Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello joined his successor, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to console the wife of Momohsani Ahmed (father of Governor Ododo) who died yesterday, August 18 and his remains buried today, August 19, in Okene, Kogi State. We at Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper and hardcopy magazine in Abuja also join in condoling with Governor Ododo and the family of late Momohsani Ahmed.
Former Chief spokesperson of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Femi Soneye has described Nigerian media as the most vibrant in Africa. Soneye, who is the publisher of Per Second online newspaper, noted that the same media has been weakened by what he called “systemic challenges.” He spoke today, August 19, after being honoured with the NUJ FCT Excellence in Corporate Communications Award from the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), the FCT Council. According to him, despite being one of Africa’s most vibrant media landscapes, the Nigerian media continues to face systemic challenges that hinder its effectiveness. “The Nigerian media remains one of the most vibrant in Africa, but it also faces systemic challenges—financial, political, legal, and technological—that weaken its effectiveness. “The government can play a supportive role by granting tax incentives or relief on import duties for newsprint, broadcast equipment, and digital infrastructure.” Soneye called on the Federal Government to establish an independent media development fund to support investigative journalism, community radio, and newsroom innovation, drawing parallels with models in South Africa, the Unitedy States, and Canada. He stressed the need for the federal government to provide the Nigerian media with specific support, such as tax relief and waivers on import duties for crucial media equipment. The NUJ leadership, headed by Chairperson, Grace Ike, along with the Deputy Chairman, and Secretary-General, as well as other executives, recognized Soneye as a skilled professional who has demonstrated distinction and excellence in the field of communications. The chairperson said: “You have talked so much about ethical journalism, ensuring that journalists balance the story to make sure that it is devoid of misinformation, and for us, that is exactly what we need in the society we are in, to ensure that we report accurately. “You contributed your quota to the profession, and as they say, a journalist is always a journalist. We reckon with you as an icon, as a veteran in the profession, and your role and contribution cannot be overemphasised. “So we decided to make our way here to visit you, to let you know that we value you as an awardee, not just an awardee, but as one of us, to let you know that we still need you in the profession, and we will turn to you whenever the need arises.” Congratulating Femi Soneye, Jide Oyekunle, the NUJ-FCT Council Secretary, said that his track record speaks for itself. “As a professional in the field of communications, both in the profession and on the government side, you have made your impact, and this will continue to speak for you, anywhere you go, and in all your endeavours. “Apart from your work, you have touched lives. You have impacted beyond your brief, and that is the essence of humanity, which you have brought to your job. So, once again, I want to congratulate you.” This was even as the Special Assistant on Data Analytics to the Cross Rivers State Governor, Mr. Ebriku John Friday, said that he appreciated Soneye’s expertise, experience, and charisma in promoting NNPC, and his willingness to engage with journalists. “You have consistently demonstrated a high level of professionalism, responding promptly and clarifying issues, which has earned you respect in the industry. “I read two days ago your article on Canada targeting many political parties as a terrorist group. In fact, it was even your article that exposed the thing that happened in Canada, and government had to react to it immediately. “I thank you so much, and we will continue to follow that big step you have already put forward to us.”
