The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine

Author: Editor

  • FG Approves Eastern-Western Grid To Tackle Power Collapses

    FG Approves Eastern-Western Grid To Tackle Power Collapses

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Federal Government has approved plans to develop new eastern and western electricity grids as part of efforts to address Nigeria’s persistent power grid collapses.

    The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, disclosed this at a recent HBSAN energy conference in Lagos, saying the government was preparing to begin procurement for the projects.

    He said Nigerians could begin to experience the benefits of the planned infrastructure within two to three years.

    According to Tegbe, the government has divided the country into three energy zones to help prioritise interventions, with particular attention to major demand centres such as Lagos and the Abuja corridor.

    The minister explained that improving electricity supply in these areas would address a significant portion of the country’s power challenges, but stressed that stronger transmission infrastructure was also necessary.

    He said President Bola Tinubu had approved the grid expansion plans, while procurement procedures were being pursued.

    Tegbe also disclosed that a nationwide technical audit of electricity infrastructure was underway to identify faults and determine which facilities required urgent repairs or replacement.

    He said the exercise would help the government direct resources towards the actual causes of transmission failures rather than spending money on equipment that did not require immediate intervention.

    “We have started a technical audit across the entire country to say where do we have issues, and what issues specifically do we have,” the minister said.

    He added that the audit would be completed within a few weeks, after which the government would focus on priority areas.

    Tegbe attributed some of the persistent challenges to ageing infrastructure, noting that several transmission facilities had been in use for decades.

    He said some transmission towers and lines dated back to the period when the Electricity Corporation of Nigeria operated before the establishment of the National Electric Power Authority.

    “This government has inherited a problem of 50 years,” he said, recounting that he had seen transmission facilities bearing the ECN logo during a visit to an infrastructure site.

    The minister maintained that the age and deteriorating condition of some facilities underscored the need for a comprehensive assessment and targeted investment to strengthen the national transmission network.

  • Ondo Crash: NAF Recovers Additional Aircraft Wreckage

    The Nigerian Air Force has recovered additional components from its ATR 42-500 aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, as multi-agency teams sustain search and recovery operations at the accident site.

    The Air Force disclosed this in a statement posted on its official X handle on Wednesday, noting that specialist divers from the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau were continuing underwater search and recovery operations in collaboration with its recovery team.

    The recovery efforts involve hydrographic surveys, satellite-based search-and-rescue imagery, mud excavation and the pumping out of excess water to provide access to areas of interest.

    The NAF said the teams were working day and night to locate and retrieve relevant materials for documentation and preservation in support of the ongoing investigation.

    “Additional aircraft components have been recovered as efforts continue to locate and retrieve relevant materials for documentation and preservation in support of the ongoing investigation,” the statement said.

    The latest development comes as investigators continue efforts to recover relevant evidence from the crash site to support the investigation into the accident.

    Okpebholo mourns pilot

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has described Squadron Leader Mahmoud Aburime as a courageous officer, saying his death is a painful loss to Nigeria.

    Aburime, an indigene of Edo State, was the pilot of Nigerian Air Force aircraft NAF 931, which crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, on October 5, 2026, killing all on board.

    In a statement he signed on Wednesday, the governor mourned Aburime, saying his thoughts and prayers were with the deceased’s wife, daughter, parents and everyone affected by the tragedy.

    “The death of Squadron Leader Mahmoud Idanegbe Aburime, a proud son of Edo State and an officer of the Nigerian Air Force, is a painful loss to his family, our state and the country.

    “As governor of Edo State, I mourn the loss of one of our own. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, daughter, parents and everyone affected by this tragedy. While no words can ease the pain of losing a loved one, I want his family to know that Edo State grieves with them.

    “Aburime hailed from Uwessan in Esan Central Local Government Area, my home community. His death is, therefore, a painful loss not only to Edo State and Nigeria but also to a community that can no longer celebrate the presence of one of its sons who served his country with dedication.

    “As someone who shares roots with him, I feel this loss deeply. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and the entire Uwessan community at this difficult time.

    “What also stands out about his life is his humility. While studying Mass Communication at the University of Benin, he did not flaunt his military rank. His classmates remembered him as a quiet, gentle man who often sat at the back of the lecture hall.

