IMO BREAKING NEWS BLOG

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has confirmed it will not sell the Port Harcourt Refining Company. Instead, it will focus on completing its rehabilitation and retaining ownership. 

Group CEO Bayo Ojulari announced the decision during a town hall meeting, stating that selling the refinery would result in value loss and hinder ongoing technical upgrades. 

The Federal Government has said that the Kaduna–Kano Standard Gauge Rail Line is scheduled for completion by 2026. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced this in a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account.

Idris also shared the update on the government’s infrastructure project drive.

Echoing this assurance, the Minister of Transportation, Sa’idu Alkali, disclosed that the project had recorded significant progress under the President Bola Tinubu-led administration. According to him, when President Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023, the Kaduna–Kano railway project was at 15 per cent completion. However, he said the figure has now risen to 53 per cent.

Alkali also revealed that funding had been secured through a bilateral agreement with the Government of China to accelerate the pace of work on the rail line. This funding, he said, is expected to help fast-track the delivery of the project and ensure its completion as promised. The Kano-Kaduna railway, with a total length of 203 kilometres, is a standard-gauge railway.

Once completed, it is expected to provide direct rail connectivity between Kano and Abuja. The China Development Bank (CDB) had in January 2025 granted a loan of €245 million ($254.76 million) for the construction of the Kano-Kaduna railway project in Nigeria.

According to a statement by the bank, the move was to provide financial support for the smooth progress of the project. 

The Federal Government has appealed to the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) to suspend its planned seven-day warning strike over welfare concerns.

Labour Minister Muhammad Dingyadi made the appeal during a meeting in Abuja, urging dialogue over industrial action. Talks are set to continue Friday at the Federal Ministry of Health. 

Kun Khalifat FC President/CEO, Mr Michael Chukwudi Amaefule, has expressed the team’s readiness for the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League, (NPFL) season.

The Pride of Imo State will kick off their first ever NPFL campaign against Enugu Rangers away from home as the new season will commence on August 22, 2025.

"We are optimistic about this new season, our maiden one, as we take on Enugu Rangers in our first game,” Amaefule told the club’s media after the fixtures unveiling.

"The technical crew and players are working hard, and we believe we can build on the momentum from last season in the NNL to achieve even greater success in the NPFL. The club's mentality is centred around achieving dreams with humger, clarity of purpose, and fearless ambition that will set us apart from our opponents”, he further stated.

"We are well prepared for this historic milestone, and we charge our teeming fans across the globe to give us even stronger support as we thank them for their outpour of love and solidarity," he concluded.

Overall, Kun Khalifat FC seems poised to make a mark in the NPFL, driven by their strong tram dynamics, effective leadership, and bold mentality. Their performance will be closely watched as they take on the best teams in Nigerian football.

By Ndukaihe Macharles U, Owerri, Imo State. 

Okeoshishi FC of Oguta has etched their name in history by clinching the inaugural Imo State U13 Football Championship title, following a thrilling 1–0 victory over Captain Marvel FC of Owerri in a fiercely contested final at the Main Bowl of the Township Stadium, Owerri.

From the onset, Okeoshishi FC showcased attacking intent and tactical discipline, pinning their Owerri-based opponents deep into their own half with wave after wave of pressure. Despite a resilient defensive display by Captain Marvel FC, the deadlock was finally broken in the 78th minute when Okeoshishi captain Chidubem Okoye capitalized on a clever through pass from teammate Chisom  Ndumuanya clinically finishing past the goalkeeper to send the Oguta fans into wild celebration.

Okoye nearly doubled the lead six minutes later with a dazzling solo run that saw him glide past three defenders, only to be denied by the Owerri side’s goalkeeper in a heroic save.

With the final whistle, Okeoshishi FC were crowned the first-ever champions of the Imo State U13 Football Tournament, a competition that kicked off three weeks ago with over 50 teams representing various communities across the state.