The Muslims’ National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has vowed to maintain financial and regulatory integrity in the conduct of annual Hajj operations to and from the Holy land of Macca in Saudi Arabia. This is coming in the middle of the inquest being conducted by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) on alleged N50 Billion financial shady deal in the Commission. In a statement today, August 19, the NAHCON spokesperson, Hajiya Fatima Sanda Usara said that as a public institution established by law, the Commission remains dedicated to its functions with the highest sense of responsibility, honesty, accountability, and a zeal to deliver efficient services. Referring to what she called “certain media publications making various comments regarding the Commission, its operations and unverified allegations yet,” Hajiya Fatima Sanda Usara, said that the Commission would keep to its mandate to serving Nigerian pilgrims and the nation well. “The Commission wishes to reaffirm that, as a responsible organisation, NAHCON maintains an open and ongoing relationship with all relevant government agencies, including anti-corruption and regulatory bodies. “This cooperation is a standing principle of the Commission’s operations and its belief in due process and the rule of law. “The Commission would not shield any staff or process found wanting. “However, the Commission respectfully urges the public and especially the media to exercise restraint on speculations and allow the appropriate authorities to conclude their work in accordance with established procedures without subjecting perhaps innocent persons to indignity through media trials.We are confident that whatever the truth is, it will emerge through the appropriate channels. “The Commission remains focused on post-Hajj evaluations, addressing operational challenges, and strengthening measures to ensure even better service delivery in future Hajj operations.” An online newspaper (not Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper) had come up with the news of EFCC’s probe of the alleged N50 Billion financial misappropriation, and detention of some top operatives of the Commission. The online newspaper alleged that the EFCC had interrogated senior NAHCON officials, including Abdulmalik Diggi, Deputy Director (Accounts) and Special Adviser (General Services) to the Chairman/CEO; Sirajo Usman Salisu, Deputy Director in the Chairman’s Office; and Barrister Nura Danladi, the commission’s Legal Adviser. It said that EFCC is currently probing alleged financial misconduct involving more than ₦50 billion under the leadership of Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, popularly known as “Pakistan.” Pakistan, who oversaw only the 2025 Hajj exercise, is facing allegations of massive financial misconduct, including the alleged squandering of ₦25 billion on Masha’ir tents, ₦1.6 billion on spouses, and ₦7.9 billion on contingency houses in Makkah. He is also accused of authorizing extra-budgetary expenditure exceeding presidential approval, with funds reportedly diverted to cover expenses for NAHCON officials, stakeholders, and their spouses, amounting to an additional ₦25 billion. The EFCC) is said to have detained the Commission’s Commissioner of Policy, Personnel, and Finance (PPMF) Aliu Abdulrazak, over alleged fraud alongside the Director of Finance and Accounts (DFA), Aminu Y. Muhammed. Both officials reportedly honoured an invitation to the EFCC headquarters yesterday, August 18, and were thrown into detention. The development comes on the heels of mounting allegations of mismanagement in the conduct of the 2025 Hajj, which the Forum of Chief Executives of State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards/Agencies/Commissions recently described as “a total failure” under NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman (popularly known as Professor Pakistan). In a review meeting with the commission in Abuja last week, the forum raised 16 issues, with seven directly linked to corruption and financial infractions, now being probed by the EFCC. Insiders disclosed that Abdulrazak and Muhammed are also under investigation for their alleged involvement in another case of fund diversion dating back to the tenure of former chairman, Ahmad Jalal Arabi. Some stakeholders and staff of the Hajj Commission, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the detained commissioner and the DFA should be immediately suspended to ensure transparency. “President Bola Tinubu should act quickly by disbanding the current NAHCON leadership and appoint a sole administrator with Hajj operational and administrative experiences to put the commission back in order,” one of them said. The NAHCON staff, however, welcomed the development, commending the EFCC for its bold efforts to restore the commission’s lost glory by tackling corruption in all its forms. Stakeholders further urged the EFCC to carry out a comprehensive investigation and prosecution that would not only guarantee the recovery of misappropriated funds but also ensure that indicted officials are held accountable under the law. It was gathered that former chairmen, Zikirullah Kunle Hassan and Ahmad Jalal Arabi, were earlier granted bail by the EFCC after facing investigation. Similarly, the immediate past Commissioner of Policy, Personnel and Finance, Nura Yakasai, was interrogated and later released on bail.
