All posts by Our Reporter

NEWS

Abia Cracks Down on Illegal Construction as GODA Seals Building in Umunneochi

Leave a comment

The Greater Ohafia Development Authority (GODA) has intensified its enforcement of physical planning regulations by sealing a building under construction in Mbala Isuochi, Umunneochi Local Government Area, over multiple violations of established building standards.

The enforcement action, carried out on Thursday, July 24, 2026, was led by the Director General of GODA, Elder Engr. Obinna Odum, after the developer allegedly failed to comply with repeated directives to regularize the project and obtain the necessary development approvals.

According to the Authority, the building was found to be in violation of key physical planning regulations, including the failure to secure the mandatory development permit, inadequate building setback, and other breaches of approved planning standards.

Speaking during the exercise, Elder Engr. Odum reiterated the Abia State Government’s unwavering commitment to enforcing physical planning laws across the state. He stated that the administration of Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, remains focused on promoting orderly urban development, safeguarding public safety, and ensuring environmental sustainability.

He stressed that compliance with planning regulations is not optional, emphasizing that no individual or organization is above the law. He warned that developers who commence construction without obtaining the required government approvals or who violate approved building standards would continue to face appropriate sanctions.

The Director General explained that building regulations are designed to protect lives and property, reduce environmental risks, and encourage the development of well-planned, safe, and aesthetically appealing communities.

He therefore urged all property developers, investors, and residents to obtain the necessary approvals from the relevant government agencies before embarking on any construction project, noting that adherence to planning regulations is essential for sustainable development and the overall growth of Abia State.

The latest enforcement exercise underscores the Abia State Government’s determination to uphold the rule of law and ensure that all physical developments conform to approved standards in the interest of public safety and sustainable urban development.

DEVELOPMENT

Tinubu Approves Major Nigerian Army Expansion: 28,000 New Recruits, Four New Divisions to Boost National Securit

Leave a comment

In one of the most significant military reforms in recent years, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a major expansion of the Nigerian Army, increasing its operational structure from eight to twelve divisions while authorising the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel to strengthen national security.

The sweeping reform is aimed at improving the military’s operational efficiency, enhancing border protection, decentralising command, and ensuring faster responses to emerging security threats across Nigeria.

The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who described the move as a strategic step towards modernising Nigeria’s defence architecture.

As part of the restructuring, the Federal Government has approved the establishment of four new divisional headquarters in:

  • Makurdi (Benue State)
  • Ilorin (Kwara State)
  • Jalingo (Taraba State)
  • Benin City (Edo State)

The additional divisions are expected to decentralise military operations, allowing commanders to make quicker operational decisions while improving coordination in the fight against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and other security challenges.

Under the new arrangement, the Nigerian Army will be organised as follows:

  • 1 Division – Kaduna: Kaduna, Kano, Katsina and Jigawa States.
  • 2 Division – Ibadan: Oyo, Osun, Ekiti and Ondo States.
  • 3 Division – Jos: Plateau, Bauchi and Gombe States.
  • 5 Division – Makurdi: Benue, Nasarawa and Kogi States.
  • 6 Division – Port Harcourt: Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River States.
  • 7 Division – Maiduguri: Borno and Yobe States.
  • 8 Division – Sokoto: Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara States.
  • 9 Division – Ilorin: Kwara and Niger States.
  • 10 Division – Jalingo: Taraba and Adamawa States.
  • 81 Division – Lagos: Lagos and Ogun States.
  • 82 Division – Enugu: Enugu, Anambra, Abia, Ebonyi and Imo States.
  • 83 Division – Benin City: Edo, Delta and Bayelsa States.

The reorganisation is expected to improve military coverage across the country’s six geopolitical zones while ensuring every operational area receives more focused attention.

To support the expanded structure, President Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 28,000 new military personnel.

The large-scale recruitment exercise forms part of a broader investment in Nigeria’s armed forces, which also includes the acquisition of modern military equipment, improved troop welfare, enhanced operational readiness, and continuous force modernisation.

The Federal Government believes the additional manpower will strengthen ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, oil theft, kidnapping, and other criminal activities threatening national security.

According to the Presidency, the implementation will take place in two phases.

The first phase, expected to be completed by September 2026, will establish the 5th, 9th and 10th Divisions while reorganising existing formations.

