FG Assures Commitment To Delivering Quality Basic Education

The Federal Government on Monday reiterated commitment towards enhancing the delivery of quality basic education across the country.

Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, who spoke in Abuja particularly, expressed the determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led administration to transform education.

He stated this at a three-day meeting of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) management with executive chairmen of State Universal Basic Education Boards from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Abuja on Monday.

The meeting was organised under the theme “Strengthening Collaboration for Quality Basic Education Delivery in Nigeria.”

Alausa said President Tinubu has accordingly directed all stakeholders in the basic education sub-sector to work towards returning children back to the classroom thus decreasing the number of out-of-school children.

The Minister who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant (SSA), Dr. Ismaila Adiatu, emphasised the government’s dedication to addressing the growing crisis of out-of-school children in Nigeria.

“I would like to assure you of the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting quality education to inspire renewed hope, with strong emphasis on prioritising qualitative basic education, which is recognised as the most vital segment of the education sector.

“The development of this foundational level is essential for the positive impact of the other tiers of the educational system and its contribution to overall national development.

“The Federal Ministry of Education is, therefore, committed to improving teacher quality, enhancing the school environment, ensuring the availability of adequate instructional materials, and implementing an effective quality assurance evaluation system.

“We are also focused on strengthening collaboration with all relevant stakeholders to develop result-oriented strategies aimed at reducing the growing number of out-of-school children,” the Minister added.

He said a committee had been set up to outline the process for categorising schools in Nigeria to identify areas where urgent interventions are needed.

“These efforts are designed to prepare Nigerian youths for the 21st-century economy, in line with Mr. President’s initiative of ‘Education for Renewed Hope.'”

He further called on participants to reevaluate existing strategies and identify innovative approaches to implementing basic education, including exploring alternative funding sources and fostering collaboration to ensure that every Nigerian child receives quality education.

The Executive Secretary of UBEC, Hajiya Aisha Garba, said the gathering was a testament to its collective commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian child has access to quality basic education, regardless of the education programme in Nigeria.

“We must prioritise our society-based education by ensuring effective collaboration at national and state levels, within the education sector and beyond.

“This workshop provides us with a unique opportunity to collectively evaluate our progress so far, identify challenges, and chart a new pathway towards achieving our shared goal of an effective basic education system in Nigeria. While I have knowledge over the decades, it is still imperative that we address the most essential issues.

“Nigeria still has poor quality of education, especially at the basic level. We must work together to address these challenges in financing basic education, infrastructure, quality of education, ensuring the relevance and accessibility of learning materials, addressing challenges of teachers, and working together to improve the social infrastructure of an inclusive teaching and learning environment,” she added

Speaking on behalf of the chairmen, Prof. Adaramaja Shehu, congratulated the Executive Secretary on her appointment, while appreciating the commitment of her management team for their expected support in the discharge of their responsibilities.

He thanked the Executive Secretary for the approval of the 2023/2024 teachers’ development fund in their state, saying that capacity building for teachers across the states would soon kick off.

He expressed confidence that the meeting would strategise on improving the effectiveness of schools and uphold best practices to boost learning outcomes, urging the chairmen to join hands in eradicating the issue of out-of-school children.

PDP National Youth Frontier Calls For Release ,Justice , Fairness On Comrade Austin Okai

The detention of  People's Democratic Party PDP National Youth Frontier and convener, Comrade Austin Okai is an attempt to malign opposition in Kogi state and deserve urgent attention to stop the trend.

The PDPNYF maintained that the clamping into detention of the PDP House of Representatives candidate for Dekina/ Bassa in the 2023 general elections was the continuous muzzling of oppositions , and an attempt to truncate the growing popularity of the people's comrade , Austin Okai.

A statement issued on Sunday by the member of the caucus, Jerome Ali stressed the need to halt the Kogi state government from further embarrassing other members of other political parties in the name of defamation and cyber stalking in the state.

