The Federal Government has officially reinstated 16 years as the minimum age for admission into Nigerian universities. This decision, announced by the Honorable Minister of Education, Morufu Tunji Alausa, has reversed the controversial policy introduced in July 2024 by his predecessor, Tahir Mamman, which raised the minimum age to 18. Explaining the rationale behind this move, Alausa emphasized that the previous policy had unintended consequences, including a significant rise in the number of out-of-school children. “We cannot allow rigid policies to deprive brilliant young Nigerians of the opportunity to pursue higher education. This change aligns with global standards and ensures inclusivity in our education system,” he stated.
The former policy, implemented in a bid to address perceived maturity and readiness issues among university students, faced backlash from various stakeholders, including parents, educators, and civil society groups, who argued that it unfairly delayed the academic progression of many students. With the reinstatement of the 16-year minimum age, education experts and advocates have lauded the government for taking swift action to rectify the policy and prioritize access to education.
This decision is expected to alleviate the pressures faced by young Nigerians eager to advance their studies and contribute to reducing the alarming out-of-school statistics in the country, which is among the highest globally.By restoring the original age requirement, the Federal Government has signaled its commitment to fostering an inclusive and adaptable education system that empowers young minds without unnecessary barriers.
In a move that has sparked both relief and controversy, renowned legal icon Aare Afe Babalola SAN has officially withdrawn his N500 million defamation lawsuit against activist and lawyer Dele Farotimi. This decision, announced during a meeting at Afe Babalola University in Ado Ekiti, followed the intervention of prominent figures, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Bishop Matthew Kukah, and Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate.
The case stemmed from Farotimi’s book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, where the activist allegedly made statements that Babalola claimed were false and damaging to his reputation. Initially, Babalola sought not only financial damages but also requested the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) to revoke Farotimi’s law license. The LPDC dismissed the petition, advising that such grievances be handled in court. Babalola, at one point, demanded that Farotimi retract his not-guilty plea and issue a public apology in major newspapers before he would consider withdrawing the case. However, Farotimi did neither, and no public retraction or apology has been issued. Yet, Babalola ultimately chose to withdraw the case after high-level interventions. Nigerians, however, are left in the dark regarding the truth of Farotimi’s allegations. This unresolved controversy raises critical questions about freedom of information, especially concerning sensitive issues that touch on public trust and accountability. With the case now buried, there is a growing concern that the allegations made by Farotimi might be swept under the carpet, leaving citizens with no answers and fostering an atmosphere of speculation and mistrust.
The saga highlights the delicate balance between freedom of speech and the right to protect one’s reputation. It also underscores the urgent need for transparency in addressing allegations that hold potential implications for society. Nigerians deserve not just the freedom to express their views but also access to information that helps them understand and navigate issues of public interest. While the withdrawal of the lawsuit might signal peace between the two parties, it does little to answer the burning questions raised by this case. The public is now left to wonder whether this resolution is justice served—or justice denied.
Passengers aboard United Airlines Flight 613 experienced moments of terror as the aircraft encountered sudden and violent movement mid-air while flying over Ivory Coast airspace. The Lagos-to-Washington, D.C. flight, which took off on January 27, 2025, was forced to make an emergency return to Lagos after the incident left several passengers and crew members injured.
The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has since launched an investigation into the alarming occurrence, describing it as a case of “unexpected aircraft movement.” Eyewitness accounts from passengers reveal that the turbulence was so severe that it sent some travelers out of their seats, with luggage spilling into the aisles.
One passenger, Adebola Iweala, recounted the harrowing moments: “It felt like the plane dropped suddenly. People were screaming, and I saw the flight attendants trying to help those who fell. It was a nightmare.”
The injured individuals, whose conditions remain undisclosed, received medical attention upon the plane’s safe return to Lagos. United Airlines expressed regret over the incident and promised full cooperation with the NTSB investigation. In a statement, the airline assured passengers of its commitment to safety, stating: “We are deeply sorry for the distress caused to our customers and crew. Safety remains our utmost priority, and we will work closely with investigators to determine the cause.”
The NTSB has announced that a preliminary report on the incident will be released within 30 days. Aviation experts speculate that factors such as severe turbulence or mechanical failure may have contributed to the unexpected flight disturbance. The incident has sparked renewed discussions about aviation safety, with many calling for stricter adherence to safety protocols and real-time weather monitoring during long-haul flights.
For the passengers of Flight 613, it was a journey that took an unexpected and frightening turn. While the plane landed safely, the experience serves as a chilling reminder of the unpredictability of air travel.
The political heartbeat of Abuja is set to quicken as the Tinubu Support Group (TSG) rolls out the red carpet for a highly anticipated gathering celebrating Asiwaju’s Grassroot Team. Scheduled to take place on February 14, 2025, at 10:00 AM, the event will be hosted at the TSG Campaign Office, 2 Kainji Crescent, off Lake Chad, Maitama, Abuja, drawing together some of the most influential grassroots mobilizers and political strategists in the country.
