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Dear Compatriots,

It gives me immense joy to welcome each and everyone of you – young and old- to this brand new year 2024. We must lift up our hands to Almighty God, in gratitude, for His grace and benevolence to our country and our lives in the year 2023 that has just gone by.

Though the past year was a very challenging one, it was eventful in so many ways. For our country, it was a transition year that saw a peaceful, orderly and successful transfer of power from one administration to another, marking yet another remarkable step in our 24 years of unbroken democracy.It was a year, you the gracious people of this blessed nation, entrusted your faith in me with a clear mandate to make our country better, to revamp our economy, restore security within our borders, revitalise our floundering industrial sector, boost agricultural production, increase national productivity and set our country on an irreversible path towards national greatness that we and future generations will forever be proud of.

The task of building a better nation and making sure we have a Nigeria society that cares for all her citizens is the reason I ran to become your President. It was the core of my Renewed Hope campaign message on the basis of which you voted me as President.

Everything I have done in office, every decision I have taken and every trip I have undertaken outside the shores of our land, since I assumed office on 29 May 2023, have been done in the best interest of our country.

Over the past seven months of our administration, I have taken some difficult and yet necessary decisions to save our country from fiscal catastrophe. One of those decisions was the removal of fuel subsidy which had become an unsustainable financial burden on our country for more than four decades. Another was the removal of the chokehold of few people on our foreign exchange system that benefited only the rich and the most powerful among us. Without doubt, these two decisions brought some discomfort to individuals, families and businesses.

I am well aware that for some time now the conversations and debates have centred on the rising cost of living, high inflation which is now above 28% and the unacceptable high under-employment rate.

From the boardrooms at Broad Street in Lagos to the main-streets of Kano and Nembe Creeks in Bayelsa, I hear the groans of Nigerians who work hard every day to provide for themselves and their families.

I am not oblivious to the expressed and sometimes unexpressed frustrations of my fellow citizens. I know for a fact that some of our compatriots are even asking if this is how our administration wants to renew their hope.

Dear Compatriots, take this from me: the time may be rough and tough, however, our spirit must remain unbowed because tough times never last. We are made for this period, never to flinch, never to falter. The socio-economic challenges of today should energize and rekindle our love and faith in the promise of Nigeria. Our current circumstances should make us resolve to work better for the good of our beloved nation. Our situation should make us resolve that this new year 2024, each and everyone of us will commit to be better citizens.

Silently, we have worked to free captives from abductors. While we can’t beat our chest yet that we had solved all the security problems, we are working hard to ensure that we all have peace of mind in our homes, places of work and on the roads.

Having laid the groundwork of our economic recovery plans within the last seven months of 2023, we are now poised to accelerate the pace of our service delivery across sectors.

Just this past December during COP28 in Dubai, the German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, and I agreed and committed to a new deal to speed up the delivery of the Siemens Energy power project that will ultimately deliver reliable supply of electricity to our homes and businesses under the Presidential Power Initiative which began in 2018.

Other power installation projects to strengthen the reliability of our transmission lines and optimise the integrity of our National grid are ongoing across the country.My administration recognises that no meaningful economic transformation can happen without steady electricity supply. In 2024, we are moving a step further in our quest to restart local refining of petroleum products with Port Harcourt Refinery, and the Dangote Refinery which shall fully come on stream.

To ensure constant food supply, security and affordability, we will step up our plan to cultivate 500,000 hectares of farmlands across the country to grow maize, rice, wheat, millet and other staple crops. We launched the dry season farming with 120,000 hectares of land in Jigawa State last November under our National Wheat Development Programme.

In this new year, we will race against time to ensure all the fiscal and tax policies reforms we need to put in place are codified and simplified to ensure the business environment does not destroy value. On every foreign trip I have embarked on, my message to investors and other business people has been the same. Nigeria is ready and open for business.

I will fight every obstacle that impedes business competitiveness in Nigeria and I will not hesitate to remove any clog hindering our path to making Nigeria a destination of choice for local and foreign investments.

