A coalition of Nigerian Northern leaders has announced over $10 billion in investment pledges for the region’s core economic sectors, establishing a new council to steer a coordinated development master plan.
The pledges, focused on mining, agriculture, and power, were secured at the conclusion of the two-day Northern Nigeria Investment and Industrialisation Summit (NNIIS) in Abuja.
The event gathered state governors, federal ministers, international delegations, and private sector investors.
In response, the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) officially launched the Northern Nigeria Economic Development Council (NNEDC), an institutional body tasked with implementing a comprehensive economic blueprint for the region.
“With security as the bedrock, policy coherence as the framework, and private capital as the engine, Northern Nigeria can transform its endowments into sustainable growth, a decisive pivot from rhetoric to execution,” said Professor D.D. Sheni, Director-General of NEF.
The summit, themed “Unlocking Strategic Opportunities in Mining, Agriculture, and Power (MAP 2025),” demonstrated a rare unified vision. Governors from the North West, North East, and North Central regions signed a new Northern Nigeria Economic Development Charter, committing their states to a common economic agenda.
The federal government also signalled its support. President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, stated that “the future of Nigeria’s prosperity is inseparable from the future of Northern Nigeria,” reaffirming the administration’s commitment to reviving the region’s economy.
According to a communiqué signed by NEF Board of Trustees Chairman, Professor Ango Abdullahi, the $10 billion in pledges is targeted over the next five years.
The investments were catalysed through state investment showcases and business matchmaking sessions.
International interest was significant, with delegations from Turkey, India, Canada, Bangladesh, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia expressing readiness to invest.
To translate pledges into tangible projects, the newly created NNEDC will operate under the joint oversight of NEF and the Northern Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NNGF)
A Joint Implementation and Monitoring Taskforce (JIMT) has been established to oversee initial actions and is expected to publish an operational roadmap within 60 days.
The NNEDC will also issue quarterly scorecards to publicly track outcomes on jobs created, energy capacity added, and investments mobilised.
The forum outlined measures to overcome existing hurdles, acknowledging that while the region is rich in minerals like gold, copper, and lithium, it faces challenges such as illegal mining and environmental risks.
The proposed solutions include:
Reforming the mining sector with clear royalties, strong community engagement, and robust environmental safeguards.
· Institutionalising land administration reforms, such as creating digitised land records and community benefit agreements.
· Mobilising capital-market instruments like infrastructure bonds and sukuk to fund energy projects.
· Advocating for standardised public-private partnership (PPP) frameworks to accelerate project delivery.
The NEF reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability as it leads the region into this new phase of coordinated economic transformation.
For decades, Nigeria’s mining sector, after the initial impressive contribution to the nation’s economy, lingered in the shadows, overpowered by oil.
But as the nation searches for viable paths to economic diversification, the solid minerals sector is stepping back into the spotlight, rekindling old hopes and raising new possibilities.
Historically, Nigeria’s mineral wealth was once a major contributor to the economy. Tin mining on the Jos Plateau made global headlines in the early 1900s. But after the oil boom of the 1970s, the mining sector crumbled.
While the mining sector held sway, the environmental toll was heavy with evident land degradation, community displacement, and contaminated water supplies. In recent years, insecurity and illegal mining have become major challenges in this regard. These scars are still visible today. However, the bigger loss was economic; billions in untapped minerals were left underground, and mining’s share of GDP shrank to less than 1%.
Nigeria is home to over 44 commercially viable solid minerals, including coal, gold, lithium, barite, lead-zinc, copper, and iron ore.
Experts agree that these resources, if effectively harnessed, could drive industrialisation, create jobs, and reduce poverty, especially in mineral-rich but economically deprived regions.
In recent months, however, the narrative appears to be shifting. President Bola Tinubu, in his 65th Independence Anniversary broadcast, declared the solid minerals sector “pivotal” to Nigeria’s economic transformation.