The second phase, scheduled for completion by December 2026, will see the creation of the 83rd Division in Benin City alongside further restructuring of military formations nationwide.

President Tinubu commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Ibrahim Shuaibu, as well as officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, for their professionalism and dedication in defending the nation.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that Nigeria’s Armed Forces remain well-equipped, adequately funded, highly motivated, and fully prepared to tackle evolving security threats across the country.

The expansion represents one of the most ambitious military restructuring efforts in recent history. By increasing the number of divisions, recruiting thousands of new personnel, and strengthening operational capabilities, the Federal Government aims to build a more agile, responsive, and modern Nigerian Army capable of addressing the country’s increasingly complex security challenges.

If successfully implemented, the reforms could significantly enhance internal security, improve border surveillance, and reinforce public confidence in Nigeria’s defence institutions.

NEWS

$13.1m CNG Investment: Alex Otti Backs Major Clean Energy Project to Transform Abia into South-East Industrial Hub

Leave a comment

Abia State is set to take another significant step toward becoming Nigeria’s emerging industrial powerhouse as Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has thrown his weight behind a proposed $13.1 million Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mother Station project to be located in Owaza, Ukwa West Local Government Area.

The proposed project, championed by a consortium of automobile and energy investors, is expected to revolutionize clean energy supply, power industries, create jobs, reduce transportation costs, and strengthen Abia’s position as the economic gateway of the South-East.

Governor Otti gave the assurance on Thursday while receiving a delegation of investors led by automobile entrepreneur Mr. Umeobi Chukwudolu Frank at Government House, Umuahia.

Speaking during the meeting, Governor Otti described Owaza as the natural choice for such a strategic investment because of its abundant commercial gas deposits and ongoing oil and gas exploration activities.

The Governor explained that the proposed 14.13 Million Standard Cubic Feet Per Day (MMSCFD) CNG Mother Station perfectly aligns with his administration’s vision of industrialisation, clean energy adoption, and sustainable economic growth.

According to him, the availability of gas resources, coupled with the rapid development taking place at the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park (AIIP), makes Abia one of Nigeria’s most attractive destinations for industrial investment.

He assured the investors that the state government would facilitate discussions regarding their request for land within the AIIP and explore a mutually beneficial Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework to bring the project to reality.

In another major announcement, Governor Otti revealed that the state has already taken delivery of 20 additional electric buses, while another 30 buses are expected to arrive before September 2026.

The move further reinforces the administration’s commitment to cleaner transportation, reduced carbon emissions, and affordable public transport for residents.

Leader of the investor delegation, Mr. Umeobi Chukwudolu Frank, said his team represents automobile manufacturers and development partners interested in introducing affordable, efficient, and environmentally friendly vehicles into Nigeria.

He expressed confidence in Governor Otti’s industrial vision and called for strong collaboration with the Abia State Government to develop a modern transportation ecosystem through a Public-Private Partnership.

Providing further insight into the investment, Director of Earthoc Gas Limited, Mr. Odim Kalu, disclosed that the proposed CNG Mother Station will cost approximately $13.1 million.

According to him, the facility is designed to serve both the industrial and transportation sectors while positioning Abia as the primary gas distribution hub for the South-East region.

Kalu explained that Owaza was selected because of its vast natural gas reserves, adding that the project will generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities, lower industrial energy costs, improve air quality, and stimulate economic growth across the state.

“We are here to align with the vision of the Governor. Our intention is to build an investment that will ensure the people of Abia directly benefit from this project,” he said.

He further noted that Nigeria’s transition towards cleaner and alternative energy makes the project timely and strategic, while appealing for government support in areas such as land acquisition, infrastructure, security, and the proposed PPP arrangement.

The proposed CNG project adds to the growing list of major investments being attracted into Abia under Governor Alex Otti’s administration.

From the rapid development of the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park, expansion of clean transportation through electric buses, and renewed investor confidence, the state continues to position itself as one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing destinations for manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure development.

If successfully implemented, the Owaza CNG Mother Station is expected to become a catalyst for industrial expansion, cleaner transportation, job creation, and long-term economic prosperity—not only for Abia State but for the entire South-East region.

NEWS

Abia Ranks 3rd Among Nigeria’s Fastest-Improving States in 2026 Performance Index

Leave a comment

Abia State has recorded another major milestone on Nigeria’s development landscape, emerging as the third fastest-improving state in the country in the 2026 Philips Consulting State Performance Index (pSPI) Momentum Index.