In my 2024 Budget presentation to the National Assembly, I listed my administration’s 8 priority areas to include national defence and internal security, job creation, macro-economic stability, investment environment optimization, human capital development, poverty reduction and social security. Because we take our development agenda very seriously, our 2024 budget reflects the premium we placed on achieving our governance objectives.

We will work diligently to make sure every Nigerian feels the impact of their government. The economic aspirations and the material well-being of the poor, the most vulnerable and the working people shall not be neglected. It is in this spirit that we are going to implement a new national living wage for our industrious workers this new year. It is not only good economics to do this, it is also a morally and politically correct thing to do.

I took an oath to serve this country and give my best at all times. Like I said in the past, no excuse for poor performance from any of my appointees will be good enough.

It is the reason I put in place a Policy Coordination, Evaluation, Monitoring and Delivery Unit in the Presidency to make sure that governance output improves the living condition of our people.

We have set the parameters for evaluation. Within the first quarter of this new year, Ministers and Heads of Agencies with a future in this administration that I lead will continue to show themselves.

Fellow Nigerians, my major ambition in government as a Senator in the aborted Third Republic, as Governor of Lagos State for eight years and now as the President of this blessed country is to build a fair and equitable society and close the widening inequality. While I believe the rich should enjoy their legitimately-earned wealth, our minimum bargain must be that, any Nigerian that works hard and diligent enough will have a chance to get ahead in life. I must add that because God didn’t create us with equal talents and strengths, I can not guarantee that we will have equal outcomes when we work hard. But my government, in this new year 2024 and beyond, will work to give every Nigerian equal opportunity to strive and to thrive.For the new year to yield all its good benefits to us as individuals and collectively as a people we must be prepared to play our part. The job of building a prosperous nation is not the job of the President, Governors, Ministers, Lawmakers and government officials alone. Our destinies are connected as members of this household of Nigeria. Our language, creed, ethnicity and religious beliefs even when they are not same should never make us work at cross purposes.

In this new year, let us resolve that as joint-heirs to the Nigerian Commonwealth, we will work for the peace, progress and stability of our country. I extend this call to my political opponents in the last election. Election is over. It’s time for all of us to work together for the sake of our country.

We must let the light each of us carries – men and women, young and old – shine bright and brighter to illuminate our path to a glorious dawn.

I wish all of us a happy and prosperous year 2024.

May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced modifications to the registration fees for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in the year 2024. As per the official statement from JAMB, the revised fees for UTME registration now stand at N7,700, inclusive of a mock examination, and N6,200 for UTME registration without the mock examination. This marks an increase from the previous cost of N5,700 for the JAMB form without a mock exam and N6,700 for the application form inclusive of a mock exam. Additionally, foreign candidates applying for the JAMB form will incur a fee of $30.

JAMB is set to provide a detailed breakdown of these fees when the registration details are released on or before January 15, 2024. Alongside the adjustments in UTME registration fees, JAMB has disclosed the registration period for the sale of Direct Entry (DE) application documents in 2024. The sale of Direct Entry application documents is scheduled to kick off on February 28, 2024, and will conclude on March 28, 2024.

As the process of generating profile codes for registration is currently underway, JAMB advises prospective candidates to stay informed about official announcements and guidelines to ensure a seamless registration process. Detailed guidelines on profile code generation will be provided closer to the registration commencement date on January 15, 2024.

In an official statement on its X page, JAMB stated, “This is to inform all prospective 2024 UTME/DE candidates that the creation of Profiles for registration has officially started, while the sale of application documents will commence on Monday 15th January 2024. You are to please take note of the following important dates for the coming UTME/DE exercise.”

Victor Ike, the brother of veteran Nollywood actor Emeka Ike, has strongly contested the allegations made by the actor's ex-wife, Suzanne Emma, and their son, Michael Ike.

Recalling the distressing details shared by Suzanne Emma and Michael about their marriage on various platforms, including the Chude show and Linda Ikeji's blog, where they accused Emeka Ike of physical abuse, Victor Ike refuted the claims, denouncing them as blatant lies.

