WAMAC CONDEMNS ARREST AND DETENTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS JOURNALIST Wadata Media and Advocacy Centre (WAMAC) is appalled and outraged by the brazen arrest and detention of our Human Rights Journalist and Investigative reporter, Ahmed Isa Sakpe, in Minna, Niger State. Sakpe was picked up by the Niger State Police Command on the orders of Governor Umar Bago’s protocol officer, B. Y. Daban, on trumped-up charges of cyberbullying, simply for doing his job as a journalist. This latest incident is a stark reminder of the Niger State Government’s blatant disregard for press freedom and its penchant for using state machinery and security agencies to harass, intimidate, and silence journalists. The actions of the protocol officer and the police are a gross abuse of power and a clear attempt to muzzle the voice of the people. WAMAC views this as a deliberate and calculated effort to suppress investigative journalism and stifle dissenting voices in Niger State. The government’s actions are a throwback to the dark days of military rule, where journalists were routinely harassed, detained, and intimidated for speaking truth to power. We recall that the International Press Institute (IPI) had previously blacklisted the Governor and Government of Niger State for similar actions, yet nothing seems to have changed. The government’s continued disregard for press freedom and human rights is a worrying trend that must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. WAMAC demands the immediate release of Ahmed Isa Sakpe and an end to the harassment of journalists in Niger State. We call on Amnesty International, IPI, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Society of Nigerian Broadcasters, and other Human Rights organizations to intervene and salvage journalism practice in Niger State from the claws of tyranny. The people of Niger State deserve to be informed, and it is the duty of journalists to hold those in power accountable. We will not be silenced! Signed Nonye Aghaji Public Affairs and New Media Specialist Wadata Media and Advocacy Centre (WAMAC)
MacArthur’s Kole Shettima Urges Collaboration and Innovation to Sustain Investigative Journalism
Financial sustainability remains a critical challenge for investigative journalism worldwide, but organizations can survive and thrive by strengthening collaboration, sharing costs, and innovating from within. This was the central message from Dr. Kole Shettima, Director of the MacArthur Foundation’s Nigeria Office and Co-Director of the On Nigeria Big Bet, during a panel on “Strategies for Sustainability” at the Global Investigative Journalism Conference (GIJC25). Speaking alongside nonprofit media leaders and philanthropic partners working on long-term funding models, Dr. Shettima explained that sustainability is no longer just about finding money; it is about building systems that allow investigative journalism to continue with or without large external grants. As Director of the MacArthur Foundation’s Nigeria Office and Co-Director of the Foundation’s On Nigeria initiative, Shettima has overseen grant-making in areas including: Under the On Nigeria programme, the Foundation has backed investigative reporting, newsroom development, capacity-building, and collaborations aimed at strengthening journalism across the country. Shettima noted that one of the outcomes of recent media support and collaborations is the emergence of a stronger ecosystem of investigative journalism organizations across Nigeria and Africa. “People have come together to strengthen an ecosystem whereby they are working together,” he said. “That has created a sense of community, a sense of working together with each other… and I think that is going to be one of the major ingredients for the future.” According to him, organizations are now incubating new groups, sharing ideas, supporting one another, and developing a collective identity that helps the entire sector stay afloat in the face of shrinking revenue streams and increasing political pressure. Collaboration and Innovation to Sustain Investigative Journalism Beyond donor funding, Shettima encouraged media organizations to explore new ways of generating revenue or cutting costs internally, which he described as “diversification within.” This includes experimenting with services or products that audiences are willing to support financially, as well as adopting more efficient operational models. He echoed other speakers who pointed out that media houses must now think like modern enterprises, being creative, flexible, and audience-driven. Shettima highlighted practical examples of how Nigerian media outlets are already sharing resources to stay afloat. “Some of the legacy publications, you know, some of them in Abuja, some of them in Lagos, so the Abuja people will publish some of the papers for the people in Lagos, and the Lagos people will publish some of the papers for the Abuja people, so that you don’t have to have two production systems and other things as well.” He explained that this type of cost-sharing helps news organizations cut expenses without reducing the quality of their output, a practical approach in today’s challenging media landscape. Shettima noted that the future of investigative journalism will be stronger when journalists collaborate more. He said a growing sense of solidarity, “this is our community and our work”, is becoming one of the sector’s most important sustainability strengths. This is already translating into: Also Read – Investigative Journalism in Africa Faces Threats – Anas Aremeyaw