    “I find this particularly touching. Aburime showed that a person can carry great responsibility without arrogance.

    “Despite his demanding military career, he continued his education and sat a make-up examination at the university just days before the crash.

    “His determination to keep learning speaks volumes about his character. Sadly, his future has been cut short,” Okpebholo said.

    He condoled with the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, the Nigerian Air Force, Aburime’s colleagues and coursemates, and the families of all those who died in the crash.

    “To the young people of Edo State, Aburime’s life offers an important lesson. His commitment to service, education, discipline and humility is an example worth following. He served his country while continuing to improve himself and helping others prepare for their own responsibilities,” he added. Punch

  • 2027: Police Assure Nigerians of Professional Conduct During Elections

    2027: Police Assure Nigerians of Professional Conduct During Elections

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has assured Nigerians that the Nigeria Police Force will demonstrate professionalism before, during and after the 2027 general elections.

    Disu gave the assurance while speaking with journalists at the launch of The Origin of Women in Nigeria Police Force, authored by 96-year-old retired Deputy Commissioner of Police, Dame Stella Okuyiga, in recognition of her contributions as one of the first 20 female officers recruited into the force.

    The police chief said the force had convened a conference involving commissioners of police and other senior officers to review lessons from recent elections and improve its performance ahead of the 2027 polls.

    He said, “We have now brought all these experiences together, where we did well and where we did not do well, so that we can perform better in this big election that everybody is looking up to.

    “I give you my word. Nigeria Police will do so well, and we will make Nigerians proud.”

    On the significance of Okuyiga’s book, Disu said the publication would preserve the history and experiences of pioneering female police officers for future generations.

    He added that the police leadership would ensure copies were made available to police training institutions across the country to educate officers on the force’s history.

    According to him, the initiative reflects the commitment of the police to documenting the contributions of its past and present members.

    Speaking at the event, Okuyiga expressed joy that her book would preserve her experiences and allow her legacy to endure beyond her lifetime.

    She said the publication would be available in libraries around the world, giving future generations an opportunity to learn from her journey.

    Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Dagogo Wokama, formally launched the book with a donation of N20 million.

  • Vatican: Pope’s Lung Surgery Completed Successfully

    Pope Leo XIV has successfully undergone surgery to remove a “small, localised nodule” from his lung.

    This was disclosed in a statement by the Holy See Press Office, published on the Vatican website, on Tuesday evening.

    The 71-year-old pontiff entered the hospital smiling and waving on Tuesday morning, hours before the operation to remove the growth, which was described as resembling a coin on the lung.

    “The procedure was successfully completed, within the expected time and in the planned manner,” the Vatican said in a brief statement.

    “The Holy Father has returned to his room,” it added, saying further details would be provided later.

    The surgery was done at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital in Rome.

    “Further information will follow,” the statement read.

    Recall that Catholics around the world offered prayers and sent goodwill messages on Sunday following the announcement by Pope Leo XIV that he would undergo surgery during the week to remove a lung nodule.

    Addressing Catholics gathered for the Angelus at the Vatican on Sunday, the Pope disclosed that his doctors had discovered a “localised nodule” in his lung and recommended surgery.

    He said the nodule was detected at a very early stage and was well localised.

    Following the discovery, he said his doctors had advised him to undergo surgery and that he had decided to follow their recommendation.

    The Pope called for prayers ahead of the surgery.

    He said, “Dear friends, during some recent medical examinations, the doctors found a small, localised nodule in my lung. It was detected at a very early stage and is well-localised.

    “The doctors believe that it is best to intervene, so, following their advice, I have decided to undergo surgery to remove it.

    “The operation is already scheduled to take place in the coming days. I thank you for your spiritual closeness and entrust myself to your prayers.”

    Catholic faithful, Christians and people of other faiths across different countries responded to the Pope’s call, with prayers and goodwill messages circulating on social media from Sunday till Tuesday that the surgery held.

    The surgery marks Pope Leo’s first hospitalisation since he became head of the Catholic Church on May 8, 2025. Punch

  • Okorocha’s Camp Denies Arrest, Challenges Imo Government Over Warrant

    Okorocha’s Camp Denies Arrest, Challenges Imo Government Over Warrant

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The camp of former Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha has denied that he was arrested by the police, challenging the state government to provide evidence supporting the warrant it allegedly cited.