The final match drew a large crowd, including former international stars, dignitaries, and sports stakeholders. Among the notable attendees was former African Footballer of the Year and Heartland FC coach, Emmanuel Amunike, who praised the quality of football displayed by both teams, stating, “This tournament has opened a new window of opportunities for these young talents. The level of skill and discipline shown today is commendable.”

Imo State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, commended both finalists for their spirited performances, while also acknowledging the efforts of grassroots sports investors. He gave special recognition to Ogbuagu Ifeanyi Ogbonna, sponsor of Okeoshishi FC, for his unwavering support and investment in youth football development across Oguta LGA.

The tournament finale also featured the presentation of individual awards and cash prizes, courtesy of the tournament organizers, as the event moves into its next phase focused on talent grooming and development.

Dignitaries in attendance included Hon. Chisom Ojukwu of the Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Pastor Chris Mbaeri, Executive Chairman of Orlu LGA, representatives from the NDDC, former Ex-Iwuanyanwu FC player Mr. Isaac Mbika, Barr. Ifeanyi Dike, Chairman of the Imo State Football Association, Coach Nicholas Ukadike, Mr. Fred, and other stakeholders in the state’s football ecosystem.

With this victory, Okeoshishi FC not only lifts the historic title but also cements its place as a rising powerhouse in grassroots football in Imo State.

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have arrived in Abuja after winning their 10th WAFCON title, and will hold a trophy parade across key districts in the capital.

They will also be hosted by President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa later today. 

Aliko Dangote has urged President Bola Tinubu to ban fuel imports, claiming they threaten local refining and discourage investment. Speaking at a Lagos conference, he argued his $20bn refinery can meet Nigeria’s fuel needs, citing recent exports of 1.35 billion litres.

Petroleum marketers and experts rejected the call, warning it could create a monopoly, drive up prices, and breach trade rules. They stressed the need for competition and diverse supply sources to protect consumers and the economy. 

The U.S. Mission in Nigeria has warned that Nigerians traveling primarily to give birth and secure U.S. citizenship for their children will be denied visas.

In a post on X, the mission emphasized that “birth tourism” violates immigration rules and consular officers will deny applications suspected of this intent.

The warning follows increased scrutiny of visa use and a recent shift to single-entry, three-month validity visas for most Nigerian non-diplomatic applicants. 

Kano Health Commissioner Dr. Abubakar Labaran says over 1.2 million residents are living with Hepatitis B, with a 6% prevalence rate.

Speaking on World Hepatitis Day, he noted efforts to curb the virus include free testing, treatment for pregnant women, and a pilot programme to prevent mother-to-child transmission. 

The state has released N95m for test kits and drugs, with an additional N135m request pending. 

The Court of Appeal in Owerri has ruled that the FRSC lacks legal authority to seize drivers’ licences or vehicles without due process. 

The judgment upheld an Abia High Court ruling in favour of Dr. Emmanuel Shebbs, who sued the FRSC over a 2020 incident. The court affirmed rights violations and awarded N10 million in damages. 

Former Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose has endorsed President Bola Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji for second terms ahead of the 2027 elections. 

Speaking in Ado-Ekiti, Fayose, a PDP member, praised their performance and leadership, saying his support transcends party lines. He also hailed political unity in the state and challenged Oyebanji to match his past electoral sweep of all 16 LGAs and 177 wards. 

The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has bestowed a Doctor of Science Honourary Degree on Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, the wife of President Bola Tinubu, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and others.

Wike and Tinubu received the award at the university’s 50th Anniversary and 35th Convocation on Saturday. The lecture topic for the day was ‘The Role of Universities in Nation Building’.

Other recipients of the Honourary Degree include: Aminu Masari (Chairman of TETFund), and Umaru Fintiri (Governor of Adamawa State).

The Federal Government has retrieved the passports of stranded Nigerians in the Central African Republic and is working to repatriate them. 

A military-escorted vehicle has been dispatched to evacuate them from Bambari to Bangui. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is coordinating with local authorities and the workers' employers to ensure their safety, welfare, and return to Nigeria. 