Top Nigerian security operatives have successfully captured Muhammad Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a, the General Commander of the dreaded terrorist group, Ansaru, the country’s most prominent Al-Qaeda affiliate. He is also self-proclaimed Emir of Ansaru. Also captured is Mahmud al-Nigeri, known as Mallam Mamuda, and he served as Chief of Staff to the General Commander. The two men were on Nigeria’s most-wanted list for years and were also internationally wanted for their involvement in terrorist activities. The two men reportedly maintained active links with terrorist groups in Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso. The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, in a statement today, August 16, confirmed the capture of the dreaded men, saying that the operation took place between May and July 2025. He described it as a significant blow to the group’s operations and marks a turning point in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts. “The capture of Abu Bara and Mallam Mamuda, the group’s leader and deputy commander respectively, marks one of the most significant achievements to date in our ongoing effort to rid Nigeria of the threat of terrorism.” According to Ribadu, the operation was a “decisive blow” that effectively dismantled the group’s central command. He said that Abu Bara’a coordinated various terrorist sleeper cells across Nigeria and masterminded several high-profile kidnappings and armed robberies used to finance terrorism. He said that Mallam Mamuda, who trained in Libya between 2013 and 2015, led a cell operating in and around Kainji National Park. Ansaru, which means “Vanguards for the Protection of Muslims in the Black Lands,” was formed in 2012 as a splinter faction of Boko Haram. It quickly aligned itself with Al-Qaeda in the Islamic MaghAND (AQIM), expanding its influence through sleeper cells and forest enclaves across northern Nigeria. The captured leaders have been linked to a number of major attacks, including: * The 2022 Kuje prison break. * The attack on a uranium facility in Niger. * The 2013 abduction of French engineer Francis Collomp in Katsina. * The 2019 kidnapping of Alhaji Musa Umar Uba, the Magajin Garin Daura. * The abduction of the Emir of Wawa. Ribadu emphasized that this precision operation highlights Nigeria’s advanced counter-terrorism capabilities, which involved “months of deep surveillance, human intelligence, and technical tracking.” He noted that valuable intelligence, including a cache of materials and digital evidence, was recovered during the operation. This evidence is currently undergoing forensic analysis to support ongoing efforts to completely neutralize the Ansaru network and disrupt its foreign collaborators. “The capture of Abu Bara and Mahmuda signals the beginning of the end to impunity for terrorist leaders.” Ribadu said that Nigeria will continue to pursue extremists with “precision, resolve, and unwavering determination.” The NSA thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his “strategic guidance” and acknowledged the “doggedness” of the armed forces and intelligence agencies that worked collaboratively to achieve this outcome. He also urged the public to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies. Source: modified from PRNigeria.
The central figure in the August 10 altercation in the Ibom Airplane on Uyo-Lagos flight, Comfort Emmanson has formally apologized for her unruly behaviour that day. But she complained of being forcibly exposed and filmed, with clips posted online, saying that such acts “crossed a line.” In a Facebook post today, August 15, Comfort said: “I acknowledge that emotions ran high and that I could have handled myself better. If my words or actions contributed to disorder on board, I am sorry for that. I do not condone violence. I am cooperating fully with any fair process that seeks the truth. “What I cannot accept is the indignity and public shaming that followed. Being forcibly exposed and filmed, with clips posted online, crossed a line.” The full text of Comfort’s Facebook post goes thus: To my family, friends, and everyone following this matter online — thank you for your prayers and concern. I owe you a clear account of what happened and where I stand. What happened: On Sunday, August 10, 2025, I boarded an Ibom Air flight scheduled between Uyo and Lagos. Shortly after boarding, a disagreement started over my phone use during safety procedures. I attempted to switch it to flight mode, but the exchange with a crew member became tense and, sadly, escalated. There are versions of this story circulating that I violently attacked staff; the airline’s statements and some media reports say I assaulted a flight attendant and was later removed from the aircraft by security. Those are serious claims, and I understand why people are upset. What I experienced: Here is what I lived through: The interaction quickly shifted from instructions to confrontation. An eyewitness who sat beside me later told the media that a crew member “threatened to deal with” me during the exchange. I felt provoked, intimidated, and singled out. That does not excuse raised voices or any contact — but it is part of what happened. On the ground in Lagos, the situation became chaotic. I was forcibly removed and restrained. In the struggle my clothing was disheveled, leaving me exposed while being filmed. No one deserves to be treated without dignity — even in conflict. What I acknowledge: I acknowledge that emotions ran high and that I could have handled myself better. Airplanes are safety-critical environments, and crew instructions matter. If my words or actions contributed to disorder on board, I am sorry for that. I do not condone violence. I am cooperating fully with any fair process that seeks the truth. What went too far: What I cannot accept is the indignity and public shaming that followed. Being forcibly exposed and filmed, with clips posted online, crossed a line. The Nigerian Bar Association publicly condemned my treatment and called for accountability; I am grateful that they recognized the dignity issues involved. Aftermath and where things stand now: I was taken into custody and briefly remanded. On August 13, 2025, the Federal Government ordered that the case against me be withdrawn. A lifetime “no-fly” ban was announced at first; as of today (August 15, 2025), multiple outlets report that airlines have lifted the lifetime ban following the review by authorities. I appreciate this step toward fairness. What I’m asking for: 1. A balanced, independent review of everything that happened — from the cabin exchange to ground handling — so lessons are learned on all sides. 2. Clear guidelines that protect safety and the dignity of passengers, including strict prohibitions on filming or exposing restrained individuals. 3. Civility going forward. I will speak with investigators in good faith. I ask the public to allow the process to work and to avoid threats or harassment toward anyone involved. To those who stood by me: Thank you to my family, friends, legal team, and Nigerians who insisted that safety and human dignity can — and must — coexist. I’m healing and I’m hopeful. I will share more when the formal processes conclude.