Michael, the son, expressed his disapproval of his father through recounting alleged harsh words spoken by Emeka Ike. Responding to this incident, Emeka's brother, Victor Ike, took to his X account on Sunday to address the accusations, urging Michael to apologize for the abusive words and insults directed at his father.

Victor contested the narrative, pointing out instances where Suzanne Emma was a signatory to Emeka Ike's bank account and alleging financial impropriety on her part. He highlighted how Emeka sponsored her education, including a university and master's degree, and entrusted her with managing a movie studio and a secondary school, both of which, according to Victor, she subsequently ruined. Victor questioned the credibility of Suzanne Emma's claims, particularly regarding financial deprivation and work opportunities.

The post on Victor's X account delved into the complexity of family dynamics, alleging that Suzanne Emma had physically assaulted their mother on several occasions. Victor expressed frustration at the situation, suggesting that Emeka Ike had been blinded by love.

In addressing the manipulation of Emeka Ike's children against him, Victor called for Michael to apologize to his father for the abusive language and insults. He also appealed to bloggers, including Linda Ikeji and Chude, to respect the privacy of the children and refrain from involving them in the publicized disputes, emphasizing the potential negative impact on their mental health.

In the aftermath of a devastating military error bombing that claimed over 100 lives in Tudun Biri, Kaduna, grieving survivors, relatives, and local residents sought solace on Christmas day within the confines of a church.

Bringing together both Muslims and Christians from Tudun Biri in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, the community observed Christmas on Monday with a joint thanksgiving church service.

The tragic incident occurred on December 5 when villagers were celebrating a Muslim festival, and a combat drone operated by the Nigerian Army mistakenly dropped a bomb. In response, the Defence Headquarters initiated an investigation into the accidental bombing.

Despite the heart-wrenching loss, on Christmas day, both Christian and Muslim residents of Tudun Biri came together in a church service to express gratitude for being alive to witness the holiday. The unity demonstrated in their joint participation highlighted the resilience of the community in the face of tragedy.

Representing Governor Uba Sani at the service, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, conveyed the government's sympathy and support to the people of Tudun Biri during this challenging time. The Christmas service served as a poignant moment for reflection and communal strength in the midst of adversity.

A photograph capturing Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, seated on the throne of the Olugbon of Orile Igbon in Oyo State, Oba Francis Alao Akinbola, has ignited a flurry of responses among social media users.

Initially shared by the RCCG Public Relations on X, the image has since generated diverse reactions from the online community. Some individuals criticize the cleric for occupying the monarch's throne, while others point fingers at the king for allowing such an action.

Reposting the photo on X, a user with the handle animolenikun expressed disapproval, stating, "PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE stop disgracing our heritage, do your things and respect our culture, pls. Don’t tarnish the name you have built because if Yoruba stands up against all this act, you’ll surely regret it, sir."

Another user, HilawJamal1891, shifted blame to the Olugbon, asserting, "I feel the blame should be placed under the feet of Olugbon… on what basis would he stand up off his throne for Baba Adeboye? He should be dethroned with immediate effect."

Niass204 echoed a similar sentiment, stating, "I don’t have him to blame. I blame our so-called Obas who decide to subject themselves to ridicule. Why would an Oba vacate his seat for him to sit on? That means HE the Olugbon doesn’t have respect for that seat."

In contrast, amidst criticism directed at the pastor and the monarch, some social media users hold a different view. Adeshorpeh0912 tweeted on X, "If God said, kings will bow before you, the thought of man and its opinion doesn’t concern God. It is going to happen. This is a living testimony. No dey whine God."

On Facebook, Kaayleb Ihasabemon also defended Pastor Adeboye, writing, "The Bible says we are Kings 👑 with Christ who’s the King of kings, so we can sit on any throne. Baba is in order, don’t work yourselves out with trivialities."

It's worth noting that Pastor Adeboye brought his church’s evangelism program, 'Let’s go fishing,' to Orile-Igbon in Surulere Local Government Area of Oyo State as part of his activities on Friday.

Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Kingsley Moghalu, has detailed the reasons he considers the ex-CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, to be the most ineffective in the history of the country's apex bank. In a comprehensive post on a Saturday via his verified handle, Moghalu expressed concern about a report, purportedly from a CBN investigator appointed by President Bola Tinubu, being made public without a signature and without any official response from the President and his administration.

