Author Archives: News All Around

The Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN), Delta State Chapter, has strongly condemned the lavish book launch of former military ruler Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB), calling it an insult to the millions of unemployed Nigerian youths struggling to survive.

Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, speaking on behalf of the association, expressed outrage over the billions of naira spent on the event, arguing that such resources should have been directed toward other critical sectors, from job creation to education, and poverty alleviation.

“It’s shameful that while millions of Nigerian youths remain jobless, unable to afford basic necessities of life, our leaders continue to squander resources on self-serving projects,” Fajoye lamented. “The billions splashed at this book launch could have been invested in skills development programs, small business, grants, and other initiatives that would directly benefit the ever growing population of struggling Nigerians youths.”

Fajoye also criticized the elite donors who funded the event, alleging that most of their wealth was built on a corrupt system that continuously sidelines the poor. “While the prices of essential goods keep rising, with ordinary Nigerians barely making ends meet, these billionaires have no problems, throwing money into unnecessary luxuries, at the expense of the teaming suffering Nigerians populace,” he said.

The UYAN chairman further condemned the systemic corruption that has long plagued the country, asserting that Nigeria’s leadership has failed to prioritize the welfare of its people. He pointed out that IBB, who has been accused over the years, for annulling the country’s freest and fairest election in 1993, and has finally confessed to this fact in his book, should not be celebrated in a sane clime, but rather held accountable for his role in Nigeria’s economic and political wows.

Fajoye called on all Nigerian youths to unite and demand accountability from the country’s leadership, emphasizing that until corruption is tackled, the cycle of poverty and unemployment will persist, and by extension continue to create an unsafe environment. Stressing that “The suffering of Nigerian youths will not come to an end, unless we collectively stand up against bad governance at all levels, and demand that our leaders prioritize the interests of the people over their selfish gains,” he declared.

UYAN vowed to continue advocating for job creation and youth empowerment, urging the government and private sector to focus on meaningful investments that benefit the nation rather than wasteful celebrations of controversial figures.

Women Rights and Justice Forum (WRJF),a coalition of women’s associations working to protect the interest of women has concluded arrangements to storm the Federal Capital Territory on Monday , March 10 to hold one million people march in protest against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio over alleged harassment of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan .

According to women Rights group, part of reasons, it resolved to embark on the protest is call for resignation of the Senator President .

The group with members across the 36 states of Nigeria said it has already commenced mobilisation of women to come out and remain on the roads until President Bola Ahmed and the National Assembly remove Senator Akpabio from the highly exalted position of Senate President .

The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uguaghan had accused the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, of sexual harassment.She also alleged that Akpabio blocked her motions from being heard on the floor of the Senate because she rejected his advances.

In a Statement issued today and made available to Journalists in Kaduna, the Women Rights and Justice Forum,which condemned in strong terms any attempt by men in high positions to harass women for personal gains, hinted that,”The Million People March will be the first of a series of protests to call for the resignation of the Senator Akpabio, who allegedly harassed a woman”.

The statement signed the Coordinator of the Forum, Hajiya Hauwa Suleiman Usman explained: ” The decision to embark on the one million man March is equally to make strong statement that women will not tolerate such oppression and harassment against women in politics.

“We have waited and watched with keen interest to see if the Senate President will tow the honourable lane and apologize to Natasha after she was compelled to speak out on Arise Television, but we later discovered that some of the lawmakers and members of the public have taken side against her .

“As women, have decided to unite to stop these overt attempts to shut women down and make them second class citizens in their own country.

“To serve as deterrent to other men, we resolved to not only talk, but take decisive action to ensure that Senator Akpabio suffer for his actions to harass and undermine a woman for rejecting sexual advances.

“It unfortunate that without investigating the allegation, Akpabio’s wife, who should know her husband better concluded prematurely and dragged senator Natasha to court . But note this she will shocked after she sees evidence.

“Senator Akpabio must resign or we remain on the roads till he does so. “

By Mike Odeh James

Kaduna, Nigeria – Human rights activist and former Senator representing Kaduna Central in the 8th National Assembly, Senator Shehu Sani, has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Nigerian football legend, Ayo Ogunlana, at their Kaduna residence.