This celebration comes at a time when the political climate is gradually building momentum ahead of the 2027 elections, with party loyalists and supporters of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu setting the stage for another decisive political battle. The Tinubu Support Group, known for its unwavering loyalty and instrumental role in the previous electoral victory, is once again mobilizing its base, reinforcing its structures, and ensuring that the grassroots, which proved vital in the 2023 elections, remains the stronghold of the Tinubu movement.
Political watchers see this event as more than just a gathering of like-minded supporters; they see it as a strategic assembly of the key figures who have been instrumental in the electoral successes of the ruling party. The grassroots team, often described as the backbone of Tinubu’s political machinery, is expected to use this platform to assess past successes, realign strategies, and re-energize its supporters ahead of what many anticipate to be another critical electoral season. It is also expected that discussions will revolve around consolidating the gains of the present administration, ensuring that Tinubu’s policies continue to resonate with the people at the grassroots level, and countering opposition narratives that seek to undermine the achievements of the current government. Sources within the organization suggest that this gathering will bring together party stakeholders, youth mobilizers, women leaders, and influential figures who have remained steadfast in their commitment to the Tinubu agenda. There is a palpable sense of excitement within the political circles in Abuja, as expectations rise over the possible unveiling of new strategies and initiatives aimed at strengthening the party’s grassroots outreach.
Dr. Umar Tanko Yakasai, a key figure in the event’s organization, has confirmed that the celebration is strictly by invitation, ensuring that only those with a strategic role to play in the movement will be in attendance. For further inquiries,
he can be reached at 0803 641 8009, 0816 128 3935.With the theme #OnTheMarchAgain2027 already gaining traction across various political platforms, it is evident that the Asiwaju political machine is far from slowing down. Instead, it is revving up, preparing for the next phase of engagement, and ensuring that the grassroots team remains a formidable force in shaping the political landscape of Nigeria.
Migrants hang from a boat as they wait to be rescued as they drift in the Mediterranean Sea, some 12 nautical miles north of Libya, on October 4, 2016. At least 1,800 migrants were rescued off the Libyan coast, the Italian coastguard announced, adding that similar operations were underway around 15 other overloaded vessels. / AFP PHOTO / ARIS MESSINIS
The International Organisation for Migration, IOM, on Monday said that 1,313 migrants were rescued off the coast of Libya in the past week.IOM said in a statement, that from January 19 to 25, 1,313 migrants were intercepted and returned to Libya,
“The migrants include more than 160 women and over 60 children, IOM said, adding that two bodies of migrants were retrieved.
So far this year, 1,806 migrants have been intercepted and returned to Libya, while 32 others died on the Central Mediterranean route, IOM said.According to IOM, due of insecurity and chaos in the country since the fall of late leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, many migrants, mostly Africans, chose to cross the Mediterranean Sea to European shores from Libya.
It is with great pleasure that we extend a formal invitation to you for the occasion of my beloved Freind’s WEDDING Nuhu Balah Should you be unable to attend, we kindly request that you remember us in your prayers, asking for a successful and blessed marriage.
In a bold move to reinforce governance and enhance service delivery, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has approved a series of strategic appointments and reassignments across key sectors.This was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Monday. The statement said the appointments underscore the administration’s commitment to placing highly skilled and experienced professionals in critical positions to drive development, improve financial management, and ensure efficient service delivery for the people of Kano State.
Jamila Magaji Abdullahi – Accountant General of Kano State A seasoned accountant and tax administrator with over 16 years of experience, Jamila Magaji Abdullahi brings a wealth of expertise in financial compliance, budgeting, and risk management. She holds a B.Sc. in Accountancy and a Master’s in Treasury Management from Bayero University, Kano.Her previous roles at the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and Kano State Ministry of Finance have equipped her with the skills necessary to oversee the state’s financial operations with professionalism and integrity. Her appointment reflects the administration’s focus on transparency and accountability in public finance. Jamila Magaji Abdullahi, an indigine of Dawakin Tofa, is the immediate past Director of Treasury at Kano state ministry of finance
Muhammad Yahaya Liman – Director of Treasury A seasoned banker and finance expert with over 16 years of industry experience, Muhammad Yahaya Liman is a proven leader in financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation. He holds a B.Sc. in Accounting, MBA in Finance and Investment and Master of Accounting and Financial Management from Bayero University, KanoHis extensive background in managing high-performing teams and implementing robust internal controls will be instrumental in strengthening Kano State’s treasury operations and enhancing overall financial performance.
Akibu Isa Murtala – Special Adviser on Administration, Governor’s Office Promoted from his role as Senior Special Assistant in the Office of the Chief of Staff, Akibu Isa Murtal has been a key player in administrative coordination.His elevation to Special Adviser on Administration highlights his dedication and effectiveness in ensuring seamless governance operations.