Moghalu cited Emefiele's perceived incompetence, specifically mentioning issues related to the stability of the naira exchange rate, inflation, the "brazen illegal" provision of Ways and Means lending to the government, Emefiele's "illegal" attempt to run for president, and the "incompetent" handling of the naira redesign policy as contributing factors to his conclusion that Emefiele is the worst and damaging CBN governor.

While acknowledging that his views on Emefiele's performance have been consistent, Moghalu criticized the handling of the report's authenticity and the media trial surrounding it. He highlighted the lack of a signature on the report, questioning its official status, and emphasized the importance of a proper review before such sensitive information reaches the public.

Moghalu expressed concern about the potential damage the sensationalism surrounding the report may cause to Nigeria's economy, image, and the institution of the CBN. He emphasized the need for accountability in sensitive institutions like the CBN but called for a cautious approach that avoids prejudicing the rights of individuals before proper legal processes unfold.

In addressing the fight against corruption, Moghalu urged a holistic approach, suggesting that entities like the NNPC (Nigeria's national oil company) should also undergo similar scrutiny to avoid perceptions of vendetta. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria's political leadership culture and governance to combat corruption effectively.

Moghalu concluded by stating that while Emefiele deserves a trial, the current approach may not be the optimal path when subjected to close scrutiny.

President Bola Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to former President Muhammadu Buhari on the occasion of his 81st birthday. In a statement released on Saturday by Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Tinubu praised Buhari as the "finest paradigm of sacrifice, devotion, patriotism, and fidelity to the national cause."

The statement, titled 'President Tinubu celebrates Nigeria's icon of integrity and patriotism, former President Muhammadu Buhari,' highlighted Tinubu's appreciation for the exemplary leadership and achievements of the former President. Tinubu commended Buhari's service to the nation during his tenure as Head of State and President, emphasizing his unmatched record of infrastructural development, including international airports, standard-gauge railway lines, seaport development, dams, power stations, oil and gas infrastructure, expressways, and mega-bridges.

President Tinubu fondly recalled Buhari's dedication to modernizing Nigeria's defense architecture and his progressive initiatives, such as the national social investment and protection program, aimed at enhancing food security by empowering millions of Nigerian farmers.

Tinubu praised Buhari as a rare virtuous servant-leader, emphasizing his unwavering integrity and sacrificial devotion to the nation, even enduring detention for his patriotism. Tinubu expressed gratitude for Buhari's friendship and steadfast support for the administration, assuring the elder statesman of Nigeria's continued progress under his envisioned prosperous and peaceful leadership.

In extending birthday wishes, Tinubu wished Buhari longevity and strength, emphasizing that the hope of a prosperous, peaceful, and progressive Nigeria, which Buhari has tirelessly worked for, will endure.

A recent report by Economic Confidential, a subsidiary of PR Nigeria, has highlighted seven states, including Lagos, Ogun, Rivers, Kaduna, Kwara, Oyo, and Edo, as the most financially viable states in Nigeria for the year 2022. The information was shared by Zekeri Idakwo, the Assistant Editor of Economic Confidential, during a press briefing and the presentation of the 2022 Annual States Viability Index Report in Abuja.

Based on figures released by the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics and the Federal Account Allocation Committee, the report revealed that the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of all 36 states totaled N1.8 trillion in 2022, surpassing the N1.76 trillion recorded in 2021. Lagos, in particular, stood out with an IGR of N651 billion, surpassing the combined IGR of 30 other states that were significantly lower and poor in comparison to their allocations from the Federation Account.

A breakdown of the report showcased the financial performance of the seven most viable states in contrast to their federal allocations. For instance, while Lagos received N370 billion from the Federation Account, its IGR stood at N651 billion. Other states like Ogun, Rivers, Kaduna, Kwara, Oyo, and Edo also demonstrated substantial IGR relative to their federal allocations.

