The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine

Author: Editor

  • Enugu LG Polls: Police, Govt Announce Movement Restrictions, Massive Security Deployment

    Enugu LG Polls: Police, Govt Announce Movement Restrictions, Massive Security Deployment

    The Enugu State Government and the Enugu State Police Command have announced movement restrictions and heightened security measures ahead of Saturday’s local government elections across the state.

    The Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) is scheduled to conduct chairmanship and councillorship elections in the state’s 17 local government areas and 260 wards on September 26, 2026.

    In a statement on Thursday, September 24, the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, ordered the massive deployment of police personnel, operational and intelligence assets across the 17 LGAs and 260 wards ahead of the elections.

    The Police Command said CP Giwa also ordered the restriction of human and vehicular movements across the state from 8am to 4pm on election day, except for persons on essential duties and duly accredited election officials.

    He further barred quasi-security outfits from participating in election security and directed all armed security personnel on VIP escort duties not to escort VIPs to polling units.

    The Commissioner assured voters and the public of adequate security before, during and after the elections, in collaboration with other security agencies.

    He urged eligible voters to turn out and exercise their franchise peacefully, while warning political parties, candidates and their supporters against electoral malpractices and acts capable of disrupting the conduct of the elections.

    According to him, violators would face the full weight of the law.

    The Police Command also urged residents to report suspicious persons and activities capable of undermining the peaceful conduct of the elections to the nearest police station or through 08032003702, 08086671202 or 08021709005.

    The statement was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, on behalf of the Enugu State Command.

    State government announces 6am restriction

    In a separate Public Service Announcement signed by the Secretary to the Enugu State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, on Thursday, the state government announced a restriction of vehicular movement and other forms of transportation from 6am to 4pm on Saturday.

    The government said the restriction was intended to ensure the peaceful, orderly, secure and hitch-free conduct of the local government elections.

    It said there would be no vehicular movement on roads or other forms of transportation within the state during the period, except persons and vehicles performing essential election-related and emergency services.

    Those exempted include ENSIEC officials and accredited election personnel, security personnel deployed for election duties, accredited election observers, authorised media practitioners, health workers, ambulances, firefighters and other persons expressly authorised to perform essential election or emergency duties.

    The government urged residents, political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders to comply with the directive and conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly before, during and after the elections.

    It also encouraged residents to exercise their civic responsibilities in accordance with guidelines issued by ENSIEC and other relevant authorities.

    “Security agencies have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of this directive and to maintain law and order throughout the elections,” the statement said.

    The state government acknowledged that the restriction could cause temporary inconvenience but appealed for the cooperation and understanding of residents as it works with ENSIEC and other relevant authorities to ensure peaceful and orderly elections.

    The government statement was signed by Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the State Government, and dated September 24, 2026.

  • NIMC Denies NIN Database Breach, Urges Nigerians To Ignore Viral Video

    NIMC Denies NIN Database Breach, Urges Nigerians To Ignore Viral Video

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The National Identity Management Commission has denied claims that Nigeria’s National Identification Number database was compromised and that citizens’ NIN and Bank Verification Number details were being sold online.

    The commission described the allegations as false and unfounded, urging Nigerians to disregard a viral video making the claims.

    The video circulating on social media alleged that NIN and BVN details could be obtained for as little as N100. It also claimed that some NIMC officials in Lagos were selling individuals’ identification information for N1,000 outside the commission’s office.

    However, in a statement issued on Thursday, NIMC said the claims were recycled from a report published in 2024, which it had previously dismissed.

    The commission said its National Identity Database had not been breached or compromised.

    NIMC explained that it operates multi-layered security systems designed to protect the personal information of registered citizens and legal residents.

    It expressed concern that the circulation of unverified information could mislead members of the public and create unnecessary panic over the safety of their personal data.

    The commission advised Nigerians to rely on information published through its official communication channels for updates concerning the National Identity Management System.

    NIMC also drew attention to its NIN Authentication service, known as NINAuth, which it said was developed to improve the security and privacy of identity verification.

    According to the commission, the service allows NIN holders to give explicit consent before their information is shared for Know Your Customer processes and other verification purposes.

    NIMC said NINAuth can be used for identity verification in areas including SIM registration, passport and immigration services, tax-related processes and financial transactions without unnecessarily exposing a person’s raw NIN or other personal information.

