will protect them and grant them safe travels.
NIGERIA NEWS
Anthony Joshua: Man Who Saw Video of Truck After Accident Shares Why Boxer’s Driver is At Fault
- A Nigerian man shared his observation after watching a video showing the aftermath of Anthony Joshua’s accident
- He reacted to the video of the truck involved in the accident, sharing why the boxer’s driver was at fault in the accident
- What he said caught people’s attention ad the accident, which took two lives sparks conversations on social media
A Nigerian man shared what he observed concerning the accident involving British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua.
Two close associates of the renowned Nigerian-born boxer lost their lives in the accident that happened on a major road in Ogun State.
A man shares why the driver of Anthony Joshua’s car is at fault in the tragic accident. Photo: @Wizarab10, @anthonyjoshua
Source: TikTok
The car carrying the three men and the driver hit a stationary truck on the road. Joshua sustained minor injuries and was taken to a hospital in a police van, as no ambulance was immediately available at the scene.
Anthony Joshua’s accident: Man blames driver
A video showing where the truck was packed during the accident surfaced online, and the popular X user, @Wizarab10, pointed out his observations.
Read also
Anthony Joshua: Man who had an accident on same road in 2022 shares tragic story, post trends
He shared why the driver of the accident was at fault, as he analysed the situation.
His X post read:
“If this was the position of the truck at the time of the impact, the driver was at fault. How do you hit a parked truck that is off the road so bad it killed 2 people in a hot afternoon?“Regardless of fault, it does not excuse our lack of emergency services. We must be able to access them within 10 mins of accident. We have work to do as a people. We really do.”
See the X post below:
Reactions trail man’s analysis about Joshua’s accident
@IamEriOluwa said:
“There’s no way anyone should even be speeding like that without any intervention by any of our agencies on the road. There should be penalties for exceeding the speed limit. The road safety guys should be all over—especially during this time. We need those cameras everywhere. And most importantly, our rescue team should be on alert. We should be seeing them parked somewhere on the street. The emergency toll-free number should be functional. It doesn’t have to be an Anthony Joshua for a Nigerian’s life to be rescued from the jaws of death. We can do better and we must!”
Read also
Man shares heartbreaking things he witnessed at Anthony Joshua accident scene: “I counted 3”
@sportxanalytics said:
“The law of negligence settles everything here.”
@iamthepreence said:
“You just have to wonder how he possibly moved from fast lane, middle lane and even the slower lane to hit a truck that’s packed on the hard shoulder lane. Because that’s a three-lane express. Something must have been wrong with either the car or the driver.”
The accident involving Anthony Joshua sparks conversations online. Photo: @Wizarab10, @anthonyjoshua
Source: Getty Images
Anthony Joshua’s family breaks silence after accident
In a related story on Legit.ng, Anthony Joshua’s family has broken the silence following the ghastly car accident that took the lives of two people
The boxer’s uncle said they didn’t know which hospital he was taken to after the accident on Lagos-Ibadan expressway
He also shared how he got the news of the accident, sparking mixed reactions from netizens who came across the video
Source: Legit.ng
A Nigerian man has reacted to the car crash involving former heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua.
Earlier, GistReel reported that Anthony Joshua, who recently defeated YouTuber boxer, Jake Paul, was involved in a car crash in Ogun State on December 29, 2025.
The accident occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, resulting in the deaths of two people, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, who were close friends and team members.
The boxer, seated in the backseat, sustained minor injuries and was taken to a hospital for treatment.
Man speaks on Anthony Joshua’s car crash in Ogun
The man with the X handle, @lollypezzle reposted a video of the tragic incident, emphasizing that Anthony Joshua’s driver shouldn’t escape justice.
In the tweet, which has garnered over 300k views, he angrily stated, “Nigerian standard, this vehicle is well parked. The driver who drove Anthony Joshua must not escape justice.”
Man Shares Details Of Anthony Joshua’s Car Crash
A Nigerian man identifed as @deyemidada on X (formely Twitter), shared that he was one vehicle behind the tragic scene.