The Federal Government has set 12 years as the new minimum age for admission into Junior Secondary School 1, following completion of six years of primary education. 

The directive, part of a new policy on non-state (private) schools, aims to align with the national education standard and ensure age-appropriate learning. 

Thousands of UK doctors launched a five-day strike early Friday after talks with the Labour government for a new pay increase failed to reach a deal.

Doctors were out on picket lines outside hospitals after negotiations with the government went down the wire late Thursday, without reaching an accord.

The move comes after the doctors accepted a pay rise offer totalling 22.3 percent over two years in September, soon after Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour party took power. Resident doctors — those below consultant level — have said they felt they had “no choice” but to strike again to reverse “pay erosion” since 2008.

Starmer on Friday appealed to the doctors, saying patients were being put at risk and the strikes would “cause real damage”. Launching a strike “will mean everyone loses,” Starmer wrote in the Times, highlighting the added strain it would put on the already struggling National Health Service (NHS).

He appealed to the doctors not to “follow” their union, the British Medical Association (BMA) “down this damaging road. Our NHS and your patients need you”. “Lives will be blighted by this decision,” Starmer warned. 

The Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee has conferred the prestigious title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) on the following 57 lawyers:

Theophilus Kolawole Esan

Fedude Zimughan

Ernest Chikwendu Ikejle

Victor Esiri Akpoguma

Leslie Akujuobi Njemanze

Akintunde Wilson Adewale

Preye Agedah

Omamuzo Erebe

Hannibal Egbe Uwaifo

Olumide Ekisola

George Ejie Ukaegbu

Oromena Justice Ajakpovi

Tairu Adebayo

Bawa Akhimie Osali Ibrahim

Suleh Umar

Emeka Akabogu

Godwin Sunday Ogboji

Godwin Aimuagbonrie Idiagbonya

Adeolu Olusegun Salako

Adetunji Oso

Achinike Godwin William-Wobodo

Shuaib Agbarere Mustapha

Adizua Chu-Chu Okoroafor

Olanrewaju Tasleem Akinsola

Amaechi Fidelis Iteshi

Adakole Edwin Inegedu

Oyinkansola Badejo-Okunsanya

David Ogenyi Ogebe

Aminu Sani Gadanya

Oluseun Awonuga Adentyi

Ikechukwu Raphael Uwanna

Ayodeji Joseph Ademola

Kelechi Nwaiwu

Lawal Garba Hudu

Ibim Simeon Dokubo

Luka Abubakar Haruna Musa

Shakeer Adedayo Oshodi

Oluwole Tolulope Jimi-Bada

Mubarak Tijani Adekilekun

Chinyere Ekene Moneme

Shuaibu Magaji Labaran

Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh

Augustine Enenche Audu

Ali Dussah Zubairu

Adeyemi Adebambo Pitan

Habeeb Abdulrahman Oredola

Abdulakeem Labi-Lawal

Victor Agunzi

Nkwegu Luke Ogbagaegwu

Bidemi Ifedunni Ademola-Bello

Temilolu Femi Adamolekun

Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude

Adedayo Gbolahan Adesina

Usman Yusuf Zaiyanu

Taiwo Azeez Hassan

Olufemi Olubummi Oyewole

Prof. Chima Josephat Ubanyionwu

These appointments reflect excellence in legal practice and contribution to the development of law in Nigeria. 

Manchester City are set to re-sign English goalkeeper James Trafford for £27m, two years after he left to join Burnley. The 22-year-old City academy graduate signed for the Clarets in July 2023 in deal worth up to £19m with add-ons.

He impressed last season as Scott Parker's side won promotion back to the Premier League, keeping 29 clean sheets across 45 Championship games, and was named in the division team of the year.

City had a buy-back clause for Trafford but also matching rights, allowing them to match any offer from another club. They have done so following a £27m bid from Newcastle and Trafford has opted for a return to Manchester.

The England Under-21 international is expected to sign a five-year contract at Etihad Stadium with the option for another year. 