    The commission said the initiative was in line with provisions of the NIMC Act, 2026, and the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, which require personal data to be handled fairly, lawfully and transparently.

    NIMC added that it would continue to work with security agencies and other relevant institutions to strengthen its systems and tackle the spread of misinformation.

    It advised anyone with concerns about their NIN or personal information to contact the commission through its official channels.

  • Kingibe Fires Back At Wike: You Can’t Intimidate Me Into Silence

    Kingibe Fires Back At Wike: You Can’t Intimidate Me Into Silence

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    Senator Ireti Kingibe has rejected comments by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, that she will not return to the Senate after the 2027 elections.

    Kingibe, who represents the FCT in the Senate, said no individual politician could determine her political future, insisting that the people of the territory would decide who represents them.

    Wike had on Tuesday said Kingibe would not return to the Senate, while expressing support for former senator Philip Aduda for the FCT senatorial seat. He made the remarks while inspecting ongoing road projects in Abuja.

    The disagreement between the two politicians followed Kingibe’s criticism of the FCT Administration over alleged borrowing without the required approval of the National Assembly.

    Wike dismissed the allegation, arguing that government borrowing for infrastructure projects must form part of the budget and receive the necessary legislative approval. He also criticised Kingibe’s understanding of the borrowing process and said she had little to offer residents of the FCT.

    Responding on Thursday, Kingibe said she would not be intimidated by political pressure, stressing that questioning government actions was part of her responsibility as a legislator.

    She maintained that raising concerns about public borrowing and the use of public funds should not be interpreted as disrespect to the FCT minister or the administration.

    Kingibe challenged Wike to produce the Senate’s Votes and Proceedings showing when the loans she questioned were presented to and approved by the chamber.

    She said she was aware that the matter had not been brought before the Senate, while noting that she could not speak for the House of Representatives.

    The senator also insisted that no public office holder was beyond scrutiny, regardless of the position occupied.

    Her latest response adds to an increasingly public disagreement between the senator and the FCT minister over the administration of the territory, its financing and the 2027 Senate election.

  • UNGA 81: Udeh Woos Silicon Valley Investors for $1bn Nigeria Research Deal

    UNGA 81: Udeh Woos Silicon Valley Investors for $1bn Nigeria Research Deal

    Nigeria is seeking up to $1 billion in investments and commercial partnerships from Silicon Valley investors over the next 12 months as the Federal Government moves to turn locally developed research into marketable products and services.

    The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, SAN, disclosed this in New York after a series of meetings with technology executives and investors on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

    Udeh said the engagements focused on the Federal Government’s Energize Commercialisation Now (ECoN) programme, which seeks to bridge the gap between research conducted in Nigerian institutions and the commercial production of innovative goods and services.

    “We engaged with big players in Silicon Valley who are interested in investing in Nigeria, particularly as it relates to our flagship programme called Energize Commercialisation,” Udeh said.

    According to the minister, the proposed partnership is expected to attract private capital and expertise into Nigeria’s science, technology and innovation ecosystem while creating opportunities for job creation and economic growth.

    He said the initiative also supports President Bola Tinubu’s ambition of building a $1 trillion economy by expanding the contribution of technology, innovation and private-sector investment.

    “Consistent with Mr. President’s agenda of taking our economy to a $1 trillion GDP, we have been able to meet key players from Silicon Valley,” he said.

    Udeh said an agreement between Nigeria and prospective partners had already been drafted, with the memorandum of understanding (MoU) forwarded to Abuja for review.

    He said the parties were expected to sign the agreement during the UN General Assembly meetings, subject to the completion of the necessary processes.

    Although the minister did not disclose the names of the companies or investors involved, he said the proposed collaboration could deliver “substantial value” to Nigeria’s science and innovation sector and the wider economy.

    He put the potential value of the investments, commercial partnerships and other economic opportunities arising from the discussions at as much as $1 billion within one year.

    “From the discussions we have had, if we pull in the various opportunities that have been discussed and are already reflected in the MoU, Nigeria can get from this intervention as much as $1 billion in the course of one year,” he said.

    Udeh also highlighted the involvement of Nigerians working in Silicon Valley as a significant aspect of the discussions, saying their expertise and connections could help open opportunities for Nigeria.