The President’s message is clear: the days of exporting raw minerals are over as his administration aims to add value locally, encouraging downstream processing and manufacturing. This is expected to generate jobs, increase revenue, and move Nigeria from a raw material exporter to an industrial nation.
In the scheme of changing the narratives, the Ministry of Solid Minerals, under Dr Dele Alake, has introduced aggressive reforms, tightening licensing procedures, requiring local processing plans, and formalising artisanal miners and introducing the mining Marshals in mineral-rich regions to provide security for the sector. This resulted in revenues surging from ₦6 billion in 2023 to ₦38 billion in 2024.
More revenue is expected as new lithium processing plants worth over $900 million are underway in Kaduna, Abuja, and Nasarawa. The move is expected to create thousands of jobs and place Nigeria on the map for battery production.
As local reforms take place, global interest is growing. Countries like the US, UK, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have all shown interest in Nigeria’s critical minerals, especially lithium, a key input for electric vehicle batteries.
Because of this disposition, Nigeria now chairs the African Mineral Strategy Group, positioning itself as a regional leader in beneficiation and fairer trade.
Despite these feats, the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative NEITI noted that the mining sector’s GDP share remains low, calling for deeper reforms. In this respect, the Tinubu administration has committed over ₦1 trillion for mineral exploration in 2025.
Despite these feats, analysts say inconsistent policy enforcement and inadequate infrastructure, including roads, rail networks, and electricity, continue to hinder the sector’s full potential.
As Nigeria marks 65 years of independence, the question remains: Can solid minerals finally deliver what oil promised but failed to sustain?
If Nigeria can maintain its current trajectory and do more, anchored on transparency, local value addition, and investor confidence, it will transform its mineral wealth into long-term national prosperity.
For now, the Ministry of Solid Minerals appears to be on the right track. But to truly unlock its full potential, Nigeria must stay the course of addressing challenges in the sector, committing not just to reforms but to results.
The House of Representatives has called on the federal government of Nigeria to prioritise education and skills development for girls, especially in crisis-affected communities.
The House also urged security agencies and relevant stakeholders to implement measures to protect girls from violence and exploitation during crises.
It equally urged the Ministry of Women’s Affairs to create safe spaces providing mental health support to girls to help them cope with trauma.
It also urged the Ministry of Women Affairs to partner with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other stakeholders to design and implement mentorship and leadership training for girls.
The resolutions followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance titled “Motion on the International Day of the Girl Child with the theme, The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Front Lines of Crisis,” moved by the Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs, Mrs Khafilat Ogbara, at plenary.
Leading the debate on the motion, Mrs Ogbara said that the House notes that the International Day of the Girl Child is celebrated globally on the 11th of October annually.
She said that in recognition of the International Day of the Girl Child, “We gather to celebrate the resilience, the strength, and leadership of girls around the world, particularly those who find themselves on the front lines of the crisis.”
She said that the House notes that this year’s theme acknowledges that girls are not merely victims of adversity but powerful agents of change who possess the potential to shape their future and their communities.
“Whereas girls are vital contributors to society and possess unique perspectives that drive meaningful change. Their empowerment is crucial for advancing and achieving sustainable development and fostering peace for now and the future.
“The House is aware that in times of crisis, be it armed conflict, natural disaster, or public health emergencies, girls often bear the brunt of the consequences.
“They face increased risk of violence, exploitation, and discrimination, which can hinder their education and personal development.
“There is a need to harness the potential of girls as leaders and change makers.
“It is essential to provide them with access to education, healthcare, and resources that support their personal and professional development,” the motion said.
The House mandated the Committee on Women’s Affairs and Social Development to ensure compliance with the resolutions.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says preparations are in top gear for its National Convention scheduled to hold from November 15 to 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State, with the event expected to feature cultural performances and youth-oriented activities.
The party said the event will be a vibrant and culturally rich celebration aimed at showcasing its values, attracting new members—particularly young people and reinforcing its image as a national and people-oriented organisation.