    Okorocha’s Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media, Sam Onwuemeodo, described reports of the former governor’s arrest as false, insisting that he was neither arrested nor granted bail.

    The Nigeria Police Force, however, confirmed that Okorocha was arrested on Monday night at REIZ Continental Hotel in Abuja over allegations of criminal conspiracy, forgery and impersonation. The police said he was released on bail after about an hour of interrogation and directed to return to the Force Headquarters for further questioning.

    In a statement titled “Arrest Warrant: We’ve Been Vindicated. Falsehood Has Never Prevailed Over Truth. Truth Is Sacred,” Onwuemeodo questioned the validity of the court order the Imo State Government relied on in defending the reported arrest.

    The government, through its Commissioner for Information, Mbadiwe Emelumba, had issued a statement on Monday, October 12, in response to Okorocha’s demand that it produce the court order.

    According to Onwuemeodo, the government attached an order dated September 9, 2026, but failed to acknowledge that the same court had vacated it five days later.

    He argued that the order could not have provided a valid basis for any action against the former governor in October.

    “The same court order was vacated by the same court on September 14, 2026,” he said, questioning why the state government continued to rely on it.

    Onwuemeodo also said Emelumba had clarified that the order was unrelated to petitions submitted on October 8 by the Imo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Chukwuemeka Ibeziako.

    The former governor’s aide demanded an apology from the state government, accusing it of misleading Nigerians and damaging the state’s image.

    He also challenged the police to substantiate their account of the arrest, maintaining that no arrest, bail or statement-taking had occurred.

    “Their latest story that Owelle Okorocha was arrested and released after one hour is also not true. And we equally stand to be contradicted,” he said.

    The police, however, maintained that Okorocha was arrested over the allegations and that investigations were continuing. The full details of the allegations have not been publicly disclosed.

    The police reportedly invited the former governor for questioning on September 2, before rescheduling the appointment to September 8 at the request of his lawyers. He was said to have failed to honour the rescheduled invitation.

    Onwuemeodo further accused the state government of making public statements capable of influencing a matter already before the courts. He said Okorocha had remained silent to avoid comments that could be considered an attempt to influence judicial proceedings.

    The disagreement comes amid a political dispute between Okorocha and Governor Hope Uzodimma over the All Progressives Congress primary for the Imo West Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Uzodimma was declared the winner of the primary and recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission. INEC said the official results showed that the governor secured 230,464 votes, while Okorocha polled 1,098.

    However, another document circulated claiming that Okorocha won the primary with 150,780 votes. INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner, Ibeziako, subsequently petitioned the police and the Department of State Services to investigate the disputed document, which the commission described as fictitious.

    The allegations arising from the disputed results remain subject to investigation and do not, by themselves, establish criminal liability.

    Okorocha has also filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1854/2026, challenging the outcome of the primary and INEC’s recognition of Uzodimma as the party’s candidate.

    Among other issues, the former governor has asked the court to examine the disputed results and relevant constitutional provisions concerning Uzodimma’s eligibility to contest the senatorial election while serving as governor.

    His camp maintains that the dispute should be resolved through the judicial process, while the police investigation into the allegations continues.

  • Keyamo Accuses Atiku Of Hypocrisy Over Nigeria Airways Collapse

    Keyamo Accuses Atiku Of Hypocrisy Over Nigeria Airways Collapse

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has criticised former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar over his comments on Nigeria’s economic challenges, accusing him of failing to take responsibility for the collapse of Nigeria Airways.

    Keyamo, in a post on his X account on Wednesday, said the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, in which Atiku served as vice-president, liquidated the national carrier in September 2004, leaving thousands of workers without jobs and unpaid pensions and gratuities.

    “Your Excellency, Atiku Abubakar, this is hypocrisy at its peak! Let me just talk only about the sector that I head, Aviation,” the minister wrote.

    He alleged that former employees of the airline had struggled for years to receive their entitlements, with many dying before the outstanding payments were settled.

