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The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has lamented the sudden demise of foremost entrepreneur, Barr. Ben Udowa, saying his death is a huge loss to the State.

Barr. Udowa, an Executive Director of Other Investments in the Akwa Ibom State Investment Corporation, AKICORP, died from injuries sustained following an auto crash on Friday night.

Governor Eno who spoke during a condolence visit on the family on Sunday evening, expressed deep worry over the large vacuum created by the exit of the renowned businessman.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, the State Chief Executive said it was unfortunate that at the time the State needed him most, God chose to invite Mr Udowa home.

"It is a tragic loss not only to the Udowa family, but to the entire State.”

He expressed regret over the inability of the Governor to visit personally, owing to official engagements outside the shores of the state.

“The Governor has told me to tell you that you are not alone in this moment of grief.

“The Government of Akwa Ibom State is strongly behind you in support, please be consoled”, Prince Uwah told the widow of the deceased Group CEO of Madelyn Group.

Also speaking, Chief Assam Assam,SAN, a former Ambassador of Nigeria to Russia, recounted the reaction of the Governor when he heard the news of the accident, and all the efforts he made for appropriate medical attention to be given on the chartered accountant.

It is unfortunate that despite all the attempts to save him, God called him home. It was God who called him, and not man.

“The sad fact is that the call came at a wrong time, but then, there is no appropriate time for a loved one to go home, even at an old age.

“No one can do much to prevent you from crying because this loss is huge, but since it is a mourning that will continue for a lifetime, we pray that God alone would console you and your entire family”, said Chief Assam to the wife of the deceased, Mrs Lydia Ben Udowa.

Prayers of consolation were offered for the bereaved family by Executive Director, Agric Investment, AKICORP, Pastor Godwin Ukwat.

Responding, a brother to the wife of the deceased, Mr Samuel Udo Ikpe thanked the Governor for the visit, saying the family will always savour in the ideals of handwork and ingenuity the departed represented.

In the delegation were, Mr. Frank Archibong, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Akaniyene Tommy, Akan Tommey Chairman of Eket Local government area, Dr. Ini Adiakpan, Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr Nsidibe Akata, Member House of Assembly, Pastor Imoabasi Jacob, Managing Director, AKICORP, Hon. David Lawrence, former Lawmaker and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso.

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The plan by Shell to sell its Nigerian subsidiary, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and other multinational oil companies without cleaning up the pollution in the Niger Delta communities and restoring the ecosystem has sparked protests in Bayelsa State.

Women from Bayelsa and other Niger Delta states who decried the plan staged a protest at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) press centre in Yenagoa over the weekend.

They said husbands in the region could no longer impregnate their wives due to toxic environmental pollution from the oil exploration and urged the federal government to reject the request by the oil companies to divest without first cleaning up the polluted environment.

Presenting their position paper signed by Mrs Emem Okon of Kebetkache Women Development & Resource Centre and over 15 women groups in the region to the officials of the NUJ, the protesters said that Shell’s decision to sell SPDC and all onshore assets to investors without consulting communities is unhealthy, unethical, irresponsible, and therefore unacceptable.

Speaking during the protest, Barr. Dise Ogbise-Goddy of Do Foundation stated that it was injustice for Shell to divest from onshore without restoring the ecosystem in Niger Delta, which they have polluted over the years.
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The yearly December Global Retreat and Global Crusade with Kumuyi (GCK), hosted by the Deeper Life Bible Church, officially began on Friday, December 20, at the Deeper Life Conference Centre, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The highly anticipated event, which attracts thousands of faithful from around the globe, will run until December 25.

In a press briefing on Thursday, Pastor William Folorunsho Kumuyi, the General Superintendent of the church, shared the significance of this year’s retreat, themed ‘Power for Present Possession’.

He stated: “There will be transformation, healing, deliverance, and miracles for everyone who connects with the Lord.

“This retreat has something special for every group—children, young adults, campus members, and adults. We have made arrangements to meet personal, spiritual, and professional needs.”

The retreat, traditionally held at the close of the year, is a time for reflection and renewal.

Pastor Kumuyi explained, “This is an opportunity to think about the past, assess the present, and prepare for the future. It is a time for transformation for individuals, churches, and the broader public.”

The event is broadcast globally, ensuring that participants from other countries can partake in the life-changing programs.