Suspected IPOB members attacked three communities in Arondizuogu, Imo State, on Friday, killing over seven people and injuring several others. Police have deployed tactical units and say the situation is now under control. 

President Bola Tinubu has approved full allowances and bonuses for the Super Falcons ahead of their WAFCON final against Morocco.

National Sports Commission Chairman, Shehu Dikko, confirmed all entitlements have been disbursed, with similar support promised for D’Tigress ahead of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket. 

Dr. Anthony Idigbe, SAN, has denied reports of his removal as Chairman of The Tourist Company of Nigeria (TCN), stating the board never discussed his ouster at its July 22 meeting. 

He said the session focused on SEC’s forensic audit findings, which sparked backlash from some shareholders. Idigbe blamed the controversy on aggrieved factions unhappy with the audit, accusing them of media manipulation and court avoidance. He reaffirmed his commitment to resolving the Ikeja Hotel Plc leadership crisis and stabilizing governance. 

A passenger plane with nearly 50 people crashed in Russia’s Amur region on Sunday, killing all on board. The Antonov-24 aircraft, operated by Angara Airlines, vanished from radar near Tynda and was later found in a remote forest with no survivors. 

Poor weather may have contributed to the crash, though the cause remains under investigation. 

Twenty-seven victims of the July 15 gunmen attack in Bindi-Jebbu, Riyom LGA, Plateau State, were given a mass burial on Friday. 

The attack, which occurred at night, left many others injured. Speaking at the ceremony, LGA Chairman Bature Shuwa mourned the loss and called for renewed commitment to justice and security. He thanked Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his prompt visit and support to the grieving community. 

The Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) has partnered with China-Africa Geoscience Cooperation Center and Yangtse Automotive Group to attract Chinese investments in Nigeria’s mining and electric vehicle sectors. 

NCSP DG Joseph Tegbe emphasized reindustrialization through EV value chain development. Chinese officials confirmed readiness to invest, with joint plans for regulatory alignment and technical assessments underway. 

The Federal Government will begin using private and public Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres for school-based NECO SSCE exams by 2026.

Education Minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced this during the monitoring of NECO’s pilot CBT SSCE in Abuja, stating the shift will mirror JAMB’s exam model. He praised NECO’s readiness for full CBT transition and confirmed that all NECO and WAEC objective exams will go digital by November 2025, with full CBT adoption by 2026. 

The Senate has approved President Bola Tinubu’s $21.19bn foreign loan request, along with €4bn, ¥15bn, and a $65m grant to fund the 2025 Appropriation Act. 

The package includes ₦757bn in domestic borrowing and a $2bn foreign-currency instrument. Lawmakers stressed the loans are concessional, tied to infrastructure and development projects, including $3bn for the Eastern Rail Corridor. Concerns over transparency and equitable distribution were raised. 

Aliko Dangote has called on the NMDPRA to revoke refinery licenses that remain unused or impose annual penalties on holders. He urged the Authority to compel licensees to either build their refineries or forfeit their permits. 

The Nigerian Senate will hold a special session Wednesday to honour former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on July 13 in London at age 82. 

The tribute will reflect on his leadership and national contributions. Buhari served as military head of state (1983–1985) and civilian president (2015–2023).

The Akwa Ibom Police Command has distributed N37.28 million to 33 families of officers who died in service. Commissioner Baba Azare presented the cheques on behalf of the IGP, Olukayode Egbetokun, under the Force’s Family Welfare and Group Life Assurance Schemes. 

He described the gesture as a tribute to the officers' sacrifices and pledged continued support for police families. 

The House of Representatives has approved a ₦105.14 billion budget for the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) for 2025. 

The budget includes ₦20.6bn for personnel, ₦8.9bn for overheads, and ₦75.5bn for capital projects. Chairman James Faleke said the committee found the proposal satisfactory and pledged strict oversight on implementation. 

