Voice of Nigeria Broadcasting Service

President Tinubu Arrives in United Kingdom

Peace Piak Kanu

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March 17, 2026

President Tinubu Arrives in United Kingdom

Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, have arrived in the United Kingdom for a two-day state visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between both countries.

The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, on Tuesday disclosed this to Voice of Nigeria, stating that the presidential aircraft, Nigerian Air Force 001, touched down at exactly 3:23 p.m. UK time at Stansted Airport, London.

Dare noted that the arrival of the President and his wife marks the commencement of a historic visit, coming 37 years after the British Royal Family last hosted a Nigerian leader.

He explained that the visit is expected to reset diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, not only along traditional lines but also across critical sectors such as trade, tourism, commerce, maritime, security, and other areas of mutual interest.

“The visit resets the Diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom along traditional lines and also along other critical lines such as Trade, tourism, commerce, maritime, security, and other critical sectors. This indeed is history unfolding before our eyes.” The Special Adviser stated.

Describing the visit as a significant milestone, the presidential aide said it underscores Nigeria’s renewed global engagement under President Tinubu’s leadership.

“The President that is transformational is steering the leadership of Nigeria and he has brought about reforms because of his performance and because he has reset the fundamentals of the Nigerian economy and the radar of the world now is upon Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.” He added.

The Special Adviser further highlighted that the Tinubu administration has continued to drive reforms aimed at repositioning the Nigerian economy, attracting global attention, and strengthening the country’s standing on the international stage.

The visit is expected to feature high-level engagements, including meetings with British officials and members of the Royal Family, as both nations seek to deepen cooperation and expand strategic partnerships.

Plateau Governor Calls for Unity at Mupun Cultural Festival

Entertainment/Tourism

Victoria Ibanga

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March 17, 2026

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Plateau Governor Calls for Unity at Mupun Cultural Festival

The Plateau State Governor, Caleb Muftwang, has called on residents of the state to strengthen unity and maintain peaceful coexistence as the Mupun community marks its annual Vwang Cultural Festival in Lankang, located in the Pankshin Local Government Area of the State.

Represented at the event by the Deputy Governor, Ngo Josephine Piyo, the governor stated that cultural celebrations are vital for promoting harmony among people, safeguarding traditions, and encouraging communities to live together in peace.

Addressing participants at the festival organised by the Mupun Cultural and Development Association (MUCDA), Mutfwang stressed that culture serves as a key pillar for shaping identity and ensuring that the heritage of communities is passed on to future generations.

According to him, the Vwang Festival is more than just a celebration.

Through cultural performances such as music, dance, and other artistic expressions, the event helps preserve the customs and values of the Mupun people while strengthening the shared heritage that unites them.

“I appeal to the people of Plateau State to turn away from conflict, resentment, and violence, and instead promote dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect” said

The governor noted that lasting development can only thrive in a peaceful environment, adding that safeguarding peace is a collective responsibility involving government authorities, traditional rulers, religious leaders, young people, and the wider community.

Also speaking at the event, was the Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District, and former governor of the State Simon Lalong, who praised the improvement in security across the state.

Lalong explained that the relative peace currently being enjoyed has made it easier for communities to freely celebrate their culture and traditions.

“You will recall that in previous years, gatherings for cultural dances were often overshadowed by fear and insecurity, with participants constantly worried about their safety.

However, the current peaceful atmosphere now allows people to proudly display their traditional attire and celebrate without anxiety”. He stated.

The senator further urged organisers of cultural festivals to prioritize the promotion of cultural heritage, noting that such events provide an opportunity to showcase the diverse traditions of Plateau State to a broader audience.

He announced a donation of three million naira to support the cultural activities of the Mupun people.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Tourism, Culture, and Hospitality in Plateau State, Cornelius Doeyok Dongnaan, said the government is working towards turning cultural festivals into significant tourist attractions capable of stimulating economic growth.

He noted that the traditional dances, local cuisine, and colourful cultural attire displayed during the celebration represent important cultural assets that can draw visitors and investors if properly promoted.

Dongnaan explained that well-organised festivals with rich cultural content can attract people from different parts of the world who are interested in experiencing the unique heritage of the region.

He added that the government’s goal is to continually improve and repackage these events to boost tourism and create economic opportunities.

