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
Reps Panel Set to Present Five Bills to Tackle Challenges in Nigeria’s Oil Sector
The House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream) and the Special Committee on Crude Oil Theft are set to introduce five joint oil industry bills to address pressing sector challenges. The Chairman of both Committees, Rep. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, disclosed this at a joint meeting on Tuesday, stating that the proposed bills are part of a legislative intervention to support national efforts in securing oil and gas assets and curbing crude oil theft. Joint Oil Industry Bills Target Theft, Oversight Gaps According to Doguwa, one of the joint oil industry bills seeks to establish a National Commission. The Commission will be empowered to prevent and prosecute pipeline vandalism and other oil sector-related crimes. “The Committees and indeed the entire House are deeply concerned about the increasing insecurity and criminal activities around oil-producing areas. This intervention is a legislative response intended to complement government efforts in protecting these critical national assets,” he said. Doguwa explained that the two committees – Petroleum Resources (Upstream) and the Special Committee on Crude Oil Theft- share a similar jurisdictional focus, particularly on crude oil production and export. “In my view, these two committees essentially deal with the same core issue: crude oil. While one focuses on the theft and security aspect, the other covers the drilling and export processes. That’s why we’ve decided to meet jointly and work together on these legislative proposals,” he noted. Speaker Backs Decommissioning Oversight in Joint Oil Industry Bills The Chairman of the Committees, Alhassan Ado Doguwa, also revealed that the Speaker of the House is championing one of the joint oil industry bills. The bill falls under the Petroleum Resources (Upstream) Committee. It seeks to establish a Commission responsible for overseeing the decommissioning of oil assets. The decommissioning process has raised concerns among host communities and industry stakeholders. “The decommissioning process is a major policy priority of the current administration, but there are gaps in oversight. That’s why the Speaker and other leaders of the House have shown interest in backing legislation that provides statutory authority and legal framework for a commission to manage this process, while also ensuring that the interests of host communities are taken into account,” Doguwa said. He explained that different committee members will sponsor each of the five bills under review. However, the committees will present them collectively as committee-driven legislation. This joint oil industry bill strategy demonstrates a unified commitment to addressing challenges in the sector. “These bills will bear the names of different committee members, but they are not individual efforts. They represent our collective commitment to addressing the challenges in the sector and fulfilling the expectations of the leadership, government, and the Nigerian people,” he concluded For more information on legislative bills, visit: https://nass.gov.ng/documents/bills You may also want to read about the House Committee on SEDC
House Committee Demands Independent Probe Into 2025 UTME Errors, Apologises to Nigerians
The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education Examination Bodies in Nigeria has called for an independent investigation into the human errors that disrupted the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Before this, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) announced in its bulletin that it released the 2025 UTME results on May 9. According to JAMB, over 1.9 million candidates sat for the examination. Notably, over 1.5 million candidates scored below 200 out of 400. JAMB also withheld 39,834 results due to various reasons. Subsequently, there were protests and public outcry from different quarters. Following this, JAMB Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, eventually addressed a press conference regarding the complaints about the 2025 UTME results. He acknowledged some errors in the process. You can read his full address for more details. 2025 UTME Highlights Need for Urgent Reforms in Examination Processes Speaking at a World Press Conference in Abuja on Tuesday regarding the 2025 UTME, the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Oforji Oboku, addressed the recent developments. Oboku said the Committee is working closely with JAMB on critical reforms intended to restore the credibility of the examination process. According to him, one of the key measures under consideration is the deployment of independent monitors across all six geopolitical zones to ensure transparency and accountability in future UTME exercises. “We sincerely apologise to the candidates, their parents, and the Nigerian public. This disruption is unprecedented in the history of JAMB and must never happen again,” Oboku said. Furthermore, the Committee Chairman on Basic Education Examination Bodies in Nigeria commended JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, for his transparency and public apology. However, maintained that the 2025 UTME errors were entirely avoidable and pointed to institutional failure. “The Registrar has shown rare courage by accepting responsibility, but we must be clear — this was a preventable lapse. Our students and the nation deserve better,” he stated. Oboku further stressed the urgency of reform, warning that the education system cannot withstand another scandal of this scale. “The push for accountability cannot be postponed. The integrity of our education system is at stake,” he added. The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening oversight, driving systemic reforms, and rebuilding public confidence in Nigeria’s examination bodies.
WAR on Corruption: EFCC Secures Historic 4,111 Convictions in 2024
Nigeria’s anti-graft agency has reported a record-breaking 4,111 successful prosecutions as part of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) 2024 Convictions and Recoveries. This is contained in EFCC’s 2024 statistical report, made available to journalists in Abuja, the country’s capital. According to the agency, the record marks the highest number of convictions and the largest single-year asset recovery in the agency’s history since its establishment in 2003. The report said that the anti-graft agency received 15,724 petitions and investigated 12,928 cases across all zonal directorates in Nigeria. Of these, 5,083 cases were filed before various courts. The statistics of EFCC 2024 Convictions and Recoveries revealed that advanced fee fraud, money laundering, and cybercrime were the most prevalent offences. Meanwhile, the report attributed the high number of cases to rising unemployment, the quest for quick wealth among youths, a large informal economy, and weak regulatory frameworks. Again, it revealed that the 4,111 secured convictions were recorded across 15 states, including the EFCC headquarters in Abuja. While the Lagos Zone had the highest number of convictions at 685, Enugu followed with 516. Maiduguri recorded the lowest number of convictions, at 95. You May Also Like- Transparency International’s CPI 2024: Reactions Trail Nigeria’s Marginal Improvement EFCC 2024 Monetary Recoveries and Asset Forfeiture The EFCC said it also recovered significant sums during the year under review “Such monetary recoveries include N364.6 billion; 214. 51 million dollars; 54,319 euro; 31,265 euro; CAD$2,990 and AUD $740.00. ” Others are CFA7,821,375, UAE Dirham 170, Riyals 5,115, W73,000, 105 Yen, GH¢225 and Rand 50.” the report stated. Again, the EFCC said it secured the forfeiture of over 750 duplexes and apartments to the Federal Government, marking the largest single asset recovery in its history. “Other forfeited assets included: 173 vehicles, ₦9.478 billion, $2,605,858.30 million and £1,600.” Also forfeited to the anti-graft agency were 378 electronics, one factory, one hotel, 14 parcels of land, petroleum products, two gold chains, and 70 tons of unidentified solid minerals. Furthermore, the EFCC’s 2024 report showed that the source of the ₦50 billion Federal Government grant to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) was the Commission’s monetary recoveries.