During his visit, Senator Sani described the late Ogunlana as an inspiration to many young people during and after his football career. He expressed deep sorrow over Ogunlana’s passing, noting that he had always wanted to meet with him but, unfortunately, only learned of his demise through a flier.

“I had always asked about him and wanted to see him lately, but I couldn’t visit him. When I saw a flier announcing his death, I could hardly believe it. I had to send it to Tijani Babangida and Daniel Amokachi to confirm, and they painfully did,” Senator Sani recalled.

While consoling the widow and family members, Senator Sani acknowledged the pain of losing such a remarkable personality but urged them to remain strong.

“Madam, the death of your husband is painful to us all, not just to you and the children. But we cannot question God. Please take heart and be strong for the children and grandchildren he left behind,” he said.

The senator also emphasized the need to preserve Ogunlana’s legacy and pledged his support for a foundation in the late footballer’s honor.

“It is a good thing that after your husband’s passing, people continue to speak well of him. He has left a big shoe to fill, and his legacies should be protected. I will be interested in a foundation in his honor,” he assured the family.

Reflecting on Ogunlana’s long and peaceful marriage, Senator Sani praised the bond he shared with his wife, saying, “Take heart. You were created to be together. Your late husband found his missing rib in you, having been married for over 47 years. God will comfort you.”

Wife Recalls Ogunlana’s Last Moments

In an emotional response, Mrs. Ogunlana, with tears in her eyes, thanked Senator Sani for his visit and support. She revealed that her husband, who passed away on Friday, February 14th—Valentine’s Day—was not ill before his sudden demise.

“My husband was never sick. On that fateful day, he returned from his early morning jogging and told me he wasn’t feeling well. He asked me to take him inside because he could no longer walk. We assisted him to a chair in the living room, but shortly after, he stretched, sat on the floor, and then lay down, insisting that we take him to the room,” she narrated.

Mrs. Ogunlana said she immediately called their doctor, who instructed her to administer a particular drug, but there was no response. They rushed him to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Describing her late husband, she said, “My husband was a truthful man. We lived as friends for 47 years, and God kept us together throughout his playing days. He was a loving husband and father, and we were blessed with children and grandchildren.”

The Legacy of Ayo Ogunlana

Late Ayo Ogunlana was a highly astute and vibrant footballer who served Nigeria in several capacities and won numerous awards. During his playing days, he was fondly called “Dodo Mayana” and was widely known as a “free-kick specialist” due to his exceptional goal-scoring ability.

His contributions to Nigerian football and the lives he touched will forever be remembered.

ENDS

By Mike Odeh James

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has strongly condemned the recent closure of both public and private schools in some Sharia-practicing states of Northern Nigeria, calling the move discriminatory and harmful to non-Muslim students.

In a press statement signed by its National Spokesman, Luka Binniyat, the MBF expressed outrage that the school closures also affect Southern Kebbi and Southern Bauchi, which the group identifies as integral parts of the Middle Belt. The forum sees this development as proof that the implementation of Sharia law in these states does not distinguish between Muslims and non-Muslims, a long-standing concern among non-Muslim communities in the region.

“It is deeply unjust that non-Muslim students and pupils should suffer significant setbacks in their education simply because Muslims in these states wish to fulfill their religious obligations,” the statement read.

The MBF further argued that keeping students at home while their peers in other regions continue attending classes puts them at a disadvantage, especially in preparation for national examinations. The group equated the school closures with Boko Haram’s ideology, which opposes Western education, warning that such policies indicate a gradual shift away from Nigeria’s secular governance.

“This regressive directive is yet another manifestation of Boko Haram’s ideology. The rest of Nigeria must not take this lightly, as it is evident that these Sharia states are gradually distancing themselves from Nigeria’s secular framework,” the statement continued.

The forum reiterated its long-standing demand for the restructuring of Nigeria, citing the growing intolerance toward the rights and freedoms of non-Muslims in some Northern states as a key reason.