    Keyamo said President Bola Tinubu had approved and released ₦36bn to clear the liabilities owed to the former workers, adding that some beneficiaries had started receiving payment alerts.

    “Over a month ago, Mr President approved and released the total sum of ₦36bn to bring succour to these families. They have started receiving alerts and praying for Mr President,” he said.

    The minister added that the workers’ union had presented an award to Tinubu in recognition of the intervention.

    Keyamo also accused Atiku of attempting to mislead younger Nigerians unfamiliar with the history of the defunct airline.

    He argued that the former vice-president took credit for achievements of the Obasanjo administration when politically convenient but distanced himself from its decisions at other times.

    “When it is convenient for you, you claim some credit for the Obasanjo-Atiku government, and when not convenient, you say Obasanjo was in charge and not you as Vice-President,” Keyamo stated.

    Atiku had earlier criticised the rising cost of living and insecurity in the country, pledging to make life more affordable and improve security if elected president.

    In a post on his official X account on Wednesday, the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate also urged registered voters to collect their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the 2027 general election.

  • Appeal Court Dismisses Defamation Case Against Saraki, Says No Offence Established

    Appeal Court Dismisses Defamation Case Against Saraki, Says No Offence Established

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Court of Appeal sitting in Ilorin, Kwara State, has dismissed a criminal defamation and cyberbullying case instituted by the state government against former Senate President Bukola Saraki, ruling that the charge and evidence failed to establish any offence.

    In a unanimous judgment delivered on Tuesday, the appellate court held that the statement at the centre of the case did not show that Saraki had incited violence or encouraged a breakdown of law and order in the state.

    Justice Ridwan Maiwada Abdullahi delivered the judgment on behalf of two other members of the panel, Justices Gabriel Omoniyi Kolawole and Abdu Dogo.

    The case arose from comments by Saraki alleging that Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq had not completed secondary education and that his educational background was affecting his judgment.

    The court found that the evidence and witness statements presented by the prosecution did not establish that Saraki’s comments had caused any breach of the peace. Rather, the evidence indicated that some witnesses were dissatisfied with his remarks.

    It held that the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, the Kwara State Penal Code and the laws on cybercrime and cyberbullying were not designed to protect individuals from statements merely because they found them offensive or uncomfortable.

    The appellate court also cautioned that although state and federal attorneys-general have broad powers to institute criminal proceedings, those powers must not be exercised in an oppressive or prejudicial manner or in violation of citizens’ fundamental rights.

    It consequently ruled that the case filed against Saraki at the Kwara State High Court could not stand because the charge did not disclose an offence or establish the statutory elements required to sustain the prosecution.

    Reacting to the judgment, Saraki’s Press Officer on Local Matters, Abdulganiyu Abdulqadir, said the former Senate president had been vindicated in his belief that no individual, regardless of political influence, could successfully silence dissent.

    Saraki also expressed appreciation to the judiciary for what he described as its commitment to truth and justice.

    He urged his supporters to remain calm, describing the governor’s actions as temporary inconveniences.

    The former Senate president further stated that he would continue to speak on matters of public interest, including the governor’s educational background, if the need arose.

    He argued that the current administration had only seven months left in office and expressed confidence that the people of Kwara State would reject the political tendencies he criticised.

  • Oyedele Warns Against Taxing Poor Nigerians, Urges AfCFTA Policy Alignment

    Oyedele Warns Against Taxing Poor Nigerians, Urges AfCFTA Policy Alignment

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Minister of Finance, Taiwo Oyedele, has warned African governments against imposing additional taxes on vulnerable citizens and productive businesses to address fiscal challenges, saying such measures could worsen hardship and undermine economic growth.

    Oyedele also called for stronger policy coordination among African countries to remove trade barriers and maximise the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

    He made the remarks during discussions at the Annual Meetings, where he addressed taxation, economic reforms, employment, development financing and regional trade integration.

    The minister said governments should focus on improving domestic revenue mobilisation and eliminating inefficient expenditure rather than introducing tax measures that place additional pressure on low-income households and businesses.

    According to him, excessive taxation could leave vulnerable families with fewer resources for essential needs, including food, healthcare and education, while placing pressure on businesses that generate jobs and economic activity.