Engr. Abubakar Sadiq – Deputy Managing Director, Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA) Redeployed from his role as Deputy Managing Director of Kano Line, Engr. Abubakar Sadiq’s expertise will now be channeled toward improving rural water supply and sanitation.This reassignment aligns with the administration’s commitment to addressing critical infrastructure needs and enhancing the quality of life for rural communities.Revival of Kano State Transport Authority (Kano Line)In a significant step toward revitalizing public transportation, Governor Yusuf has established a strategic committee tasked with reviving the Kano State Transport Authority, commonly known as Kano Line.Chaired by Sa’idu Abdullahi Shu’aibu, the committee will oversee the review and management of Kano Line’s operations over the next six months to ensure its efficiency, sustainability, and alignment with the state’s development goals.
The composition of the committee is as follows:
Sa’idu Abdullahi Shu’aibu – Chairman and Ag. Managing Director Bello Abdul (DAGS, Ministry of Public Procurement) – Member Abdullahi Tukur (DAGS, Ministry of Works and Housing) – Member Barr. Badamasi Suleiman Gandu (Practising Lawyer) – Member Kabiru Habibu Kyauta (PAS, Special Duties) – Secretary Governor Yusuf’s Charge to Appointees
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf congratulated all the appointees and emphasized the importance of innovation, dedication, and accountability in their new roles.He urged them to work tirelessly to contribute to the collective progress of Kano State, ensuring that the administration’s vision for improved governance and service delivery is realized.These appointments and initiatives demonstrate the administration’s unwavering commitment to fostering development, enhancing public service, and positioning Kano State as a model of effective governance.
I appreciate your presence today as we address some critical issues concerning the safety and security of the people of Kano State. The role of the Police extends beyond maintaining law and order; it includes the responsibility of fostering trust and partnership with the community we serve. It is within this spirit of collaboration and transparency that we gather here to intimate you on the security situation of the State and the Commands efforts in maintaining peace and stability.
Arrest of Three (3) Suspects for Kidnapping and Culpable Homicide: Firstly, we are here to brief you on the arrest of three (3) suspects involved in the kidnapping and the tragic killing of one Alhaji Atiku Mu’azu, a crime that has left a mark of grief within our community.
On 10/01/2025, at about 2pm, a report was received from a resident of Janbulo Quarters, Kano that on 08/01/2025 at about 3pm, one Alhaji Atiku Mu’azu, ‘m’, 64 years old was kidnapped and a ransom of twenty million naira (N20,000,000:00) was demanded for his release. On receipt of the report, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Salman Dogo Garba raised a team from the Commands Anti-Kidnapping Unit and directed the rescue of the victim and arrest of the culprit(s). Sustained follow-up coupled with intelligence-led operation resulted to the arrest of the following suspects in connection with the case: a. Abubakar Hassan, A.K.A. Captain, ‘m’, 33 years old of Ringim LGA, Jigawa State: The principal suspect who masterminded the kidnapping and killing of the victim. b. Adamu Abubakar Adam, ‘m’, 29 years old of Sharada Quarters, Kano: The receiver of the ransom of two million naira (N2,000,000:00). c. Alhaji Hamisu, A.K.A Bakin Bross, ‘m’, 34 years old of Ringim LGA, Jigawa State: His house was used in holding the victim hostage for three days. iv. During the course of the investigation, the principal suspect confessed to having singlehandedly kidnapped and lured the victim to Ringim LGA of Jigawa State under the pretence of taking him to Kazaure LGA, Jigawa State to collect his car from a mechanic. Instead, he conspired with four others including the mechanic of the victim, held him hostage and later killed him after collecting a ransom of two million naira (N2,000,000:00). A Toy Gun with Six (6) Rubber Bullets was recovered from the principal suspect. v. The suspects are currently undergoing discreet investigation at the Command’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Anti-Kidnapping Unit. They will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.
Another report was also received on 26/01/2025, at about 01:30am that armed men in large numbers, riding on motorcycles, shooting sporadically, invaded the residence of one Alhaji Auwalu at Sabuwar Unguwa Garo, Kabo LGA, Kano and robbed him the sum of eight million naira (N8,000,000:00). They also kidnapped his daughter, one Zainab Aliyu, ‘f’, 16 years old to unknown destination. The Police Command has set all machinery in place to ensure the rescue of the victim and apprehend the perpetrators.