The assurance was given during the inauguration of the Entertainment and Welfare Subcommittee of the National Convention Planning Committee at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.
Convention to Showcase Nigeria’s Diversity
Chairman of the Entertainment and Welfare Subcommittee and Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, addressed members of the committee, emphasizing their crucial role in creating a memorable and inclusive atmosphere for delegates and guests at the convention.
“You were carefully selected from across the states of our dear country to be members of the Entertainment and Welfare Committee.
“Preparations are in full gear, and we expect a great deal from you. Our task goes beyond ensuring a smooth convention; we must present a vibrant image of our party to Nigerians watching from every corner of the country,” she told members.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan explained that the committee’s work would cut across entertainment, cultural exhibitions, food, and welfare, ensuring that no region of the country is left out in the cultural showcase.
“We will ensure that our entertainment reflects the diversity of Nigeria. Every culture must be represented. We expect a lot from our host state, Oyo, in terms of cultural groups and performances. Let us showcase the very best of Nigeria’s music, dance, and traditions,” she stated.
She also disclosed plans to launch a musical challenge across the states, aimed at discovering and rewarding creative performances that would add colour to the convention. Winners will receive cash prizes and the opportunity to perform at the main event.
Entertainment as a Mobilisation Tool
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan underscored the role of entertainment and cultural engagement as tools for political mobilisation, particularly among the youth.
“There are millions of young Nigerians who have come of age since the last election and are searching for a political platform they can trust. We must present ourselves as that party, innovative, open, and culturally alive. Through music, arts, and social media engagement, we can speak to a new generation and make the PDP the admired choice for young Nigerians,” she said.
The lawmaker challenged committee members to actively involve their states and communities in the preparations, stressing that the spirit of participation must extend beyond the convention ground to the digital space.
Committee Gears Up for Action
Women Leader and Secretary of the Committee, Mrs. Amina Darasimi Bryhm, told journalists after the meeting that the Entertainment and Welfare Subcommittee was fully mobilised and ready to deliver a colourful convention.
“Entertainment and welfare is the heartbeat of the convention. This is a two-day event, and we are making sure that every segment, from musicians and comedians to caterers and cultural troupes, are well coordinated. Our uniforms are ready, our plans are in motion, and all subgroups are working tirelessly. We’re not leaving anything to chance,”she said.
Mrs. Bryhm said that the committee’s activities would keep delegates engaged throughout the convention, ensuring a lively atmosphere as proceedings unfold.
Party Unity
Meanwhile, the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Debo Ologunagba, responded to media reports of possible defections by some key members of the party, including Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ologunagba dismissed the speculations as a reflection of the PDP’s strong grassroots appeal and not a sign of weakness.
“Stories of defection or possible defection only highlight the interest of Nigerians in our party. The PDP is bigger than any individual. It is a party built on ideas, policies, and conviction, and that is why it has survived many political transitions,” he said.
Ologunagba emphasised that the party had experienced similar situations in the past, including defections by top political figures, but had remained resilient due to its strong foundations.
“The train for the 2025 convention has figuratively arrived in full swing,”he said.
Ibadan Convention
The Ibadan National Convention is expected to be a major political event that will shape the PDP’s direction ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party hopes to use the convention not only to elect new leaders but also to re-strategize and deepen internal cohesion.
With elaborate cultural displays, music, and welfare packages planned, the PDP appears determined to blend politics with celebration, using the convention as a platform to reconnect with Nigerians and woo new supporters, especially the youth.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has granted a presidential pardon to Major General Mamman Jiya Vatsa, sentenced to death over a treason charge in 1986.
Vatsa, a poet, was among the 17 people who received presidential pardons following the endorsement of the National Council of State, which met in Abuja on Thursday.
President Tinubu also granted a posthumous pardon to Herbert Macaulay, a Nigerian nationalist and co-founder, along with Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC).
Macaulay was the party’s first president, who played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s struggle for independence.