On the flip side, six states, including Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Katsina, Taraba, Yobe, and Kebbi, were declared insolvent states as they failed to generate up to 10% of their total allocations received from the Federal Government in 2022. Bayelsa, at the bottom of the list, received N273 billion but generated only N15.9 billion, representing 5.81% of the allocations. The report emphasized that improving the IGR of these states requires a proactive approach such as diversification of the economy into productive sectors, reducing reliance on monthly Federation Account revenues from the oil sector.

Idakwo pointed out that some states struggled to attract investments due to various socio-political and economic challenges, including insurgency, kidnapping, armed banditry, and conflicts between herders and farmers. The report underscores the need for these states to address these issues to enhance their economic viability beyond monthly allocations.

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arch. Ahmed Dangiwa, has announced plans for a mortgage scheme catering to Nigerians residing in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and Canada. The launch of this Diaspora Mortgage Housing Scheme is slated for February 2024, as revealed by Dangiwa during a meeting with the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and select Management Staff in Abuja.

In a statement from the Protocol Unit at NiDCOM, Dangiwa emphasized the overarching objective of providing Nigerians abroad with the opportunity to have a decent residence in Nigeria. He expressed the commitment of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) to fulfill their tripartite mandate, which includes the development of a Diaspora City Project in collaboration with NIDCOM, FHA, and FCT. This project spans over 675 hectares of land in Maitama 2.

Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa commended the Minister for his dedication and involvement, particularly noting the launch of the Diaspora Mortgage Scheme during the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit. She highlighted the enthusiasm among Nigerians in the Diaspora for both the Diaspora mortgage scheme and the forthcoming Diaspora smart city in Kabusa, Maitama, FCT.

With approximately 20 million Nigerians in the Diaspora contributing an average of over $24 billion annually to the Nigerian economy, the initiative holds significance in enhancing housing opportunities for this demographic.

The entertainment world mourns the loss of Andre Braugher, a two-time Emmy-winning actor celebrated for his roles in popular TV series like "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" and "Homicide: Life on the Street." Braugher passed away at the age of 61 on Monday after a brief illness, as confirmed by his publicist.

A standout in the realm of comedy, Braugher was widely recognized for portraying the upright and no-nonsense Captain Raymond Holt on "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" from 2013 to 2021. His character's unique blend of stoicism and deep humanity resonated with audiences, earning him widespread acclaim, particularly when paired with Andy Samberg's hotshot Detective Jake Peralta.

Beyond his comedic success, Braugher showcased his dramatic prowess as Detective Frank Pembleton on NBC's "Homicide: Life on the Street," a role that earned him an Emmy in 1998. His intense and compelling performance in this critically beloved police drama solidified him as one of its breakout stars. Notably, Braugher secured another Emmy for his role as a master criminal in FX's 2006 series "Thief."

Andre Braugher's contributions to the television landscape have left an indelible mark, and his passing is a poignant moment for fans and the industry alike.

The Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji, confirmed on Wednesday that he has received Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu's letter regarding the transfer of power to Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, making him the Acting Governor. He highlighted the necessity of following a constitutional process, mentioning that he would instruct the Clerk of the House to communicate his approval to the Secretary to the State Government.

Informing the House members of his meeting with President Bola Tinubu, Oladiji conveyed their approval of the governor's letter. The Speaker clarified that there would be no immediate session on the matter, as he intends to issue a press statement after completing the process of transferring power to the deputy governor.

In his statement, Oladiji specified that Aiyedatiwa would assume the responsibilities of the governor in an acting capacity until a written declaration suggests otherwise.

In a related development, Governor Akeredolu, following medical advice for a necessary follow-up, forwarded a letter on medical leave to the State House of Assembly. The Speaker, Oladiji, received the letter on behalf of the lawmakers, noting that the Governor's action aligns with Section 190 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). The letter designates Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to assume the responsibilities of the Governor in an acting capacity during the medical leave, scheduled to commence on December 13, 2023. Oladiji expressed gratitude for the Governor's speedy recovery and expressed optimism about his soon resumption of duty.