Investigative Journalism in Africa Faces Threats – Anas Aremeyaw
By Zubair Idris, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Renowned investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas of Ghana’s THIRD EYE shared his insights on the existential threats to investigative journalism in Africa, particularly through data protection laws and cybersecurity acts. In an interview with Zubair Idris in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, during the four-day Global Investigative Journalism Conference, which began on Friday, Anas emphasized the need for African countries to strengthen their democratic institutions to enhance good governance and accountability. He emphasized that a thriving democracy is essential for investigative journalism to flourish, allowing journalists to hold those in power accountable without fear of intimidation or harassment. Anas, known for his fearless and incisive reporting, highlighted the importance of an independent judiciary, a free press, and an active civil society in addressing the growing threats to investigative journalism in Africa, thereby promoting good governance and accountability. He noted that when these institutions are weak, corruption and abuse of power can thrive, undermining the rule of law and democratic principles. Anas’ remarks are particularly relevant in the African context, where many countries continue to grapple with challenges related to governance, corruption, and accountability. Confronting Threats to Investigative Journalism Through Stronger Legal Frameworks To address these challenges, Anas advocated for increased support for investigative journalism and the protection of journalists’ rights. He also emphasized the need for African governments to implement policies and laws that promote transparency, accountability, and good governance. “There are many lessons African countries can learn from Europe and other countries to perfect its democracy and accountability through Investigative Journalism”. By doing so, African countries can strengthen their democratic institutions, promote economic development, and improve the lives of their citizens. “Corruption and bad leadership are holding Africa back, and it’s time for governments to strengthen institutions and take a more pragmatic approach to tackle corruption”. Anas added. The four-day Global Investigative Journalism Conference, GIJC25, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is attended by 1,500 Investigative journalists from 97 countries, with several panel sessions, including one on “Privacy vs Accountability: Countering Regulations that Affect Investigative Journalism.”
JAMB Walks Out on House Committee Over Media Presence
…Committee gives Registrar till Tuesday to appear or face sanctions There was an unexpected turn of events at Nigeria’s National Assembly on Wednesday when the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) staged a walkout on the House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education Examination Bodies. Chaired by Hon. Oboku Oforji, the Committee convened to examine JAMB’s 2023–2024 financial performance. This included its internally generated revenue, remittances to the Consolidated Revenue Fund, and bank transactions from 2023 to date. Lawmakers disclosed that the committee sent three consecutive letters to JAMB on October 6, 17, and 23, 2025. They requested the documents and the personal appearance of the Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede. However, instead of honouring the invitation, the Registrar sent a Director, Mufutau Bello, to represent him. Committee Stands Firm as JAMB Representatives Walk Out A moment of tension occurred when Bello insisted that journalists vacate the room, citing the sensitive nature of the documents he intended to present. The Committee refused, maintaining that its proceedings were public and constitutionally empowered to determine how its sittings were conducted. However, the JAMB representative directed his team to leave and walked out of the session, an action that took members of the Committee by surprise. Responding to the walkout, the Committee ordered the Sergeant-at-Arms to detain the JAMB officials, but they had already left the premises. Committee Chairman, Hon. Oforji described the incident as “unfortunate and unacceptable”. He warned that the legislature would not