The Executive Vice-Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has solicited strong action from stakeholders to address the surging attacks on the nation’s telecommunication backbone. According to him, the relentless attacks cost the country an average of 30 to 43 fibre cuts every single day, thereby jeopardizing financial transactions, emergency services, and national security. Dr. Maida, who spoke at the 2nd Strategic Stakeholders Meeting of the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) in Lagos, today, August 15, said that the country’s telecommunications network has officially been classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), putting it in the same security bracket as defence and power installations. “This is not a luxury, it is a national imperative. Dr. Maida said that any disruption to telecom towers, fibre optic lines, or data centres could paralyse Nigeria’s economy, halting banking operations, crippling healthcare systems and silencing emergency communications. The NCC boss emphasized that cyberattacks are surging, with ransomware and insider threats compounding the physical sabotage and vandalism already plaguing the industry. “We are not dealing with minor inconveniences; we are dealing with threats that can stall the nation. “Under a Presidential Order issued in June 2024, the NCC, working with the Office of the National Security Adviser, has launched a nationwide mapping of critical telecom assets, stepped up public awareness campaigns, and begun mediating disputes with state governments to fast-track infrastructure deployment.” Dr. Maida said that the Commission is ready to enforce penalties on vandals and uncooperative actors but prefers “engagement, not litigation.” He recalled the successes recorded in restoring stalled projects in Osun and Kogi States. “With 171 million mobile subscribers and telecom contributing 14.4% to Nigeria’s GDP, Maida called for a “war-time mentality. “This infrastructure is the nation’s digital lifeline. Without it, our aspirations for a connected, prosperous Nigeria collapse.” He said that the NCC is now pushing for tougher laws, unified permit processes, and stronger security partnerships to ensure telecom infrastructure survives the growing threats. “The security and resilience of our national infrastructure is not negotiable. “Let us build a digital future that is resilient, inclusive, and unstoppable.”
The Federal Government has expressed its determination to complete the Section Three of the 61 kilometer Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway in Enugu State. The dual carriageway, which is 122 kilometer in total, is valued at ₦100.8 billion. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the assurance when he led a federal government delegation to the site of the road project as part of a wider Citizens’ Engagement tour of the South East. The minister acknowledged that modern road infrastructure is vital to economic growth, improved safety and citizens’ welfare. “This project is a visible testament to government’s resolve to complete strategic highways nationwide for the benefit of Nigerians.” The road is under construction by the CGC Nigeria Limited. Director of Highways, Southeast, Engineer Tony Mbiko confirmed that the Enugu-bound section has been completed and that work on the remaining stretch is ongoing.