According to him, FRSC officials arrived on foot, running, just 5 minutes after the crash.
The X user disclosed that Anthony Joshua was extracted from the vehicle and traffic was cleared in about 10 minutes.
See below……
A group, National Grassroots Movement (NGM), has raised the alarm over the alleged plot to remove Godswill Akpabio as Senate President.
The plot, according to the NGM, was a calculated move to destabilise the National Assembly and undermine President Bola Tinubu ‘s administration ahead of the 2027 election.
In a statement by the Hon. Tunde Felix, National Coordinator and Alhaji Musa Mustapha, National Publicity Secretary, the group fingered a prominent senator from the South south as the mastermind of the plot.
According to the NGM, the South south senator intends to take over as Senate President, alleging his desperation to cause confusion in the National Assembly.
The statement reads in parts: “The National Grassroots Movement raises the alarm over credible political maneuvers pointing to a well-coordinated scheme by a bloc of Northern senators to remove the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, for selfish and destabilizing purposes.
‘This scheme is not motivated by principle, reform, or legislative conscience, but by desperation—a calculated power grab fueled by wounded pride and the pursuit of political relevance, aimed at installing a prominent Senator from the Southsouth as Senate President through orchestrated alliances and sectional maneuvering.
“The National Grassroots Movement views this as a dangerous escalation by the Senator, who has lost political confidence within the Presidency and is now seeking relevance by turning the National Assembly into a theatre of distraction—intended to slow, frustrate, and weaken the reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
“Senator Godswill Akpabio has provided steady and nationally balanced leadership to the 10th National Assembly, refusing to turn the Senate into an opposition arena. His collaborative approach with the Executive has been crucial in stabilizing governance at a time when Nigeria requires discipline, unity, and decisive action”.
The statement further reads: “While leadership changes in the National Assembly are constitutionally permissible, deliberately engineering such changes through premeditated alliances, sectional calculations, or personal vendettas—rather than genuine national interest and broad consensus—raises serious concerns about motive and its impact on legislative stability.
“The National Grassroots Movement condemns any attempt to weaponize ethnicity, region, or numerical strength to seize Senate leadership. The National Assembly must not become a battleground for personal scores or fading political influence.
“The Movement therefore warns, unequivocally, that Nigerians are watching. Party members are alert. Any effort to create crisis for narrow ambition will be resisted politically, exposed publicly, and rejected morally.
“The Senator must be reminded that the APC is not a vehicle for personal vendettas, nor is the National Assembly a tool to destabilize a government elected by Nigerians. Loyalty to the party, respect for institutions, and commitment to national stability must take precedence over personal ambition.
“The National Grassroots Movement calls on all party members, patriotic Nigerians, and democratic stakeholders to remain vigilant, reject manipulation, and defend institutional integrity. Sectional ambition must not override national interest, and anyone attempting to sabotage the Tinubu administration or destabilize the Senate will be held accountable
‘The National Grassroots Movement stands resolutely with Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the leadership of the 10th National Assembly, and the Tinubu administration, and will mobilize politically and intellectually to defend legislative stability, party unity, and democratic order”.
The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, has stated that Peter Obi will soon reveal the party through which he intends to contest in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during an interview Tanko emphasised that the decision rests solely with Obi.
“A lot of people are waiting for Peter Obi to announce the party he will contest under.
“This shows that he is not only sought after in Nigeria but also admired globally—a truly valuable asset.
“We will allow Obi to make that announcement in his own time.
“He has consistently shown that he works closely with a coalition and is a team player.
“His eventual decision will make everyone happy. Obi has always been actively involved in this coalition, contributing to the political party it has produced.
“When he makes his pronouncement, it will be welcomed by all because he is committed to teamwork and to a Nigeria that is free from those who act against the country’s best interests.
“So, His Excellency, Mr Peter Obi, will make his announcement very soon,” Tanko said.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has projected that headline inflation will moderate to an average of 12.94% in 2026, driven by easing food prices and a decline in the cost of premium motor spirit (PMS).