tolerate acts of disrespect or attempts to undermine its oversight authority. “We wrote three consecutive letters to the Registrar requesting these documents. Instead of appearing, he sent a former Director who accused us of trying to embarrass JAMB. That is very unfortunate,” Oforji said. He emphasized that the Committee’s mandate is to promote transparency and accountability in the management of public funds. He noted that oversight guides its actions, not punitive intent. “Our duty is to ensure every agency under our watch is accountable to Nigerians,” Oforji added. House Committee Sets Tuesday Deadline for JAMB Registrar The Committee has now given JAMB till Tuesday for the Registrar to appear in person with his management team and present all the requested documents. “Failure to do so,” Oforji warned, “will compel the Committee to invoke its powers under Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).” Reps React to JAMB walkout on House Committee Speaking to Journalists after the meeting, Members of the Committee criticized JAMB’s action, describing it as a contempt of Parliament and a slap on democratic accountability. Hon. Awaji-Inombek Dagomie Abiante said the JAMB walkout on House Committee signaled a dangerous disregard for legislative authority. “If JAMB can walk out on a National Assembly committee, it means they no longer see themselves as accountable to Nigerians. Oversight is not a favour it’s a constitutional duty,” he said. Abiante hinted at possible financial irregularities, recalling previous controversies involving missing public funds. “We’ve heard stories where money was swallowed by snakes. Maybe this time, a bigger creature has done the swallowing,” he said. It will be recalled that in 2018, an accountability case drew national attention after a JAMB clerical officer claimed that a snake swallowed over thirty million Naira in her custody. Hon. Rodney Amboiowei faulted the agency’s attempt to bar the press, insisting that public funds must be publicly accounted for. “No agency has the right to dictate how Parliament conducts its business. Nigerians deserve to know how their money is spent,” he said. Additionally, Hon. Marie Enenimiete Ebikake expressed shock that the person leading the delegation was not even the Registrar. “We don’t know who this man is. He refused to identify himself. For all we know, he could have been impersonating someone else. The Registrar must appear by Tuesday to explain what JAMB is doing with public funds,” she stated. The Committee warned JAMB that any further disregard would attract parliamentary sanctions, as it adjourned the session to Tuesday, November 4, 2025. READ ALSO:
Tajudeen Seeks Special African Parliamentary Forum to Tackle Resource Conflicts
The Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen, has recommended the creation of a special African parliamentary forum. The goal, he said, is to promote responsible resource governance and ensure natural resources are harnessed to serve and empower the African people. Tajudeen made the call while delivering his remarks on Wednesday at the opening of the 8th Conference of the Network of African Parliamentarians for Defence and Security Committees (REPAM-CDS) in Abuja. The conference is titled “Security Governance of Natural Resources in Africa: Parliamentarians Confronted with New International Security Dynamics.” Reinforcing the call for collective action, Tajudeen said the proposed parliamentary forum will monitor regions experiencing resource conflicts. It will collaborate with regional legislative bodies to collect data, recommend safeguards, and support community-led development initiatives. He added that the struggle for peace is also a struggle for responsible stewardship of Africa’s natural endowments. According to him, illicit mining, opaque oil contracts, and unregulated timber corridors generate dangerous revenue streams. These streams arm insurgents, corrupt institutions, and deprive communities of the dividends of growth. “Where resource governance is weak, violence takes root; where it is transparent and accountable, prosperity and stability follow. Nigeria’s recent reforms illustrate the point. “I recommend that our parliaments form a special forum to monitor regions with resource conflicts. “Let us unite with unwavering resolve to strengthen our committees and harness our natural resources responsibly, ensuring they serve and empower our people,” he said. African Parliamentarians Call for Joint Action on Digital Protection, Security Threats, and Resource Mismanagement Beyond natural resources governance, Tajudeen called for a continent-wide agreement on digital sovereignty to help countries protect their cyberspace and financial systems without infringing on civil rights. More importantly, he said Africans are watching their parliamentarians closely. Specifically, they want them to turn debates into real action, match words with results, and protect democracy, dignity, and our