Speaking during the tour, minister Idris assured that Nigeria “will never go back to that era where the South-East or certain part of the country is being treated marginally.” Idris said that, to address issues of marginalisation, Tinubu established new development commissions for all previously uncovered zones, ensuring no region is left behind. According to him the President’s inclusive governance style is evident in balanced appointments and equitable distribution of projects . “By the end of Tinubu’s first term, the benefits of his reforms will be clearer. “The federal government remains committed to transparency, accountability, and delivering the dividends of democracy to all Nigerians. “With Tinubu, Nigeria is marching towards prosperity.” The minister added that the federal government has rolled out various empowerment and humanitarian programmes to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal and other tough but necessary policies of the administration. The event was attended by different stakeholders from the state.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has described the Federal Government’s Oncology Centre in Enugu as a world class. He said that it is a proof of the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deliver life-changing health infrastructure to Nigerians. The Minister, who led a high-powered delegation to inspect the newly established Oncology Centre in Enugu, said that President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is making world-class healthcare a reality across the country. He said that with six such centres planned nationwide three are already operational. “This is democracy delivering tangible dividends. Our visit allows us to hear directly from citizens, see the impact for ourselves, and ensure these facilities are maintained for public benefit.” During the visit, the minister and the delegation met patients receiving treatment, including a woman who had previously travelled long distances for care but can now access top-quality treatment in Enugu. The tour also included inspections of federal road projects. Commissioned only weeks ago by the Ministers of Health and Finance, the facility houses one of the most advanced cancer treatment machines in the world — previously only accessible abroad or in Lagos. Meanwhile, the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah has lauded the recently launched Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme of the Federal Government, an initiative designed to advance inclusive development across the 8,809 wards of the country. Governor Mbah, spoke while welcoming Federal Government delegation on a Citizens’ Engagement tour of the South East, led by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris. The Renewed Hope Ward Development, according to the Governor, is a laudable initiative that aligns closely with the grassroot-oriented agenda of the government of Enugu state. Endorsed recently by the National Economic Council, the program is one of the fresh initiatives of the President Bola Tinubu administration in its pursuit of eradicating poverty and hunger, and stimulating economic growth in the rural areas.
Two American Airlines jets have crashed into each other, clipping their wings while taxiing on the runway at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The incident, according to report reaching us at Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper, involved American Airlines Flight 5490 and Flight 4522. The accident occurred at about 12:45 p.m. Report has it that there were no injuries on the passengers and were safely disembarked. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is said to be investigating the incident. Both planes were to take off for Paris and Gibraltar respectively. Meanwhile, flights have resumed at the airport following a brief suspension for a safety assessment which found minor damage to the planes. Tynisha Chaudhry, who was on the Gibraltar-bound flight with her partner, compared the collision to a car crash. “We felt the whole plane shudder – it was a massive hit.” The 21-year-old said “a lot of fire engines” and other safety staff attended the scene, as passengers waited onboard during inspections. The atmosphere among passengers was “okay” but some children and their parents became “tense” before they were allowed to return to the terminal, she added.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) was believed to have played a rallying role in stemming the planned strike action by the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria (NOGASA) that would have crippled telecommunication connectivity nationwide. Information reaching us at Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper said that the Commission, working hand in hand with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), mediated in the dispute by the Association. It was gathered that the strike, if it was carried out, would have disrupted the supply of diesel to telecommunications sites nationwide, severely affecting network operators’ ability to power their diesel-driven generators and maintain uninterrupted connectivity. In the days leading up to the resolution, the ONSA, under the leadership of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, held strategic engagements with NOGASA’s leadership, with the Commission, providing technical and regulatory guidance to highlight the potential implications of service disruptions on national security, the economy, and everyday life. The discussions culminated in an agreement to call off the industrial action, averting what could have been a nationwide disruption of telecom services. Nuhu Ribadu was quoted as saying: “Telecommunications infrastructure is the backbone of our connectivity and digital economy. Any disruption, whether through vandalism, accidental damage during construction work, theft of equipment, denial of access to maintenance teams, or interruptions in the supply of essential operational materials, has far- reaching implications for service delivery, economic stability, and national security.” In a statement, NCC’s Head of Public Affairs, Nnena Ukoha, said that the Commission is committed to the full operationalisation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Executive Order on Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), which designates telecommunications facilities as critical national assets deserving optimal protection. It expressed appreciation to the ONSA for its leadership and dedication to protecting national assets and commended the maturity and understanding demonstrated by relevant stakeholders in recognising the national importance of telecommunications services. The statement quoted the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, as saying: “We will continue to enforce strict compliance by our licensees with technical standards for the deployment and maintenance of telecommunications infrastructure, while working closely with relevant stakeholders to strengthen awareness and cooperation on their protection. “We also recognize mediation as an effective tool for building consensus among stakeholders.
“This resolution underscores the importance of dialogue in preventing avoidable service disruptions. Ultimately, we call on all Nigerians to regard telecom infrastructure as a shared national asset, one that underpins our ability to connect with loved ones, transact businesses, access healthcare, pursue education, and participate in the global digital economy.” The Commission stressed that it would continue to coordinate with security agencies, industry stakeholders, and the public to ensure that Nigeria’s telecommunications infrastructure remains protected, resilient, and reliable for all.
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