Year: 2024

1 Brigade Troops Neutralise Notorious Terrorist Leader, Alhaji Ma’oli, in Zamfara State

Lukman Laleye Babalola

Troops of 1 Brigade, operating under Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, have eliminated a notorious terrorist kingpin, Alhaji Ma’oli, along with several of his accomplices in an operation carried out on December 26, 2024. The operation took place in Mai Sheka village, near Kunchin Kalgo town, a location that had suffered under Ma’oli’s reign of terror. Known for extorting illegal levies from residents in Unguwan Rogo, Mai Sheka, Magazawa, and other communities in Bilbis District, Tsafe Local Government Area, Ma’oli’s demise has brought significant relief…

NCC, CBN set July 2025 Deadline for Banks, MNOs to resolve ₦250Bn USSD Debt

Emporium Reporters

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) have issued a deadline of July 5, 2025, for Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to settle the ₦250 billion Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) debt.   In a joint circular titled, “2nd Joint Circular of the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigerian Communications Commission on the Resolution of the USSD Debt Issue Between Deposit Money Banks and Mobile Network Operators,” both regulators outlined measures to resolve the protracted dispute between the financial and…

APC Chairman Ganduje condoles Jigawa Governor Over death of Son,Mother

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has extended heartfelt condolences to the Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, following the tragic loss of his mother and son. In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Dr. Ganduje described the incident as a profound loss not only for the Namadi family but for the entire Jigawa State. He praised the deceased for their enduring legacies of kindness, humility, and service to their community. “On behalf of the All Progressives Congress and…

The Role of the National Identification Number in Nigeria’s Socioeconomic Inclusion Programmes

Emporium Reporters

The importance of a robust National Identity Management System (NIMS) is globally evident as it serves as the foundation for programs and policies designed to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background, social, or economic status, are included in social welfare opportunities and access to essential services. Nigeria is strategically positioned as Africa’s pacesetter by its population of over 220 million, a median age of 17.9 years, and the coexistence of over 250 ethnic groups and 500 languages, making it one of the most culturally diverse nations in the…

NCC approves Disconnection of Exchange Telecommunications from MTN Nigeria Over Debt

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved the disconnection of Exchange Telecommunications Limited (Exchange) from MTN Nigeria Communications Limited due to unpaid interconnect charges. In a notice signed by the Commission’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, NCC disclosed that Exchange had failed to settle its interconnect debts owed to MTN despite being given multiple opportunities to resolve the issue. After a thorough review, the Commission found Exchange’s reasons for non-payment to be unjustifiable, prompting the approval of the disconnection. The disconnection, which will take effect five days from December…

MUSWEN commiserates with Oyo State Govt,Victims over Ibadan Funfair Tragedy

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) has expressed deep sorrow and commiserated with the government and people of Oyo State following the tragic deaths of over 35 children at a funfair held at Islamic High School, Orita Basorun, Ibadan, on Wednesday, 18th December, 2024.   The event, which was organized with the noble intention of helping less-privileged children, ended in disaster when a crowd surge led to the unfortunate loss of innocent lives. The victims, primarily children, were attending the funfair, which was meant to bring joy and…

MUSWEN congratulates Aiyedatiwa on Ondo Governorship Victory

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) has extended its heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency, Mr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on his victory in the Ondo State gubernatorial election held on Saturday, 16th November, 2024.   In a press statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Prof. Muslih ‘Tayo Yahya, MUSWEN described Aiyedatiwa’s victory as divinely ordained, attributing it to the will of Almighty Allah who bestows power on whom He wills.   The organization, which serves as the umbrella body for the Councils for Islamic Affairs and Muslim Communities across…

Gov Okpebholo’s Leadership sets record in first month, says Oshiomhole

Lukman Laleye Babalola

In just one month in office, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has been praised for setting unprecedented records in governance. Former Governor and Senator, Adams Oshiomhole, described Okpebholo’s performance as exceptional, noting that his proactive approach has already started transforming the state.   Speaking to journalists at his Iyamho residence in Etsako West Local Government Area on Thursday, Oshiomhole said:   “For the first time in Edo’s history, we have a Governor who began making critical appointments from day one in office. Justice, health, and basic education are priorities,…

Friday Sermon: Christmas Rice Sharing Stampedes; An Urgent Call For Our Leaders To Be Just And Compassionate! By Imam Murtadha Gusau

Emporium Reporters

In the Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Most Kind   All perfect praise be to Allah the Lord of the Worlds. May His peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon all his family and companions.   Dear brothers and sisters! Indeed, justice and compassion are two essential characteristics a leader must possess. Justice without compassion leads to tyranny, while compassion without justice creates anarchy. A leader needs to maintain a careful balance keeping the overall good of nation in mind. Allah the Almighty says:  …

CDS Hosts Troops of Operation Fasan Yamma to Christmas Lunch, Pledges Sustained Operational Support

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, today, hosted troops of Operation Fasan Yamma to a Christmas lunch in Sokoto State, acknowledged their sacrifices and commitment to ensuring the security and unity of Nigeria.   The event provided an opportunity for the CDS to commend the frontline troops for their dedication and professionalism. He highlighted the recent successes, including the dislodgement of Lakurawa terrorist camps in Sokoto and Kebbi States, as evidence of the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s (AFN) determination to address security challenges nationwide.   “We…