In a direct appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the MBF urged decisive action to prevent further religious fundamentalism in the country. It also criticized former President Olusegun Obasanjo for not taking a firmer stance in maintaining Nigeria’s secular status during his administration, suggesting that clearer enforcement of constitutional secularism could have prevented the current situation.

The MBF called on President Tinubu to learn from past leadership and take a firm stand in safeguarding the rights of all Nigerians, regardless of religion, against what it described as “oppressive effects of Sharia-based policies.”

Growing Concerns Over Religious Policies

The controversy over school closures is the latest in a series of tensions regarding the role of religion in governance in parts of Nigeria. While some Northern states have argued that implementing Sharia-based policies aligns with their religious and cultural values, critics warn that such policies increasingly infringe upon the rights of non-Muslims.

Observers believe this latest move will add further weight to ongoing calls for a constitutional review and restructuring of Nigeria’s governance system to address long-standing regional grievances.

As debates continue, the MBF’s strong condemnation is expected to spark further national discussions on the balance between religious freedom and the country’s secular constitution.

…Vows to Join Akpabio’s wife in Legal battle

Group under aegis of Northern Democratic Alliance (NDA) has condemned what it termed , Unfounded sexual harassment allegation against the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan.

The Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha Akpoti who protested the relocation of her seat accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of persistent harassment, victimization, and blocking her legislative efforts because she rejected his alleged inappropriate advances.

Natasha, who made the claim while speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Friday, detailed what she described as a troubling pattern of professional sabotage and personal intimidation — a fallout, she claimed, of her refusal to engage in an improper relationship with Akpabio.

However,in a reaction to Senator Natasha Apoti”s claim of sexual harassment, the Northern Democratic Alliance condemned the attacks on the Senate President.Saying her face-off with Senator Akpabio is unwarranted, unprovoked and shouldn’t have come from a family friend of the Senate President.

The statement reads: “We have known the Senate President since he was Governor of Akwa Ibom to his days as minister and now Senate President, and can authoritatively tell you that he’s a man who lots of respect for women .

“So , when we heard about Senator Natasha accusations, especially that of sexual harassment,it didn’t add up for us .

“The good people of Akwa Ibom,the wife of the Senate President and members of the National Assembly can also attest to fact that he’s only a cheerful personality,but a seasoned administrator who understands the implications of such act of irresponsibility while holding public office.

“It against this background that we have come to condemn Senator Natasha unsubstantiated claim of sexual harassment and victimization.”

” After careful study of the whole saga ,we have decided to join Senator Akpabio’s wife in court in legal battle against Senator , Natasha who has no evidence to prove her claim.”

By Mike Odeh James, Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Coordinator of the Unemployed Youth Association of Nigeria (UYAN), Blessing Okosun, has applauded the Mandate Secretary of the Youth and Sports Development Secretariat, comrade Suleiman Ango Abdulahi, for his groundbreaking efforts in advancing youth empowerment across the nation’s capital.

Since assuming office on August 17, 2024, Abdulahi has introduced a series of initiatives that Okosun described as “transformative and unprecedented,” significantly improving youth engagement and development in just five months.

A New Era of Inclusive Governance

Okosun highlighted the landmark All Area Councils Youth Stakeholders Meeting, which brought together youth leaders from all six FCT Area Councils for the first time. “This platform has fostered a spirit of unity and cooperation among grassroots youth leaders,” Okosun noted, emphasizing how the initiative reflects Abdulahi’s understanding that collaborative governance is key to sustainable progress.

Institutionalizing Sports Development

Among his early achievements is the creation of a dedicated Sports Department within the Secretariat. According to Okosun, this bold step demonstrates Hon Abdulahi’s foresight in recognizing sports as a powerful tool for both economic empowerment and national pride. “By nurturing young talent, this department will put FCT athletes on the global stage,” she said.

Building Skilled Youth for the Future

Another notable initiative is the establishment of Youth Skills Acquisition Centers, particularly the flagship center in Nyanya, which is expected to train and graduate over 1,000 youths annually. Okosun described the centers as “launchpads for economic freedom,” equipping young people with practical skills that will reduce unemployment and contribute to the economy.

