The pioneer Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Professor Tom Adaaba is dead. He was 83 years old. His death today, February 22, was confirmed by his daughter, Dr. Inya Ode. This was even as the secretary of the Egbira Elders Forum in Abuja, Adinoyi Anivasa, said, in a condolence: “I feel sad to inform you that our elder and leader, Prof. Tom A. Adaba, just answered the call of nature by giving up his ghost to the Lord this morning. Further details about his burial arrangements will be communicated later. We thank God for his life. May God have mercy on his shortcomings and grant his soul eternal peaceful rest in His Heavenly Kingdom, Amen.” Professor Adaba served as the first principal of the NTA Television College in Jos, Plateau State, from 1980 to 1987, and in 1989, he became the first Ph.D. graduate of the Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Jos. Appointed as the inaugural DG of the NBC in 1992, Adaba played a pivotal role in overseeing the deregulation of Nigeria’s broadcast industry under the military administration of General Ibrahim Babangida. His tenure marked a significant turning point in the country’s media landscape, enabling the emergence of private broadcasters. Adaba also served as a board member of DAAR Communications PLC, the parent company of Africa Independent Television (AIT), Raypower FM and Faaji Radio. He was the first Nigerian to be honoured as president of the African Council for Communication Education, a role he held between 1988 and 1992. He was a prominent community leader in Ebiraland, Kogi State, holding a traditional title of Ohiete ohweyi of Ebiraland. Professor Adaba is survived by his wife of 58 years, Theresa Aaze Adaba, children and great-grandchildren.
Former Nigeria military President, retired General Ibrahim Babangida has made it clear that he had no hand in the murder of the Editor-in-Chief of Newswatch magazine, Dele Giwa. He was assassinated via a parcel bomb in his home in Ikeja, Lagos State on October 19, 1986. In his autobiography: “A Journey in Service,” which was presented in Abuja yesterday, February 20, Babangida said that he expected that one day, the truth would be uncovered. “The hysteria of the media did not help the investigation of the Giwa murder. As is typical of the Nigerian media, the direction was marked by an adversarial attitude towards the government, which had remained the hallmark of the Nigerian media from its colonial heyday. “It was an attitude of ‘we versus the government’ that has remained today. It is a situation in which the government is adjudged guilty even before the evidence in a case is adduced. “When the Obasanjo civilian administration reopened the Giwa case at the Oputa Panel on Human and Civil Rights, I expected that the police and lawyers would come forward with new evidence as to their findings on the Giwa murder over the years. “Nothing of such happened. The Giwa, like all mysterious murders, has remained unsolved after so many years.
“I keep hoping it will be uncovered in our lifetime or after us. More often than not, mysterious crimes are solved long after their commission.” It would be recalled that two days before he was bombed to death, a senior official of the Directorate of Military Intelligence, had accused Giwa of illegally importing and stockpiling arms and ammunition to stage a socialist revolution in Nigeria. Alarmed at the charge, Giwa quickly briefed his lawyer, Gani Fawehinmi, and the following day, a security chief, Colonel Halilu Akilu, called to reassure Giwa that the accusation had resulted from a misunderstanding. He assured Dele Giwa that the matter had been cleared, and that he should think nothing of it. According to Ray Ekpu, Giwa’s colleague at Newswatch, a few hours later, a government emissary arrived at Giwa’s Ikeja residence. His son, Billy, collected the parcel and handed it to his father, who was seated at the dining table in the company of Kayode Soyinka, the London correspondent of Newswatch, who was visiting from the UK. The envelope bore the seal of the Presidency and was marked “To be opened by addressee only.” Just as he opened the parcel, ear-shattering explosion followed, killing the journalist instantly.