The latest ranking highlights the remarkable pace of transformation under the administration of Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, reinforcing growing national recognition of the state’s governance reforms, infrastructure renewal and people-focused development agenda.

According to the 2026 Momentum Index, which assessed the rate of progress made by 33 Nigerian states during the review period, Abia recorded a positive momentum score of +0.67, placing it behind only:

  1. Enugu State – +1.15
  2. Jigawa State – +0.77
  3. Abia State – +0.67

The state ranked ahead of Osun, Kano, Gombe, Akwa Ibom, Ogun, Lagos, Imo, Anambra, and many other states, underscoring the speed of its ongoing transformation.

The Momentum Index evaluates how rapidly states are improving relative to the national average. Positive scores indicate above-average progress, while negative scores suggest slower rates of development.

Abia’s impressive performance reflects the impact of Governor Alex Otti’s broad reform agenda, which has focused on rebuilding critical sectors and restoring confidence in governance.

Since assuming office, the administration has pursued strategic investments across:

  • Road and transport infrastructure
  • Education reforms and Smart Schools
  • Healthcare revitalisation
  • Digital transformation
  • Public sector reforms
  • Security enhancement
  • Agriculture and food security
  • Investment promotion
  • Industrial revival
  • Youth empowerment
  • Revenue administration and fiscal discipline

These reforms are increasingly attracting national attention and independent recognition from policy analysts and development institutions.

Observers say Abia’s rapid rise is the result of deliberate governance anchored on transparency, accountability, prudent resource management and efficient service delivery.

Major projects—including the reconstruction of strategic road networks, the rollout of technology-driven Smart Schools, healthcare improvements and business-friendly policies—have strengthened investor confidence while improving the quality of life for residents.

The state’s emphasis on innovation, digital governance and infrastructure renewal continues to position Abia as one of Nigeria’s emerging destinations for investment and sustainable development.

The Philips Consulting ranking serves as an independent assessment of the progress being made in Abia and provides further evidence that the state’s development agenda is delivering measurable outcomes.

Beyond improving public infrastructure, the reforms are laying the foundation for long-term economic growth, job creation and improved public service delivery.

As the administration continues to implement its vision for a New Abia, government officials say efforts will remain focused on consolidating existing gains while accelerating projects that promote inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.

With this latest national recognition, Abia is increasingly being viewed as one of Nigeria’s strongest examples of transformational governance, where strategic leadership, fiscal discipline and purposeful reforms are translating into measurable progress.

Education

Governor Alex Otti Commissions Abia’s Second Smart School, Promises Scholarships and World-Class Learning for Every Child

Leave a comment

Abia State has taken another bold step in its education transformation agenda as Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, officially commissioned the state’s second Smart School at Umuomaiukwu, Nsulu, in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to building a future driven by knowledge, innovation and technology.

The commissioning ceremony, held on Tuesday, July 22, 2026, attracted dignitaries from across the country, including internationally acclaimed author, academic and poet Prof. Okey Ndibe, government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders and members of the host community.

Addressing the pupils, Governor Otti challenged them to take full advantage of the state-of-the-art learning environment, stressing that the government has removed every financial barrier to quality education.

“You have no excuse not to do well in your academics. Education is a sure foundation for fulfilment. Study harder than anyone else, ask questions, open your minds to learning and let nothing hold you back. You do not have to worry about school fees because everything has been provided free of charge by the government,” the Governor declared.

He emphasized that education remains the greatest investment any government can make, describing the Smart School initiative as a strategic platform for raising a new generation of innovators, problem-solvers and global leaders.

Governor Otti announced that exceptional academic performance in the Smart Schools would attract local and international scholarship opportunities, alongside other incentives designed to reward excellence.

According to him, merit, discipline and academic achievement will continue to receive recognition under his administration.

The Governor explained that Abia’s Smart Schools go beyond conventional classrooms by creating an environment that encourages creativity, innovation and experiential learning.

Each facility is equipped with modern educational technologies, including:

  • 24-hour internet connectivity
  • CCTV surveillance systems
  • Digital learning infrastructure
  • Technology-enabled classrooms
  • Safe and secure learning environment

Governor Otti also warned against vandalism of public infrastructure, stating that anyone found destroying government property would face the full weight of the law.