    “A very interesting and cheering aspect of the engagement I had in the course of UNGA is that key members of the Silicon Valley players are Nigerians,” he said.

    “It is impressive that we have Nigerians making things happen in Silicon Valley, and they are happy to bring these opportunities home to add value to Nigerian science, technology and innovation.”

    The proposed deal comes as the Federal Government seeks to attract diaspora expertise and private investment to strengthen the commercialisation of research and reduce the gap between innovations developed in Nigerian institutions and their adoption in the marketplace.

  • CCB Verifies Assets Of Over 20 Ministers, 30 Permanent Secretaries

    CCB Verifies Assets Of Over 20 Ministers, 30 Permanent Secretaries

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Code of Conduct Bureau has investigated and verified the assets of more than 20 ministers and 30 permanent secretaries as part of efforts to strengthen accountability among public officials.

    The Chairman of the CCB, Abdullahi Bello, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja at an anti-corruption and asset-tracing stakeholders’ workshop organised by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda in collaboration with the Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa.

    Bello said the bureau had moved beyond simply collecting asset declaration forms, noting that it now scrutinises declarations, investigates suspected violations and prosecutes offenders where necessary.

    According to him, the bureau’s verification exercise has focused particularly on senior government officials.

    He said the CCB had also interviewed and verified the assets of officials linked to more than 20 ministers, 30 permanent secretaries, 32 health agencies and other high-profile public officers.

    Bello explained that officials could be invited to the bureau for face-to-face examination of their declarations and supporting records.

    He said the bureau compares officials’ assets at the beginning and end of their tenure to identify unexplained changes that may warrant further investigation.

    The chairman, however, stressed that the CCB does not have to wait until an official leaves office before commencing an investigation.

    He said allegations or intelligence concerning a public officer could trigger an investigation at any point during the person’s tenure.

    Bello also described asset tracing as a key component of the bureau’s anti-corruption work, saying the process helps investigators follow suspected illicit wealth and pursue recovery.

    He disclosed that the CCB had secured convictions and obtained forfeiture of properties and funds in cases involving breaches of the Code of Conduct.

    Bello further explained that sanctions for violations could include removal from office, disqualification from holding public office for up to 15 years and forfeiture of assets acquired through a breach.

    At the workshop, HEDA Executive Secretary, Arigbabu Sulaimon, called for stronger cooperation among government agencies, civil society organisations and other stakeholders involved in the fight against corruption.

    Sulaimon said the workshop was designed as a technical platform for improving intelligence sharing and strengthening collaboration between state institutions and civil society.

    He said civil society organisations could support investigations through grassroots monitoring and open-source intelligence, which could provide leads for law enforcement agencies.

    The HEDA executive secretary also advocated greater use of the Proceeds of Crime Act and the CCB’s statutory powers to trace, recover and transparently manage assets linked to criminal activities.

    He urged authorities to make asset declaration a more effective mechanism for detecting unexplained wealth and abuse of public office, rather than treating it as a routine administrative exercise.

    Sulaimon also called for stronger legal protection and safer reporting channels for whistleblowers, arguing that individuals who expose corruption need adequate safeguards against retaliation.

  • Troost-Ekong Converts To Islam In Qatar After Reciting Shahadah

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has embraced Islam after reciting the Shahadah in Doha, Qatar.

    The 33-year-old Nigerian defender, who currently plays for Qatar Stars League club Al-Ahli, reportedly made the declaration while in Doha, with footage of him reciting the two testimonies of faith circulating online.

    Qatari newspaper Al-Arab first reported the development on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. Al Jazeera also reported that a video shared by Kuwaiti Islamic scholar and preacher Mansour bin Nasser Al-Khalidi showed Troost-Ekong being guided through the Shahadah before declaring his acceptance of Islam.

    According to Al Jazeera’s report, Troost-Ekong expressed his desire to read more and learn about Islam. The report also said the footballer’s Muslim friends at Al-Ahli helped introduce him to the religion and influenced his decision.

    However, other reports noted that Troost-Ekong has not publicly provided a detailed account of his decision. The available footage and reports establish that he recited the Shahadah and announced his conversion, but details about his personal journey were not independently confirmed by the footballer himself.