FRSC Boss Condemns Use of Worn-Out Tyre on Patrol Vehicle, Orders Sanctions
The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has condemned the use of a worn-out tyre on one of the corps’ patrol vehicles, calling it unacceptable and a clear violation of safety standards. In response to the incident in Ondo State, South-West, Nigeria, Mohammed ordered immediate sanctions against the Sector Commander responsible for the jurisdiction where the breach occurred. A statement by the Corps Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide, emphasized the corps’ zero tolerance for compromise on its core values and safety protocols. “The FRSC has been inundated with a very disturbing video that has gone viral on social media, showing one of our patrol vehicles in Ondo State operating with a worn-out tyre,” the statement read. The sanction for the use of worn-out tyre on a patrol vehicle also includes a directive that the officer personally pay the fine for the violation. “In addition to the sanctions, Corps Marshal also ordered that the vehicle be booked for the infraction and the Sector Commander made to pay the fines for negligence.” the statement issued in Abuja added. Worn-Out Tyre Sanction: FRSC Re-Commits to Safety and Standards Following the incident, Mohammed praised the public for holding the corps accountable. He also assured the public that the management would intensify supervision of field commands to prevent such lapses. Moreover, the FRSC Corps Marshal reaffirmed FRSC’s commitment to ensuring high safety standards, particularly in vehicle maintenance. The worn-out tyre sanction is believed to serve as a deterrent for officers and the public.
AI Can Help Spread Faith – Lagos Deputy Gov Tells Religious Leader
Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, has urged religious leaders to utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) to propagate their faith. Hamzat gave the advice at the Fourth Annual Ramadan Lecture/Iftar and Special Prayer in Memory of the Late Oba Mufutau Hamzat at Mushin, Lagos State, South-West Nigeria. Hamzat emphasised the need for clerics to understand the influence of AI on humanity. As technology advances, Artificial Intelligence has left some individuals uncertain about what to do, particularly in ways that align with their religious beliefs and practices. There are concerns about the use and misuse of technology and its influence on the value system. Lagos State Deputy Governor urged religious leaders to help their members understand AI’s influence on humanity and how to live with technology while remaining religious and godly. He said that AI had advanced significantly and religious leaders must find ways to utilise it to spread their messages. Embracing AI While Keeping Faith in God Even though AI helps spread the faith and offers many benefits, the Lagos State Deputy Governor explained that people should remember that their ultimate allegiance belongs to God. According to him, although AI helps spread Faith, humans are controlled by God, not machines. Read Also: Shehu of Borno on Inclusive Educational Environment Hamzat also emphasised the importance of honouring one’s parents even in death, saying that it helped to preserve their legacies. In a lecture entitled “Justice”, Sheikh Almudeen Mubarak implored Nigerians to treat one another equally and fairly.
Women’s History Month: Growing Outcry for Leah Sharibu’s Release
It is women’s history month, and various freedom campaigners and human rights activists are intensying calls for the release of Leah Sharibu from her abductors. Leah was among the 110 girls abducted from the Government Girls’ Science and Technical College, Dapchi, Yobe State, North East Nigeria, in February 2018. Seven years have passed since then, and many children born around that time are now in primary school. Leah, abducted as a girl, is now in her twenties. While many mothers are warming up to celebrate International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day, Rebecca Sharibu’s story differs. She is the mother of Leah Sharibu. Their daughter’s continued stay in captivity after all these years is weighing down Rebecca and her husband, Nathan Sharibu. Leah’s parents have, over and over again, cried to the Nigerian government to put in more effort to ensure the release of their daughter from her abductors. Recently, in February 2025, during the anniversary of her seventh year in captivity, different individuals, organisations, and advocates continued to call on the Nigerian government and relevant organisations to intensify efforts to secure Leah’s release. Not just that, but also to attend to issues that led to the abduction of the girls. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) was among the groups which many media organisations carried their message of hope to the family: “CAN stands in solidarity with her family and all who continue to bear the pain of her absence….We remain hopeful that Leah will soon return to her loved ones, and we assure her family of our unrelenting support“, a press release signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN said. Women Radio Urges Collective Action to Release Leah Sharibu Adding their voices to this, many advocacy organisations, women of goodwill, and women-focused organisations want the government to step up its efforts to bring Leah home Women Radio 91,7 in Southwest Nigeria, led by CEO Toun Okewale Sonaiya, is actively campaigning for the release of Leah Sharibu. A coalition of various civil society organizations, alongside concerned citizens in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria, also organized a procession in the state capital, Jos, to advocate for Leah Sharibu’s release. This Women’s History Month, and International Women’s Day on March 8, is another opportunity for all concerned to take action to release Leah Sharibu, who has endured over seven years in captivity.