The projection is contained in the apex bank’s 2026 Macroeconomic Outlook for Nigeria.
According to the CBN, improved domestic supply conditions and stabilising energy prices are expected to reduce cost pressures on households and businesses, supporting overall price stability.
What the CBN is saying
In the outlook report, the CBN said inflationary pressures are expected to ease in 2026 as food and energy prices decline.
“Headline inflation is projected to moderate to an estimated average of 12.94 per cent in 2026, driven by declining food and premium motor spirit (PMS) prices,” the apex bank said.
The CBN also projected a bullish capital market outlook for 2026, supported by ongoing bank recapitalisation, rising investor confidence, and policy measures aimed at fostering economic growth.
The apex bank identified several factors expected to influence growth in monetary aggregates in 2026, including exchange rate movements, fiscal operations, election-related spending, and the continued implementation of prudential and regulatory measures.
According to the CBN, these variables will shape liquidity conditions and credit expansion in the economy, particularly as political activities ahead of elections increase government spending and financial flows.
The outlook builds on recent policy tightening and structural reforms aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability after a prolonged period of elevated inflation and currency volatility.
What this means
If realised, the projected moderation in inflation would mark a significant improvement in Nigeria’s price environment, potentially easing pressure on consumers and improving business planning.
A bullish capital market outlook also suggests stronger investor participation, particularly as bank recapitalisation and policy reforms deepen market confidence.
The CBN said it remains committed to deploying appropriate policy tools to sustain macroeconomic stability, support economic growth, and strengthen the financial system amid domestic and global economic uncertainties.
What you should know
Nigeria’s headline inflation rate moderated to 14.45 per cent in November 2025, marking a significant slowdown from the 16.05 per cent recorded in October 2025.
The decline of 1.6 percentage points month-on-month signals easing price pressures across the economy after several months of elevated inflation, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
In December 2024, President Bola Tinubu declared the Federal Government’s commitment to reducing Nigeria’s inflation rate from 34.6% to 15% by the end of 2025.
Follow us for Breaking News and Market Intelligence.
SOURCE PAGE
Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
A non-governmental organisation (NGO), The PAVE Network, has urged government at all levels and individuals to collaborate in combating violent extremism.
The organisation said it has made significant strides in preventing and countering violent extremism (PCVE) in the North-west region,
At a press conference yesterday, the organisation highlighted key achie-vements such as multi-stakeholder workshops, peer learning exchanges, and community resilience campaigns focusing on peace education and tolerance messaging.
The organisation further explained that these efforts have enhanced collaboration among government agencies, security forces, and civil society, which led to the drafting of State Action Plans (SAPs) and Local Action Plans (LAPs) to address the complex security challenges in the region.
The Sokoto State Chair of The PAVE Network, Dr Ahmad Surajo Muhammad emphasized, that despite progress, challenges still persist.
He said the challenges include: the presence of armed groups such as Lakurawa , youth unemployment, and weak intelligence linkages, which fuel vulnerability to extremist narratives.
He further stated that to address these issues, The PAVE Network is calling on residents to stay vigilant and reject extremist ideologies, traditional leaders to amplify messages of peace and tolerance, and government agencies to integrate PCVE priorities into planning and budgeting.
He urged security agencies to deepen engagement with communities and respect human rights in all operations, emphasising that security operations alone cannot end violent extremism.
“This is a shared governance, development, and community resilience challenge,” he said.
He said the NGO is committed to a collaborative, inclusive and evidence-based approach to PCVE, emphasising that peace and resilience are responsibilities of every member of society.
He said the network’s efforts have already recorded notable gains, including the setup of Technical Working Groups for SAPs and LAPs, introduction of PCVE into state budget proposals, and participation of critical stakeholders, including the private sector.
A fire outbreak on Tuesday evening gutted a section of the popular Arena Market in Bolade, Oshodi, Lagos State and destroyed about 10 shops.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the incident in a statement issued by its Controller General, Mrs Margaret Adeseye.
According to the statement, the Service received a distress call at about 5:50 p.m. reporting a fire outbreak at the market, prompting the immediate deployment of firefighting units.
