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Commission Withdraws National Youth Council’s Registration Certificate

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Ene Audu, Abuja

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has announced the withdrawal of the registration certificate of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

In an official communication dated October 6, 2025, the CAC notified the Ministry of the withdrawal of the registration certificate earlier issued to the Council on October 28, 2020.

According to the correspondence, the action was taken under Sections 8(1)(c) and 8(1)(d) of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), 2020, following a comprehensive investigation into the affairs of the Council, which has faced a prolonged leadership crisis spanning over eighteen years.

The Commission’s review of the Council’s records and governance practices revealed serial violations of both the NYCN Constitution and the provisions of CAMA 2020, particularly Sections 833 and 834.

Consequently, the CAC has de-recognised all existing claims to leadership, trusteeship, and management within the organisation.

In line with its statutory powers, the CAC has constituted an Interim Management Committee (IMC) to oversee and manage the affairs of the Council for one year, effective October 6, 2025.

“As the supervisory authority over the NYCN, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development acknowledges the legal authority of the CAC under the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020.

“The Ministry urges all stakeholders, youth organizations, and partners of the Council to take note of this development and cooperate fully with the Interim Management Committee in the restructuring process aimed at restoring unity, legitimacy, and institutional integrity to the NYCN,”  it said.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a stable, credible, and inclusive youth governance framework that upholds accountability, transparency, and aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Agbamuche- Mbu Steps in as Acting INEC Chairman

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Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, a National Commissioner at the Independent National Electoral Election (INEC), has taken over as the acting Chairman of the Commission.

This followed the formal handover of duties by Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who is proceeding on a terminal leave.

The announcement was made on Tuesday at the INEC headquarters in Abuja during a stakeholders’ meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs).

Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu is a lawyer with over thirty years of professional experience, and her ascension comes at an important time for Nigeria’s electoral body as it strives to strengthen the country’s democracy and ensure credible elections.

Read Also: INEC Chairman Bows Out After 10 Years of Service

Here is a brief profile of the new Acting Chairman:

Her Early Life 

She was born in Kano State and but is orginally from Delta State, southern Nigeria. Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu’s unique multicultural background bridges northern and southern Nigeria. This experience has fostered a broad national perspective and a deep commitment to national unity, which has informed her approach to public service.

Education

She attended St. Louis Secondary School, Kano, before proceeding to the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), where she earned her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree in 1984.

She was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985 and later qualified as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales after completing studies at the College of Law, London.

Agbamuche-Mbu has a Master’s degree in Commercial and Corporate Law from Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London, as well as postgraduate qualifications in International Dispute Resolution and International Business Law.

Professional Experience

With over 30 years of experience, Agbamuche-Mbu has advised clients across the public and private sectors. Before joining INEC, she was the Managing Partner at Norfolk Partners, a Lagos-based law firm.

Between 2010 and 2011, she served as the sole solicitor on the Presidential Projects Assessment Committee, which evaluated major federal projects nationwide. In 2016, she was part of the Ministerial Committee that drafted the Roadmap for the Solid Minerals Sector.

Role in INEC

Agbamuche-Mbu was confirmed as a National Commissioner of INEC in 2016 and has since contributed to legal and policy reforms within the commission. Her elevation to Acting Chairman follows years of service dedicated to strengthening Nigeria’s electoral process.

Her appointment as acting INEC Chairman places her at the helm of Nigeria’s electoral body at a crucial period, as the commission prepares for upcoming elections and continues implementing electoral reforms.

ECOWAS Reviews Allocation of Statutory Positions, Nigeria Seeks Equity

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Members of the Ad hoc Ministerial Committee of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, have convened in Abuja, Nigeria, for a two-day meeting to chart a course for the proposal and allocation of statutory positions for its future appointees from member countries.

The rotation of statutory appointees adheres to a principle of cyclical representation among member nations within executive bodies, as delineated in the legal texts and regulations of the regional organization, with each term being non-renewable and lasting four years.

Speaking at the opening, the ECOWAS Commission President, Dr. Umar Touray, said they were committed to ensuring that the Ad hoc committee carries out its task with ease and more effectively.

This exercise goes to the heart of the values that underpin our Community’s regional balance, fairness, and a shared commitment to integration.

“It is the expectation that the ad hoc Committee will review this proposal with the broader interest of the Community at heart. The Commission stands ready to provide any services that would ease the work of the Committee,” he said.