Addressing questions about Christian participation in politics, Pastor Kumuyi emphasised the importance of believers taking active roles in governance while staying true to their spiritual calling.

“If Christians do not participate, others will determine the direction of the nation,” he stated.

“We have examples like Joseph in the Old Testament, who became a prime minister and brought about significant change.

“Christians should engage at federal, state, and local levels. I will say that Christians should take part in politics but we must follow our calling.”

He also urged leaders to listen to the concerns of the people, noting, “Our leaders are elected leaders: local, state and federal. Since we elected the leaders, the populace has the right to ask the leaders to listen to us.

“The leaders have the responsibility to listen to what we say. They should have a thorough plan so that we are able to go forward.”

Pastor Kumuyi, however, called on Christians to continue interceding for Nigeria, highlighting the transformative power of prayer.

“When God is brought in not only in personal lives, even in the nation… Because in the Bible, there were times when things were really bad, we have Elijah, Elisha, Moses that interceded for the nation and things turned around and I believe that place of the church is not sometimes visible, but as we are praying, we know that God answers prayers, I believe, according to the promises of God, things are going to turn around for the better in this coming year.”

When asked about the issue of false prophets, Pastor Kumuyi explained the church’s strategy.

“We don’t waste time attacking false prophets. Instead, we focus on bringing light, which naturally dispels darkness,” he said.
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The Federal Government has announced Wednesday 25th, Thursday 26th of December 2024, and Wednesday 1st of January, 2025 as public holidays for the celebration of Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year respectively.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement on Monday in Abuja, through the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government.

According to the statement, the minister extended warm greetings to all Nigerians, urging them to use the festive period to reflect on the values of love, peace, and unity that the season signifies.

Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of the season as a time to foster harmony and strengthen bonds across families and communities.

The Minister also called on Nigerians to remain committed to the peace, unity and progress of the nation for national development.

“The Christmas season is a good moment for both spiritual reflection and national renewal. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, let us demonstrate kindness and extend goodwill to one another, irrespective of our differences,” said Dr. Tunji-Ojo.

He assured citizens of the Federal Government’s continued commitment to ensuring peace, security, and prosperity across the nation.

“While wishing Nigerians a merry Christmas and a prosperous 2025, the Minister expressed his confidence in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu’s Administration ushering in the new year, a better and prosperous economy that will be the envy of the world”, the statement added.
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Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed deep concern over a recent directive issued by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), which places restrictions on the distribution of palliatives to underprivileged Nigerians.

In a statement shared on social media, Obi acknowledged the directive as a response to tragic incidents across the country related to poorly managed aid distribution.

However, he warned that the policy, while well-intentioned, is “open to abuse” and could discourage citizens from assisting those in dire need.

Obi emphasized the importance of fostering compassion during these challenging times.

“Acts of goodwill should not be hindered by excessive bureaucracy,” he said, stressing that the directive risks stifling the spirit of generosity at a time when widespread hunger and economic hardship have left millions vulnerable.

While he supported better organization and public safety measures, Obi urged authorities to focus on promoting coordination rather than creating barriers.

“Rather than requiring people to seek permission to assist those in need, we should encourage them to find better, more organized ways to offer such help,” he added.

Calling for an immediate review of the directive, Obi implored the IGP to ensure that the police support collaborative efforts to alleviate suffering instead of discouraging acts of kindness.

“The government must do more to address the root causes of this hardship,” Obi concluded.
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The many residents of Jere town in Kagarko Local Government Area, Kaduna State, have raised concerns about the ongoing abandonment of mentally ill individuals in their community from other areas.

The locals believed that the mentally ill people were brought to their area from the Federal Capital Territory.

The patron of the Jere Emirate Security Committee, Abdulkarim Sulaiman, made the allegation yesterday in a phone conversation with Abuja Metro.

Sulaiman, who also holds the traditional title of Yeriman-Jere, said intelligence reports at their disposal showed that the people were brought into the area during the night hours.

He said they were dumped on the road that links the area with Kagarko or Bwari highway, respectively.

“From there, some of them would move toward Jere, Kagarko, or Iche communities, disturbing the life of our people, as you would find some of them aggressive, or naked.

‘’They comprise both males and females, mostly in the average young age. This is unfair to our community,’’ he said.

Abuja Metro recalled that a special joint task force set up by the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike, had intensified operations to get rid of beggars and insane people from the territory recently.