The Paramount Ruler of Mupun land, Da Yusuf Walleng Fwangbring, also urged his people to continue nurturing peace and unity, describing the festival as a symbol of harmony within the community.

He encouraged Mupun indigenes living abroad to stay connected with their cultural roots and contribute to the progress and development of their ancestral homeland.

Earlier, the President of the Mupun Cultural and Development Association, Haruna Tanko Walleng, explained that the annual Vwang Festival serves as an important platform for educating younger generations about the need to preserve their cultural heritage.

He added that the celebration also brings together Mupun sons and daughters living in different parts of Nigeria and in the diaspora, allowing them to reconnect with their traditions.

The colourful event attracted dignitaries from across the country, with guests appearing in vibrant traditional attire while local delicacies and cultural displays highlighted the rich heritage of the Mupun people.

As part of activities leading up to the main celebration, organizers conducted a medical outreach programs that provided free healthcare services to members of the community, particularly elderly residents and children.

Nigeria Advances Strategy to End Tuberculosis

Health

Christopher Ojilere

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March 17, 2026

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Nigeria Advances Strategy to End Tuberculosis

Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to ending Tuberculosis (TB), as key stakeholders highlight progress, persistent gaps and renewed strategies ahead of World TB Day 2026.

At a pre-World TB Day press conference in Abuja, the Director of Public Health at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr Charles Nzelu, said the country is strengthening innovation and community-driven approaches to close gaps in TB detection and treatment.

He described the 2026 theme, “Yes, We Can End TB: Led by Government, Powered by Communities,” as a reflection of renewed national leadership and grassroots resilience.

“This theme is not just a slogan; it is a testament to the renewed leadership we are seeing at the national level and the resilience of our communities,” he said.

Dr Nzelu noted that under the leadership of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, and the Minister of State, Iziaq Adekunle Salako, TB control has become a priority within Nigeria’s health agenda.

He revealed that Nigeria has recorded significant improvements in TB case notification as the current National Strategic Plan (2021–2026) nears completion, although challenges remain.

“We have made significant increase in our TB notification, but it is not yet uhuru, there is still a lot of work to be done,” he stated.

The Director further disclosed that the Federal Government is leading the rollout of new diagnostic technologies, including point-of-care molecular testing platforms, to expand access in underserved areas.

“This new diagnostic platform is a game changer, allowing us to bring molecular testing closer to the people and ensuring no Nigerian is left behind due to geography,” he added.

According to him, over 1,000 diagnostic machines are being deployed nationwide, supported by strengthened electronic reporting systems to enhance real-time data tracking and prevent stockouts of life-saving drugs.

Dr Nzelu also called on journalists to intensify public awareness, stressing that TB services are free in government-approved facilities.

“No Nigerian should pay for TB services; diagnosis and treatment are free, and nobody should die from a disease that is curable,” he emphasized.

He urged members of the public to seek medical attention for a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, noting that early detection remains critical in stopping transmission.

In his presentation, the Acting National Coordinator of the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme, Dr Clement Adesigbin, described Nigeria as one of the high-burden countries for TB globally.

“The incidence rate of tuberculosis in Nigeria is about 219 per 100,000 population, translating to over 500,000 cases annually,” he said.

Dr Adesigbin explained that TB is not just a medical issue but is closely linked to socio-economic factors such as poverty, malnutrition, and overcrowding.

“Whenever you see poverty, undernutrition, and overcrowding, you will see a high burden of tuberculosis. Ending TB requires addressing these underlying factors,” he noted.

He highlighted progress made in recent years, including a significant increase in treatment coverage from about 20 percent in 2018 to over 80 percent currently.

The National Coordinator also disclosed that over 25,000 health facilities across Nigeria now provide TB services, with increasing involvement of private healthcare providers.

“We no longer sit in facilities and wait for patients; we go to the communities, to the hard-to-reach areas, to find cases early and put them on treatment,” he said.

He added that Nigeria is leveraging modern technologies such as GeneXpert machines, portable digital X-rays, and artificial intelligence tools to detect TB cases and identify hotspots more efficiently.

Despite these gains, Dr Adesigbin identified stigma, funding constraints, and shifting global health priorities as major challenges.