    Troost-Ekong moved to Qatar in January 2026 after leaving Saudi Arabian club Al-Kholood. He signed an 18-month contract with Al-Ahli and has since continued his professional career in the Qatar Stars League.

    Before moving to the Middle East, the defender had spells with several clubs in Europe, including Udinese, Watford, Salernitana and PAOK.

    At international level, Troost-Ekong represented Nigeria from 2015 to 2025, earning 83 caps and scoring eight goals. He captained the Super Eagles during several major competitions, including the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.

    He played a key role in Nigeria’s run to the AFCON final, scoring three goals during the tournament and subsequently being named its Player of the Tournament.

    Troost-Ekong also represented Nigeria at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games before announcing his retirement from international football in December 2025.

    His conversion to Islam has since attracted widespread attention among football supporters in Nigeria, Qatar and other parts of the Arab world.

  • First Niger Bridge To Reopen Next Week, Umahi Assures

    First Niger Bridge To Reopen Next Week, Umahi Assures

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Federal Government has announced plans to reopen the First Niger Bridge to motorists next week following the completion of major rehabilitation works on the bridge connecting Anambra and Delta states.

    The Minister of Works, David Umahi, gave the assurance on Wednesday after inspecting the repair works at the Onitsha Bridge Head.

    The bridge was shut earlier in September after vandals reportedly removed critical components, including bolts, nuts and sections of the steelwork forming part of the expansion joint.

    The closure was initially scheduled to last until September 21 but was extended by another week due to persistent rainfall, which disrupted repair activities.

    Umahi said the contractor, SKECC, had made considerable progress on the rehabilitation, adding that the vandalised bolts had been replaced and firmly secured.

    He also disclosed that the specialised expansion joint removed from the bridge had been manufactured and transported to Nigeria for installation.

    The minister said the progress recorded within about 10 days was encouraging but stressed that the bridge would only be reopened after the necessary structural works had been completed.

    “We are not going to be stampeded to open the bridge until the major structural work has been achieved,” Umahi said.

    He directed the contractor to carry out additional improvements, including repainting structural components, bridge caps and sections within the carriageway.

    The minister also ordered the removal of unauthorised advertisements mounted on the bridge and directed the installation of additional solar-powered streetlights.

    He further instructed the contractor to complete the installation of CCTV cameras, with the surveillance system to be connected to the Second Niger Bridge to strengthen monitoring and security around the facility.

    Umahi also ordered a comprehensive assessment of the bridge’s structural components, including elements above and below the water level.

    According to him, the assessment report must be submitted before the current rehabilitation phase is brought to an end.

    The minister also directed a review of the proposed asphalt works on the bridge approaches, saying concrete should be used on portions that would require future reconstruction.

    He explained that the measure would prevent government resources from being wasted on asphalt that might later have to be removed when reconstruction works commence.

    Umahi added that one carriageway could be opened to traffic once the concrete achieved the required strength, while rehabilitation work continued on the other carriageway.

    Meanwhile, the Delta State Commissioner for Works, Rural Roads and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, commended the Federal Government for the pace and quality of the rehabilitation.

    Aniagwu recalled that Umahi had inspected the bridge on August 28 and directed the immediate replacement of the vandalised bolts, nuts and expansion-joint components.

    He said the contractor had complied with the directives, while damaged sections of the asphalt surface had also been removed and replaced.

    “We are pleased with the speed of work. We also appreciate our people who demonstrated a whole lot of patience to understand that you are after their safety,” Aniagwu said.

    The commissioner said the rehabilitation had significantly improved the condition of the bridge and expressed confidence in the quality and durability of the repairs.

    He also commended motorists and other road users for their cooperation during the closure, saying their patience had contributed to the smooth execution of the rehabilitation works.

  • EFCC Again Declares Former Pension Boss Maina Wanted

    EFCC Again Declares Former Pension Boss Maina Wanted

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has again declared the former Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on Pension Reforms, Abdulrasheed Maina, wanted over an alleged case of receiving stolen property.

    The anti-graft agency announced this in a public notice issued on Wednesday, accompanied by a photograph of the former pension reform official.

    The EFCC identified Maina, 61, as an indigene of Biu, Borno State, and urged members of the public with information about his whereabouts to contact the commission or other security agencies.