Special Guest of Honour, Prof. Okey Ndibe, praised Governor Otti’s transformational leadership, describing him as a leader whose record of excellence predates his emergence as Governor.

He noted that the Governor’s academic brilliance, successful banking career and disciplined leadership style have translated into purposeful governance for the people of Abia State.

Prof. Ndibe stressed that investment in education remains the greatest investment any society can make, applauding Governor Otti for laying a solid foundation for sustainable development through quality education and human capital development.

He urged Abians to continue supporting purposeful leadership that prioritizes long-term development over short-term gains.

The Member representing Isiala Ngwa North State Constituency, Hon. Collins Iheonunekwu, and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, described the Smart School project as a transformational investment that will improve educational outcomes and prepare Abia children to compete globally.

They assured Governor Otti that the people of Nsulu and Isiala Ngwa North appreciate the administration’s developmental strides and would continue to support its vision.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Ubochi, described the commissioning as another landmark achievement in Abia’s education reform programme.

According to him, the Smart School model integrates cutting-edge technologies such as:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Virtual Reality (VR)
  • Adaptive Learning Systems
  • Renewable Energy Solutions
  • Digital Learning Platforms

These innovations, he said, are designed to prepare pupils for the demands of the 21st-century global economy.

Providing an overview of the project, Mrs. Lydia Ezihe Onuoha, Executive Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), described the initiative as a paradigm shift in public education.

She explained that the schools are designed to deliver inclusive, technology-driven education while promoting sustainability through proper maintenance and community ownership.

Mrs. Onuoha also disclosed that the facility includes a dedicated girls’ support room, providing privacy and essential care for female pupils during menstruation—a feature aimed at promoting dignity, inclusiveness and uninterrupted learning.

Speaking during the ceremony, Chief Mrs. Orieji Okwara-Emele, Managing Director of Blue Giraffe, said the Umuomaiukwu Smart School has capacity for more than 300 pupils and is fully internet-enabled.

She commended Governor Otti for embracing the Smart School concept after previously commissioning a privately developed model and for replicating it across Abia to benefit public school children.

The commissioning of the second Smart School reinforces Governor Alex Otti’s vision of transforming Abia into a leading centre for educational excellence through innovation, technology and equitable access to quality learning.

As the state continues to invest in world-class educational infrastructure, the Smart School initiative is expected to produce digitally skilled learners equipped to compete globally while strengthening Abia’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing education reform states.

HEALTH

Abia Seals Major Investment Push as Egyptian Pharma Giant Targets Drug Manufacturing Plant

Leave a comment

Abia State has taken another significant step toward becoming Nigeria’s emerging pharmaceutical manufacturing hub, as Governor Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, pledged the full support of his administration to Utopia Pharmaceuticals, a leading Egyptian pharmaceutical company planning to establish a drug manufacturing plant in the state.

The commitment was made on Tuesday, July 22, 2026, when Governor Otti received a high-powered delegation from the Egypt-based pharmaceutical firm at Government House, Umuahia. The delegation was led by Eze Apostle Gift Chibuzor Chinyere, who facilitated the investment mission, alongside the company’s Chairman, Dr. Kamel Mohamed.

Governor Otti described the proposed investment as a strategic development that aligns with his administration’s industrialization agenda, emphasizing that his government prioritizes investments that stimulate production rather than mere commercial distribution.

According to the Governor, establishing a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Abia would create employment opportunities, boost the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), reduce poverty, and encourage technology transfer.

“We are very happy with your presentation. I am particularly pleased that you are looking at setting up a production plant and not just selling products. Production generates economic activities, creates jobs, improves the GDP of the state, reduces poverty, and encourages technology transfer,” Governor Otti stated.

He assured the investors that the Abia State Government would provide every necessary support to ensure the successful establishment of the manufacturing facility.

Governor Otti recommended the Ukwa and Osisioma industrial corridors as suitable locations for the proposed factory, citing their strategic advantages, including reliable gas supply and stable electricity provided by Geometric Power.

He also assured the delegation that land acquisition would not be an obstacle, noting that his administration is prepared to facilitate access to land for the project.

The Governor further expressed confidence that community relations would be effectively coordinated through Eze Apostle Gift Chibuzor Chinyere, ensuring a smooth implementation process.