However, in 1913, Macaulay was believed to be unjustly convicted by the British colonialists and banned from public office.
Macaulay died in 1946, but the stigma of being an ex-convict was not exorcised from his records until now.
President Tinubu also pardoned four former convicts, including former House of Representatives member Farouk Lawan, Mrs Anastasia Daniel Nwaobia, Barrister Hussaini Umar and Ayinla Saadu Alanamu.
The ex-convicts were pardoned to enable them to integrate into society, having demonstrated sufficient remorse.
Nweke Francis Chibueze, serving a life sentence for cocaine, was pardoned, along with Dr Nwogu Peters, who had served 12 out of his 17-year sentence for fraud.
The Ogoni Nine: Ken Saro Wiwa, Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel and John Kpuine were equally formally pardoned.
The President, at the same time, awarded national honours to the Ogoni Four – Chief Albert Badey, Chief Edward Kobani, Chief Samuel Orage, and Theophilus Orage.
A statement by the presidential spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, stated that President Tinubu acted on the recommendations of the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy (PACPM).
The committee has 12 members, with the Attorney General and Justice Minister, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, as chairman.
The other members are Chief Akinlolu Olujinmi, CON; Prof. Alkasum Abba; Prof. (Mrs.) Nike Y. Sidikat Ijaiya; Justice Augustine B. Utsaha; and the Secretary, Dr Onwusoro Maduka, a former Permanent Secretary.
Constitutional Power
In exercising his constitutional power of mercy, President Tinubu granted clemency to 82 inmates and reduced the prison terms of 65 others. He gave a reprieve for seven inmates on the death row by commuting their sentences to life imprisonment.
The institutional representatives on the Committee are: the Permanent Secretary, Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs; representatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Correctional Service, National Human Rights Commission, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), and Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
The committee’s final report was presented to the Council of State on Thursday in Abuja, as required by the constitution.
The report noted, “A total of 175 inmates were interviewed, and 62 applications were received on behalf of 119 inmates considered by the committee, making it a total of 294.
“One hundred and sixty of the inmates interviewed were male, while 15 were female. Eighty-two inmates were recommended for clemency; two (2) for pardon; sixty-five (65) inmates for reduction of their terms of imprisonment, and seven (7) inmates on death row for commutation to life imprisonment.
“Also, fifteen (15) ex-convicts were recommended for Presidential Pardon, eleven (11) of them are deceased (including Ogoni 9). The Ogoni four (4) were also recommended for the Post-Humous National Honours Award.
“On the whole, a total of one hundred and seventy-five (175) beneficiaries are recommended.’’ He added.
The committee had acted on the following criteria: old age (60 years and above); ill health likely to terminate in death; young persons (16 years and below); long-term convicts who have served prison terms of 10 years or more with a good record; and convicts serving three years or more.
“Those who have been in custodial centres learnt sustainable vocational trades capable of keeping them away from crime; those who are adjudged remorseful; those who correctional officers recommended for exemplary behaviour; and Nigerian prisoners deported from other countries.”
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, inaugurated the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy (PACPM) on January 15, 2025, as a significant step towards promoting justice, rehabilitation, and human rights in Nigeria.
A two-day capacity-building workshop for journalists across Nigeria has ended in Abuja with a call on media professionals to enhance their storytelling skills in nutrition and food systems reporting.
The workshop, organised by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) in collaboration with Nigeria Health Watch, urged journalists to combat misinformation, fake news, and unsafe food practices through factual and engaging reporting.
The training, themed “Strengthening the Capacity of Media Professionals for Nutrition and Food Systems Reporting and Advocacy,” was designed to build media capacity to support Nigeria’s food systems transformation and promote citizens’ access to accurate nutrition information.
Mr. Victor Ekeleme, Senior Associate, Communications at GAIN
In his closing remarks, Mr Victor Ekeleme, Senior Associate, Communications at GAIN, commended participants’ commitment to truth and professionalism.