Although the task force had said beggars arrested who are not ready to be empowered via skill acquisition would be repatriated to their states of origin, it was silent on what happens to the insane people.

Dr Peter Olumiji, the Secretary, FCT Command and Control Centre, could not be reached for comments on the matter.
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A social club, 36 Pals Development Initiatives has officially closed its activities for the year amidst catalogue of achievements in the last 12 months aimed at touching the lives of individuals and communities, ABUJAPRESS reports.

The end of year gathering at Grand Cubana hotel in Abuja tagged "Black Tie Event" was an opportunity for members of the club to meet and review the activities of the year and chart new frontiers that will help in improving the welfare of members as well as impact individuals. 

In his welcome address, Chairman of the Initiatives, Amb. Victor Ita Okon who is the Chairman/CEO Wrightlinks Group of Nigeria expressed gratitude to members for their dedication and selflessness towards making the group a model among equals. 


He said despite the economic challenges in the country, the Initiative was able to embark some impactful projects in order to add value and raise the living standard of benefitting communities. 

He expressed optimism that the incoming year will present opportunity for greater achievements for both the club members those in need. 

Also at the event, financial expert and banker, Dr. Daniel Oniko was brought in to speak on mental health and the need for people to go on a regular medical check to ensure they are mentally sound. 
There was cutting cake and also counselling which centered on marriage and why couples should develop a more closer communication and create adequate family time. It was advised that such times make marital unions stronger and bonding becomes more closer. 

To make this practical, couples were invited to showcase their dancing skills with their spouses on stage, which witness a humongous fun. 

A prominent executive member and Chief Operating Officer Of Grand Cubana hotel, Dr. Omoaefe Ejere who coordinated the hosting of the dinner reception applauded members of the Club for standing out in their respective endeavours throughout the year.
Abuja based PR practitioner, Alex Nwankwo, Emeka Nwugha and others were among those invited for the end of year party. 

According ABUJAPRESS, Members of the club who were also presented with certificates, unilaterally agreed to put energy together to make it more unified and bigger in all fronts. 

There was so much to eat and drink for every guest that came.

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The Eze Igbo 1 of Maitama, Abuja, HRH Eze Amb. David Kingston Okey-Dede has urged the federal government to take the calls for self-determination by Biafran agitators seriously and address their marginalization concerns through constructive dialogue. 

He made these remarks during the 2024 New Yam Festival, an event organized by his office in collaboration with the Ohaneze Ndigbo and the Igbo Community in Maitama on December 7, 2024. 

The traditional ruler advised Ndigbo both at home and in the Diaspora. "I bring you this message with a heart filled with both pride and concern. Pride in our resilience, resourcefulness, and rich heritage that define us as a people of dignity and innovation. 
"However, I am also concerned about the rising challenges that threaten our unity and progress, both at home and abroad. As your humble servant and Eze Igbo of Maitama, I feel compelled to address these issues and call for peace, unity, and brotherly love among our people", he noted. 

On the State of South East, he said, "Our beloved South East region is currently engulfed in turmoil, fear, and insecurity. From economic struggles to political instability, our homeland faces one of its most challenging periods in recent history

"Central to this crisis is the incarceration of our son, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. His ongoing detention by the Department of State Services (DSS) has become a symbol of the larger grievances faced by ndi Igbo in Nigeria."
Eze Okey-Dede emphasized the need for the federal government to address the root causes of these challenges, rather than merely treating the symptoms. "The cry for self-determination must not be ignored; it should be channeled through dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect. I call on the Federal Government to prioritize justice and fairness by releasing Mazi Nnamdi Kanu unconditionally. His release would not only quell the growing agitation but also pave the way for meaningful discussions about our nation's future." 

He further cautioned against violent protests, stating, "While we demand justice from the government, we must also hold ourselves accountable. Destructive actions such as burning our homes, shutting down markets, and attacking our own in the name of protest only serve to weaken our collective strength. The South East is the cradle of Igbo civilization; we must protect and develop it, not destroy it."
Eze Okey-Dede also addressed the challenges faced by the Igbo community abroad. "While our homeland struggles, so too do our people in the diaspora. Reports of infighting, envy, and disunity among Ndigbo abroad are deeply troubling. In many countries, Igbo organizations are splintered into factions, each claiming to represent our true interests. This divisiveness undermines our collective strength and tarnishes our reputation globally."