According to Dr. Touray, the June 2025 resolution from the 94th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers mandated the formation of the ad hoc Committee to review the Commission’s proposals.

The memo was prepared, taking into account the 2012 Supplementary Act on the Modalities for the Allocation of Statutory Positions and historical data on allocations.

“To facilitate this process, the Council, in June, established this six-member ad hoc committee, comprising of the Republics of Benin, Cote d’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Nigeria, Senegal, and Togo, to review the proposed allocation of the Commission and submit it to Council for consideration, and ultimately to the ECOWAS Authority for decision. We trust the Committee will examine this proposal with the broader interest of our Community in mind,” he said.

The Commission President added that: “At the end of the meeting, the Commission will be presenting a memo setting out the framework for the allocation of the statutory positions for your consideration. The memo was prepared taking into account the provisions of the 2012 Supplementary Act and historical data on the allocations of the statutory positions of the institutions since 1975,” he added.

Declaring the event open, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu- Ojukwu, who chairs the Committee, noted that the task ahead for regional integration is a shared responsibility.

Our presence here today reflects the significance we collectively place on the crucial task before us, one that lies at the heart of our regional integration agenda. Our gathering also reaffirms our shared commitment to upholding the principles of equity, regional balance, and institutional integrity within the governance framework of our Community,” she said

She reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to reinforcing unity and justice within ECOWAS Region.

We would also recall that Nigeria, as a long standing and committed Member State, played a significant role in shaping and supporting the institutional reforms which culminated in the current and more streamlined structure.

“These reforms were aimed at reducing operational costs, optimizing administrative efficiency, and enhancing the effectiveness and impact of ECOWAS programmes across the region.

“I want to, therefore assure you that as part of our enduring commitment to the ideals of regional integration and solidarity, Nigeria will continue to assume its traditional leadership role by constructively engaging with all Member States to build consensus and ensure that our collective decisions reflect both equity and a shared vision for the future of our Community”, she said .

Ambassador Odumegwu- Ojukwu emphasised  the need for open-minded and constructive dialogue as the committee approaches discussions.

It is equally important to underscore that our membership of this Ad-hoc Committee should not be construed as a pathway to positions of leadership within the ECOWAS Commission. Rather, our engagement should be guided by the principles of regional solidarity, prioritizing the collective interest of the Community above national aspirations.

“In doing so, we will contribute to fostering deeper unity, mutual trust, and a shared sense of purpose among our citizens. Let us remain focused on ensuring that the outcomes of our engagements are both meaningful and impactful for the future of our region,” she added.

It is expected that discussions at the Ad hoc meeting will be are geared towards shaping the ECOWAS leadership landscape, strengthen unity, inclusiveness, and long-term regional integration.

 

 

 

 

Oyenike Oyeniyi 

President Tinubu Honours Outgoing INEC Chairman

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) on the outgoing Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, in recognition of his service and contributions to Nigeria’s democratic process.

In a statement released on Tuesday by presidential spokesperson Mr Bayo Onanuga, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu formally accepted the terminal leave of the INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, and expressed appreciation for his dedicated service to the nation.

The President commended Professor Yakubu’s steadfast commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, particularly through the conduct of credible, free, and fair elections during his two-term tenure.

Following the acceptance of Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s exit note marking the end of his second term as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed that Professor Yakubu should hand over the reins of the Commission to the most senior National Commissioner, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu.

Mrs May Agbamuche-Mbu, is to oversee the affairs of the electoral body in an acting capacity pending the completion of the process for appointing a substantive successor.

In the letter dated October 3, 2025, Professor Yakubu thanked the President for the opportunity to serve the nation as chairman of the commission since 2015.

Yakubu was first appointed in November 2015 as the 14th chairman of the commission for an initial term of five years. The appointment, which was renewed in 2020, has now expired due to the passage of time.

 

Nigeria at 65: Can Gas Truly Power Our Economic Independence

As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, it is a moment of reflection not only on our political journey but also on the state of our economy, our industries, and the untapped resources that hold the key to true independence. One of such resources is natural gas, an endowment that many experts believe could redefine our national destiny if harnessed with vision and commitment.

Nigeria is blessed with one of the largest proven gas reserves in the world, estimated to be over 200 trillion cubic feet. For decades, however, this immense wealth had been underutilised, flared away, or exported in its raw form, while our industries and citizens continue to grapple with erratic power supply, joblessness, and a fragile economy heavily dependent on crude oil revenues.