He described the detention by the Kogi state government teleguided legal pronouncement as a slap on democracy and it's norms.

While assuring the state government of victory for Comrade Austin Okai at the end, he said the attempt will not stop the opposition from demanding for accountability amidst misdemeanor of the common resources of the people of Kogi state.

Wike's Shuttles In Abuja

By Abubarka Yusuf

For Nzenwo Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT, his vision and mission to transform the landscape of FCT and Improve on its existing facilities is non- negotiable.

In the last 22 months of this administration in FCT, from the provision of infrastructures to social security and economic development of the nation's capital had been his topmost priority.

His drive to address both economic and social security that is capable of ridden the FCT and it's area councils of criminals and criminal elements led to the donation of about 80 different brands of vehicles free of charge to residents of the city, as part of empowerment program under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the current dispensation.

The plans to make Abuja a modern and model city through the provision of uniform shuttle vehicles , buses and other high capacity vehicles to protect pedestrians , shuttlers and workers within and outside the FCT became sancrosanct.

In line with his policy thrust, promises and resolutions, in October, 2024 , the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Nzenwo Wike provided 80 pieces of vehicles to assist and enhance movement of pedestrians across the city and area councils.

The vehicles consisting of 30 Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), 30 7-seater Suzuki Minibuses, and 20 14-seater Hiace buses—would provide employment opportunities for the youth and also reduce the cost of transportation in the FCT to security of commuters.

The Minister added that the brand-new vehicles were being provided by the government at no cost to the beneficiaries from across the six Area Councils of the FCT, to give them a source of livelihood and urged the beneficiaries to utilise the vehicles for the purpose which they had been provided and intended.

"The FCT Minister said, “These are brand new vehicles, and they are not paying a dime. We are not saying pay the government any money. The government is saying this is our own support to make sure you have something to feed, to make sure you can support your family, and also to reduce the cost of transportation in the city.”

"Barr. Wike also disclosed that the vehicles would be used as a pilot scheme to gradually phase out tricycle operations in parts of the Abuja city centre, adding that more vehicles would also be procured to address possible shortages."

While urging the public to disregard insinuation that 'Keke' will gradually be phased out of the nations city, he said rather than boosting the local economy , the present administration will not prevent residence from carrying out their lawful activities and means of living .

He said the new shuttle buses will be a graduation from were "Keke" will not be able to ply , so as to provide relief for different categories of FCT residents .

While convening the pilot scheme within Maitama, Asokoro, Guzape and other high brow areas were 'Keke' will no longer be in vogue, he promised to continue to create market for other alternative transportation in line with the lay down procedures.

The new brand vehicle policy was embarked to avoid both deliberate and government efforts not prone to sabotage from beneficiaries who may use the opportunity to delay users of the facilities on the road all in the name of 'fairly use' vehicle.

The provision of initial free 80 shuttle buses , will provide more affordable, cheap and secured transport system in the FCT and will gradually increase after the completion of terminals been constructed in the nation's centre and it's environs.

With these efforts, the activities of miscreants and criminals will be gradually reduced to the barest minimum through provision of jobs and employment opportunities to teeming Nigerians resident in the FCT.

Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on yus.abubakar3@gmail.com.

Mato Condoles Gyado Family Over Loss Of Kenneth

... says his legacy will be always felt 

By Terfa Naswem 

Former member of the House of Representatives for Vandeikya/Konshisha Federal Constituency in Benue State and Co-Founder, Fidei Polytechnic, Gboko Benue State, Rt. Hon. Mrs. Dorathy Mato condoles the family of Gyado over the demise of Kenneth Tersoo Gyado.

He was born on the 24th September, 1971 into the family of Cyprian Liamgee Gyado from Ihugh, Mbadede, Vandeikya Local Government, Benue State. He was the first of three children. He died on 8th February 2025 at age 53 leaving his wife, three children and relatives behind.