 He urged the diaspora to remember their legacy: "Wherever you go, you carry the legacy of ndi Igbo. Let brotherly love prevail. Differences in opinion should never lead to enmity; instead, let us embrace our diversity as a source of strength. Establish councils of elders to mediate disputes and promote accountability among our leaders. Remember, when we stand united, no force can break us."



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Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has been released from Kuje Custodial Centre after complying with the bail requirements set by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama, Abuja.

The spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), FCT Command, Adamu Duza, confirmed the development on Friday.

“Yahaya Bello has been released after meeting the bail conditions. He was released this evening (Friday),” Duza stated.

He further disclosed that the Controller of the NCoS, FCT Command, Ajibogun Olatubosun, was present to oversee the process, ensuring that all protocols were duly observed.

Bello was granted bail on Thursday by Justice MaryAnne Anenih, who set the sum at N500 million. The court mandated that he provide three sureties, each owning property in premium areas of Abuja, such as Maitama, Guzape, or Asokoro. Additionally, Bello was required to surrender his passport and was prohibited from leaving Nigeria without prior court approval.

The former governor, alongside Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu, is facing a 16-count charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges include conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and unlawful possession of property.

All defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges.

While Justice Anenih initially rejected Bello’s bail application on procedural grounds, the court later approved a fresh application, resulting in his eventual release. His co-defendants had earlier been granted bail.

 
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Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has dismissed claims that President Bola Tinubu or the southern region is to blame for the challenges facing northern Nigeria.

Speaking at a town hall meeting for Christian leaders in northern Nigeria, Dogara emphasized that the North’s underdevelopment stems from decades of mismanagement by its own leaders.

Dogara, addressing the event themed “Church and Society: Tax Reforms and Matters Arising,” lamented the North’s lack of progress despite holding power in Nigeria for over 40 years. He criticized past northern leaders for squandering opportunities to develop the region.

“We are all northerners, and it should be made clear that President Tinubu or the South is not our problem. They have not come to cheat the North. That is out of the question. Some are claiming that Yoruba people are getting appointments, but let’s reflect. We ruled this country for over 40 years when northerners were in power. What did we achieve? The North remains the same, impoverished by our own leaders,” Dogara said.

Highlighting the misuse of federal resources, Dogara questioned how state governors in the region have managed allocations and revenues such as Value Added Tax (VAT). “We have had so much, but what did our governors do with the resources? They squandered them instead of investing in meaningful development,” he said.

Dogara also referenced the Ajaokuta Steel Industry, an initiative of the Shagari administration, which was almost completed before being abandoned. “The project was almost finished, yet it was left to rot,” he remarked.

The former Speaker called on northerners to support President Tinubu’s efforts to revitalize the nation, particularly through tax reforms currently awaiting approval by the National Assembly. He urged collaboration to ensure Nigeria’s progress, starting with addressing key economic and governance challenges.

 
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Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, has issued a two-week ultimatum for owners of 762 plots in Maitama II District, Cadastral Zone A10, Abuja, to pay for their Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O).

The minister said failure to comply will result in the permanent revocation of their land allocations.

In a statement released Friday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike clarified that the government’s primary objective is not to revoke lands but to ensure payments are made.

“It should be recalled that on October 5, 2024, a list of 3,273 allottees/title holders who had not paid for their C-of-O was published. They were given two weeks to settle their bills or lose their Right of Occupancy (R-of-O) titles. Out of the 3,273, a total of 2,511 complied, leaving 762,” the statement read.

“Yesterday, a notice of withdrawal of the R-of-O titles of the 762 defaulters was published. Since then, many of the affected allottees have offered to pay, and since the primary aim of the government is to ensure payment, a two-week grace period has been given.

“Consequently, the 762 allottees, along with 614 others with outstanding payments on C-of-O, will have until January 3, 2025, to pay or have their R-of-O titles withdrawn pursuant to the provisions of Section 28 of the Land Use Act of 1978.

“After January 3, 2025, there will be no further extensions, and the withdrawal of the R-of-O titles of defaulters will be final.”
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The Nigerian Air Force has announced the promotion of 19 officers to the rank of Air Vice Marshal (AVM) and 33 to the rank of Air Commodore (Air Cdre).

The announcement was made in a statement on Friday by the Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information, Group Captain Kabiru Ali.