Nigeria’s House of Representatives has stepped down work on the demands for additional 31 new states across the country. The House confirmed that none of the applications for the new states met the constitutional requirements. The Deputy Speaker of the House, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, who dropped the hints today, February 21, at the commencement of a 2-day retreat for members of the constitution review committee of the House holding at Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, said that deadline for the submission of correct versions of the demands for new states has been fixed for March 5, 2025. The Deputy Speaker who is also chairman of the House Committee on state creation said that the extension is to enable the applicants to fulfill the relevant provisions of the Nigerian construction. “Although we received 31 requests for State creation, none of the requests met the requirements. Thus, we have since extended the submission to the 5th of March 2025.” The Deputy Speaker announced that a situation room will be opened to collate and address other concerns of Nigerians in the course of the constitution amendment process. He called on the lawmakers to ensure that the people are carried along. “Unlike before, let me announce that we will partner with PLAC to open a situation room. A situation room that will be there to take, monitor the operations of the various other engagements. “Questions you cannot address, the Secretariat will move those questions to the situation room where some of us will be having access to address all concerns. “This situation room will also ensure that we publish all the engagements. “Today’s retreat offers an opportunity to engage deeply with these bills and prepare for stakeholder consultations nationwide. “As legislators, we must ensure the voices of Nigerians are reflected in our constitutional reforms. “As we deliberate, I urge you to approach this task with diligence, objectivity, and patriotism. “The success of this review process hinges on our collective dedication to national progress.” Kalu added that the committee will soon embark on zonal public hearings within the six geopolitical zones of the country. The Deputy Speaker announced that so far, the parliament has received over 200 bills seeking the alterations of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as emended). Kalu said that the bills reflect the collective commitment to refining governance in Nigeria, with some of them progressing to the second reading stage and others remaining at the first reading at the moment. The committee’s objectives for the retreat included reviewing bills, incorporating input from consultants, familiarizing members with bill contents, prioritizing bills based on national interest, and preparing for zonal public hearings and a joint/harmonization meeting with the Senate. The bills, already categorized into thematic areas are aimed to addressing a wide range of issues, including federal structure and power devolution, local government autonomy, public revenue, fiscal federation, revenue allocation, and electoral reforms. Kalu said: “Distinguished colleagues, currently we have 151 House bills before us. But I’m sure these numbers are the last count before the recent additions. My office has been told that there are about 250 constitutional amendment bills that will pass through the House for this committee. This bill reflects our collective commitment to refining governance in Nigeria. “While some have progressed to the second reading stage, others remain at the first reading stage. “But it is our intention that by the time we are done with our conversation during this retreat, that we progress those bills at the first reading stage for them to be given expedited hearing. “The compilation process has revealed instances of duplication—whether by sponsors or overlapping subject matters. “This necessitates meticulous harmonization to streamline efforts and eliminate redundancy. “To aid our analysis, bills have been categorized into thematic areas, and our consultants have conducted thorough reviews, offering insights to guide prioritization. “The thematic areas include: Federal Structure and Power Devolution, Local Government/Local Government Autonomy, Public Revenue, Fiscal Federation, Revenue Allocation, Nigerian Police and Nigerian Security Architecture, Comprehensive Judicial Reforms, Electoral Reforms, Gender Issues, Human Rights, and State creation.”
The Ex-Naval Chief, Vice Admiral Jibrin Usman (Rtd.), and Brigadier-General Ishaya Bauka have been declared wanted by the Independent Corrupt Practice and other related offenses Commission (ICPC) for their alleged involvement in a N3 billion fraud. The duo are facing charges concerning embezzlement and abuse of office. There is a subsisting arrest warrant against the two ex-military officers, with appeal from ICPC to whoever sees them to assist in bringing them to justice. A statement by the Director of Public Enlightenment and Education and Spokesperson for the Commission, Demola Bakare, said that the charges against them have been amended but not withdrawn. “ICPC does not clear anybody of a case already in court. It is a normal practice for prosecuting agencies to amend charges and proceed against the available defendants in a case pending when those at large or on court bench warrants would be arrested. “When those at large or court bench warrants are arrested, they would be added to manifest the initial charge. “It should also be recalled that the ex-Naval chief in particular was charged along with five others in the original charge dated and filed on the 17th day of April, 2023. “The charges were served on the Defendants by substituted means through their lawyers, yet they failed to submit themselves to the jurisdiction of the Court for arraignment. “Prompted by the Defendants’ refusal to come to court for their arraignment, the Commission sought and obtained a bench warrant from the trial court for their arrest. “On the 4th day of February 2025, Mr. Adam Imam Yusuf, the 2nd Defendant in the original charge was arrested in his home in Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT, Abuja, leaving the two ex-military generals yet to be arrested. “Efforts are still underway by the Commission to pick them. The public is hereby assured that if they are arrested today, the ongoing charges will be amended to accommodate the allegations initially filed against them.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has cautioned a group known as Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR) against making demand that can cause confusion in the 2025 Hajji operations that would be conducted by the Commission. In a statement today, February 20, reacting to the group’s reference to foreign exchange differentials in the 2025 Hajj fare, the Commission pleaded for support from all the stakeholders for it to deliver a smooth and successful pilgrimage. The statement, signed by Shafii Sani Mohammed, a Staff of the Information and Publications Division of the Commission, cautioned against “making premature demands that could mislead the public or create unnecessary anxiety among intending pilgrims.” He said that refunds, if applicable, are traditionally processed after Hajj operations, not before. “This ensures proper financial reconciliation, prevents disruptions in service delivery, and guarantees that all necessary expenses for the pilgrimage are fully covered before making any financial adjustments. “It is also important to note that Hajj planning involves multiple financial commitments, including airfare, accommodation, feeding, and local transportation, all of which are subject to international market fluctuations. “These factors must be carefully managed to avoid unintended financial setbacks that could compromise the experience and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims. “NAHCON remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the prudent management of Hajj funds. Any legitimate financial adjustments will be addressed after the Hajj exercise when all expenditures have been accounted for. Pilgrims and stakeholders can rest assured that the Commission will act in their best interest. “Our collective priority should be the welfare of the pilgrims and the overall success of Hajj 2025. NAHCON remains open to constructive engagement and welcomes genuine collaboration toward achieving this goal.”