The responders arrived at the scene within five minutes, at approximately 5:55 p.m.
Adeseye said the fire affected a section of the market comprising five 40-foot container shops arranged in two rows, bringing the total number of affected shops to 10.
She explained that the shops were mainly used for the storage and sale of clothing materials, which were stocked in bales. She added that the swift intervention of firefighters ensured the blaze was contained and prevented from spreading to other parts of the market.
“The situation is firmly under control, and there is no risk of the fire spreading to other parts of the market,” the statement said.
Adeseye assured members of the public that all necessary measures had been taken to protect lives and property, adding that an investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the fire, with further updates to be provided as required.
Nigeria recorded an overall Balance of Payments (BOP) surplus of $4.60 billion in the third quarter of 2025, marking a turnaround from the deficit position in the preceding quarter.
This is according to data released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
The apex bank said that the improvement was supported by a sustained current account surplus of 3.42 billion dollars, supported by stronger trade performance, resilient remittance inflows, increased financial flows, and continued accretion to external reserves.
The CBN reported that the goods account remained in surplus at 4.94 billion dollars, reflecting higher export earnings during the period.
“Crude oil exports rose to 8.45 billion dollars, while exports of refined petroleum products increased by 44 per cent to $2.29 billion.
“This indicates further progress in domestic refining capacity and Nigeria’s gradual transition from a net importer to a net exporter of refined petroleum products.
“Total goods exports stood at 15.24 billion dollars, while imports of refined petroleum products declined by 12.7 per cent, resulting in an improved trade balance.
“Workers’ remittances also remained strong, with the secondary income account recording a surplus of 5.50 billion dollars, including $5.24 billion in remittance inflows from Nigerians in the diaspora,” it said.
The apex bank said that developments in the financial account further supported the overall BOP outcome, with Nigeria posting a net lending position of $0.32 billion.
It said that foreign direct investment inflows rose to $0.72 billion, while portfolio investment inflows remained robust at $2.51 billion, reflecting improved investor sentiment and continued non-resident participation in domestic financial instruments.
“The country’s external reserves increased to $42.77 billion at the end of September 2025, up from $37.81 billion at the end of June, thereby strengthening Nigeria’s external buffers,” it said.
According to the CBN, the Q3 2025 BOP outcome underscores strengthening external sector fundamentals and firmer investor confidence.
“It also underscores the continued impact of reforms in the foreign exchange market, monetary policy implementation, and the domestic energy sector,” it said. (NAN)
The post Nigeria records overall $4.60 bn balance of payments surplus in Q3 2025 – CBN appeared first on Vanguard News.
Plateau State Governor, Barr Caleb Mutfwang has approved the sponsorship of 200 students for undergraduate degree programmes in Medical Sciences, Engineering, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at Sanskaram University, India.
Presiding over the farewell ceremony for the beneficiaries, the Governor described the initiative as a strategic, merit-driven investment in human capital development aimed at securing the future of Plateau State through education, discipline, and global exposure.
He emphasised that the beneficiaries, drawn from across the three senatorial zones of the state, emerged through a transparent, competitive, and strictly merit-based selection process.
“This process was not manipulated or influenced in any way. Everyone selected is here because of hard work and excellence. If they did not earn it by merit, nobody would be discussing them,” he stated.
The governor added that the selection was independently supervised by the partner university to ensure credibility.
Mutfwang further clarified that the programme was deliberately insulated from political, institutional, or quota considerations.
“We did not allocate slots to politicians, local governments, or institutions. We insisted that this first batch must be purely merit-based because Plateau State has produced some of the brightest minds in this country, and we believe God has blessed us with excellence,” he said.
While addressing the departing students, Mutfwang charged them to uphold discipline, moral integrity, and academic excellence as worthy ambassadors of Plateau State and Nigeria.
“What God is giving you through us are wings to fly. Wheqn the hour of temptation comes, remember where you are coming from. Devote yourselves to excellence, because the future of Plateau State and Nigeria will depend on you,” he admonished.