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has warned international airlines to comply with currency declaration rules for inbound passengers or face sanctions. Airlines must announce the $10,000 declaration limit and distribute forms onboard, as part of Nigeria’s anti-money laundering efforts. 

In what officials are calling one of the largest pharmaceutical interceptions in recent years, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has seized 16 containers loaded with contraband and falsely declared goods, including illicit pharmaceuticals valued at a staggering ₦20.5 billion.

The seizure was announced Friday at the Onne Port in Rivers State by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, who led journalists through the inspection of the intercepted items during a press briefing at the Customs Area 2 Command Headquarters.

According to Adeniyi, the containers — 11 of which were stuffed with dangerous and unregistered drugs — were concealed under layers of legitimate consumer goods such as tomato paste, ceiling fans, plumbing materials, and even car parts in an attempt to evade detection. The illegal contents included over 1.3 million bottles of Codeine syrup, 12.6 million tablets of Tapentadol/Tramadol, and several other unregulated prescription drugs with high abuse potential.

“This represents a calculated attempt to exploit Nigeria’s trade channels and flood the market with potentially dangerous substances,” Adeniyi said, warning that the public health consequences could have been catastrophic. 

WAFCON 2024: Nigeria’s Super Falcons to play South Africa in mouthwatering semi-final

South Africa are into the semi-final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Their reward? A date with rivals Nigeria at the Stade Larbi Zaouli, Casablanca, Morocco. 

The Banyana Banyana fought hard to beat Senegal 4-1 on penalties after normal, and extra time ended barren in Saturday’s quarter-final match up. Nigeria had a day earlier crushed Zambia’s Copper Queens 5-0, extending their unbeaten record in the tournament. 

With the last eight games done, attention now shifts to the semi-final, and Nigeria and South Africa headline the fixtures for the semi-final. The last time both sides met was at the 2022 edition, also in Morocco. Then, the South Africans got the better of the 2018 champions, courtesy of a 1-2 win. That victory came three years after the Banyana Banyana’s heartbreaking loss to Nigeria in the WAFCON final. 

The Super Falcons go into Tuesday’s game, riding on the heels of an impressive outing in Morocco. They have scored eight goals and are yet to concede in four matches so far, a testament to their impregnable defensive work.

The other semi-final game at the WAFCON will see Ghana’s Black Queens take on hosts Morocco. That match will be on the same day that Nigeria will play South Africa. 

The Presidency has lashed out at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its statement accusing President Bola Tinubu’s administration of exploiting the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari for political gains.

The ADC had on Friday accused the Tinubu’s administration of exploiting the death of Buhari to whitewash its image. But reacting to the allegation, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, described the opposition party’s claims as “shameless” and “obnoxious.” He specifically accused the opposition party and its leading figures of “disrespecting Buhari and dancing on his grave for relevance.”

“Let it be said clearly: the ADC is the one exploiting Buhari’s death for political attention, not this government. “From Atiku and El-Rufai’s choreographed arrival in Daura — greeted with chants seeking to make political capital from the solemnity of the moment — to this disgraceful press statement, the ADC has shown itself to be utterly shameless. 

“The burial of former President Buhari was conducted with the complete honour befitting a leader of his stature. That is why world leaders showed up, millions of Nigerians tuned in on television and across social media, and even ADC promoters were falling over themselves in Daura, prancing about the Buhari family compound like eager real estate agents scouting new territory,” Dare said.

Dare then called on Nigerians to ignore the “political noise from an outfit gasping for attention”. 

...To Represent Imo in Nationwide National Play Off

The 2025 Imo State Football League has successfully ended on a good note with Okpotemba FC of Ihitte/Uboma emerging winners. 

Apart from defeating Heartland U-19 Feeders 6-5 through penalties after regular time of score draw for both sides, Okpotemba will represent the State and take Imo to the national competition playoff for the Nationwide League. 

To reach the finals, both teams topped their groups before the final played on Saturday, July 18th, 2025, at the practice pitch of Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri. 