The big question at 65 then is: Can gas truly power our economic independence?

Evidence suggests that it can. Gas is cleaner, more abundant, and more versatile than oil. It is the fuel for electricity generation, fertiliser production, petrochemicals, and even transportation.

Owing to this great importance, the late Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari launched a presidential initiative in 2021 tagged “Decade of Gas’’ to enhance the development and utilisation of natural gas in the country, underscoring its potential to transform industries, energise homes, and boost exports.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, recognising the efforts made and the importance gas, has taken bold steps to further develop the sector.

Across the country, critical gas infrastructure projects are springing to life. From the Assa North–Ohaji South Gas Processing Plant in Imo to the expansion of the Kwale facilities, and the ANOH-OB3 pipeline project, Nigeria is indeed laying the foundations to supply industries, generate power, and drive growth through gas.

Policy reforms have also followed the infrastructure development. The president signed executive orders to cut red tapeism, attract investors, and give fiscal incentives for gas development. For the first time in years, the industry sees a clearer, faster path for investment.

In all these, the most impactful stride for ordinary Nigerians is the Compressed Natural Gas CNG Initiative, which is 100 per cent sourced in the country. By rolling out conversion kits and making CNG available at lower cost, the government is easing transport burdens, cutting fuel imports, and turning gas into a people’s resource — clean, affordable, and reliable.

Even beyond domestic use, Nigeria has licensed its first floating LNG plant to capture and export gas that would otherwise be wasted through flaring. That means more revenue, more jobs, and less harm to the environment.

At 65, Nigeria knows that political freedom is not enough. True independence lies in building an economy that is powered from within. And with the policies and projects now underway, President Tinubu is charting a course where natural gas can finally light up homes, power industries, drive our transport, and strengthen our place in the global energy market.

The vision is bold. The challenge is great. But the message on this Independence Day is clear: if Nigeria’s story is to be written in gas, then the writing has already begun. However, there is a need for more investment in the sector to drive down the cost of CNG for it to be easily accessed at the grassroots.

 

Nigerian Government Harmonises Negotiation Committee for Tertiary Unions

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The Nigerian government has reconstituted and inaugurated the Mahmud Yayale Ahmed Tertiary Institutions Committee to fast-track negotiations with academic and non-academic unions in tertiary institutions.

Minister of Education Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, at the meeting, said the new committee was designed to harmonise all negotiation processes under one coordinated framework that reflects institutional memory and sector-wide inclusiveness.

He was joined by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Mohammed Maigari Dingyadi, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmed.

Dr Alausa, in a statement by the Director of Press of the Ministry, Boriowo Folasade, explained that, unlike previous fragmented negotiations, the expanded committee will engage all unions collectively to achieve a comprehensive and sustainable agreement.

“The membership of the committee has been carefully chosen to represent the full spectrum of the education sector, ensuring that no group is left behind,” he said.

Recall that ASUU had recently given a two-week ultimatum to the Nigerian government to meet its demand contained in an earlier agreement or face strike action.

READ ALSO: Education Minister Clarifies Status of Nigerian Government-ASUU Agreement

The Minister disclosed that the committee has been provided with a well-equipped and functional secretariat to enable it to carry out its mandate effectively.

He urged all academic and non-academic unions to cooperate fully and respond promptly to the committee’s engagements.

According to him, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given full political backing to the process, with a clear directive that all negotiations be concluded swiftly, fairly, and in the spirit of mutual respect.

“President Tinubu’s mandate is that all our children must be in school. This is renewed hope in action,” Dr Alausa emphasised.

He expressed appreciation to all unions for their patience and commitment as the government works toward a final and comprehensive agreement.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Labour and Employment commended the Ministers of Education for their exemplary leadership and inclusive approach in the ongoing negotiation process.

He emphasised that true and lasting peace can only be achieved when all stakeholders are involved, noting that excluding any party would only breed division and undermine collective progress.

“I urge members of the expanded committee to act as impartial reconciliators, upholding justice, fairness, and stability while mediating between employers and employees,” he said.

The Minister reminded them that their early participation will ensure effective implementation of the final agreements, fostering transparency and mutual understanding.

He called for dedication to the process and continuous engagement with all parties, acknowledging both the limitations of government and the legitimate concerns of workers.