According to the statement, officers promoted from Air Commodore to Air Vice Marshal include Osichinaka Ubadike, Olusola Akinboyewa, Olasunkanmi Abu, Yohanna Katabiya, Nosiru Folaji, David Pwajok, Albert Bot, Ibitayo Ajiboye, Mikail Abdulraheem, Kennedy Mataluwo, and Gbolahan Oremosu.

“Others are Ayodele Hanidu, Mohammed Omar, Atang Sambo, Jibrin Usman, Ernest Owai, Adindu Ekwuribe, Garuba Bello, and Muhammed Isah,” the statement read.

In addition, the officers elevated from Group Captain to Air Commodore include Abdulahi Abu, Sani Ma’aji, Olamiju Obasa, Eyo Benson, Bashiru Amunemi, Nuhu Hassan, Oluwasegun Okeniyi, Abang Oyong, Eze Onu, Folarin Agbebi, Mohammed Aliyu, and Muzamil Muhammed.

Others are Group Captains Ibrahim Musa, Nkechi Esionye-Uzodinma, Raphael Garba, Daniel Komo, Eric Kpokpogri, Bature Usman, Adebunmi Ola, and Dooyum Laha. The list also includes Bello Argungu, Bello Aliyu, Ahmed Saidu, Isiaka Yakubu, Abba Muhammed, Olusoji Olarenwaju, Joshua Nalazai, Kingsley Obi, Hafsat Ali, Ademola Adejimi, Abdullahi Abubakar, Ayuba Abubakar, and Mustapha Elkhojah.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, commended the newly promoted officers, highlighting their dedication and hard work.

“This promotion reflects the Air Force Council’s commitment to recognizing excellence and professionalism. The NAF remains steadfast in ensuring that its personnel are motivated to achieve greater heights in their careers,” he said.

Air Marshal Abubakar also emphasized that the promotion is a call to higher responsibility in securing the nation’s airspace and maintaining territorial integrity.
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Bello El-Rufai, a member of the House of Representatives for Kaduna North Federal Constituency, has raised concerns over what he termed excessive and wasteful expenditures in the proposed 2025 national budget.

Speaking during a National Assembly session on Thursday, El-Rufai criticized the pattern of annual allocations for items like vehicles, computers, and utensils by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), emphasizing that such purchases are unnecessary.

“We cannot continue to allow these budget allocations for MDAs to be spent on vehicles that do not expire,” he stated.

El-Rufai argued that the recurring trend of extravagant spending in every budget cycle is unsustainable and urged a shift in focus towards projects that directly impact citizens and improve public services.

“Sir, the recurrent issue is in every budget, even a young person like myself. We budget for vehicles every year. We budget for utensils every year. So what I would like us to do, sir, to open more revenues or block loopholes, is to look at all these ministries that are bringing their budgets. If they bought vehicles last year, please, they should just relax now,” he said.

He added, “These are the little things, Mr Speaker, that unless we start looking at them, the loopholes we talk about will not come out. I want to thank the leadership for sessions like this and other experienced members. It’s a learning opportunity. But on this, the recent reports, sir, should be implemented.”

El-Rufai also expressed frustration over repeated allocations for items such as computers and furniture, which he argued do not require frequent replacement.

“Since I was a boy, budgets every year come with new computers, new furniture. These things don’t expire, sir. We should cut them out totally. We can’t be asking Nigerians to make sacrifices while we, as leaders, are not cutting anything,” he said.

He further called on committee chairs and senior lawmakers to address this issue, adding, “Nigerians are tired of every agency buying fork and knife every year.”

The debate comes as the Nigerian Senate recently passed the 2025 Appropriation Bill for its second reading. Tagged “The Restoration Budget: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity,” the proposed N49.7 trillion budget was presented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The bill, sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, projects N34 trillion in revenue and N15 trillion for debt servicing, marking the largest budget in naira terms in the country’s history.

Lawmakers have adjourned plenary sessions until January 14, 2025, to observe the Christmas and New Year holidays.

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A High Court in Akwukwu-Igbo, Delta State, has sentenced Obinna Eze to death by hanging after finding him guilty of killing a six-month-old child and causing grievous harm to the child’s mother.

The court, presided over by Justice Marcel Okoh, convicted Eze on charges of murder, attempted murder, and grievous harm brought by the Delta State Government.