Ensuring Transparency in Empowerment Programs

The mandate secretary has also introduced a robust monitoring mechanism to ensure accountability in youth empowerment programs, particularly in the distribution of vehicles under government schemes. “The introduction of an inspection team ensures that every asset is accounted for and benefits the intended recipients,” Okosun noted, calling it a much-needed departure from the mismanagement of past programs.

Making Higher Education Accessible

In an effort to remove financial barriers to education, comrade Abdulahi launched a Free JAMB Registration initiative, enabling thousands of financially disadvantaged youths to pursue university education. “This policy is more than a program—it’s a lifeline for families who once saw higher education as an impossible dream,” Okosun remarked.

A Leader of Action and Integrity

What sets Abdulahi apart, according to Okosun, is his relentless work ethic and transparent leadership. “He’s not a leader of empty rhetoric—he follows through on every promise with visible action and results,” she said. “His approach is both inspiring and reassuring, proving that public office can be a vehicle for real change.”

Commitment to a Youth-Centric Future

In response to the glowing commendations, the mandate secretary reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the youths of the FCT. “Our young people deserve the very best opportunities, and we are only just getting started. Every community, every youth will soon feel the impact of our programs,” he pledged.

Okosun expressed confidence that even greater accomplishments lie ahead. “With plans to expand sports infrastructure, introduce new skills training programs, and deepen community engagement, I have no doubt Abdulahi will surpass all expectations. He’s not just raising the bar—he’s redefining what’s possible for youth development in Nigeria.”

By Mike Odeh James, Abuja

Comrade Blessing Okosun, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Coordinator of the Unemployed Youth Association of Nigeria (UYAN), has lauded the innovative leadership of Commissioner Ango Abdullahi, the pioneering Mandate Secretary (Commissioner) of the Youth and Sports Development, in the FCT, describing him as a “trailblazer” revolutionizing youth empowerment and development within the nation’s capital.

Since his appointment in August 2024, Abdullahi’s dynamic leadership has delivered remarkable progress, with Comrade Okosun highlighting his commitment to creating practical solutions for youth engagement, skills development, and sports promotion across the FCT.

Pioneering Achievements

Comrade Okosun outlined several groundbreaking initiatives introduced by Abdullahi, underscoring their lasting impact on the youth community.

Inclusive Youth Stakeholders Forum

For the first time in the FCT, youth leaders from all six Area Councils convened under one platform to discuss policies and challenges. This historic engagement, according to Okosun, has fostered greater unity and collaboration among grassroots youth stakeholders, enhancing participatory governance.

Creation of a Dedicated Sports Department

Abdullahi’s establishment of a dedicated Sports Department within the Commission marks a forward-thinking step. “This isn’t just about promoting games—it’s about using sports to discover hidden talents, create economic opportunities, and project the FCT onto the global sporting stage,” Okosun noted.

Youth Skills Acquisition Centers

The rollout of specialized skills acquisition centers, including a flagship facility in Nyanya, is equipping thousands of young people with practical, income-generating skills. Okosun praised the program’s focus on sustainability, projecting that over 1,000 youths will graduate annually, contributing to a more skilled workforce in the FCT.

Transparent Empowerment Initiatives

A dedicated inspection team now monitors all empowerment projects, ensuring accountability in the distribution of vehicles and other economic support tools. Okosun commended this transparency, which she said has restored trust in government interventions.

Free JAMB Registration Program

The Commissioner’s decision to sponsor free JAMB registration for thousands of youths has removed financial barriers to higher education for underprivileged students. “This single gesture has turned educational dreams into reality for countless young Nigerians,” Okosun said.

Leadership with Integrity and Purpose

Okosun described Abdullahi’s leadership style as exemplary, praising his hands-on approach and relentless pursuit of results. “He doesn’t just make promises—he follows through with action and ensures every initiative delivers measurable results,” she added.