Ekeleme said; “The media remains one of the most powerful drivers of change in shaping public discourse and influencing action on nutrition. Our goal is that this training equips you with new perspectives and renewed motivation to approach nutrition differently.”
He urged journalists to infuse data into their storytelling, sustain engagement with policymakers, and approach nutrition reporting with a renewed sense of responsibility.
Facilitators Perspectives
Facilitators at the workshop emphasised that storytelling in nutrition journalism must go beyond statistical data to connect with real people and drive change.
Meanwhile, UNICEF Nutrition Manager, Mr Sumit Khan, reminded participants that figures alone cannot drive understanding or empathy.
He said; “When you just make a story that 40 per cent of children in this country are stunted, it may not give you the real picture. When you go deeper into it, that’s where your role as a journalist begins, going beyond the facts.”
He stressed that “technical terms must be distilled into languages that resonate with everyday Nigerians.
“We use words like ‘stunting,’ which we call height-for-age, but many people don’t know what that means. ‘Wasting’ is weight-for-height for us, but it doesn’t resonate with the layperson. So how do we improve storytelling and engage the audience?”
Khan encouraged reporters to ask not just the traditional questions, but to dig deeper into “why” their stories matter.
“When it comes to food and nutrition, it’s all about the storytelling, bringing more interesting stories that sensitise and advocate to the right people at the right time,” he said.
Mr Damilola Ojetunde, BBC data journalist
Mr Damilola Ojetunde, a data journalist with the BBC, said that facts, figures, and verifiable sources are central to responsible journalism, especially in the fight against misinformation.
He said; “Data journalism is very important because numbers don’t lie when properly used. It gives context to stories and helps track progress, trends, and policy impact. But you must ensure your data is reliable, verifiable, and accurate.”
He cited the transition from the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a lesson on the need for measurable accountability.
Ojetunde urged reporters to be transparent with their data sources.
“Quote all your sources, even those you think are wrong and let your audience be the judge. You didn’t manufacture the data. Report what you have seen,” he said.
Chibuike Alagboso, Director of Media Programmes at Nigeria Health Watch
Additionally, Mr Chibuike Alagboso, Director of Media Programmes at Nigeria Health Watch, called for more solution-oriented journalism that reflects what works, not only what fails.
He also urged journalists to elevate the perspectives of everyday Nigerians.
Habibatu Lawal Programme Manager
Mrs Habibatu Lawal, Programme Manager, Nigeria Health Watch, described misinformation and fake news as “silent killers” that endanger public health.
She said; “Misinformation has done a lot of harm. We’ve seen people practising behaviours that endanger their health, some fall sick or even die from unverified information circulating online.”
She urged journalists in today’s fast-moving information ecosystem to be more deliberate in verifying claims before publication to rebuild public trust through accuracy and diligence.
Another facilitator, Mr Jamal Yasir Bakare, identified artificial intelligence (AI) as a double-edged sword; a powerful ally but also a potential source of misinformation.
“AI tools are there to assist. Use AI as a tool and not let it take over their job. After the use of the AI, every journalist should try and fact fact-check every information provided by AI to correlate with world global guidelines such as the WHO, FAO and the like,” Bakare said.
He noted that while AI accelerates content production, it must be used responsibly to enhance, not compromise, journalistic credibility.
Journalists Reflect On New Gains
Participants described the workshop as transformative, expanding their understanding of nutrition and equipping them with tools for impactful reporting.
Daniel Eshiet of The Nation Newspaper said: “We now understand nutrition in a better way. I think we’re now equipped to enlighten the public on what it takes to feed their families, even with scarce resources.”
Bassey Ikpang of NTA said;“Training journalists on how best to report nutrition is the best thing that can happen to this country…People in rural areas need to know what balanced feeding means, even if they have little.”