shared heritage. To that end, the speaker said the National Assembly is ready to help. It will do so by sharing expertise, creating centres for legislative drafting, strengthening intelligence cooperation, and supporting a free press that promotes accountability. In a related remark, the Chairman, House Committee on National Security and Intelligence, Rep. Ahmed Satomi (APC-Borno) said that parliamentarians play crucial roles in ensuring effective oversight, transparency, and accountability in the management of natural resources and security forces. Satomi said lawmakers should ensure responsible resource governance and, as such, use legislative instruments to achieve sustainable and credible management of natural resources. These efforts must reflect specific local circumstances and align with the global governance agenda. “We must work together to develop durable and people-centred security solutions, aligning constitutional provisions with evolving threats and realities on the ground. “I am delighted that the fundamental objectives of our Network have strongly and strategically positioned us to undertake these responsibilities. “Let us therefore work together to address these pressing security challenges and ensure that our natural resources contribute to the prosperity and stability of our great continent,” he said. Responsible Resource Governance: Gambian Deputy Speaker Urges Continental Unity to Defend Africa’s Sovereignty and Ensure Peace Reinforcing the call for collective action, the Deputy Speaker of The Gambian Parliament, Mr. Seedy Njie, said that security matters concern every stakeholder, saying members of parliament want the citizens of Africa to live in peace and harmony. He tasked security chiefs across the continent with protecting Africa’s territorial integrity. He also emphasized the importance of defending the sovereignty of each nation. “I urged all service chiefs in Nigeria and beyond to work tirelessly to ensure that our people live in peace and harmony. “The issue of fear, terrorism, bandits, and armed robbery is becoming common in the sub-Saharan Africa, and we need to do whatever it takes us to take our responsibility seriously and defend our territorial integrity and sovereignty of our nations,” he said. He assured the parliamentarians were willing to work with the Federal Government in the advancement of the social-economic well-being of Africa. NSA Calls for Continental Collaboration to Curb Terrorism and Instability Linked to Natural Resource Conflicts Also speaking, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, said that the competition for resources had led to conflicts between communities, herders, and farmers, exacerbating existing tensions in several countries. Ribadu, represented by the Director of Defence Affairs, Maj.-Gen. Peter Malla (rtd) said the mismanagement of natural resources had serious consequences. It has led to economic instability, corruption, and widespread poverty. Additionally, the NSA said the extraction of natural resources has also posed security threats, including terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. Moreover, in response to these challenges, Ribadu emphasized the need for a united front to tackle the growing threats linked to natural resource extraction. Accordingly, he said, addressing the challenges requires a broad and coordinated response. “We must come together to address the challenges we face; we need a comprehensive approach.” Meanwhile, as part of the approach, he highlighted the importance of intelligence coordination and border security. “We need to share intelligence and coordinate efforts to prevent and counter security threats related to natural resources extraction. Furthermore, he highlighted the role of technology and community engagement in preventing insecurity and radicalisation. “We need to leverage technology to detect and neutralize threats before they materialise and engage with local communities to raise awareness and prevent radicalization that fuels terrorism,” he said. Read Also: Lawmakers Tackle Mining Law Violations in Nigeria
Baro Inland Port: Reps Committee Moves to Revive Long-Abandoned National Asset
In a renewed push to revamp Nigeria’s inland waterway infrastructure, the House of Representatives’ Ad-hoc Committee on the Rehabilitation and Operationalisation of the Baro Inland Port has held its inaugural meeting. Its chairman, Hon. Saidu Abdullahi, outlined a mandate to transform decades of unfulfilled promises into tangible action. Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the Committee on Wednesday, at the National Assembly Complex, Hon. Abdullahi emphasized the critical importance of moving beyond rhetoric to concrete efforts that will see the Baro Port, located in Niger State, fully operational, restoring its historical role as a vital economic artery in Nigeria’s logistics network. “This committee is tasked with converting the endless talk over the years into real action. Baro Inland Port is a sleeping giant, and our job is to wake it,” he said. Baro Inland Port Once Thrived as Colonial Hub, Now a Case for Modern Revival Hon. Abdullahi recalled the rich history of the Baro Inland Port, which served as a strategic logistics hub during the colonial era. Back then, agricultural produce from northern Nigeria was transported through a seamless multimodal system, via rail to Baro and then by inland waterways to the coastal ports. However, the post-independence focus on oil revenues and road infrastructure led to a sharp decline in inland waterway investments. This neglect, he noted, has come at a cost not only economically, but also in terms of environmental sustainability and road infrastructure longevity. To highlight the untapped potential of inland ports, Hon. Abdullahi drew from international examples. He recounted a recent visit to China’s Yangtze River Port, which stretches over 6,100 kilometers and hosts vibrant commercial activity. Likewise, he referenced the Mississippi River Port system in the United States, which spans more than 12,000 miles and supports trade across 31 states. “These examples are proof that inland waterways can be the backbone of national logistics. If countries like China and the U.S. have built prosperity around such systems, Nigeria too must rise to the occasion,” he said. Baro Inland Port: A Strategic Link in Reviving Multimodal Transport and Unlocking Regional Trade According to Hon. Abdullahi, three major components currently preventing the Baro Inland Port from becoming operational are, the dredging of the capital channel, ensuring navigability for vessels along the river; rail connectivity between Baro and Minna, linking the port to the larger national rail grid; and access roads to the port, providing viable land routes for cargo movement. “All necessary operational equipment has already been procured by the federal government. What remains is to fix these three key issues so the port can start functioning as designed,” he said. PPP Model, Stakeholder Collaboration Crucial to Realising Baro Port’s Potential The committee’s role, the chairman explained, is to coordinate relevant stakeholders, identify the roadblocks, and design collaborative solutions that will make the port viable again. In addressing the broader question of infrastructure financing, Hon. Abdullahi stressed that Nigeria cannot rely solely on public funds. He argued that the government alone cannot carry that burden. “The reality is that we must explore innovative financing and private-sector partnerships. If we continue waiting for government budgets alone, we won’t achieve even half of what’s needed,” he said. He advocated for exploring investment windows, development finance institutions, and public-private partnerships (PPPs) to help revive infrastructure like the Baro Port and others. Hon. Abdullahi expressed confidence that the committee’s work will not only revamp the Baro Port but also serve as a national model for how to successfully plan and execute infrastructure revival. “With the quality and diversity of members drawn from all six geopolitical zones, this committee is well-equipped to deliver. What we build here can become a reference point for future projects across Nigeria,” he said. He called on the media to play a key role in amplifying the conversation and holding all parties accountable throughout the process. “This is serious work. We’ll be depending on you to give this assignment the visibility it deserves. Let’s revive Baro together, for commerce, for communities, and for the country,” he said. Hon. Abdullahi thanked the participants and announced that the committee would soon roll out a comprehensive engagement plan. He also revealed that a technical committee had been commissioned to support the achievement of their mandate. The Committee’s work plan was adopted at the meeting. Subsequently, members emphasized the need for regional alignment and strategic planning, particularly around attracting global shipping lines, to ensure the success of the long-abandoned facility. Baro Inland Port Holds Promise Beyond Nigeria, Says Wase Former Deputy Speaker Idris Wase, a committee member, stressed the need to understand the project’s full scope. He also highlighted its regional significance. “This project is not just for Niger State; we’re speaking as representatives of Nigeria. When discussing the Baro Port, it’s important to be clear that it’s not just for Niger or even Nigeria. The project has the potential to serve the wider Northern African sub-region. That’s the original conception behind it,” he said. He, therefore, urged members and consultants to frame the project in national terms during engagements. “When presenting to this parliament, we must speak as Nigerians, not locals. I know it’s easy to get carried away by enthusiasm, but let’s not water down the national significance of this discussion,” he said. Without Shipping Line Incentives, Baro Port Risks Repeat of Past Failures Another member of the Committee and Chairman of the House Committee on Customs, Hon Leke Abejide, raised a technical concern over the lack of incentives for major shipping lines, which has caused similar ports across Nigeria to fail. “We’ve seen this happen with other ports, Calabar, Warri. They failed because planners didn’t factor in incentives for shipping lines. No port can thrive if shipping companies don’t see value in using it,” he said. Abejide cited global examples like the Lagos Free Trade Zone, which attracted a major shipping line. That move, he explained, created a ripple effect, forcing other lines to compete and increasing traffic at the port. “You don’t need to attract everyone