His funeral mass was held at St. Winifred's parish, Ihugh, Mbadede, Vandeikya Local Government Council of Benue State while he was buried on Thursday, 27th February, 2025  his hometown, Tse-Gyado, Ihugh, Vandeikya.

Mato extolled late Kenneth as a man who was extremely loving and generous. He hated injustice and supported those who upheld the principles of togetherness and development. She said his legacy will always be felt.

Hon. Mato prayed God to grant Gyado family, friends and associates the fortitude to bear their irreplaceable loss.

Numbeve Extends His Deepest Condolences To Gyado Family Over Demise Of Kenneth

By Terfa Naswem 

Coordinator, Benue Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), Hon. Steven Numbeve has extended his deepest condolences to the family of Gyado over demise of Kenneth Tersoo Gyado whose sudden death occurred on 8th February, 2025.

Numbeve while consoling the family at their hometown in Ihugh, Mbadede, Vandeikya LGA, Benue State before the funeral mass was held at St Winifred's Parish, Ihugh, he resounded the momentous impact late Kenneth made on the lives of the Benue All Progressives Congress, APC family, his various groups formation in support of the campaign of the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia when he was contesting for governor in the 2023 gubernatorial election.

He reflected on so many positive impact late Kenneth made on the lives of many people including him, and said he will be enormously missed.

Late Kenneth was born in 1971 and died in 2025 at age 53 and was buried on Thursday, 27th February, 2025. He left behind his wife, three children, mother, siblings and relatives.

He encouraged the wife, children, relatives, friends and associates of late Kenneth to continue to hold firm in the infallible God in this darkest moment and He will give them divine consolation through Christ Jesus our Lord.

NNN PG, Salisu Lauds Tinubu, Omo -Agege over Medical University establishment in Kwale

 By Williams Ode 

The leadership of Ndokwa Nation ably led by Comrade Chief Amechi Asugwuni, President General of Ndokwa Nation (NNU) and others notable leaders in Ndokwa nation has expressed their profund gratitude to former President Muhammadu Buhari for approving the university’s establishment after Omo-Agege lobbied for it  and worked tirelessly for the approval. 

They also , commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting the university with a takeoff grant, demonstrating his administration’s commitment to the Ndokwa Nation.

Speaking at the university’s groundbreaking ceremony on Monday last week on this day, held at its permanent site between Kwale and Emu-Ebendo, the stakeholders of the Ndokwa nation applauded Omo-Agege’s efforts in securing the specialized medical institution and pledge allegiance to support the university with enably environment for smooth takes off.

Dr. Salisu who spoke, at the university ground breaking ceremony,described the university as a major milestone, emphasizing its importance not just for Delta State but for the entire South-South region. “Today is a testimony of Senator Omo-Agege’s efforts. He lobbied for this university, and while five others were created at the same time, this institution stands out significantly,” 

Dr. Salisu, said, the Federal University of Medical Sciences Kwale  in Delta State has remove Ndokwa nation from shame while commended Omo-Agege for championing the institution’s establishment, stating that it represents the beginning of real development for the Ndokwa people. “For too long, our people have faced stagnation, but today, that chain has been broken. This university is a game-changer, and we are hopeful that more developmental projects will follow,” 

He stressed , " the university is not limited to Delta State but is a regional institution meant to serve the entire South-South.

 “All states in this region are stakeholders, and it is our collective responsibility to rally support for its development and successful takeoff,” he added.

Also speaking, Vice Chancellor Prof. Abel Nze Onunu, in his welcome address, highlighted the university’s significance, noting that it marks the first major federal government presence in Ndokwa land. “Before now, the only notable federal structure in this area was a colonial prison. For decades, Ndokwa has suffered neglect, and today, Kwale still lacks public power supply despite the numerous oil wells in the region,” 

Oh his part , in a   remarks by  Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, who served as Deputy President of the 9th Senate, expressed his profound joy in witnessing the project come to life. He described the university’s establishment as a reflection of his unwavering commitment to development and transformation in Delta State.