Speaking at the event, the result-producing Imo FA Chairman, Barr Ifeanyi Dike disclosed that the state FA is turbo charged to organize competitions aimed at not just getting teams engaged in regular football activities but also provide avenue for harnessing of budding talents abound in Imo. 

While extending congratulations to the participants, especially the winners, Barr Dike, who is still basking in the euphoria of the promotion ticket of Imo State based Kun Khalifat FC from the NNL to NPFL, informed that the state FA is out to assist willing teams from the state reach greater heights both local and national soccer engagements. 

He was full of praises for the FA Board Members and secretariat for a perfect conduct of the just concluded Imo FA League where all participants are proud they took part in.

Barr Dike further revealed of better bumper packages Imo FA have in stock for teams and stakeholders in the state. He enjoined football lovers to continue to have confidence in Imo FA as beacon of hope for football development in the state. 

EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede has warned Nigerians against abusing the naira, stating that spraying and stamping on the currency are criminal acts, not cultural traditions. 

Speaking in Lagos, he revealed the EFCC is cracking down on naira abuse and unlicensed forex dealers, stressing that all violations of the law are taken seriously. Over ₦100bn in recovered funds have been used to support government programmes, he added. 

The Ondo State Police have confirmed the assassination of Mr. Ezekiel Adeniran, Registrar of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), just six months after his appointment.

The 41-year-old's body was found in his Akure residence early Thursday. Police spokesperson Olayinka Ayanlade said the case is being treated as a targeted killing, with investigations underway to identify the culprits.

UNIMED management described the incident as shocking, noting that Adeniran was last seen at work on Monday.

The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria has reminded travellers that a visa's expiration date does not determine how long they can stay in the U.S. In a post on July 17 via X (formerly Twitter), the embassy explained that the allowed duration is set by a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry.

Travellers are advised to check their I-94 form at i94.cbp.dhs.gov for their official "Admit Until Date." The embassy emphasized that a visa only grants permission to request entry, not to determine the length of stay.

The advisory is part of ongoing efforts to prevent visa overstays and educate Nigerians on U.S. travel rules. 

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Muhammad Babangida, son of former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida, as Managing Director of the restructured Bank of Agriculture.

Seven others were also appointed:

-Lydia Kalat Musa – Chair, Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA)

-Jamilu Wada Aliyu – Chair, National Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC)

-Hon. Yahuza Ado Inuwa – Chair, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON)

-Sanusi Musa (SAN) – Chair, Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR)

-Prof. Al-Mustapha Aliyu – DG, Directorate of Technical Cooperation in Africa (DTCA)

-Sanusi Garba Rikiji – DG, Nigerian Office for Trade Negotiations (NOTN)

-Mrs. Tomi Somefun – MD, Hydro-Electric Power Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC)

-Dr. Abdulmumini Aminu-Zaria – Executive Director, Integrated Water Resources Management Commission (NIWRMC) 

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has donated ₦15 million to the Dental Students Association of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) to support laboratory upgrades needed for accreditation.

Obi made the donation following a ₦40 million funding appeal from the association. He criticized Nigeria’s leadership for neglecting education and healthcare while prioritizing luxury projects, calling for greater investment in youth development.

Arsenal have signed Noni Madueke from Chelsea for £52m, handing him the No. 20 shirt. The 23-year-old winger signed a five-year deal and becomes the Gunners’ fourth summer signing. Madueke, who has seven England caps, said he hopes to help Arsenal win all competitions this season.

The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) is now recruiting qualified Nigerians into four federal services.

Available Positions:

**Superintendents – BSc, HND, MSc

**Inspectors – NCE, ND or equivalent

**Assistants – SSCE

Eligibility:

* Nigerian by birth

* Age: 18–35 years

* Minimum height: 1.65m (male), 1.60m (female)

* Physically & mentally fit

* No criminal record

Application Deadline: August 4, 2025

Apply at: [recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng](https://recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng)

Note: Apply to only one service. 