In another development, a team of operatives based on credible information received, conducted intelligence-led operation that led to the arrest of seventeen (17) suspected armed robbers who stormed Hotoro, Kawu Quarters, Kano, breaking shops and motor vehicles as well as attacking and robbing innocent people of their belongings. Similarly, three (3) additional suspected armed robbers who attacked two innocent people and robbed two hundred (200) mobile phones from them at Yankatsari Quarters Kano were arrested. Seven (7) mobile phones and dangerous weapons were recoveredIn light of these incidents and various security reports obtained from intelligence agencies, the Kano State Police Command has beamed its search light to identify and tackle any likely emerging security threats. Members of the public are urged to continue to remain vigilant and cautious. Our safety is paramount, therefore, I encourage you to be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest Police Station or through the following contact numbers; 08032419754, 08123821575, 09029292926.
I appreciate the support and cooperation of the public and we will remain resolute in our fight against those who threaten the peace and security of our beloved State.
In a continued fact-finding effort by the Kano State Ministry of Solid Mineral and Natural Resources regarding the Riruwai community disagreement bordering majorly on the Community Development Agreement (CDA) being executed by Century Mining Company (CMC), Commissioner Alhaji Hamza Safiyanu expressed optimism that contentious issues on the matter would soon be resolved to pave way for the indigenous parties to be unified and solidified in ensuring a collectively reviewed and accepted CDA that would generally and effectively improve the living standards of the community members as designed.
The Commissioner hinted the development, Thursday in the conference room of the Ministry shortly after chairing a meeting with another delegation from the same area, headed by Professor Ibrahim Garba Riruwai, a renowned Geologist and former Vice Chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. It could be recalled that the commissioner held a similar meeting last Tuesday with the first delegation from the Community, led by Engineer Usman Sule Riruwai, a former commissioner in the state. At the meeting resolution was reached to immediately convene the Thursday meeting for the sake of fair hearing. Special Adviser to Governor on Solid Mineral and Natural Resources, Alhaji Aminu Abba Ibrahim disclosed that prior to the establishment of the ministry, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf directed him to find out the operational conduct of CMC in the area. The findings according to him were documented and reported to the Governor for further action.
He expressed hope that the lingering disagreement presently under thorough investigation by the ministry would be put to rest at the end of the assigned task. Leader of the delegation, Professor Ibrahim Garba Riruwai who shaded more light on the presence of CMC in the area and its contentious Community Development Agreement, pointed out that it came into effect in the year 2020 with full consent of the community stakeholders and to be reviewed after every five yearsHe noted that the Five year CDA period has now lapsed and a revised agreement should be designed in accordance with the newly introduced guidelines by the Federal Ministry of Mines and Natural Resources Development to incorporate all the aspirations and needs of the community but within the confine mining acts governing the CDA.
Alhaji Sa’ad Ahmed Bello is also a Geologist, expressed delight with the organised prompt fair hearing on the issue at hand by the Commissioner with a view to instilling mutual tolerance and foster effective brotherhood within the birds of the same feather for the overall development of Riruwai and Kano State at large under the able leadership of Abba Kabir Yusuf.He urged the ministry to collaborate with the Kano Mines Development Office for a better result in the sector.Representative of the Federal Ministry of Mines and Solid Mineral Resources Development who doubles as the State Mines Development Officer, Engineer Ahmed Musa, at the meeting reminded the parties that any community disagreement on the issue of CDA and other mining related activities are guided by the laws and could only be resolved as such.
Engineer Mansur Yakubu, the Permanent Secretary expressed the Ministry’s appreciation to the delegation for honoring the invitation despite the short notice.
Kano State Government under the leadership of Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf has reaffirmed its commitment to train teaming jobless youth in the state for brighter and prosperous future. The Director-General, Special Service Directorate, Kano State Government House, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Ibrahim Umaru (rtd) made this known while speaking at a public lecture organized by Voice of Northern Nigeria Students (VONNIS) in collaboration with National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS), held at Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education (SRCOE), Kumbotso, recently.
AVM Umaru said the state government initiated various entrepreneurship and empowerment projects aimed at making them self-reliant.The Director-General called on youths in the state to make best use of the opportunities provided to them by the present administration of Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf particularly via reopening of the 26 Entrepreneurship Skills Institutes closed by the immediate past administration in the state.He assured the present administration’s readiness to support any move aimed at improving the living standard of the state and boost rapid socioeconomic development and prosperity.
The director general said the union visit to correctional centres and hospitals would not only sustain them recognition nationally and globally but would also encourage other teeming youth to emulate the good characters.Speaking earlier, President of VONNIS, Comrade Muazzam Bala Mai Riga had said that the lecture tittled ‘Vocational Training and Entrepreneurship,’ was part of activities lined-up to enlighten youths in the Northern on skills acquisition engagement against looking for white collar job.
Comrade Mai Riga commended the state Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf for unwavering commitment in ensuring improved security through youths empowerment programmes in the state.Highlights of the VONNIS/NAN activities include visit to Correctional Centres by setting 10 inmates free and visitation to Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital (MMSH), and Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital (MAWTH) whereby they donated food to these on sick beds.