According to him, “As Deputy Senate President, my passion for service and vision for a better future drove me. Today, we take a giant leap towards realizing that vision,” 

Omo-Agege emphasized that,  the university will provide quality education in medical and health sciences, drive economic growth, foster innovation, and create job opportunities for Ndokwa people. He extended heartfelt appreciation to President Buhari for his visionary leadership and initial approval of the project, as well as to President Tinubu for ensuring its smooth takeoff.

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari for his visionary leadership and for giving the initial approval for this university. Your commitment to education and development is truly commendable, and we are grateful for your support.

“I also want to express my heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to the establishments 

“Under President Tinubu’s leadership, the university is receiving the necessary funding for success. His administration’s approval of this institution, alongside other tertiary institutions, underscores his commitment to expanding educational opportunities and securing a brighter future for Nigerian students,” Omo-Agege said.

He further reiterated that, " Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda  administration is dedicated to enhancing access to tertiary education nationwide. “We are proud to see this vision become a reality in Kwale,” he added

CSO Writes AGF, Seeks Probe Of DPPF Over "Frivolus" Charges Against Businessman, Lawyer

By Dansu Pentho 

A civil society group, Federation for Truth and Justice has called on the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to investigate the activities of the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, DPPF, Mohammed Abubakar Babadoko. 

The group, in a letter dated February 25, 2025 is asking the AGF to use his office to probe the relationship between the DPPF and one Asabe Waziri, a staff of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL

According to the letter, signed by the leader of the group, Comrade Henry Owolabi, the activities of the DPPF regarding the case of a businessman, Cecil Osakwe  and his Counsel, Mr Victor Giwa calls for probe. 

He said in the letter, "Our attention has been brought to many alleged illegal,  and suspicious activities been perpetrated by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Mohamned Abubakar in the Ministry of Justice. 

"It has come to our attention that Mr Abubakar, whom hereafter we shall refer to him as DPP is believed to be abusing his office by using his office to intimidate, persecute and threaten perceived opponents of his cronies, in this case one, Asabe Waziri, a staff of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCLTD). 

"Sir, the DPP has with a clear intention to intimidate Asabe Waziri ‘s opponents, framed and filed two charge sheets against one Cecil Osakwe and one Charge sheet against Cecil Osakwe and his Counsel, Victor GIWA, for standing up to opposed DPP’s illegal action against his client. 

"The charges are Charge No: CR/244/2022 at the FCT High Court, Charge N0: FHC/ABJ/CR/331/2022 at the Federal High Court and the latest is Charge N0: CR/222/2023 in the FCT High Court, Abuja.

"Curiously, sir, these charges against Cecil Osakwe, a businessman and his Counsel where framed by the DPP, with the intention of weaponizing the charges against Cecil Osakwe and force him to conceded to Asabe  Waziri’s  reliefs   which she could not get in civil courts.

Sir, the subject of the disputes between Asabe Waziri and Cecil Osakwe is the proposed purchase of 2 blocks of flats from Cecil’s Osakwe property -Abeh Signature Apartment in Maitama, Abuja.

Asabe has proposed to purchased the two flats at a purchase price of two hundred and sixty million naira (260,000,000) and made a fifty million deposit, after which was given possession."

He said shortly after taking possession, there were issues which led to management of the property to terminate the sales agreement.

"The management of the Property decided to terminate the contract with Asabe and refund her deposit. Asabe Waziri insisted on remaining in the property and vowed to deal with Cecil Osakwe.

"The matter was submitted to the FCT High Court before his Lordship Hon Justice Othman Musa, who terminated the transaction and ordered that Asabe Waziri be refunded her deposit including her agency and legal fees and vacate the premises.

"Inspite of the Court Order, Asabe Waziri refused to vacate the premises and subsequently Court Order was enforced against her.