He also unveiled broader reforms in the education sector, disclosing that the 2026 budget provides for a special research fund for Plateau indigene in tertiary institutions, expanded postgraduate programmes at Plateau State University, and enhanced support for Master’s and PhD research.
“This is just the beginning. We are deliberately investing in our institutions so they can compete favourably at national and global levels,” he said, reiterating his administration’s resolve to build “a new Plateau where no one is left behind and where religion or ethnicity will not hold us back.”
In her remarks, the Commissioner of Education, Dr Kachollom Pyam Gang, described the scheme as a historic milestone in Plateau State’s educational advancement, noting that it was unprecedented for a sitting governor to sponsor as many as 200 students for overseas studies at once.
Gang commended Governor Mutfwang’s vision and personal sacrifice, affirming that the beneficiaries’ admission into Sanskaram University was earned through discipline and academic excellence.
“Excellence is not a destination; it is a habit. Return with knowledge, with stories, and with the fire to build a healthier and more prosperous Plateau State,” she charged.
The Acting Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Scholarship Board, Nankus Adams Ngwalang, applauded Governor Mutfwang for the novel initiative, describing it as the most impactful intervention the board has experienced.
Ngwalang noted that the administration has increased bursary allowances for students, sponsored scholarship programmes to Liberty University, and granted the board the autonomy to operate in the interest of peace and progress in the state.
Speaking on behalf of parents, Mr. Fabong Adanchin expressed profound gratitude to the Governor, describing the initiative as transformative.
“I did not support you in the last election, but good leadership won me over. Today, my son is going to India purely on merit. This seed you have sown will outlive us, because the child of a widow, a poor man, and an orphan can now access quality education,” he said.
The event, which drew government officials, parents, traditional rulers, and religious leaders, underscored the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, as beneficiaries comprised both Christians and Muslims. Traditional leaders urged the students to return with value and impact.
“You are going to India not just for yourselves, but for Plateau State. Bring back knowledge and excellence. Promote our oneness and make us proud,” they charged, while offering prayers for their success and safe return.
A fraudster handcuffed by Police
The Police Command in Oyo State says it has arrested a 22-year-old suspect for allegedly raping a 17-year-old girl after intoxicating her with a substance.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed this in a statement to newsmen on Tuesday in Ibadan.
Olayinka said that the Alakia Adelubi Police Division received a report of sexual assault on a 17-year-old female on Thursday and immediately began investigations.
“The victim was promptly taken to a hospital for medical examination, while the scene of the incident was visited, and the suspect was arrested and taken into custody,” he said.
He said that preliminary investigations revealed that the 22-year-old male suspect allegedly had unlawful carnal knowledge of the minor after administering an intoxicating drink to her.
The PRO said that the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Mr Femi Haruna, has ordered the transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for discreet investigation.
He said that the Commissioner of Police has warned that the Command will not tolerate any violent acts against women or offences targeted at women or any member of society.
Olayinka reassured members of the public that the Command remains committed to safeguarding the lives and property of all citizens in the state.
He urged residents to continue to provide credible information that would aid security agencies in crime prevention and detection.
Olayinka said that the suspect has confessed to the crime and would be charged to court upon completion of investigations.
A civil society group, The Osun Masterminds, TOM, has criticised the operations of the Osun State Security Network Agency, Amotekun Corps, citing alleged misconduct and leadership failure.
The group made its position known in a statement delivered by its Executive Director, Prof Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli during its December 2025 State of the State address on Tuesday in Osogbo.
According to the group, the corps has failed to meet public expectations following reported cases of murder, extortion and high-handedness by some of its operatives.
Referencing the killing of some residents in Akinlalu community in September, Prof Oyedokun-Alli described the incident as unfortunate and troubling.
The group alleged that “the current leadership of the corps, headed by retired Assistant Superintendent of Police Omoyele, had fallen short of acceptable standards.”
It compared the performance of the Osun Amotekun unfavourably with those of Ondo, Oyo, Ogun, Ekiti and Lagos states, where it said the corps had recorded notable successes.