Sifon Essien of TVC News said: “I’ve gained a lot, especially in understanding how to emphasise facts over fallacies,” while Josephine Okoji of Business Day stated: “…this programme offers insight into why we must treat nutrition as a matter of urgency.”
Hajara Abdullahi of Eagle Radio, Bauchi Stateshared: “Before now, I never had an interest in health reporting. But this training has inspired me. I already have a nutrition story in mind for Bauchi State.”
Salem Akindele Rock, Radio Nigeria added: “We’ve learned about new technologies, tools, and applications that will make our reporting faster and better. This will truly enhance coverage of nutrition issues.”
Aligning with National Efforts
The training, which featured field trips, aligns with Nigeria’s National Food Systems Transformation Pathway and the work of the National Food Safety Management Committee, which promotes food quality, nutrition education, and safe consumption practices.
Journalists who participated in the Abuja workshop are returning to their newsrooms with renewed commitment to go beyond the statistics, source and cite data responsibly, elevate local voices, and tell the truth that nourishes in their future reports.
The Nigerian government is evaluating strategies to enhance police reforms by augmenting financial support for the Nigeria Police Trust Fund (NPTF) and repealing the provision that limits its duration to six years, to establish it as a permanent entity.
The Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, made this announcement to State House correspondents at the conclusion of the Police Council meeting, chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, at the State House in Abuja.
Gaidam noted that the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, instituted by the Federal Government in 2019 with a renewable six-year tenure, was conceived to bridge critical deficiencies in police training, logistics, infrastructure, and welfare.
He observed that though the Fund had made notable strides in enhancing police operations and capacity development, the inclusion of a sunset clause had introduced uncertainty and impeded long-term strategic planning.
“The sunset clause in the current Act constrains sustainable reform and long-term development of the Nigeria Police Force.
“We are therefore seeking approval to repeal and re-enact the NPTF Establishment Act 2025, remove the sunset clause, and transition the Fund into a permanent agency,”the minister said.
He further proposed an upward review of the statutory allocation from the Federation Account, raising it from 0.5 to 1 per cent, noting that the increment was essential to guarantee sustainable and predictable financing for the ongoing reforms within the nation’s policing architecture.
The Minister stated that the enhanced allocation would empower the NPTF to more effectively execute its mandate in critical areas such as the training and retraining of police personnel, procurement of modern crime-fighting equipment, enhancement of welfare packages, and investment in technology-driven policing initiatives.
He noted that the Fund was established to advance the modernisation of the Nigeria Police Force by enhancing communication systems, upgrading surveillance capabilities, and strengthening emergency response operations.
It also aims to enhance accountability, transparency, and collaboration with the private sector in addressing security challenges.
Gaidam listed ten major objectives of the Trust Fund, including promoting the welfare and morale of police personnel, fostering private sector engagement, improving public safety, and sustaining operations during budgetary shortfalls.
He added that the Fund’s interventions had helped bridge critical funding gaps in policing but stressed that sustainable financing was essential to consolidate the gains achieved so far.
“The 1 per cent allocation from the Federation Account will provide a financial buffer for critical police functions, especially during budgetary delays or constraints,” he said.
Gaidam urged the Federal Government to endorse three critical measures, foremost among them the repeal and re-enactment of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund Establishment Act, 2025, to eliminate the six-year limitation and institutionalise the Fund as a permanent agency.
“The increase of statutory deduction from 0.5 per cent to 1 per cent of the Federation Account.A directive to the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to incorporate the approvals into the proposed Executive Bill for onward transmission to the National Assembly.”
If endorsed, the proposal would represent a significant milestone in institutionalising comprehensive police reforms and securing sustainable, long-term funding for Nigeria’s internal security operations.
The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the utilisation of appropriated funds for electricity reform from 2007 to 2024 which led to the unbundling of the National Electric Power Authority, NEPA.
The House resolved to set up an Ad-Hoc committee to conduct a comprehensive and forensic audit into all funds allocated and expanded on the implementation of electric power sector reform program from 2007 to 2024.