    The notice read, “The public is hereby notified that ABDULRASHEED ABDULLAHI MAINA, whose photograph appears above, is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in an alleged case of Receiving Stolen Properties.”

    The commission listed its offices in Abuja, Lagos, Ibadan, Uyo, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Benin, Makurdi, Kaduna, Ilorin, Enugu, Kano, Gombe and Port Harcourt as locations where information could be submitted.

    The EFCC also provided a telephone line and official email address for members of the public wishing to pass on information concerning Maina’s whereabouts.

    This is not the first time the former pension task force chairman has been declared wanted by the commission. In November 2015, the EFCC declared him wanted over allegations relating to procurement fraud, stealing and money laundering in connection with the alleged pension biometric scam.

    Maina came to national prominence during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan when he headed the Presidential Task Force on Pension Reforms.

    The task force was involved in efforts to recover pension funds and address alleged irregularities within the pension system.

    His activities in the pension reform exercise were later overshadowed by legal proceedings initiated by the EFCC over alleged money laundering involving funds linked to the pension reforms.

    In November 2022, the Federal High Court in Abuja convicted Maina and sentenced him to eight years in prison for money laundering-related offences. The court also ordered the forfeiture of assets connected to the case.

    Maina subsequently appealed the judgment.

    However, the EFCC’s latest wanted notice did not disclose whether the new case involving alleged receipt of stolen property is connected to his previous pension-related prosecution.

    The commission also did not provide details of the property allegedly received by Maina or explain the circumstances surrounding the latest case.

  • FG Says China Partnership Will Boost Reliable Power Supply, Local Manufacturing

    FG Says China Partnership Will Boost Reliable Power Supply, Local Manufacturing

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Federal Government has said stronger collaboration with China in the power sector will support efforts to improve electricity supply, expand renewable energy and promote the local production of power equipment in Nigeria.

    The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, stated this in Abuja on Wednesday night during a reception to commemorate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

    Tegbe said Chinese investment in Nigeria would have a greater and more sustainable impact if it also contributed to the development of local technical expertise and strengthened Nigerian businesses.

    According to him, cooperation between both countries should not only focus on financing and infrastructure but also on equipping Nigerian engineers and technicians with the skills required to operate and maintain power facilities built in the country.

    “As Minister of Power, I see particular promise in deeper cooperation on achieving reliable electricity, renewable energy, and manufacture of power equipment in Nigeria with our cooperation with China,” Tegbe said.

    He said Nigeria-China relations had evolved from diplomatic ties into a broad partnership spanning infrastructure, healthcare, technical exchanges, trade and investment.

    Nigeria and China established diplomatic relations on February 10, 1971, while the relationship was elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership by President Bola Tinubu and Chinese President Xi Jinping in September 2024.

    Tegbe, who also serves as Director General of the Nigerian-China Strategic Partnership, acknowledged China’s role in financing, engineering and investing in major Nigerian projects, including the Lekki Deep Seaport, railway modernisation projects and the Zungeru Hydropower Station.

    He also praised China’s development in manufacturing, science, high-speed rail and clean energy, describing its transformation as remarkable.

    The minister further highlighted China’s zero-tariff programme for African countries, saying it could create opportunities for Nigerian producers and help increase the country’s exports to the Chinese market.

    He said bilateral trade between Nigeria and China stood at $28bn at the end of 2025, while trade in the first half of 2026 had reached $17bn.

    Tegbe, however, said Nigeria needed to move beyond increasing trade volumes by boosting domestic production and exports to China.

    “Our shared task is to translate that access into stronger Nigerian production and Nigerian exports to China, with benefits that will endure both economies,” he said.

    The minister also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the One-China principle, stating that the Federal Government recognised the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal government representing China.

    The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, said relations between both countries had entered what he described as “the fast lane” under the leadership of Presidents Xi Jinping and Tinubu.

    Dunhai said bilateral economic cooperation had continued to expand, pointing to recent agreements on economic partnership and aquatic exports as measures that could provide further institutional support for trade.

    He said trade between the two countries reached $18bn in the first half of 2026, representing a 35 per cent increase, while Chinese imports from Nigeria rose by 81 per cent.

    The ambassador said China was prepared to align its 15th Five-Year Plan with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in industrialisation, digital development and the green and blue economies.