To accelerate the investment process, Governor Otti directed the Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, to continue technical engagements with the company and provide all necessary government support required to bring the project to reality.

Speaking during the meeting, Eze Apostle Gift Chibuzor Chinyere explained that he chose to introduce Utopia Pharmaceuticals to Abia because of Governor Otti’s commitment to healthcare development and his investor-friendly policies.

He disclosed that before leaving Nigeria, the company would conduct a pilot presentation of its anti-malaria pharmaceutical products in the state.

Chairman of Utopia Pharmaceuticals, Dr. Kamel Mohamed, said the company is seeking a strategic partnership with the Abia State Government to establish a world-class pharmaceutical manufacturing plant capable of serving Nigeria and the wider West African market.

He revealed that the company already benefits from an existing Memorandum of Understanding between the Egyptian Government and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on pharmaceutical registration, making collaboration easier.

Dr. Mohamed noted that Utopia has successfully implemented similar pharmaceutical manufacturing projects in countries such as Tanzania and believes Abia possesses the right leadership and investment climate for another successful venture.

“Our goal is not just to manufacture medicines but to position Nigeria as a hub for advanced pharmaceutical technology in Africa,” he said.

The proposed investment represents another milestone in Governor Otti’s drive to transform Abia into a preferred destination for manufacturing, healthcare innovation, and industrial investment.

Beyond increasing access to quality medicines, the pharmaceutical plant is expected to create skilled jobs, stimulate local industries, expand exports, attract additional foreign direct investment, and strengthen Abia’s position as one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing investment destinations.

POLITICS

Fubara Declares Full Return to Wike’s Political Family, Endorses Tinubu and Kingsley Chinda for 2027

Leave a comment

The political landscape in Rivers State witnessed a major shift on Wednesday as Governor Siminalayi Fubara publicly reaffirmed his alliance with his predecessor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, while endorsing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term and backing Hon. Kingsley Chinda as his preferred governorship candidate for the 2027 elections.

The declaration was made during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Rivers Medical Industry Project in Rumuosi, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, where the governor announced that the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State had come to an end.

Addressing supporters, Fubara declared that he had fully returned to his political family and urged his followers to embrace the Rainbow Coalition, the political alliance associated with Wike and other groups supporting President Tinubu.

“We have made peace in the state, and I am supporting our Rainbow Coalition,” the governor stated.

Tinubu Gets Fubara’s Endorsement

In one of his strongest political statements since reconciling with Wike, Governor Fubara openly declared his support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.

According to him, Tinubu remains the leader they have chosen to support ahead of the next general elections.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is our President, and he’s the one we are supporting,” he said.

Kingsley Chinda Named Preferred Governorship Candidate

The governor also endorsed Hon. Kingsley Chinda as the governorship candidate he intends to support under the Rainbow Coalition.

He urged everyone who believes in his leadership to support candidates presented by the coalition.

“Kingsley Chinda is the governorship candidate that I am supporting. Anybody who believes in me should support every candidate under the Rainbow Coalition,” Fubara declared.

Appeal for Unity

Governor Fubara advised his supporters to stop expecting political rewards before joining the coalition, stressing that he had already completed the reconciliation process with Wike’s political camp.

According to him, politics should now focus on peace and development rather than conflict.

“There is nothing to collect. I am already back in the family. We need to move forward. The time of war is over; it is now time for peace.”

He also warned individuals against using his name to promote political movements outside the Rainbow Coalition.

Political Significance

Fubara’s latest declaration confirms what many political observers had anticipated following his reconciliation with Wike after months of intense political rivalry that polarized Rivers State.

His decision also comes months after he withdrew from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries, a move he said followed extensive consultations and personal reflection.

By openly aligning himself with President Tinubu, Wike’s political structure, and the Rainbow Coalition, the Rivers governor has effectively repositioned himself within a broader political alliance expected to play a significant role in the build-up to the 2027 general elections.

Education

UBEC Delivers 4,000 Classrooms to Kano, Backs Recruitment of 16,000 Teachers

Leave a comment

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has strengthened basic education in Kano State with the delivery of nearly 4,000 classrooms, while commending the state government for recruiting more than 16,000 teachers to improve learning outcomes.