Authority of the Federal University Lokoja, Kogi State capital, has ordered the immediate closure of the institution. The closure of the institution followed the gathering tension in which students are protesting over the death of five of them in a trailer accident at Felele city centre. A circular dated February 20, with reference number FUL/R/GEN/REGC/03 and signed by the University’s Registrar and Secretary to the Council, Dr. Rebecca Almiohu Osagie, said that after the February 17 accident, students have barricaded the gates of the university. The circular said that despite the proactive measures taken by both the state government and the university authority to assuage the students, they have remained adamant. “Arising from the advice of the security agencies and to forestall further loss of lives, the Vice Chancellor, after due consultation with the management, has decided, on behalf of the Senate, that the university (both campuses) be closed down indefinitely within one hour of this circular. Students are therefore, to vacate the campuses before 12 noon today, Thursday, 20 February 2025.”
The Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has handed over a new Information and Communication Technology (ICT) project to Ogun State Institute of Technology (OGITECH), Igbesa. The project, called Emerging Technologies Centre (ETC), is sited on the Institute’s campus. It is aimed at enhancing learning experience of students while providing a platform for digital innovation, research, and development (R&D) for the overall economic growth of Nigeria. The Centre is equipped with 100 desktop computers, emerging technology applications, bandwidth, and connectivity tools, to provide students and faculty members with access to cutting-edge technology and resources. Speaking at the handover ceremony, the USPF Secretary, Yomi Arowosafe, said that the Centre represents more than just bricks and mortar. According to him, it embodies a vision, a commitment, and an investment in the future of Ogun State, and by extension, the future of our nation, Nigeria. “Under the strategic direction of the Hon Minister of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani and strategic focus of the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, the USPF is vested with the mandate of providing ICT access to the unserved and underserved communities across the country.” Through strategic implementation, Arowosafe said the USPF has implemented various access and connectivity projects across the six geo-political zones of Nigeria, which has continued positively impact ICT utilisation and deepen connectivity across the country. “With a student population of 9,300, OGITECH is one of the leading institutions of technology in Nigeria, and we are proud to partner with them to bring this project to fruition. The ETC will not only enhance the learning experience of students but also provide a platform for innovation, research, and development. “We expect this project to have a significant impact on the institution and the wider community. It will provide opportunities for students to develop skills in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cybersecurity. It will also enable faculty members to integrate technology into their teaching and research and to collaborate with other institutions and industry partners.”
The USPF Secretary said that the ETC will serve as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, providing a platform for start-ups and small businesses to incubate and grow. “We believe that this project will contribute to the growth and development of the Nigerian economy, and we are proud to be a part of it and we look forward to seeing the impact of this project on the institution and the wider community.” In his remarks, the Rector of OGITECH, Dr. Abiodun Oluseye, applauded the NCC and the USPF team for siting the project in the Institute, promising that the project will be put into effective utilisation to benefit not only the Institute abut its entire community. He expressed commitment towards ensuring the sustainability of the project, as has been articulated in the joint MoU between the OGITECH and the USPF. “We will ensure the sustainability of the project and work towards putting it into effective use for the benefits of the entire community,” he said. The USPF was established by the Federal Government of Nigeria to facilitate the achievement of national policy goals for universal access and universal service to ICTs in rural, un-served and under-served areas in Nigeria. The Fund is being managed to facilitate the widest possible access to affordable telecommunications services for greater social equity and inclusion for the people of Nigeria.