Reps Committee Query N24bn CCTV Allocation, Demands Rivers Budget Details in 48 hours
Rivers N1.48trn Budget Under Scrutiny as Reps Demand Expenditure Breakdown The House of Representatives’ Ad hoc Committee on Rivers State is on the Rivers ₦1.48trn budget scrutiny. It has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the state’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.). The committee told him to submit a breakdown of major items in the 2025 ₦1.48 trillion Appropriation Bill The Chairman of the committee, Rep. Julius Ihonvbere (APC-Edo), issued the ultimatum on Monday at the budget defence session in Abuja. Ihonvbere stated that the committee reviewed the sole administrator’s budget and raised several issues. The Rivers Committee Chairman insisted on the submission of the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) by the administrator. He said it is a mandatory prerequisite for the budget. Lawmakers Demand Justification for Key Allocations and IGR Breakdown Ihonvbere, who is also the Majority Leader of the House, queried the allocation of ₦24 billion for the installation of CCTV cameras at the state government house. He demanded a detailed breakdown of the expenditure. He also sought clarification on the allocation of ₦30 billion for the purchase of gunboats. The Committee Chairman requested justification for that sum and the ₦23 billion earmarked for contingency reserves. The Committee Chairman said the committee observed that state funds were allocated to existing federal projects. However, he noted that there was no refund agreement with the Federal Government for those projects. Additionally, he added that the committee raised concerns over this and other related issues. “We request details of state Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in the last three months to enable us know your financial flows so that we can weigh it against the deficit in the budget in terms of financing it and carrying out some of the projects.” Ihonvbere said, making it clear that the committee required additional details to justify the allocations. “We also need details of transfers to local governments, essentially how local government funds that come into the state are being managed at the moment. “Those documents we have requested for must reach us within 48 hours; be rest assured that we are all on the same side in terms of getting rivers working again. “We want to ensure that we will promote a lot of accountability and ensure that the interest of the people themselves, no matter how remote they are from the state capital, are protected,” he said. Meanwhile, Ihonvbere commended President Bola Tinubu for his intervention in the Rivers crisis. This move, he said, restored peace between the suspended Executive and Legislature in the state. Sole Administrator Defends Allocations for Security, Surveillance, and Emergencies Earlier, Ibas was represented by the Senior Special Assistant on Strategy and Policy, Mr. Andrew Nweke. He explained that the administration inherited many of the items in the budget. According to the Sole Administrator’s representative, the budget reflects the interests of Rivers people, as the implementation agencies designed it based on needs assessment. Furthermore, Nweke noted that Rivers State faces unique security challenges and said the ₦30 billion earmarked for gunboats would support security agencies in combating insecurity along the waterways. In addition, he said Rivers State frequently experiences floods, insecurity, and other unforeseen events. He explained that the ₦23 billion contingency fund would help address such challenges. Nweke described the Governor’s office as one of honour and deserves proper protection. He explained that the ₦24 billion allocation for CCTV was to ensure modern security surveillance, among other needs. He said the additional documents required by the committee would be made available to facilitate a smooth legislative process. Read also
FCT Natives Reject Relocation Policy, Demand Integration and Justice