The Executive Secretary of UBEC, Dr. Aisha Garba, made this known during an official visit to Kano alongside the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

During the visit, the delegation inspected UBEC-funded education projects and witnessed the presentation of appointment letters to the newly recruited teachers.

Dr. Garba explained that the construction of thousands of classrooms is aimed at expanding access to quality basic education by providing safer and more conducive learning environments for pupils. She noted that improved infrastructure has the potential to increase school enrolment, reduce dropout rates, and enhance academic performance.

However, she emphasized that modern classrooms alone cannot transform education without qualified teachers.

Describing Kano State’s recruitment of over 16,000 teachers as one of the largest investments in basic education in Nigeria, Garba said the exercise would help address the shortage of teachers, particularly in rural and underserved communities, while improving the quality of teaching across the state.

She noted that Nigeria continues to experience a significant shortage of teachers, making sustained investment in the education workforce essential for achieving better learning outcomes.

Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to education under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Garba said every Nigerian child deserves access to quality education regardless of location.

“The directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is clear. No child should be left behind. Every Nigerian child deserves access to quality education. Even where classrooms exist, without teachers, children cannot learn. That is why investments in teachers are investments in the future of our nation,” she said.

According to the UBEC Executive Secretary, every appointment letter issued to the newly recruited teachers represents renewed hope for thousands of pupils whose future depends on access to quality teaching.

She also highlighted the global teacher shortage, noting that UNESCO estimates more than 44 million additional teachers are needed worldwide. She said Kano State’s recruitment initiative demonstrates a practical response to this challenge and positions the state among governments taking concrete steps to strengthen education.

Garba commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for prioritizing education and praised the leadership of the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, for driving reforms aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s education sector.

She stressed that collaboration between the Federal Government, UBEC, and state governments remains vital to achieving inclusive, equitable, and quality education nationwide.

Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Kano State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Malam Yusuf Kabir, disclosed that the teacher recruitment exercise followed a transparent and merit-based process. He explained that the implementation of the Kano State Teacher Policy, including aptitude tests and rigorous assessments, ensured that only qualified candidates were employed.

Kabir emphasized that recruitment alone is not enough, noting that effective deployment, continuous training, supervision, mentoring, and performance evaluation are necessary to improve classroom learning.

He assured that the newly recruited teachers would be posted to schools where they are most needed and that robust monitoring mechanisms would be put in place to maintain high teaching standards.

The SUBEB chairman also called on communities, traditional institutions, development partners, and the private sector to support government efforts, stressing that sustainable improvements in education require collective responsibility.

UBEC reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with state governments across Nigeria to expand access to quality basic education through continued investments in school infrastructure, teacher development, and learner-focused interventions.

NEWS

Operation FANSAN YAMMA Rescues 27 Kidnap Victims, Foils Mass Abduction in North-West

Leave a comment

The Nigerian military has recorded another major success in the fight against banditry and kidnapping, as troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA rescued 27 kidnapped victims and foiled an attempted mass abduction during coordinated operations in Sokoto and Zamfara states.

The operations, carried out over the past two days, underscore the military’s sustained offensive against criminal elements operating across the North-West.

According to security analyst Bakatsine, troops responded swiftly to intelligence about an attempted mass abduction along the Gummi–Sokoto Highway, confronting the suspected kidnappers in a fierce gun battle.

The timely intervention forced the attackers to abandon their mission and flee the scene, preventing what could have been a large-scale kidnapping of commuters and residents.

In separate rescue operations across Sokoto and Zamfara states, the troops successfully freed 27 victims who had earlier been abducted by criminal gangs. The rescued individuals have since been safely reunited with their families.

The military also recovered several livestock and motorcycles believed to have been abandoned by the fleeing criminals during the operations.

Commending the troops, Bakatsine praised their courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to protecting lives and restoring security in the region.

The latest operation adds to ongoing efforts by Operation FANSAN YAMMA to dismantle criminal networks and improve security across Nigeria’s North-West, where communities have continued to face threats from armed bandits and kidnappers.

Security experts believe sustained military offensives, backed by actionable intelligence and community cooperation, remain crucial to defeating criminal groups and ensuring lasting peace in the region.

NEWS

Tinubu’s Wife Announces ₦2 Billion Boost for Akwete Weaving as Otti Seeks Global Renaissance for Abia’s Heritage Textile

Leave a comment

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has announced a ₦2 billion intervention to support the establishment of a modern Akwete Weaving and Research Centre in Abia State, describing the centuries-old indigenous fabric as a priceless cultural heritage that deserves national and global recognition.