Former Nigeria’s Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida has confessed that late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola won the June 12, 1993 Presidential election in the country. According to the retired General, in his autobiography that was launched today, February 20, late MKO Abiola, who contested on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), secured both the majority of votes and the required geographical spread to be declared President. The autobiography is titled: “A Journey in Service.” The book reviewer, former Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo, quoted Babangida to have described the annulment of the election as the most difficult decision of his career. “There was no doubt in my mind; MKO Abiola won the election. He satisfied all the requirements.” Babangida expressed happiness however that the immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari posthumously recognized Abiola’s victory by awarding him the prestigious Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) title, which is reserved for Presidents. The book attracted donations of nearly N17 billion, part of which would be used to build a state-of-the-art library.
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio has pleaded with his colleagues to forgive Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over her outburst today, February 20 during the plenary session. Akpabio particularly appealed to the Chairman of Senate Services, Senator Steve Karimi, who was the main target of Natasha verbal onslaught to forgive her actions and not insist on strictly following Senate rules, which could have led to her being sanctioned. The Senate President spoke to Senator Natasha, saying: “I can see that you feel very hurt. You came under Order 10 of our rules. This is the Nigerian Senate. The matter, according to our rules, is to be referred to the Committee on Ethics and Privileges. “I appeal that we do not go further. The matter will be dealt with at the appropriate time.” Senator Natasha, who represents Kogi Central, had protested the reallocation of her seat today, February 20, by the removal of her name-tag from her new seat and placing it on her previous seat. In the process, Natasha verbally attacked the Senate President and Senator Karimi, accusing Karimi of being responsible for the seat reallocation. But Senator Karimi, who represents Ogun West, raised a matter of privilege on the Senate floor, reporting Natasha’s conduct and requesting a referral to the Committee on Ethics and Privileges for investigation and enforcement of the Senate’s rules. Narrating his ordeal, Karimi said that Natasha caused an uproar in the chamber by “shouting my name all over the place. “Earlier this morning before sitting, there was an uproar in the chamber over the change of seats. “The President of the Senate has the power to change seats at any time without prior notice. “Senator Samson Ekong was the first person who approached me regarding the change of seats, and I told him I wasn’t even aware. “Before long, Senator Natasha was shouting my name all over the place. I want to say that my privilege has been breached.” Senator Karimi, who was visibly upset, recalled how the Kogi State caucus rallied around Natasha when she first joined the Senate. “When she arrived here, we fought for her to ensure she got a chairmanship position. “I don’t understand why the chamber should be turned upside down over seating arrangements. I want her to come out and apologize to us.”
The Yobe state Government under the administration of Governor Mai Mala Buni, has signed an N22.3 billion contract for the construction of a state-of-the-art FlyOver Bridge and UnderPass in Damaturu Main roundabout, marking a significant milestones in the administration’s commitment to infrastructural development. A statement today, February 20, by Yusuf Ali, Senior Special Assistant, Digital and Strategic Communications to Governor Buni, said that the state Commissioner for Works, Engineer Umar Duddaye signed the contract on behalf of the state Government, while Engineer Habib Geojea signed the agreement on behalf of Merss Triacta Nigeria Limited, the contracting firm. The statement quoted the Commissioner as saying that the the state government put much emphasis and priority to major infrastructural development, including the construction of roads, bridges, drainages and all other Civil Engineering works. “The Fly Over Bridge and Underpass at Damaturu main roundabout will cost the sum of N22.3 billion with a completion period of 12 calendar months. “Also, a contract for the construction of Damaturu-Gambir road has been signed between the Yobe state government and Merss Elegance Construction Nigeria Limited with a completion period of 9 dry months.” The Commissioner said that Damaturu Metropolis would undergo a huge transformation through the construction of 23.5 kilometer roads and 27 kilometer of concrete line drain and resurfacing on all major roads in the state capital and that the project would begin in the second quarter of this year. The Area Manager of Triacta Nigeria Limited who spoke on behalf of the Contractors pledged to deliver quality work base on the contractual agreement. This came as residents of Damaturu expressed excitement over the project, describing it as a much-needed initiative to beautify the city and enhance its status as a state capital. “This project is yet another feather in the cap of Governor Buni, whose administration continues to earn accolades for its transformative achievements in Yobe State,” the people stressed.
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