The Osun Masterminds recalled what it described as the lofty strides of the corps under former leaders, Comrade Shittu Amitolu and Brigadier General Adewinnmbi.
The group called on Governor Ademola Adeleke to urgently reorganise the Amotekun Corps in the interest of public safety.
“We are calling for a total overhauling of the headship of Amotekun in Osun State. We need a total overhaul,” Oyedokun-Alli said.
He added that the group was raising the alarm to prevent the spread of terrorism and banditry into the state from neighbouring areas.
“Let it be on record that we are warning again in order to curtail insecurity in Osun State before it gets to that point,” he said.
The group also acknowledged a reduction in security challenges during the recent Yuletide season, commending the Federal Government’s efforts.
However, it cautioned against what it described as potential threats to Nigeria’s territorial integrity, urging the government to remain vigilant in matters of national security.
A Baptist Church cleric, Rev. Samson Okoro Elekwa, has commended the family of the former Governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu, for what he described as an outstanding act of compassion and service to humanity during the Christmas season.
Rev. Elekwa disclosed that the Kalu family, working alongside the senator’s brothers, Chief Nnanna, and Mascot Uzor Kalu, reached out to over 9,500 families across the 17 Local Government Areas of the State, gifting each beneficiary a cash support of N25,000 as part of the 2025 Christmas celebration.
He said the gesture was not surprising to many residents of the state, noting that the scale of the intervention prompted him to personally verify the information.
According to him, upon hearing the report, he contacted the Chairman of the Abia State chapter of the OUK Movement, Hon. Sunday Ojisi (Abacha), who confirmed the distribution.
Describing the initiative as a rare demonstration of genuine love, Rev. Elekwa said the Kalu family’s action aligns with the core teachings of Christianity.
“This is the spirit of love. Christ preached love while on earth, and this family has clearly shown that love in practical terms,” he said.
The cleric further stated that Senator Kalu and his brothers have continued to exemplify generosity and empathy, particularly at a time when many families are grappling with economic hardship.
He urged other well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the gesture by supporting the less privileged within their communities.
Beyond the Christmas outreach, Senator Kalu has been widely acknowledged for his long-standing philanthropic interventions across Abia North and other parts of the state.
Over the years, he has supported education through scholarships, classroom construction, and the donation of learning materials to schools.
The lawmaker has also played a visible role in healthcare delivery, facilitating medical outreaches, hospital equipment donations, and assistance to patients requiring urgent medical care.
These efforts, observers note, have complemented government initiatives in underserved rural areas.
In addition, Senator Kalu has been credited with various empowerment programmes aimed at youths and women, including skills acquisition, financial support for small businesses, and community infrastructure projects such as road rehabilitation and water schemes.
Rev. Elekwa prayed for God’s continued guidance and strength for the Kalu family, stressing that acts of kindness and selfless service remain the true measure of leadership. He said such gestures not only bring relief to the people but also promote unity, peace, and shared responsibility within society.
Please follow and like us:
Suspected bandits have killed two persons, injured one and abducted a woman during an attack on Rimi Kamazo community in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Akelicious report that the incident occurred on Dec. 28 at about 11:50 a.m. when an unspecified number of armed bandits invaded the community, firing sporadically and causing panic among residents.
Victims of the attack were identified as Zainab Amos Bagoro, 55, and Aminu Amos Bagoro, 25, who were shot and fatally injured. Another victim, Gayus Amos Bagoro, sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving treatment.
The attackers also abducted Justina Abednego, 25, and took her to an unknown destination.
Sources said security operatives received information about the attack at about 2:00 a.m. on Dec. 29 and immediately mobilised to the area in collaboration with other security agencies.
The injured victims were rushed to hospital for medical attention, where the two critically injured persons were confirmed dead, while the surviving victim is receiving treatment at St. Gerald Hospital, Kakuri, Kaduna.
The corpses of the deceased were deposited at the hospital morgue for autopsy.
Security forces have intensified efforts to rescue the abducted woman and track down the perpetrators, while investigations into the incident have commenced.
Related