The House also resolved to conduct an investigation into the activity of transmission companies and to ascertain the effectiveness or otherwise of the privatized power sector to the country.
It agreed to invite the Minister of Power, the Managing Director of the General Bulk Electricity Trading PLC, Heads Of Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission, the Transmission Company Of Nigeria, Royal Electrification Agency and other relevant stakeholders to appear before the committee to provide details and justification for the funds received and spent.
The resolutions followed the adoption of a motion of Matters Of Urgent National Importance moved by Mr. Bassey Ekpenyong at plenary.
Leading the debate on the matter, Mr. Ekpeyong called for an investigation and forensic audit of the activities, account and funds appropriated.
He noted that over these 18 years from 2007 to 2024, “no proper audit has been conducted on by this house on the impact assessment and expenditure by the MDA implementing the programme,” he said.
The House mandated the committee to examine the terms and conditions of all loans and grant received for the power sectors and to verify the status of all projects captured under the programme.
In adopting the motion, the Deputy Speaker of the House, Mr. Benjamin Kalu who presided over plenary referred the motion to an Ad-Hoc committee to investigate and report findings and recommendations to the House within 12 weeks for concentration and further legislative action.
The Niger State Government, North Central Nigeria, has officially launched the Measles-Rubella vaccination campaign to protect children aged 9 months to 14 years across all 25 local government areas of the state.
The flag-off ceremony, held in Bida local Government, was performed by the wife of the Niger State Governor, Hajiya Fatima Umar Bago, describing Measles and Rubella ‘as serious threats to children’s health.’
She urged mothers to take their children to the nearest vaccination centres and ensure no child is left behind.
The Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, commended the initiative, describing it as a major step forward in improving child health.
He encouraged parents to participate fully, assuring them that the vaccine is safe and essential for children’s development.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Secondary and Tertiary Health, Dr Abdullahi Usman Imam, said “the campaign aims to vaccinate all eligible children across the 274 wards in the state.”
He said that other vaccines, such as Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV), malaria, and HPV vaccines, would also be given during the exercise.
Dr Imam further noted that “the state government has provided the necessary logistics and manpower to ensure the campaign’s success.”
In her message, the Chief of UNICEF Kaduna Field Office, Dr Gerida Birukila, represented by Health Specialist Dr Ahmed Tsofo, reaffirmed UNICEF’s support in eliminating Measles and Rubella in Niger State.
The World Health Organisation (WHO), AFENET, GAVI, and other partners also pledged their continued collaboration.
The event featured the symbolic administration of vaccines to children by the Governor’s wife and the Etsu Nupe, marking the official commencement of the campaign.
The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Apolonia Anele, has urged media professionals and military spokespersons to stand firm as ambassadors of truth in countering propaganda and shaping public perception, in support of national security.
Anele gave the advice at the closing of the Directorate of Army Public Relations Combined Third and Fourth Quarters Media Training Seminar 2025, held at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Abuja.
Lieutenant Colonel Anele said “the conversations at the seminar reaffirmed that in today’s complex security environment, battles are no longer won by firepower alone, but also by mastery of information.”
She stressed that propaganda and disinformation have become dangerous weapons in the hands of terrorists, secessionists and saboteurs seeking to undermine national stability.
“Our collective task is to ensure these falsehoods do not erode public trust, weaken national morale or undermine the sacrifices of our gallant troops,” she stated.
Anele underscored the indispensable role of the media as strategic partners in shaping narratives, building resilience and mobilising public support for security operations.
The seminar, she said, “deepened trust between the military and the media while charting a path for responsible, balanced, and conflict-sensitive reportage.”
The Acting Director commended media representatives, sister security spokespersons, serving and retired senior officers and participants for their commitment, describing the partnership as “stronger and unbreakable.”
“I charge you all to remain ambassadors of truth, defenders of professional ethics, and partners in building a safer, stronger, and more united Nigeria,” Anele added.