    He noted that both taxation and borrowing had consequences, adding that governments needed to strike a balance that ensured sustainable public finances without compromising citizens’ welfare.

    “The essence of tax and of debts is to cater for the people. If you put people always at the centre of your policies, you will not be perfect, but you are likely to strike a balance that works and is sustainable,” he said.

    Oyedele also stressed that economic growth should be measured by its ability to create jobs, promote inclusion and improve living standards rather than by macroeconomic indicators alone.

    He warned that the growing adoption of artificial intelligence could affect employment opportunities if governments failed to develop appropriate policies to manage its impact.

    The minister said economic stability remained essential for sustainable growth, investment and prosperity, noting that governments needed a stable foundation to implement structural reforms and infrastructure programmes.

    On regional integration, Oyedele said the AfCFTA offered African countries an opportunity to combine their fragmented national markets into a larger continental market capable of attracting investment, expanding production and boosting trade.

    He, however, warned that the agreement would achieve limited results unless governments addressed barriers to cross-border commerce, particularly non-tariff restrictions.

    “The AfCFTA is trying to turn 54 countries into one market, so that way it’s easy for us to scale. But that will not happen until we remove the barriers, and many of them are actually non-tariff,” he said.

    Oyedele explained that effective implementation required consistent regulations, clear standards, supporting infrastructure and coordinated economic policies across the continent.

    He cited Nigeria’s National Single Window initiative as an effort to simplify border procedures and improve trade facilitation through technology.

    The minister also disclosed that Nigeria was developing an economic policy framework that incorporates its international commitments, including regional agreements.

    He said differences in trade, fiscal and monetary policies among African countries could make regional integration difficult, stressing the need for governments to align their approaches.

    Oyedele further identified policy consistency, strong institutions and public trust as essential conditions for attracting private investment to Africa.

    “Capital follows trust before it follows returns. They need to be able to plan and predict what you are going to do,” he said.

    Reflecting on Nigeria’s economic reforms, he said governments must clearly explain policy changes, communicate the consequences of inaction and implement reforms in the right sequence.

    He argued that reforms should be supported by legislation and strong institutions to ensure continuity beyond changes in political leadership.

    Oyedele also emphasised the need to protect vulnerable citizens from the immediate effects of economic adjustments while waiting for the benefits to materialise.

    He cited cash transfers reaching more than 10 million households and education funding supporting over 1.5 million students as examples of measures introduced to cushion the effects of reforms in Nigeria.

    The minister maintained that sustainable economic progress depended on combining macroeconomic stability with inclusive growth, reliable institutions, social protection and stronger regional cooperation.

  • ENUGU STATE: FROM STOMACH INFRASTRUCTURE TO SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

    ENUGU STATE: FROM STOMACH INFRASTRUCTURE TO SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

    By Dr. John Egbo, Deputy Sheriff (Rtd)

    “Building Today for the Prosperity of Tomorrow.”

    The administration of His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, Governor of Enugu State, has placed infrastructure, industrialization, digital technology, and human capital development at the centre of its development agenda.

    The objective is to lay a solid foundation for a productive economy capable of creating jobs, attracting investment, and sustaining the needs of present and future generations.

    The era when politics revolves primarily around stomach infrastructure must give way to a development philosophy that empowers citizens to become economically self-reliant. Temporary handouts cannot substitute for sustainable investments in roads, electricity, water, healthcare, digital education, agriculture, technology, and industries that generate employment and wealth.

    As the popular saying goes, “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach him how to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.”

    This principle captures the importance of equipping our people with the skills, opportunities, infrastructure, and productive capacity to earn a living to earn a living overseas and at home, create businesses, and contribute meaningfully to the society.

    THE EVIDENCE BASED DEVELOPMENT

    Enugu State’s development trajectory under Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah encompasses a broad range of infrastructure and economic initiatives, including the completion, rehabilitation, or development of projects inherited from previous administrations, alongside new investments intended to position the state for the geometrical growth, today and tomorrow.

    These initiatives include:

    1. Revamping Critical Infrastructure and Urban Development such as:

    Water infrastructure and improved access to potable water.

    The International Conference Centre (ICC).

    The reconstructed 5-Star Hotel Presidential.