With plans already underway to expand sports facilities and broaden access to skills training, Okosun expressed confidence that Abdullahi’s tenure would leave a lasting legacy. “His vision is reshaping what’s possible for youth in the FCT, and we’re proud to have him championing our cause,” she concluded.

Musa Radda

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) said the alarming situation surrounding the abduction of Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, the President of the Afenifere Youth Council called for urgent attention , demanding for hi immediate release by the kodnappers.

AYCF in a statement by it’s President General Yerima Shettima averred that since the forcible seizure on Monday, February 17, 2025, of the Afenifere Youth President, he has remained in captivity since then, a situation he described as worrisome .

According to Shettima, more worrisome is.the.fact that the kidnappers are demanding an exorbitant ransom of ₦100 million, a situation he said is compounded by the kidnappers’ ultimatum, threatening to take his life if their demands are not met.

“The recent escalation in the kidnappers’ demands, which now includes the provision of two Keke NAPEP vehicles, alongside a menacing deadline set for Tuesday, at 3 PM, underscores the urgent need for immediate action.

“The threat to execute Prince Ojajuni if these demands are not met is not just a reflection of the lawlessness that has gripped our nation, but also a stark reminder of the fragility of life in the face of greed and desperation.

He posited that Prince Ojajuni is not merely a name but a beacon of hope and a symbol of the aspirations of our youth, adding that his unwavering commitment to championing the cause of the Yoruba people has resonated deeply within our communities.

“His abduction represents not only a personal tragedy for his family and friends but also a grievous affront to the collective conscience of our race and the nation as a whole. It is a stark reminder of the challenges our society faces in safeguarding the lives and futures of our youth.

“The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, representing the interests and voices of the northern youth, unequivocally condemns this act of violence and lawlessness. We recognize that the abduction of Prince Ojajuni is part of a larger crisis that has plagued our nation, where kidnappings for ransom have become an all-too-common occurrence.
This trend is not merely a regional issue; it is a national emergency that demands the immediate and concerted efforts of all levels of government.

“In light of this dire situation, we call upon the Federal Government and all relevant state authorities to take immediate action to ensure the safe release of Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni”.

The Arewa youth leader said, it is imperative that security agencies are mobilized to locate and rescue Prince Ojajuni without delay., stressing that the Federal Government must ensure that law enforcement are adequately equipped and empowered to address the rising tide of kidnapping and violence in our society.

He further urged the Federal Government to collaborate with state governments, local communities, and civil society organizations to create a robust framework for combating kidnapping and improving the overall security situation in the country.

“Engaging with community leaders, youth organizations, and other stakeholders is essential to understanding the root causes of this crisis. A dialogue that prioritizes the safety and aspirations of our youth will foster a more secure environment for all.

The government must launch public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about safety measures and encourage community vigilance. Empowering citizens with knowledge is a crucial step in combating the menace of kidnapping.

“We call for the immediate review and strengthening of existing laws regarding kidnapping and ransom. The legal framework must reflect the seriousness of these crimes and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable”.

In the present situation, Shettima said, the AYCF stands in solidarity with the Afenifere Youth Council and all those advocating for the safe return of Prince Ojajuni while imploring all Nigerians to unite in this critical moment, transcending ethnic and regional divides to demand justice and security for our people.

He reiterated the urgent plea for the safe release of Prince Ojajuni, “Let us not allow fear and despair to dictate our future; instead, let us rise together as a nation, resolute in our commitment to justice, safety, and the well-being of our youth. Time is of the essence. We call upon everyone to act swiftly and decisively. The life of Prince Ojajuni hangs in the balance, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure his safe return” he stressed.

ENDS

In a recent press briefing held on Monday, February 24, 2025, Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, Chairman of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN), Delta State Chapter, lauded High Chief ENGR Kestin Pondi, Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited, for his pivotal role in elevating Nigeria’s crude oil production to over two million barrels per day.

Fajoye attributed this significant achievement to the diligent efforts of Tantita Security Services Limited in combating oil theft and illegal bunkering in the Niger Delta region. He emphasized that the enhanced security measures have not only bolstered oil output but also revitalized local aquatic ecosystems, allowing communities to resume fishing activities.