ADC Interim Chairman David Mark has warned that the current government may use the judiciary to derail the party’s momentum ahead of the 2027 elections. 

He made the claim during a meeting with the party’s legal team, which includes 310 lawyers nationwide. Mark urged Nigerians to support the ADC as a credible alternative. 

The National Assembly has suspended legislative activities in the Senate and the House of Representatives until Tuesday, July 22, 2025. The postponement of plenary in both legislative chambers was announced by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, in a statement on Monday.

According to Ogunlana, the suspension of plenary was to honour former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in London, United Kingdom. “In honour of his legacy and service to the nation, I am directed by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives to inform all members of the National Assembly and the general public that all.

“All members of the National Assembly are urged to reschedule their engagements to enable full participation in the burial activities of the late President,” the statement read.

The leadership of both chambers extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Nigeria, Katsina State, his wife Aisha, children and the entire Buhari family.

“President Muhammadu Buhari will be remembered for his commitment to Nigeria’s unity & his integrity,” Ogunlana stated. 

The Samuel Olatunji Adebakin Foundation has donated ₦20 million to St. Joseph’s Secondary School, Agege, to enhance entrepreneurial education. The donation was announced during the school’s 2025 Founders’ Day, organized by the Global Alumni Association. 

Represented by Oluwajimi Adebakin, the founder emphasized the need for practical skills in schools. Alumni president Toyin Ukana-Bisiriyu praised the gesture, while Prof. Pius Adejoh delivered a lecture on the power of networking for success. 

Former Information Minister Lai Mohammed has expressed deep sorrow over the death of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, calling it a personal loss. 

He described Buhari as a patriot, humanist, and mentor, recalling their close bond and final meeting during Ramadan. Mohammed praised Buhari’s integrity and leadership, praying for his soul and consoling Nigerians. 

A Rivers State High Court has barred Sole Administrator Ibok-Ete Ibas from inaugurating new members of the Rivers State Services Commission, pending judgment in a suit by suspended officials appointed by Governor Fubara. 

The claimants argue their removal was unlawful and without due process. Judgment is set for September 29, 2025. 

Aero Contractors MD, Capt. Ado Sanusi, has criticized the $300 helicopter landing fee approved for NAEBI Dynamic Concept Limited, stating it lacks regulatory backing and offers no value-added service. 

He urged the federal government to rescind the fee, saying the firm has made no investment justifying such charges and warning against arbitrary levies in the aviation sector. 

A Federal Capital Territory High Court has scheduled July 16 for the arraignment of Abuja lawyer Abu Arome and three Ghanaians over alleged forgery and attempted takeover of Nigerian firms using falsified documents. 

The 26-count charge, filed by the Inspector General of Police, accuses the defendants of fraud, impersonation, and forging board resolutions to seize control of Houses for Africa Nigeria Ltd and Jonahcapital Nigeria Ltd. 

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has suspended all political activities nationwide for three days in honour of late former President Muhammadu Buhari.

In a statement by spokesperson Paul Mumeh, ADC Chairman David Mark praised Buhari’s patriotism, integrity, and contributions to Nigeria’s unity and democracy. The party also called on the Federal Government to immortalize him through national monuments. 

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has announced the burial arrangements for Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in a hospital in London.

At a press briefing on Monday, the Katsina governor said following consultations with the late president’s family and close associates in London, it has been agreed that the remains of the former leader would arrive in Katsina on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, by noon. He disclosed that the burial would take place in Daura, the hometown of the late president, by 2pm on the same day.

Radda expressed deep condolences on behalf of himself, the state government, and the people of Katsina State, to the family of the late President and all Nigerians mourning the loss of a national icon. Meanwhile, the paper work to perfect the release of Buhari’s body from the hospital in London has begun. UK correspondent Juliana Olayinka said the remains of the late Nigerian former president would be released once the documentations were perfected.

Earlier on Monday, Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, arrived in London, the United Kingdom, to receive the body of the late president. The Nigerian delegation to the United Kingdom was received by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar; Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum; among others.