    “Our future cooperation holds boundless potential. China stands ready to align its 15th Five-Year Plan with President Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ Agenda across industrialisation, digital, green, and blue economies,” he said.

    Dunhai also invited Nigeria to join the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation, saying participation would give the country an opportunity to contribute to and benefit from developments in global artificial intelligence.

    He noted that China’s zero-tariff policy covering 53 African countries, which commenced on May 1, had contributed to a 24 per cent rise in China’s imports from Africa during May and June.

    According to him, Chinese innovations in artificial intelligence, digital payments and solar energy were also helping African countries address development challenges.

    Dunhai said Nigeria and China, which are marking 55 years of diplomatic relations, should continue to strengthen their partnership through mutual respect, shared development and practical cooperation.

    “Those who walk the same path go far. Let us empower development through innovation, openness, and sincere cooperation to continuously enrich China-Nigeria friendship and write a new chapter in China-Africa relations,” he said.

  • In Major Milestone, Mbah Flags Off Enugu Air Maiden Int’l Flight to Douala, Cameroon

    In Major Milestone, Mbah Flags Off Enugu Air Maiden Int’l Flight to Douala, Cameroon

    … Enugu Air CEO: Enugu becoming a gateway

    The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has flagged off the first-ever international service by Enugu Air, describing it as a major milestone in his administration’s vision to grow Enugu State into a major aviation hub and make it the preferred destination for investment, business, tourism, and living.

    Speaking at a brief ceremony at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, on Wednesday, Mbah, who heaped commendations on the leadership of the state-owned airline for the fast growth of Enugu Air, said it was not an isolated story, but a part of connecting the dots as his administration strives to grow Enugu State into a $30 billion economy.

    “Months ago, right here, we watched Enugu take to the skies. In just barely six months after a rigorous regulatory process, Enugu Air obtained her Air Operator’s License. This is not a mean feat.

    “Today, 14 months after, we can see that dream flying beyond our expectations, as Enugu Air is one of the fastest-growing airlines in Nigeria, without a doubt.

    “But we did not conceive of Enugu Air as a bragging right or because of the clamour, or to gain some political acclaim. Enugu Air is part of the masterplan to make Enugu State the premier destination for investment, living, business and tourism. For us, Enugu Air is part of connecting the dots,” he stated.

    Mbah described Enugu Air as a campaign promise kept, saying the Enugu–Douala service was the beginning of many more international flight operations to many parts of the world.

    “What you are seeing here today is performance above promises. So, we ask you to judge us by the things we have promised and have delivered to you.

    “Besides, today is Douala, but I am hoping tomorrow, we are not only going to be talking about the continent of Africa, we will be talking about Enugu to the world,” he added.

    He thanked President Bola Tinubu “for consistently demonstrating his commitment to aviation infrastructure and for the support he is also giving to the states to enable us to create businesses like Enugu Air,” commending also the Minister of Aviation and Aerodrome Development, Festus Keyama, SAN; and the agencies under him such as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) supporting Enugu Air’s growth and making Nigeria a standard bearer in the African aviation industry.

    Speaking, Enugu Air CEO, Capt. Tolu Ita, said Enugu Air was not merely launching a flight, stressing, “we are launching a new chapter.”

    “This is a chapter in which Enugu is no longer simply where a journey begins or ends. Enugu is becoming a gateway.

    “Today, much bigger than an aircraft will be moving across our skies. Opportunity will be moving. Business will be moving. People will be moving. Ideas will be moving. And Enugu will be moving with them. This is what makes today so significant.

    “Enugu Air was never built with the vision to simply put aircraft in the sky. The vision was to build an airline that connects people, connects markets and connects possibilities.

    “We began by strengthening our domestic network — connecting Enugu with Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano, Owerri, Asaba, Benin City and Warri.

    “Today, we take our first major step beyond Nigeria. Enugu to Douala. Nigeria to Cameroon. The Southeast to Central Africa. And this is only the beginning.

    “Our ambition is to continue building a stronger regional network across Africa, while progressively opening the door to wider international markets,” she said.

    In growing Enugu Air, Ita reaffirmed the airline’s responsibility and commitment to authorities, passengers, and all stakeholders, upholding the highest operational and ethical standards.