The Indigenous people of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have strongly opposed the long-standing relocation policy adopted by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA). They described the policy as a violation of their fundamental human rights and the rule of law. They advocated instead for an inclusive urban renewal and integration approach. This, they said, should foster acceptance, comfort, and provide humane and equitable alternatives. The FCT indigenous communities made their position known during a public hearing organized by the House of Representatives Committee on Area Councils and Ancillary Matters. The hearing took place at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, on Tuesday. Declaring the hearing open, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, urged stakeholders to express their views freely. He noted that such contributions would assist lawmakers in crafting informed legislation. Abbas, represented by Hon. Joe Oke Onuakalusi, described the intervention as a critical step. That, he said, is aimed at promoting national unity and the brotherhood embedded in Nigeria’s constitution and national anthem. The Speaker noted that the issue of integrating FCT indigenes has been a recurring debate across successive administrations. He emphasized that the matter is not just relevant to Abuja but also has broader implications for justice and equity across the country. Chairman of the House Committee on Area Councils and Ancillary Matters, Hon. Fredrick Agbedi, explained the motivation for the hearing. He said it stemmed from a motion earlier moved on the need to explore alternative approaches. These include ways of resettling or integrating both indigenous and non-indigenous residents in the FCT. “The FCT is a symbol of unity and a representation of our national ideals. It was built for all Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic, religious, or regional backgrounds,” he said. “However, with growth and diversity come complex challenges—including the displacement of indigenous communities, the unclear status of non-indigenous residents, and the tension between customary land rights and modern urban planning.” Speaker Abbas, therefore, charged the committee to carefully and thoroughly capture all comments shared during the hearing. He assured that the 10th House of Representatives, under his leadership, remains committed to developing legislative solutions. He said these would reflect the collective aspirations and address the FCT indigenous rights issue. In his remarks, Director of Resettlement and Compensation at the FCDA, TPL Nasiru Suleiman, requested additional time for the agency to present its memorandum. The committee granted a two-week extension to enable the FCDA to submit its presentation. Also speaking at the hearing, the Sepeyi of Garki, Chief Usman Nga Kupi, who represented the Ona of Abaji, lamented the sacrifices made by FCT natives. He highlighted the loss of ancestral lands and property in the name of national development. Similarly, Hon. Bala Iya, representing the Kpaduma community, decried what he described as a longstanding pattern of injustice and discriminatory practices against indigenous residents. According to him, farmlands had been seized without compensation. This, he said, disrupted not only livelihoods but also the people’s spiritual and cultural ties to their land. “The resettlement process must include allocation of reasonably sized land, with proper title documents and financial support for building development as approved by Development Control,” he said. Meanwhile, on the FCT indigenous rights issue, the Original Inhabitant Development Association of Abuja called for a constitutional amendment. The group said this would help secure equal rights for FCT natives. Represented by Giwa Bamaiyi, the group’s President, Pastor Danladi Jeji, proposed the establishment of a National Commission for Indigenous Peoples. The group said the commission would address the systemic challenges faced by original inhabitants. READ ALSO: Lawmakers Tackle Mining Law Violations in Nigeria
Lawmakers Tackle Mining Law Violations in Nigeria
House Committee probes foreign and local firms over widespread non-compliance, environmental abuse, and disregard for parliamentary oversight in Nigeria’s mining sector. The House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals has intensified its investigation into illegal mining across Nigeria. It named several companies, particularly Chinese-owned firms, for violating mining laws in Nigeria and evading parliamentary oversight. Speaking at a high-level engagement at the National Assembly this week, Committee Chairman Rep. Jonathan Gaza condemned what he described as “commotious operations” and the blatant disregard for national legislation. He noted that many company executives, especially from Chinese firms, have persistently failed to honour invitations from Parliament. “We were quite taken aback by the brazen disregard for our laws. Most of these companies, especially those owned by Chinese nationals, have deliberately refused to appear before the Parliament of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. “It