    The Abandoned State Secretariat undergoing completion.

    Rehabilitation and redevelopment of the Nnamdi Azukiwe stadium.

    Construction of multiple Intra-city and inter-city road networks to improve access to agricultural products and development.

    Tourism infrastructure located across the State

    The proposed Enugu Smart City of the Future.

    2. Industrialization and Energy,

    Coal Fired Power Generating Plant will soon be on the ground.

    Best Niger Gas Plant fully functional.

    Palm oil processing plants.

    Modern farming equipment Assembly Plant.

    Haier-related Digital Assembly and Manufacturing Company.

    Industrial investments intended to expand economic activity and create employment opportunities.

    Agriculture and Food Security: Modern farms and Farm Estates across Enugu State local government areas.

    Agricultural processing and value-addition projects designed to strengthen food production and support agro-industrial development.

    3. Digital Technology, Security, and Artificial Intelligence

    A digital Command and Control Security Centre.

    A forensic laboratory initiative.

    Enugu Talent City and Artificial Intelligence Institute initiatives.

    The deployment of 150 AI-enabled Distress Response Squad units.

    4. Education, Healthcare, and Human Capital Development

    Smart Green Schools in all 260 wards of tge state.

    Type 2 healthcare centres in all wards of the state.

    An International Hospital initiative to curb medical tourism.

    Upgrading and strengthening healthcare services at Parklane Hospital.

    Development initiatives relating to the Igbo-Ano Teaching Hospital.

    5. Modern Transportation initiatives

    The 5 Modern Bus Terminals for seamless and secure transportation ecosystem in the state.

    Enugu Air – the Airline that has made Enugu a frequent destination for all and powering access for investors.

    The deployment initiative for 200 CNG-powered buses and a city taxi fleet to ease transportation and empowerment.

    WHY THIS DEVELOPMENT PHILOSOPHY MATTERS

    The future of Enugu State cannot depend solely on political promises or short term interventions. Sustainable prosperity requires disruptive innovations and investments that expand the productive capacity of the economy that power employment for the Enugu residents.

    When roads connect communities and markets, businesses can operate more efficiently. When industries are established, they create opportunities for direct and indirect employment. When young people acquire digital and technical skills, they become better positioned to work overseas while living in Nigeria as well as participate in the emerging technology driven economy worldwide. When healthcare and education improve, human capital becomes stronger.

    These are the foundations upon which a more resilient and self-sustaining society can be built not on stomach infrastructure that is a mere handout.

    The real test of development, however, is not simply the announcement of projects or making promises. It is their verified completion, effective operation, accessibility to citizens, measurable economic impact, evidence of resources and capacity to deliver lasting public value.

    That is why evidence-based governance should be central to political accountability. Citizens deserve to evaluate administrations by what has been delivered, what is genuinely under construction, what remains proposed, and the measurable benefits of public investment.

    THE FUTURE OF ENUGU IS A COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY

    The development of Enugu State should transcend partisan divisions. Citizens, community leaders, investors, professionals, and political stakeholders all have a role to play in sustaining productive investments and holding public institutions accountable for results.

    Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s “Tomorrow Is Here” mantra places the future of Enugu at the centre of public discourse. The important question for every citizen is how today’s policies, infrastructure, and investments will improve the opportunities available to the next generation.

    As the state approaches another electoral cycle, the conversation should focus on verifiable achievements, unfinished projects, economic outcomes, employment creation, and credible plans for the future.

    Enugu deserves a development conversation anchored in evidence, accountability, industrial growth, digital innovation, and sustainable prosperity not merely political rhetoric, creating fear or temporary handouts without indicating projects and how to realize the funds to achieve the projects.

    Tomorrow is not built by promises alone. It is built through purposeful investment, measurable results, and the collective commitment to secure a better future for the good people of Enugu State.

    The future of Enugu depends on the continuity of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah as the Governor of Enugu State.

    Our tomorrow is indeed here and we must protect it.

  • Tinubu Urges Judges To Close Legal Gaps Used To Delay Corruption Trials

    Tinubu Urges Judges To Close Legal Gaps Used To Delay Corruption Trials

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerian judges to address legal and procedural loopholes exploited by politically exposed persons and organised crime groups to delay or frustrate criminal trials.