“People still stigmatize TB because of a lack of information. This is where the media plays a critical role in educating the public,” he stressed.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Board Chair of Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, Dr Queen Ogbuji-Ladipo, emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration and increased domestic financing to end TB in Nigeria.

“Ending TB requires strong leadership from government, while communities remain the driving force for awareness, prevention, treatment adherence, and accountability,” she said.

She acknowledged the progress made through partnerships involving government, development partners, civil society, and the media, which have helped expand TB detection and improve access to care.

“While we celebrate these achievements, we must acknowledge that more still needs to be done, especially as global health financing becomes increasingly constrained,” she added.

Dr Ogbuji-Ladipo called for renewed commitment from all stakeholders, including government institutions, the private sector, and community leaders, to sustain momentum in the fight against TB.

“When government leads with strong policies and adequate financing, and communities are empowered, ending TB becomes an achievable reality,” she stated.

World TB Day is commemorated annually on March 24 to raise awareness about the devastating health, social, and economic impact of tuberculosis and to accelerate global efforts to eliminate the disease.

Nigerian Governors Condemn Maiduguri Bombings

Nigeria

Mosunmola Ore

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March 17, 2026

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Nigerian Governors Condemn Maiduguri Bombings

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has described as shocking and despicable the multiple suicide bombings in Maiduguri on Monday night.

Condemning the attacks as evil and unacceptable, the Forum in a statement by it’s Chairman who is also the Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said the incidents were a reckless waste of human lives, and tasked the security forces to degrade the capacity of the terrorists to carry out such attacks.

“Our condolences and sympathies are with the people and government of Borno State on this sad development. We stand in firm solidarity with them, and will continue to work with the Federal Government to totally defeat terrorists in any part of the country,” the Forum said.

It condemned the Maiduguri cowardly attacks on civilians and government offices, and reassured security forces of it’s continued support for the operations to end this menace.

Schools Receives Free Educational Materials in Cross River

Nigeria

Foluke Ibitomi

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March 17, 2026

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Schools Receives Free Educational Materials in Cross River

Public primary schools have began to receive free textbooks and Teachers’ Guide in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, south-south Nigeria.

The free textbooks, Literacy and Numeracy, were distributed to some schools by the Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Professor Stephen Odey alongside top officials of the Ministry of Education.

In a brief remark prior to the distribution, Professor Odey, who was representing Governor Bassey Otu at the ceremony, said the textbooks were part of HOPE (Nigeria Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity) Governance Education Programme of the World Bank.

Odey explained that the programme, which is a $500 million World Bank-supported initiative, was aimed at strengthen basic education in Nigeria.

He said that the initiative aligned with Governor Otu’s ‘People First’ mantra and would guarantee access to quality education for every child in Cross River State.

He stated, “the Cross River State Government is committed to providing essential infrastructural facilities and instructional materials, including textbooks and other learning resources to improve teaching and learning in our schools.”

Odey further hinted that the distribution of the textbooks was part of the state government’s reforms to reposition public basic education for improved learning outcomes.

He described the initiative as a significant milestone for the current administration, reflecting the dedication to high educational standards.

He expressed profound appreciation to Governor Otu and the Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for the initiative, noting “this will go along way to enable children in our communities have access to free English and Arithmetics textbooks.

“We are started here in Calabar, the ministry will ensure these textbooks and Teachers’ Guide will be distributed to public primary schools across the 18 local government areas,” he said.

Continuing, the commissioner appealed, “I will urge the pupils and teachers to make good use of these textbooks. Please, do not year it, do not colour or damage it in anyway. It is our desire for every child in Cross River State to study and make good results so you can all have brighter future.”

To the teachers, Odey said, “this guide is coming at no cost to you, our dear teachers. This is part of Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s commitment to ensure that teachers have access to teaching materials. We are focused on quality education and to achieve quality, the relevant resources should be made available.

“This government will stop at nothing to ensure we give our children, like their counterparts else in the world, the standard basic education possible,” he stated.

The distribution of the textbooks to some pupils of a primary school in Calabar was greeted with gleeful smiles and thunderous applause as some of the children expressed delight over having two important textbooks for the first time.