    In her goodwill message, the Managing Director/CEO of the FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Onabanjo-Kuku, said Enugu Air’s inaugural international flight was “a strong statement of Nigeria’s growing capacity to connect7 people and businesses across West and Central Africa.”

    Represented by Mrs. Onyeka Udenze, the7 FAAN DG said, “Akanu Ibiam International Airport now takes a firm step as a regional hub.”

    While congratulating Enugu Air for the fast growth in 14 months, she assured that FAAN remained committed to providing the infrastructure, safety standards and support that make such services possible.

    The DG of NCAA, represented by the Director of Air Transport Regulations, FAAN, Mrs. Olayinka Babaoye-Iruobe, said connecting Enugu to Douala directly represented would create opportunities for increased trade, investment, tourism, and movement of people, while strengthening social and economic ties between Nigeria and Cameroon.

    In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Trade, Investment, and Industry, Dr. Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, said the new service to Douala marked a monumental leap forward in the state’s trade, investment, and economic integration strategy.

    “For decades, the vibrant traders, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs of Enugu and the broader region have navigated complex transit routes to access Central African markets.

    “Today, that barrier is dismantled. This direct link directly advances our goal of transforming Enugu State into a premier regional hub for commerce and industrial development. We are now effectively bridging markets, shortening supply chains, and unlocking unprecedented opportunities for cross-border commerce across Central and West Africa,” he said.

    The Maiden flight, which departed Akanu Ibiam International Airport in the early hours of the afternoon, touched down safely at the Douala International Airport where it was well received by the Cameroonian authorities in a brief ceremony before it returned to Enugu on the history trip.

  • Nigeria, EU Move To Finalise Long-Delayed Readmission Agreement

    Nigeria, EU Move To Finalise Long-Delayed Readmission Agreement

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    Nigeria and the European Union have renewed discussions on migration cooperation, with both sides working towards concluding a readmission agreement that has been under negotiation since 2016.

    The issue was discussed on Monday in New York during a meeting between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and the EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner.

    The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly at the UN Headquarters.

    A statement issued by the minister’s Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Magnus Eze, said Brunner emphasised the need to conclude the EU-Nigeria Readmission Agreement.

    According to the statement, the commissioner said finalising the agreement would provide a framework for broader cooperation between Nigeria and the EU on migration.

    The proposed agreement was also discussed extensively during the eighth Nigeria-EU Ministerial Dialogue held in March 2026.

    Responding, Odumegwu-Ojukwu said Nigeria wanted any migration partnership with the EU to include support for the reintegration of Nigerians returning to the country.

    She also called for assistance with infrastructure development and the expansion of legal routes for Nigerians seeking employment and other opportunities abroad.

    The minister stressed the importance of creating structured and lawful mobility opportunities for Nigerians, particularly the country’s large young population.

    She also maintained that migration cooperation should take Nigeria’s development priorities into consideration.

    The EU delegation said Nigeria’s concerns had been reflected in the proposed framework for cooperation, which is expected to be expanded into a broader Migration and Security Cooperation Contract.

    The proposed framework would cover several areas, including talent partnerships, legal migration pathways, reintegration of returnees and border management.

    It would also involve cooperation with the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, Frontex, to strengthen border management and migration-related operations.

    Nigeria and the EU are also considering an arrangement for information exchange with Europol as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s capacity to tackle transnational organised crime.

    Brunner said the EU was interested in developing legal migration channels through talent partnerships.

    He noted that such arrangements could help address labour and skills shortages in Europe while providing Nigerian professionals with legitimate opportunities abroad.

    The discussions also touched on concerns about irregular migration, with the EU commissioner indicating that progress in tackling irregular migration could help create more opportunities for legal migration.

    The two sides are expected to continue discussions, with Brunner indicating an interest in visiting Abuja in November 2026. The date of the proposed visit is yet to be finalised.

    The latest engagement forms part of efforts by Nigeria and the EU to develop a broader migration partnership covering irregular migration, return and reintegration, legal mobility, border security and opportunities for Nigerian professionals and young people.

  • South East Commission Begins 200-Hectare Integrated Farm Project In Enugu

    South East Commission Begins 200-Hectare Integrated Farm Project In Enugu

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The South East Development Commission has commenced the development of a 200-hectare integrated agricultural project in Nomeh Unataeze, Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State.