"Surprisingly, the DPP framed and filed the first charge against Cecil Osakwe, accusing him of collecting money from Asabe under false pretense on a property Asabe Waziri stayed for over two years before she was vacated.

"DPP has continued to use the charges against Cecil Osakwe to negotiate Asabe re-entry to the premises even after Cecil Osakwe lodged an appeal against the Court of Appeal decision, setting aside the trial’s court judgement.

"Honourable Minister sir, it based on the allegations of abuse of office, official corruption and bribery that we make the following demands:"That you cause the withdrawal of the Charge no /222/2023 against Cecil Osake and his Council Victor Giwa in the High Court of the FCT for been obtained through money inducement by Asabe Waziri through one Matthew Una of the DPP.

"That you investigate the attempted bribery in dollars by DPP through his agent Matthew Una of an FCT High Court Judge who refused that bribe to arraign Cecil Osakwe".

Northern Union, 72 Other Arewa Groups Back Tinubu's Tax Reform Bills

 ... Lauds Senate Committee Chairman.

By Dansu Goldmark 

The Northern Union and 72 other Arewa groups have announced their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Tax Reform Bills.

This endorsement comes on the heels of a Senate public hearing, where stakeholders gathered to discuss the proposed legislation.

According to the Northern Union, the Tax Reform Bills align with their organisation's values of promoting economic growth, fairness, and simplicity.

The President of the group, Alhaji Adamu Muazu Garuba, said the proposed legislation will streamline tax administration, reduce compliance costs, and promote investment in key sectors.

Speaking on behalf of the groups after a public hearing in the Senate, Garuba commended the Senate Committee Chairman, Senator Sani Musa for his professional conduct throughout the hearing. 

Garuba further praised Musa for displaying the highest level of accountability, neutrality and impartiality by ensuring that all Nigerians were heard.

"The benefits of the Tax Reform Bills to the North are numerous. A simplified tax system will attract investments, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth," Garuba said. 

" The reduction in compliance costs will ease the burden on taxpayers, enabling them to invest in their businesses and communities. Additionally, the increased revenue generated from the reforms will enable governments to fund critical infrastructure projects and social programs.

"The Tax Reform Bills will also promote fairness and equity in the tax system, eliminating multiple taxation and reducing the tax burden on low-income earners.

"This will promote social justice and reduce poverty in the region. Furthermore, the reforms will promote transparency and accountability in the tax system, building trust between governments and the people."

In particular, Garuba said that the Tax Reform Bills will have a profoundly positive impact on the North.

He added: "A simplified tax system will attract investments, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in the region. This, in turn, will lead to increased economic activity, improved living standards, and reduced poverty levels.

"As the North is a significant contributor to Nigeria's economy, the benefits of the Tax Reform Bills will be felt across the country. The reduction in compliance costs will also ease the burden on taxpayers in the North, enabling them to invest in their businesses and communities.

"This will be particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are the backbone of the Northern economy. By reducing the tax burden on SMEs, the Tax Reform Bills will promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation in the region.

"The increased revenue generated from the reforms will also enable governments in the North to fund critical infrastructure projects and social programs.

"This will help to address the region's developmental challenges, such as inadequate healthcare, education, and transportation infrastructure. By investing in these critical areas, the North will be better equipped to unlock its economic potential and improve the lives of its people."

Garuba, however, has urged all northerners to support the Tax Reform Bills, emphasising that these reforms are in their best interest.

He stated: "We urge all northerners to join us in supporting the Tax Reform Bills. These reforms are in our best interest and will promote economic growth, fairness, and simplicity.

"We must work together to ensure that these reforms are passed into law and implemented effectively. We also call on our lawmakers to expedite the passage of the Tax Reform Bills.

"We urge them to put aside their differences and work together to pass these critical reforms. The fate of our region and our people depends on it. Finally, we commend President Tinubu for his leadership and vision in proposing these reforms."