Reaffirming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to fair and lasting resolutions, he stressed that dialogue, consultation, and open communication remain vital to preventing future industrial actions and ensuring sustained peace and progress in the education sector.

Responding on behalf of the committee, Chairman Alhaji Mahmud Yayale Ahmed expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for the confidence reposed in them to steer such a crucial national assignment.

“I assure you that the committee will approach its task with openness, inclusiveness, and integrity, listening to all stakeholders, fostering trust, and working toward agreements that promote industrial harmony and strengthen the nation’s tertiary institutions,” he said.

He pledged that the committee will not only negotiate but also ensure that the recommendations and agreements reached are practical, realistic, and capable of sustaining long-term peace and productivity within the education sector.

 

Anambra State Activates 25 Free Public Wi-Fi Sites

Anambra State has activated 25 public Wi-Fi sites across the region, marking a major step in its digital transformation agenda.

The initiative provides free internet access in key public areas, aiming to bridge the digital divide and promote economic inclusion.

Dubbed “Solution WiFi,” the project is a flagship effort of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration and fulfils his campaign pledge to democratise internet access for students, traders, civil servants, and residents.

Managing Director of the Anambra State Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Agency, Fred Agbata announced the rollout during an engagement with the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Awka.

He described the public Wi-Fi sites as “lifelines” essential for a modern, competitive society.

“These hotspots are not just infrastructure; they are lifelines which democratise internet access,” Agbata stated.

He said; “This initiative is about bridging information divides and fostering inclusion, ensuring that every citizen can participate in the digital economy.”

The live sites are strategically located in high-traffic public spaces, including Aroma Junction, Eke Awka Market, the ABS Bus Stand, the Jerome Udorji Secretariat, the State House of Assembly, and several educational institutions such as Nwafor Orizu College of Education and the College of Health, Obosi.

Read Also: Startup Consultative Forum Elects National Representatives

The rollout also extends to various student lodges, recognising the crucial need for connectivity among young people.

Agbata noted that the Wi-Fi project is part of a broader state-wide digitisation drive. He revealed that the State Executive Council (EXCO) meetings have been fully digitised, transitioning from paper-based processes to a digital platform.

“This initiative has cascaded into various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), making civil service operations faster and smarter through the digital platforms provided by our agency,” he explained.

Agbata said that “the Anambra State ICT Agency was established to lead this digital transformation, with a mandate to make the vision of ‘Everything technology, technology everywhere’ a reality.”

The overarching goal, Agbata said, is to create a “smart, liveable, and prosperous” state where technology underpins governance and citizen engagement.

Agbata urged journalists to play their part in promoting the vision, saying:“Tell the stories, ask the hard questions, and together, let us keep shaping a narrative of hope, innovation, and transformation.”

 

INEC Chairman Bows Out After 10 Years of Service

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After a decade of steering Nigeria’s elections through sweeping reforms and digital innovations, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, on Tuesday announced his resignation.

Yakubu, who has been at the helm of INEC’s affairs since 2015, formally stepped down during the Commission’s quarterly meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in Abuja, describing the session as his “last as chairman.”

Citing Section 306 of the 1999 Constitution, Yakubu said the move would allow a smooth transition as INEC braces for a busy electoral calendar.

By consensus of the National Commissioners, Mrs May Agbamuche-Mbu, the most senior commissioner, takes over in acting capacity pending the appointment of a substantive chairman.

In his farewell remarks, Yakubu reflected on his 10-year stewardship, pointing to INEC’s digital transformation — from biometric voter registration and electronic result transmission to online nomination and monitoring systems.

“Together, we built a foundation for credible elections in Africa’s largest democracy,” he declared.

He acknowledged support from political parties, the National Peace Committee, civil society, security agencies, the media, and especially corps members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), whom he described as “the most patriotic election officials.”

The outgoing chairman also unveiled two publications capturing his tenure: Election Management in Nigeria 2015–2025 and Innovations in Electoral Technology 2015–2025, now available on INEC’s website.

Yakubu leaves with major elections looming — including next month’s Anambra governorship poll, the FCT Area Council vote in February 2026, and the Ekiti and Osun governorship contests later that year. Preparations for the 2027 general elections, he revealed, have already begun.

Ending on a lighter note, Yakubu invited commissioners for a farewell photographBy Vin Oliji, Abuja before officially handing over to Agbamuche-Mbu.

His exit marks the close of what many describe as a transformative era for Nigeria’s electoral system.