    The project, being implemented under the Commission’s South East Agro-Development Programme, is expected to create more than 1,000 direct jobs when fully operational.

    The initiative is being developed in partnership with the Enugu State Government and is designed to combine agricultural production with mechanisation, processing, skills development and access to markets.

    The project will feature dairy farming, poultry, fisheries, greenhouse cultivation, fodder production, agro-processing, renewable energy and practical agricultural training.

    At the flag-off ceremony on Wednesday, the Enugu State Deputy Governor, Ifeanyi Ossai, who represented Governor Peter Mbah, said the project demonstrated the potential of collaboration between government institutions to address food security, employment and economic diversification.

    Ossai said the state government was committed to creating an enabling environment for productive investments and would support the initiative to ensure that it benefits farmers, young people and the wider economy.

    The project differs from conventional farms focused on a single agricultural commodity, as its various components are designed to operate as an interconnected production system.

    Plans for the facility include a 200-head dairy herd, poultry production capacity of up to 20,000 birds per cycle, fisheries infrastructure, fodder cultivation, silage production, processing facilities and agricultural demonstration centres.

    The integrated model is expected to enable the different sections of the farm to share infrastructure and reduce waste.

    Fodder cultivated on the farm will be used to support livestock, while animal manure and poultry waste could be utilised for soil improvement and energy production.

    Surplus fodder will also be processed into silage for use within the facility and supply to participating farmers.

    The project will provide shared facilities for feed production, water supply, farm machinery and processing, with the aim of connecting agricultural production to value addition and markets.

    The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SEDC, Mark Okoye, said the project was conceived to demonstrate how technology, mechanisation, skills and market access could transform agricultural production in the region.

    He said the success of the project would not be measured solely by activities within the 200-hectare facility but by its impact on surrounding communities and farmers.

    Okoye said the project would provide opportunities for young people to acquire practical agricultural skills, while farmers would benefit from access to inputs, technical assistance, mechanisation and markets.

    A training and out-grower scheme is also planned as part of the initiative.

    The training centre is expected to accommodate between 100 and 120 trainees at a time, with courses covering dairy production, fodder and silage production, poultry, fisheries and agricultural mechanisation.

    Under the initial out-grower programme, about 300 households located within a 10-kilometre radius of the facility are expected to participate.

    The number of participating households is expected to increase as production capacity expands.

    Farmers involved in the programme will have access to agricultural inputs, technical support and mechanisation services, while the project will provide opportunities for aggregation and market access.

    SEDC said fodder growers would receive planting materials, agronomic assistance, mechanisation and harvesting support, while dairy farmers would benefit from technical assistance, improved breeding services, feed and silage.

    Similar support arrangements are expected to be extended to poultry and fish farmers in surrounding communities.

    The Commission estimates that the project will support more than 1,000 direct jobs when it reaches full maturity, with additional employment expected through seasonal farming, processing and the wider network of participating farmers.

    Speaking on behalf of the Federal Government, the Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, described the project as an example of the type of productive and regionally balanced development the government seeks to promote.

    Momoh said increasing food production required more than expanding cultivated land, stressing the importance of processing, market access, improved productivity and reducing post-harvest losses.

    He said the government’s objective was to develop an agricultural system capable of creating value and employment throughout the production chain.

    The Chairman of SEDC, Emeka Wogu, said partnerships with state governments, host communities, private investors and development organisations would remain central to the Commission’s regional development strategy.

    He said the Commission’s role was to create platforms that bring stakeholders together around projects capable of generating sustainable economic opportunities in the South East.

    The Nomeh project is expected to serve as a pilot for similar agricultural and agro-mechanisation projects across the five South East states.

    Okoye said the Commission would assess the lessons from the project before adapting and replicating the model in other locations.

    The five states covered by the SEDC are Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo.

    The President-General of Nomeh Unataeze, Chukwudi Anyianuka, welcomed the project, saying the community was ready to cooperate with the Commission, the Enugu State Government and other stakeholders.

    He said the initiative could create new economic opportunities for young people and farmers in the community.

    SEDC said the host community would remain an important stakeholder throughout the implementation and long-term operation of the project.

    The Commission added that beyond agricultural production, the facility would provide opportunities for skills acquisition, employment, farmer integration and the development of stronger agricultural value chains across the region.