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has vehemently opposed the proposed privatization of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), expressing concerns over the potential negative impact on the socio-economic conditions of Nigerians. The rejection comes in response to the Federal Government's recent announcement regarding the sale of the state-owned company.

President of NLC, Joe Ajaero, emphasized the perilous consequences the planned privatization could have on the power sector, instilling significant fear and apprehension among major stakeholders. Ajaero highlighted the dangers involved and cautioned that this move could adversely affect the state's ability to control, regulate, and ensure the safety of the nation's grid system at all times.

In light of these concerns, NLC issued a call to action, urging all Nigerians to unite against the privatization proposal, emphasizing that it is crucial for safeguarding the interests of future generations. The labor union stands firm in its stance that the sale of TCN poses a threat to the nation's grid system and could have far-reaching implications on the overall stability of the power sector.

President Bola Tinubu has given his approval for public universities currently under the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) to exit the payment platform. The Minister of Education, Prof. Mamman Tahir, revealed this development shortly after the Federal Executive Council meeting presided over by President Tinubu.

Providing further clarification on this presidential directive, Minister of Information and National Orientation Muhammed Idris explained, "Today, the universities and other tertiary institutions have gotten a very big relief from the integrated payroll and personnel information system." He emphasized that the clamor for exemption from IPPIS by university authorities and other tertiary institutions has been addressed.

The Federal Executive Council has officially approved the removal of universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education from the IPPIS. Going forward, these institutions, as highlighted by the Minister of Education, will manage the payment of their personnel independently, marking a significant shift from reliance on the IPPIS system. This decision is expected to offer more autonomy to universities and other tertiary institutions in handling their financial processes.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has publicly stated his willingness to testify on behalf of Nigeria in the $2.3 billion disputed Mambilla power contract involving former Minister of Power and Steel, Olu Agunloye. The disagreement has led to a legal battle at the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in Paris, France, where Sunrise Power and Nigeria are entangled in a contractual dispute.

Sunrise Power claims to have been awarded a $6 billion contract in May 2003 by the government during Obasanjo's presidency. This contract was for the construction, operation, and transfer of the Mambilla power project. The company alleges that the Federal Government of Nigeria breached the contract and is seeking compensation of $2.3 billion. Sunrise Power contends that it had incurred significant expenses on financial and legal consultants before the contract was canceled.

Contrarily, the Nigerian government, in its defense, has raised allegations of fraud and corruption involving public officials in the awarding of the Mambilla power contract. In response to these developments, Obasanjo, through a letter to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi, expressed his readiness to testify on behalf of the Nigerian government "in any form." This revelation adds an intriguing dimension to the ongoing legal battle surrounding the Mambilla power project.

Olu Falae, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Minister of Finance, has called on the federal government to address the issue of Nigerian refineries by repairing them and subsequently selling the facilities to capable operators. Falae emphasized the importance of crude oil, the nation's natural resource, suggesting that it should be sold at the cost of production plus a reasonable margin. He firmly believes that resolving Nigeria's fuel-related problems, including pricing issues, largely hinges on the repair and recommissioning of the refineries, followed by their transfer to competent operators.

Falae expressed skepticism about the federal government's ability to effectively run the refineries. He proposed a solution where the government repairs and sells the refineries to entities with the expertise to manage them efficiently. According to Falae, this approach could lead to a significant improvement in the fuel situation in Nigeria.

Additionally, Falae addressed concerns about the manufacturing industry in the country, describing it as almost dead. He identified inadequate power supply as a critical factor affecting the manufacturing sector, stating that addressing power challenges is crucial for the revival of manufacturing in Nigeria. Furthermore, Falae suggested that the president does not necessarily have to hold the position of the minister of petroleum, indicating that separating these roles could be beneficial.

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) revealed on Thursday that two more of the kidnapped female prospective corps members have been released, making a total of four out of the eight individuals taken hostage, including their bus driver, back in August.

The two women were abducted by gunmen in Zamfara while en route from Akwa Ibom to the orientation camp in Sokoto. Recent efforts by the Nigerian Army resulted in the release of a male and a female abductee, according to a statement on Thursday.