“Before now, if you threw bread into the river, you would hardly see any fish eating it. But today, thanks to Tantita Security Services Limited, the fishes are back,” Fajoye remarked, highlighting the environmental restoration witnessed in the region.

The youth leader also extended gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for entrusting High Chief Engr Pondi and Tantita Security Services Limited with the mandate to secure Nigeria’s oil fields. “I wish to thank President Bola Tinubu for reposing trust in Delta State and for giving our illustrious chief the opportunity of protecting Nigeria’s oil fields,” Fajoye stated.

In addition to enhancing national oil production, Fajoye praised High Chief Engr Kestin Pondi for creating employment opportunities for thousands of youths in Delta State, thereby contributing to the state’s safety and economic development.

Fajoye urged the Delta State Government to collaborate more closely with High Chief Engr Kestin Pondi to further benefit the state’s youth. He suggested initiatives such as tax relief for Pondi’s enterprises and granting greater access to state and federal facilities to facilitate job creation and development projects.

Reflecting on the state’s progress, Fajoye noted, “Delta State has never had it so good since the coming of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.” He expressed optimism that the combined efforts of Governor Oborewvori and High Chief Engr Kestin Pondi would continue to drive positive change and prosperity in the region.

Recent reports indicate that Nigeria’s oil production, including condensate, rose by 4% month-on-month to 1.737 million barrels per day in January 2025, with projections to reach 2.06 million barrels per day by the end of the year. The collaborative efforts of security agencies and local stakeholders have been instrumental in this upward trajectory.

Tantita Security Services Limited, under the leadership of High Chief Engr Kestin Pondi, has been recognized for its unwavering commitment to eliminating crude oil theft and safeguarding the nation’s vital oil infrastructure. Their operations have not only deterred illicit activities but also fostered a safer and more prosperous environment for the communities in the Niger Delta.

By Emmanuel Okoro, Abuja

The national leadership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has accused Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, of deliberately undermining the efforts of Senator Lawal Adamu (Sen LA), who represents Kaduna Central and serves as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education.

The party criticized the governor for allegedly halting the distribution of learning and teaching materials procured by the senator, claiming it was an attempt to tarnish his reputation. In a statement issued by Yusuf Dingyadi, Senior Special Assistant to the PDP National Chairman on Media and Communication, the party urged the state government to set aside political differences and prioritize the welfare of Kaduna residents.

According to Dingyadi, the APC-led state government has refused to distribute essential educational materials, including textbooks and notebooks, to primary and junior secondary schools in the senator’s constituency. “The materials, which were meant to enhance learning and improve the quality of education at primary and junior secondary levels, have been locked away in storage instead of reaching the intended beneficiaries,” Dingyadi alleged.

He further claimed that specific locations, such as LEA Malali Road and LEA Maiduguri Road, were instructed not to distribute the items. “It is expected that the state government, regardless of party affiliation, would collaborate with other elected representatives to improve the lives of Kaduna citizens,” he said.

Dingyadi also accused the APC of employing political propagandists to spread misinformation about Senator LA’s achievements. “They are using radio and social media platforms to claim that Senator LA has done nothing, forgetting that his two years in office have been more impactful than Uba Sani’s four years as a senator. During his tenure in the Senate, Uba Sani focused on passing bills that had little effect on the people,” he stated.

The PDP spokesperson further accused Governor Sani of attempting to impress President Bola Tinubu in anticipation of the 2027 elections rather than focusing on governance. “You cannot make progress by continuously attacking the PDP. You cannot manipulate our political success by sponsoring thugs and propagandists to discredit our performing legislators or by staging political defections in a choreographed manner,” Dingyadi said.

He also warned Governor Sani against relying on political advisers he described as “straying horses” who are liabilities rather than assets. “Our elected PDP members are actively delivering on their mandates and performing better than their APC counterparts. No serious northerner will campaign for APC in the region. Some politicians are only pretending to support the party to secure personal gains,” he concluded.