The announcement was made on Tuesday during her official civic engagement with members of the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Society in Akwete, Ukwa East Local Government Area, where she toured the cooperative, interacted with women weavers, and watched demonstrations of the traditional hand-weaving process.

Speaking at the event held at Township School, Akwete, the First Lady said the proposed centre would serve as both a production hub and a research institution to preserve the rich weaving tradition while embracing modern technology to expand its economic potential.

She urged Nigerians to embrace locally made fabrics, insisting that Akwete cloth deserves the same national acceptance enjoyed by Yoruba textiles such as Aso Oke and Adire.

“The Igbos should take Akwete to the nation. We all wear tie and dye from Yoruba land. We wear Aso Oke. Why not Akwete? It is a beautiful fabric,” she said.

Announcing the donation, Mrs. Tinubu added:

“I have told the Governor that I am donating ₦2 billion to this project. I believe the funds will be put to good use.”

The First Lady revealed that her interest in Akwete weaving began after watching a documentary on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). She admitted she initially thought the fabric originated from Ghana before discovering it was produced in Abia State, a discovery that inspired her visit to the community.

She commended the craftsmanship of the women and encouraged them to preserve the authenticity of the fabric while exploring modern applications beyond traditional wrappers, including fashion, home décor, and other commercial products.

Otti: We Have Been Reviving Akwete Since 2023

Welcoming the First Lady, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, disclosed that the visit was initiated by Senator Tinubu herself after she developed a keen interest in the Akwete weaving tradition.

“The truth is that you invited yourself. This is your initiative, and you followed up with us to ensure that this visit happened. I want to thank you,” the Governor remarked.

Governor Otti explained that his administration has been working to revive the Akwete weaving industry since assuming office in 2023 by removing long-standing obstacles limiting its growth.

He warned that unless the industry embraces innovation and modern production methods, it could lose ground to machine-made imitations already being produced in countries such as India and China.

According to him, the Abia State Government has already developed a comprehensive roadmap for the industry and is proposing a partnership with the First Lady to establish a world-class production hub for the women of Akwete.

“We want to build a production hub for the Akwete women. We have been engaging with the community since 2023 because we believe there is enormous potential in Akwete weaving,” he said.

Governor Otti also praised President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy and the liberalisation of the foreign exchange market, stating that the policies have increased revenues available to all tiers of government for infrastructure and development despite temporary economic hardships.

Priscilla Otti Hails Historic Visit

Earlier, the Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, described the First Lady’s visit as a historic milestone for Abia State.

She applauded Senator Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative for its numerous interventions in women empowerment, support for small businesses, care for vulnerable groups, food security, and social development across Nigeria.

Mrs. Otti said Akwete fabric remains one of the oldest and most prestigious textile traditions of the Igbo people and noted that the First Lady’s decision to spotlight the craft would create lasting economic opportunities for women in the community.

She pledged the state’s continued collaboration with the Renewed Hope Initiative to preserve the heritage and improve the livelihoods of Akwete women.

Stakeholders Call for Global Recognition

Former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uche Ogah, stressed that empowering women remains central to national development. He expressed confidence that the First Lady’s intervention would elevate Akwete fabric onto the global stage while creating new economic opportunities for the community.

He also commended both President Bola Tinubu and Governor Alex Otti for what he described as purposeful leadership, noting that Abia is witnessing remarkable infrastructural development.

Similarly, the member representing Ukwa East/Ukwa West Federal Constituency, Hon. Chris Nkwonta, described the visit as a defining moment in the history of Akwete and Abia State.

He said the presidential visit has drawn national attention to the ancient weaving tradition and renewed hope for its preservation and commercial expansion.

Nkwonta advocated the establishment of a modern weaving and research centre and warned that without deliberate efforts to train younger generations, the centuries-old craft could gradually disappear.

The lawmaker also commended Governor Otti’s developmental strides across the state and pledged to work with stakeholders to ensure the successful establishment of the proposed Akwete Weaving and Research Centre.

The high point of the event was the conferment of the traditional title “Ugonwanyi” on Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, by the Abia State Traditional Rulers Council in recognition of her support for the preservation and promotion of the Akwete weaving heritage.