    Tinubu made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at the eighth annual capacity-building workshop for judges and justices, organised by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the National Judicial Institute. He was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

    The President urged the judiciary to review prosecution strategies, reconsider outdated legal precedents and assess existing laws against emerging forms of financial crime.

    He said the fight against corruption should not be treated as the responsibility of the executive alone, noting that its effects cut across the judiciary, legislature, public institutions and the wider society.

    “We must no longer permit legal pyrotechnics and procedural pedantry to shelter criminality,” Tinubu said, describing the fight against corruption as essential to the country’s survival.

    He maintained that courts must uphold the spirit of the law and prioritise public interest over attempts by individuals to exploit technicalities to escape justice.

    Tinubu added that meaningful progress against corruption required an independent and reform-minded judiciary, pledging the executive’s support for efforts to strengthen justice delivery.

    The workshop, themed “Investigation and Prosecution of Economic and Financial Crimes in a Digital Age,” focused on the growing challenges posed by technology-driven criminal activities.

    Tinubu said the emergence of blockchain technology and artificial intelligence had made financial crimes more sophisticated, requiring law enforcement agencies and judicial officers to continually improve their skills.

    He commended the EFCC for its efforts against cryptocurrency-related fraud, citing recoveries and forfeitures linked to digital asset investigations.

    According to the President, the commission secured the forfeiture in 2025 of $22,417.91 in Bitcoin, 1,001,301.87 USDT in digital assets and $5.6m connected to the CBEX scheme.

    He also disclosed that 192 foreign nationals arrested over alleged cyber-terrorism and cryptocurrency fraud were prosecuted and deported.

    Tinubu further said the EFCC filed 14,476 cases and secured 10,872 convictions within the first 34 months of his administration, representing a conviction-to-filing ratio of 75.1 per cent.

    He added that the commission recorded 1,370 convictions from 1,889 cases filed in the first half of 2026.

    The President said the EFCC also recovered ₦1.233tn, $684.48m, £373,905.78 and €9.34m in monetary assets during the period under review.

    He urged the judiciary to strengthen its capacity to handle digital evidence and complex financial crime cases, while commending Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, for her judicial reform efforts.

    In her remarks, Kekere-Ekun said technological advances had transformed how digital evidence was obtained and documented, making effective case management increasingly important.

    She added that continuous judicial training had contributed to improvements in the conduct of judicial officers, particularly in managing cases.

    The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, Emmanuel Udende, described the workshop as timely, citing the increasing sophistication of financial crimes and the delays associated with cases involving politically exposed persons.

    Udende pledged the National Assembly’s support through legislation aimed at strengthening the fight against corruption.

    The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, represented by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Rotimi Oyedepo, said tackling corruption required cooperation among all arms of government.

    He urged judges and lawyers to use the workshop to improve investigations and ensure more diligent prosecutions.

    The Administrator of the NJI, Justice Babatunde Adejumo, described the EFCC-NJI partnership as an important part of efforts to combat financial crimes.

    EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede also described the workshop as a national necessity, saying the commission had recorded significant convictions and recoveries under his leadership.

    Olukoyede assured participants that recovered funds and property would be managed transparently and responsibly.

  • Alausa Directs Universities To Complete Four-Year Courses Within Four Years

    Alausa Directs Universities To Complete Four-Year Courses Within Four Years

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Federal Government has directed tertiary institutions to ensure that four-year degree programmes are completed within the stipulated period, as it moves to strengthen monitoring of agreements with staff unions to prevent strikes.

    The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, gave the directive on Tuesday in Abuja during the unveiling of the 2026 agreements between the Federal Government and unions in universities, polytechnics and colleges of education.

    Alausa said the agreements were designed to fulfil President Bola Tinubu’s promise that students should complete four-year courses within four years.

    “Today, through his leadership, these agreements give practical expression to that pledge: A promise made, a promise kept, and trust restored,” the minister said.

    He said the government was determined to address recurring disputes over the implementation of agreements with unions, which have disrupted academic calendars and delayed students’ graduation.

    As part of the measures, Alausa announced plans to expand the existing Implementation and Monitoring Committee, initially established to oversee the agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities, to cover academic and non-academic unions across tertiary institutions.