President Tinubu Seeks Reps Approval for External Borrowing

Gloria Essien, Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has written to the House of Representatives seeking approval for a new external borrowing and debt refinancing totaling $2.3 billion, alongside the issuance of a $500 million debut sovereign Sukuk in the international capital market.

The request was transmitted in a letter read on the floor of the House by Speaker Mr. Tajudeen Abbas on the resumption of plenary.

President Tinubu is seeking the National Assembly’s resolution in line with Sections 21(1) and 27(1) of the Debt Management Office (DMO) Establishment Act, 2003.

According to the President, the new borrowing is aimed at implementing provisions of the 2025 Appropriation Act, refinancing maturing Eurobonds, and diversifying Nigeria’s funding sources through Islamic finance instruments.

He further stated that the 2025 budget provides for $9.27 billion in total new borrowings to finance the year’s fiscal deficit, out of which $1.84 billion (₦1.23 trillion at an exchange rate of ₦1,500/$) is earmarked for external loans.

The President, therefore, urged the lawmakers to authorise the Federal Government to source the funds through any of the following options: Issuance of Eurobonds; Loan syndication; Bridge financing from bookrunners; or Direct borrowing from international financial institutions.

The President also said that Nigeria’s $1.118 billion Eurobond, issued in 2018 at 7.625% and maturing in November 2025, will be refinanced to avoid default.

“This is a standard practice in debt capital markets,” the letter noted, adding that refinancing through Eurobonds or syndicated loans would ensure debt sustainability and investor confidence.

Sukuk

Also, in a move to expand Nigeria’s access to Islamic finance, President Tinubu sought approval to issue a standalone sovereign Sukuk of up to $500 million in the international market — with or without a credit enhancement guarantee from the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC), a member of the Islamic Development Bank Group.

According to him, the decision was inspired by the government’s “considerable success” in domestic Sukuk issuances, which have raised ₦1.39 trillion since 2017 for critical infrastructure, particularly road projects.

READ ALSO: House of Reps Seeks Maritime Reforms for Revenue Efficiency

President Tinubu said the proposed international Sukuk would help bridge the country’s infrastructure funding gap and deepen its investor base.

The letter read in part: “If the ICIEC credit guarantee is utilised, 25% of the proceeds will be used to repay relatively expensive debt obligations, while the balance will finance pre-identified infrastructure projects.”

President Tinubu assured the lawmakers that the Federal Ministry of Finance and the DMO would work closely with transaction advisers to secure the most favourable terms and pricing for all capital-raising efforts, subject to prevailing market conditions.

Expressing confidence that the country could successfully raise the proposed amounts, he said, “Nigeria remains a regular and reputable issuer in the international capital markets.”

The President reaffirmed his commitment to prudent fiscal management and sustainable debt practices, and called on the House to pass a resolution authorising the Federal Government to: Raise $2.347 billion through Eurobonds, syndicated loans, or bridge financing; refinance the maturing $1.118 billion Eurobond due November 2025; and issue a $500 million sovereign Sukuk with potential ICIEC credit enhancement.

“I look forward to the timely issuance of the House’s resolution,” he said.

Environment Ministry Commends Anambra’s Climate Initiatives

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The Nigerian Government has recognised Anambra State as a national benchmark for climate adaptation and environmental management, citing its transformative community-led initiatives and effective governance.

The commendation was made by the Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Abbas Lawal, during the launch of the €175 million Nigeria Climate Adaptation, Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) in Abuja.

The project, a partnership between the European Investment Bank and the Nigerian Government, aims to address flooding, gully erosion, and land degradation nationwide.

In a dialogue with Anambra State Commissioner for Environment, Dr Felix Odimegwu, the Minister described Anambra ‘as the most proactive and effective state in tackling environmental challenges’, noting its community-driven initiatives, rapid erosion response, and waste management systems as a national model.

Anambra, once one of Nigeria’s most erosion-prone states, has significantly improved its environmental outlook through climate-smart urban planning, decentralized waste recycling, and grassroots sustainability programmes, making it a major beneficiary of the NEWMAP initiative.

Dr. Odimegwu attributed the state’s progress to collective efforts among communities, institutions, and development partners and reaffirmed Anambra’s commitment to long-term environmental reforms and shared climate goals.

Environmental experts and civil society groups welcomed the Nigerian government’s recognition, urging other states to adopt Anambra’s people-centered approach to environmental governance.