Northern Governors Forum condemns Maiduguri explosions

Nigeria

Mosunmola Ore

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March 17, 2026

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Northern Governors Forum condemns Maiduguri explosions

The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has strongly condemned the deadly explosions that rocked Maiduguri on Monday evening, describing the attacks as heinous, barbaric and a direct assault on innocent lives.

The explosions, which reportedly occurred almost simultaneously at the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, the Monday Market Roundabout and the Post Office area, have left many dead and several others injured.

In a statement issued in his capacity as Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, Governor Yahaya expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident, extending his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Borno State, particularly families who lost their loved ones.

READ ALSO: President Tinubu Orders Security Chiefs to Relocate to Maiduguri

“This senseless act of violence is not only reprehensible but a cruel attempt to instill fear and disrupt the fragile peace being restored in the North-East. It is an attack on our collective humanity and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” the Governor stated.

The NSGF Chairman also sympathised with victims receiving treatment in various hospitals and prayed for their quick recovery, while commending first responders and security agencies for their swift intervention in managing the aftermath of the blasts.

He restated the commitment of the Northern Governors to continue working closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to confront and defeat all forms of terrorism and criminality threatening the peace and stability of the region.

Governor Yahaya also urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding while cooperating fully with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid ongoing investigations.

“Now, more than ever, we must stand united against forces of terror. Our resolve to secure our region remains unshaken, and together, we shall overcome these cowardly acts,” the Governor added.

Speaker Abbas Condemns Maiduguri Bombing

Nigeria

Mosunmola Ore

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March 17, 2026

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Speaker Abbas Condemns Maiduguri Bombing

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Abbas Tajudeen, has commiserated with victims of the latest bomb blasts in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, describing the attacks as heinous, condemnable, and unfortunate.

The Speaker said it was unfortunate that the suspected terrorists continued with their destructive activities, especially during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

He stated that it has further confirmed that the terrorists are not only against Islam but also humanity.

While calling for collective efforts towards ending terrorism, banditry, and other crimes in Nigeria, the Speaker urged the security forces to step up action against crimes and criminality.

READ ALSO: President Tinubu Orders Security Chiefs to Relocate to Maiduguri

Speaker Abbas condoled with the families of those who died while consoling those injured by the blasts.

Suspected terrorists on Monday night bombed locations around Monday Market and a security post at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, in Maiduguri, Borno State.

The bombs, which detonated simultaneously around 7.02 pm, killed and wounded an unspecified number of people.

NSIB Investigates Rigasa-Idu Railway Incident

Nigeria

Mosunmola Ore

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March 17, 2026

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NSIB Investigates Rigasa-Idu Railway Incident

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into a railway incident involving a passenger train operating on the Rigasa–Idu rail corridor.

The incident occurred at approximately 09:16 hours along the Jere–Asham section near Asham Station in Kaduna State. The section of the track where the incident occurred is located on a downward gradient.

This was contained in a press statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, Mrs. Funke Arowojobe.

According to the Director, the train identified as KA2, departed Rigasa Railway Station in Kaduna at the commencement of its scheduled journey to Idu Station in Abuja. The train operated within its scheduled service window of 07:15 to 10:01 hours and arrived at Jere Station at 08:52 hours before departing again at 08:59 hours to continue its journey toward Abuja.

READ ALSO: Transportation Minister advocates capital punishment for Railway Vandals

The Arowojobe further explained that upon arrival at Jere Station, a rear locomotive was attached to the train to provide additional operational support for the onward movement along the corridor.

Shortly after departing Jere Station, the rear locomotive became detached while the train proceeded along the downward gradient toward the Asham section.

The detached locomotive subsequently rolled forward and struck the rear portion of the train, resulting in a serious operational occurrence.

At the time of the incident, the train consisted of two locomotives positioned at the front and rear, one power car, two business class coaches, and six standard passenger coaches. The train was conveying a total of 429 passengers.

Onboard personnel included 46 crew members and 24 security personnel assigned to the service.

Although no fatalities were recorded, some passengers sustained injuries. Immediate response actions were initiated by personnel of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) and security personnel onboard the train. Medical personnel also provided first aid assistance to affected passengers.

Following the incident, the train proceeded to Idu Station in Abuja, where it arrived at approximately 10:39. Additional assistance was provided to passengers.