Eze, who pleaded not guilty, was accused of murdering Chimaobi Igwe, a six-month-old infant, and injuring the baby’s mother, Mrs. Blessing Igwe. The incident occurred on October 27, 2023, at Talita Street, Okpanam Road, Asaba, following a dispute over a missing phone.

In his ruling, Justice Okoh stated that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt, citing evidence provided by Mrs. Igwe, a pathologist, and Eze’s confessional statement. He rejected the convict’s denial and retraction of his earlier confession.

The prosecution, led by Delta State Solicitor and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, Mr. Omamuzo Erebe, argued that the offences violated Sections 320, 319, and 335 of the Criminal Code of Delta State.

Mrs. Igwe, the first prosecution witness, recounted how Eze attacked her with a cutlass during their dispute, inflicting severe injuries on her and her child. The infant succumbed to head injuries a week later at the hospital.

Pathologist Dr. Emmanuel Egbuduka testified that the child’s death resulted from three deep head injuries.

Eze, represented by his counsel, Mr. P. Onubah, was the sole witness in his defense. Despite his claims, the court sentenced him to death for the murder of the six-month-old child.
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The Nigerian Navy Board has approved the promotion of 146 senior officers to various ranks within the service.

Providing details on the promotions on Friday , the Navy spokesperson, Commodore Adams Aliu, announced that 24 Commodores were elevated to the rank of Rear Admiral, 26 Captains advanced to Commodore, and 96 Commanders were promoted to the rank of Captain.

The officers promoted to Rear Admiral include Ibrahim Mohammed-Katsina, Suleman Dahun, Gideon Jinjirim Kachim, Abolade Olanrele Ogunleye, Seminu Adisa Adepegba, Bob-Manuel Kokoete Effiong, Yusuf Sani Idris, Danjuma Mohammed Ndanusa, Ifeanyi Chidi Okpala, Mushin Yahaya Abba, Victor Dabess Choji, Vincent Burabari Gbaranwi, Madumom Ide, Desmond Okechukwu Igbo, Kolawale Olumide Oguntuga, Adedokun John Siyanbade, Raheem Taofeek, Kabiru Tanimu, Bai Haruna Sabo, Jonathan Ojone Ajodo, Paul Efe-Oghene, Musliu Olatokunbo Yussuff, Abiodun Alade, and Samuel Innocent Ngatuwa.

Those promoted to Commodore are Mohammed Ahmed Abdullahi, Kabir Umar Rabiu, Bashir Abubakar, Olayinka Ayodele Aliu, Uche Aneke, Temitope Adeshola Bamidele, Ekuma Raphael Ekuma, Nsikan Friday, Ibrahim Ari Gwaska, Maksum Abdullahi Mohammed, Mutalib Ibikunle Raji, Murtala Aminu Rogo, Umar Saidu, Aminu Shehu, Mohammed Saghir Shettima, Jelani Umar, Olusegun Abiodun Awofe, Manga Salisu Danjuma, Mohammed Auwal Jibrilla, Adamu Mohammed Mohammed, Kelechi Kingsley Ogbonna, Makanjuola Yakub Olowu, Saidu Sulaiman, Yahaya Jaja Muhammed, Sylvester Kennedy Ogogo, and Babatunde Usman Quadri.

“The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, on behalf of officers, ratings, and civilian staff of the Nigerian Navy, congratulates the newly promoted senior officers and their families. He urged them to rededicate themselves to their duties and remain loyal to the nation and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Commodore Aliu stated.
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The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has introduced a temporary arrangement allowing Bureau de Change (BDC) operators to purchase up to $25,000 in foreign exchange weekly through the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM), which was launched earlier this month.

The policy, effective from December 19, 2024, to January 30, 2025, aims to address heightened demand for forex during the holiday season.

A circular dated December 19, 2024, signed by T.G. Allu on behalf of the CBN’s acting Director of Trade and Exchange, detailed the conditions of the initiative. The document highlighted that BDC operators must fully fund their accounts before accessing forex from a single authorized dealer of their choice at the prevailing NFEM rate. Additionally, operators are restricted to a maximum 1 percent spread when pricing forex for retail customers.

“To meet expected seasonal demand for foreign exchange, the CBN is allowing temporary access for all existing BDCs to the NFEM for the purchase of FX from authorised dealers, subject to a weekly cap of USD 25,000.00 (Twenty-five thousand dollars only). This window will be open between December 19, 2024 to January 30, 2025,” the circular read.