Brig.-Gen. Yush’au Ahmed, the NYSC Director-General, mentioned that negotiations are ongoing for the safe return of the remaining captives. The Director of Press, Eddy Megwa, stated that the scheme, in collaboration with security agencies, will explore every available strategy to ensure their release unhurt and reunite them with their families.

The NYSC expressed gratitude for the support from the Nigerian Army in their efforts to free the prospective corps members. Megwa reiterated the scheme's determination to remain resolute in its statutory responsibility of fostering national unity and integration.

Protesters surged onto the premises of the National Assembly in Abuja on Wednesday, responding to the Sunday bombing of a village in Kaduna State. Occupying the entrance gate for over two hours, the demonstrators called for justice for the victims and issued a challenge to the Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, urging him to fulfill his responsibilities or step down.

An air strike intended to target terrorists inadvertently struck civilians during a religious celebration in Tudun Biri on Sunday night. Amnesty International officials, upon visiting the affected villages, confirmed an increase in the death toll, which now stands at 120.

Addressing the media, Nasir Ishaku, the leader of the protesters representing the National Youth Council of Nigeria, North West Zone, and Arewa Youth Movement, demanded justice for the victims. He expressed concern over the escalating security situation in Nigeria, particularly in the Northern region, and criticized the perceived incompetence of Minister Badaru, calling for his resignation. Ishaku highlighted the ongoing challenges, including the loss of armed forces members, the captivity of university students, and the overall deterioration of security in the country.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has sounded an alarm regarding the widespread resignation of lecturers from Nigerian universities, causing a significant shortage of staff in various departments and units. The union attributes this exodus to factors such as poor and delayed salaries, unpaid allowances, inadequate infrastructure, lack of respect for the academic community, and a perceived decline in hope for improvement. Professor Ayo Akinwole, the chairman of ASUU at the University of Ibadan, emphasized the dire state of Nigeria's public universities, with visibly stressed and frustrated lecturers.

Akinwole pointed out that unless President Bola Ahmed Tinubu intervenes by addressing the conditions of service, including salaries, allowances, and infrastructure, the trend of lecturers resigning and seeking opportunities abroad may persist. He criticized the government's approach, noting that while funding for education is lacking, there are proposals in the National Assembly to establish 32 more universities. Akinwole argued that creating more universities is not a solution and suggested enhancing the capacity of existing institutions to admit more students.

The ASUU leader highlighted reports of monthly resignations among colleagues due to poor treatment and inadequate remuneration in Nigeria. He expressed concern about global competition for quality educators and emphasized the need for intentional improvements in conditions of service to retain the best talent. Akinwole criticized the government's policy, stating that the prolonged process of obtaining approval from Abuja for hiring delays urgent replacements and allows other countries to attract highly qualified candidates. Additionally, he pointed out the interference from higher-ups, including the Ministry of Education and legislators, in dictating university hiring decisions.

In response to the recent miscalculated airstrike in Ligarma village of Kaduna State, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) expressed regret for the unintended harm caused to innocent civilians. Major General Edward Buba, the director of defence information, acknowledged the unfortunate incident and clarified that terrorists often adopt the strategy of blending in with rural communities to evade military attacks, disguising themselves as civilians in the process.

Major General Buba explained that the military observed a gathering of terrorists in Ligarma, a known terrorist-infested area of Kaduna State, through aerial surveillance. The terrorists' movement posed a threat to key infrastructure, prompting the military to neutralize the threat. Unfortunately, collateral damages occurred during the operation.

The director emphasized that terrorists deliberately embed themselves within civilian populations, making it challenging for the military to distinguish between civilians and combatants. Despite such challenges, the Nigerian military is committed to minimizing civilian casualties and follows international law in its operations.

To further address the situation, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, visited and commiserated with the victims in the Tudun Biri community. The COAS tendered an unreserved apology for the accidental strike and donated N10 million to support the over 50 injured survivors. During the visit, the COAS explained that the strike was carried out by Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) targeting suspected bandits in the Riyawa and Ruma vicinity. He expressed the army's commitment to conducting a thorough inquiry to prevent such incidents in the future, ensuring the well-being of affected communities.