NSIB investigators have commenced evidence gathering and analysis to determine the circumstances surrounding the occurrence. The investigation will examine technical, operational, and infrastructure factors, including train configuration, locomotive attachment systems, operational procedures, and relevant operational data.

Commenting on the incident, the Director General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., expressed concern for the affected passengers and reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to uncovering the facts behind the occurrence.

“This incident reminds us that every transport journey carries the trust and expectations of hundreds of people who rely on the system to move them safely to their destination.
“Our thoughts are with the passengers who sustained injuries, and we commend the swift response of Nigerian Railway Corporation personnel and emergency teams who assisted those affected.

“At the Bureau, we approach every investigation with a deep sense of responsibility because behind every occurrence are real people, real families, and real consequences.

“Our team will carefully examine every relevant factor to understand what happened and ensure that lessons from this occurrence lead to safer railway operations across Nigeria.”

The Bureau added that it will work closely with the Nigerian Railway Corporation and other relevant agencies as the investigation progresses. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

NiMet Unveils 2026–2030 Strategic Plan

Nigeria

Mosunmola Ore

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March 17, 2026

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The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has launched its Strategic Plan for 2026–2030, signalling a renewed commitment to enhance performance, improved service delivery, and strengthened climate resilience across the country.

Unveiled in Abuja, Nigeria, the new roadmap represents a significant milestone in the agency’s evolution as it seeks to align its operations with national development priorities and global best practices in meteorological services.

Speaking at the launch, the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of NiMet and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the World Meteorological Organization, Professor Charles Anosike, described the strategic plan as a comprehensive performance management framework.

He noted that the initiative builds on NiMet’s over 140-year legacy of safeguarding lives and property through accurate weather and climate information.

READ ALSO: NiMet DG Wins 2026 African Public Sector Leader Award

According to him, the 2026–2030 plan is designed to position NiMet as a leading institution in the aviation sector by institutionalising a world-class performance system.

The framework is structured around five key pillars: employee growth and development, strategic partnerships, technology and innovation, quality service delivery, and revenue diversification.

Professor Anosike further explained that the agency aims to become the first public institution in Nigeria’s aviation sector to fully adopt and implement the Balanced Scorecard system as a tool for translating strategy into measurable outcomes.

The launch also underscores NiMet’s alignment with the Federal Government’s results-driven governance agenda, coordinated by the Central Results Delivery Coordination Unit (CRDCU). Established at the onset of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

The CRDCU is tasked with strengthening performance monitoring across Ministries, Departments and Agencies through mechanisms such as the Presidential Performance Bond and results-based budgeting.

In his remarks, the Managing Consultant and Chief Executive Officer of Balanced Scorecard West Africa, Kayode Sufianu, commended NiMet for embracing the Balanced Scorecard framework as its strategic management tool.

He highlighted the leadership of the Director-General and the dedication of the agency’s senior management and Balanced Scorecard Champions Team as critical to the successful development of the plan.

Sufianu explained that the Balanced Scorecard enables organisations to translate strategic objectives into measurable results across four key dimensions: stakeholder engagement, financial stewardship, internal processes, and organisational capacity.

A key highlight of the event was the unveiling of NiMet’s refreshed core values, captured in the acronym I-PACE — Integrity, Professionalism, Accountability, Commitment, and Excellence.

The values are expected to guide the implementation of the strategic plan and reinforce a culture of high performance within the agency.

With the new strategic direction in place, NiMet is poised to enhance its role in delivering reliable weather and climate services, supporting critical sectors of the economy, and contributing to national resilience in the face of climate challenges.

Cuba Confirms Talks with U.S. Amid Energy Crisis

World

Jide Ibitoye

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March 17, 2026

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Cuba Confirms Talks with U.S. Amid Energy Crisis

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has confirmed that Havana held talks with the United States, marking the first official acknowledgment of discussions with the administration of Donald Trump.

Díaz-Canel said the talks were aimed at resolving bilateral differences through dialogue, though he gave no details.

The White House said the discussions, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, are focused on pushing major changes in Cuba’s policies.

U.S. officials also disclosed that Rubio met privately in February with a relative of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro during a regional meeting in the Caribbean.

The development comes as Cuba faces a worsening economic and energy crisis, with relations between both countries remaining largely strained despite ongoing contacts.

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