    The proposed expanded committee will monitor implementation, track agreed milestones, identify challenges and issue periodic reports to promote accountability.

    According to the minister, the arrangement will help resolve disagreements at an early stage before they escalate into industrial disputes capable of disrupting academic activities.

    He urged union leaders to use the committee to address complaints rather than resort to public confrontations or threats of strikes.

    “We must strengthen early consultation and resolve differences through constructive dialogue, mutual respect and good-faith engagement,” he said, adding that students and their families must remain central to the process.

    Alausa also disclosed that the agreements provide for reviews every three years, allowing the government and unions to revisit emerging issues and consider mutually agreed adjustments.

    Meanwhile, the National President of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics, Shammah Kpanja, described the negotiation process as the fastest in the union’s history.

    Kpanja said negotiations began in December 2025 and resulted in the signing of the agreement in April 2026.

    He disclosed that implementation had started, with members receiving outstanding arrears between July and September, but called on the government to fulfil the remaining provisions.

    The ASUP president also welcomed plans to inaugurate a joint implementation committee, expressing hope that it would speed up the process before the end of the year.

    Similarly, the President of the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union, Lawal Bazza, said more than 70 per cent of the agreement for the subsector had been implemented.

    Bazza expressed confidence that the monitoring committee would help resolve outstanding issues and ensure the full implementation of the agreement.

    The Chairman of the Federal Government Negotiation Team, Yayale Ahmed, had also stressed the need for both parties to honour their commitments, warning against threats of indefinite strikes over unpaid entitlements.

    Ahmed said the success of the agreements would depend on the government’s commitment to implementation and the unions’ willingness to exercise patience.

    He further disclosed that discrepancies had been identified in some parts of the agreements and would be addressed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission.

  • INEC Gives Pantami, Adebutu, Others October 24 Deadline To Challenge Omission

    INEC Gives Pantami, Adebutu, Others October 24 Deadline To Challenge Omission

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Independent National Electoral Commission has given political parties until October 24, 2026, to report alleged errors involving the omission of their candidates from the final list for the 2027 governorship elections.

    The commission said the deadline was based on Section 32(2) of the Electoral Act, 2026, which allows political parties 14 days from the publication of the candidates’ list to notify it of any alleged wrongful exclusion.

    INEC disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday by its National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna.

    The clarification follows protests by political parties over the omission of several candidates from the final list for the governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections.

    Those affected include the Peoples Democratic Party’s governorship candidates in Ogun and Gombe states, Oladipupo Adebutu and Isa Ali Pantami, respectively.

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress governorship candidate in Kano State, Aminu Gwarzo, was also missing from the list. In Jigawa State, the African Democratic Congress protested the exclusion of its endorsed deputy governorship candidate, Aminu Ringim, and several other candidates.

    Some affected parties and candidates have demanded explanations and threatened legal action to secure their inclusion.

    INEC attributed its decision to the Supreme Court judgment delivered on September 24, 2026, in the case of *INEC v. Zenith Labour Party*, which upheld the constitutionality of provisions in the Electoral Act governing party membership registers and candidate nominations.

    According to the commission, the Supreme Court upheld Sections 77(5), 77(6) and 77(7) of the Electoral Act, 2026. The provisions require political parties to submit their membership registers within the stipulated period and use them for primaries, congresses and conventions.

    The electoral body said the court also upheld its timetable requiring parties to submit their membership registers between April 21 and May 10, 2026.

    INEC added that the judgment established that parties which failed to comply with the membership-register requirements were ineligible to sponsor candidates for the elections.

    The commission said it applied the ruling when preparing the final governorship candidates’ list, excluding parties that failed to meet the requirements.

    It maintained that the action was consistent with Section 287(1) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which requires relevant authorities to enforce court decisions.

    However, INEC noted that the final lists of presidential and National Assembly candidates had been published on September 12, 2026, before the Supreme Court delivered its judgment.

    The commission urged parties that believe their candidates were wrongly excluded from the governorship list to notify it before the October 24 deadline.

    INEC reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, the rule of law and the credibility of the electoral process ahead of the February 6, 2027, governorship elections.