is unacceptable that the managing directors of some of these firms reside in China and leave only technical staff to manage Nigerian operations.” Among the companies flagged for non-compliance or absence at the hearing were Arab Contractors, Selsing Stone Limited, and Homerset. Others include Kaji Investments. Zeyin Jinja Investment Limited, Hasba Group of Companies, Viva Mines, Venus Mining Company, Tim Cornerstone, and Inorganic Earth (Saigon’s Investment Limited). “If these companies fail to appear before the expiration of this sitting, we will move for the outright suspension – and possibly the cancellation – of their licenses,” the chairman declared. “No amount of foreign direct investment justifies the flouting of Nigerian laws or endangering the lives and welfare of our people.” Gaza warned. The committee’s concerns are rooted in findings from recent site inspections. These uncovered alarming environmental degradation, lack of community engagement, and widespread regulatory violations. Many of the firms reportedly failed to secure critical documents. These include Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA), Community Development Agreements (CDA), and Environmental Protection Plans (EPP). All are mandatory under the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act. Mining Law Violations in Nigeria Prompt Tighter Oversight and Community-Centered Reforms Responding to the committee’s concerns, Vivian Okono, Director of the Mining and Environmental Control Department, acknowledged low compliance across the industry. She, however, noted that reforms are underway. “When I assumed office in March 2022, compliance with environmental and social regulations was abysmally low. “We’ve since revised the 2014 guidelines in November 2023 to strengthen enforcement and community engagement,” Okono said. On mining law violations in Nigeria, Okono highlighted Section 116 of the Act. It mandates companies to submit detailed environmental and rehabilitation plans before starting operations. She also cited Chapter 3 of the revised guidelines. It requires consultations with local leaders on community development priorities. “Resources deposited in these regions are meant to benefit the people,” she said. “We’ve put systems in place to ensure that CDAs are not just documents, but living agreements that truly reflect the aspirations of host communities.” The House Committee vowed to work closely with the Ministry of Solid Minerals. Their goal is to enforce compliance and ensure non-compliant companies face consequences. “Let it be clear, this House will not condone lawlessness in the name of investment. We will defend the dignity of our laws and the welfare of our people at all costs” the chairman concluded. The investigation is ongoing, with more companies expected to be summoned in the coming days. READ ALSO: Reps Panel Set to Present Five Bills to Tackle Challenges in Nigeria’s Oil Sector
Nigeria to Host 2026 World Public Relations Forum – NIPR President
Nigeria has secured the hosting rights for the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, has announced. Dr. Neliaku disclosed this during his address at the Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW 2025) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The NIPR President previously shared the hosting plan with the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris. This happened during a courtesy visit in March 2025. The Minister then pledged government’s support for the 2026 World Public Relations Forum. Neliaku noted that Nigeria is a nation in transition. He expressed concern about the country’s image both locally and internationally. “I went to Venice to defend Nigeria’s bid to host the 2026 World Public Relations Forum – and we won,” Neliaku said. “This is a major milestone. The forum first came to Africa in 2007, when it was hosted by South Africa. Thanks to the support of the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Nigeria was able to secure the hosting rights for the next edition.” Global PR Leaders to Gather in Nigeria for Landmark Event The NIPR President announced that representatives from 126 member countries will converge on Nigeria for the event. These countries are part of the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management. “Every country in Africa is a gateway,” he said, “but Nigeria is the destination. We have everything it takes to be the continent’s top host and a global hub for communication and innovation.” Speaking on leadership and communication, Neliaku emphasized the importance of effective public engagement. “Good leaders must also be good communicators,” he said. “Too often, leaders assume they know what the people want – and fail to lead effectively because they haven’t done their homework.” The 2026 forum will be the first time Nigeria and the entire West African region host the World Public Relations Forum. Read Also: EFCC and NIPR Join Forces for Anti-Corruption Awareness