The CBN also emphasized that all transactions under this arrangement must be reported to its Trade and Exchange Department.

Furthermore, the apex bank reassured the public that Personal Travel Allowance (PTA) and Business Travel Allowance (BTA) remain accessible through banks at market-determined exchange rates within the NFEM framework. It reiterated its commitment to maintaining a robust and liquid forex market while mitigating price volatility.

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A Magistrate Court in Ekiti State has approved bail for human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi, setting the amount at N30 million.

As part of the bail conditions, Farotimi must provide three sureties, each possessing landed property within the court’s jurisdiction.

The court also directed him to surrender his international passport and refrain from granting media interviews. The case has been adjourned until February 13, 2025.

Farotimi, who had spent over two weeks in custody at a correctional facility in Ado Ekiti, arrived at the court around 9:45 a.m. on Friday. Escorted in a prison van and flanked by police officers, he raised his hands in acknowledgment of supporters gathered outside the court.

At the previous hearing, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun reserved ruling on the bail application until December 20 and ordered the activist’s remand. During Friday’s proceedings, Farotimi pleaded not guilty to the 14 charges brought against him by the police.

His lawyer, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, challenged the charges in court, arguing they were legally baseless and that defamation is not recognized as a criminal offense under the Criminal Law of Ekiti State, 2021.

The charges stem from allegations that Farotimi defamed Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Afe Babalola. His arrest drew widespread criticism from the public, with calls for his release coming from prominent figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Omoyele Sowore, who accused authorities of stifling dissent.

Civil society organizations, including Amnesty International, joined the outcry. In a post on X, Amnesty International Nigeria called for Farotimi’s “immediate and unconditional release,” asserting that authorities must end the repression of dissent.

Prominent lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) also denounced the arrest, labeling it illegal.
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Family, friends and well wishers converged in Abuja, the nation's capital to celebrate a giant feat achieved by Nigeria's Martina Abang Chukwuma-Ezike, who became the first black woman to be elected the Lord rector of the University of Aberdeen since its existence in the last 500 years. 

The Cross River born CEO of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation, Scotland, United Kingdom was recently officially installed as the Rector of the university at a ceremony at the university's Kings College Chapel. 

Martina is a graduate of the University of Aberdeen, having completed her MBA in 2009, and has a longstanding relationship with the student body, offering mentoring, volunteering and work placement opportunities at the Asthma and Allergy Foundation which she founded in 2009. 
Martina has a range of skills and experience occupying several management positions within the oil & gas sector and from her time leading a charity with national reach. 

Her election as the Lord rector of the University of Aberdeen in Scotland came with a lot of excitement in Nigeria as friends and family rolled out the red carpet in her celebration. 

In celebration of this historic feat, a reception was organised in Abuja's Transcorp Hilton to honour this outstanding Nigerian. 

 A former governor of Cross River State, Liyel Imoke and other dignitaries recognized the significance of her new office and how she has made the country proud in a foreign land. 
Imoke applauded her courage and described her as a woman with a 'good heart'

He said, "She's accomplished more than people accomplished in lifetime outside of her own country. When she was speaking and we were listening to her, I was wondering whether, if she had remained in Nigeria, should have accomplished so much.

"This is a good reason for us as Nigerians to have and hold her up as a role model. She's a wonderful young woman who has done so much, not just for herself and her family, but also for us. It's a time we celebrate people like that. I'm glad we have the opportunity to celebrate this highly accomplished young woman". 
Also speaking, Catherine Agba Ajibike, the representative of the Head of Alumni Association, University of Aberdeen said Martina is a clear example that the girl child can achieve a lot of supported. 

According to her, time has come for women to be given a chance in the boardroom to showcase their skills and talent for the development of the society. 

Her father, Soni Abang said as a father, he played a vital role in her life and give her necessary support she needed to succeed. 
He said because of his daughter, anytime he visited Scotland, he gets a treatment every other citizen of the UK gets. 

In her remarks, Martina urged young people to have confidence in themselves and believe that they can achieve anything anyone else can achieve, saying Nigerians have the talent and skills. 

"I want every little young girl watching this to know that being a girl does not stop you from achieving great thing. If I can do it, they too can do it", she added.

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