Month: March 2025

APC applauds National Assembly’s swift approval of Emergency Rule in Rivers State

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has commended the National Assembly for its swift approval of President Bola Tinubu’s proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State, described the decision as a patriotic move to safeguard peace and security in the oil-rich state.   In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the APC praised the 10th Assembly for prioritizing national interest over partisanship, particularly acknowledging the opposition caucus for supporting the emergency measures.   “The President is committed to ensuring peace, maintaining law and order, protecting…

FG increases Corps Members allowance to N77,000, begins payment in March

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Federal Government has approved an increase in the monthly allowance for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to N77,000, with effect from March 2025.   The Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, made the announcement on Thursday while addressing corps members at the Wuse and Garki Zonal Offices in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.   Brig.-Gen. Nafiu assured corps members that the scheme remains committed to their welfare, emphasizing that NYSC would continue to prioritize their well-being.   “With effect from March, you are going to receive…

Nigeria unveils National gender digital inclusion strategy at UN CSW69

Lukman Laleye Babalola

Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to closing the gender digital divide with the launch of the National Gender Digital Inclusion Strategy (NGDIS) at the 69th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69). The high-level event, themed “Digital Harmony: Advancing Gender Inclusion by Empowering Women and Children for a Secure Digital Future,” showcased Nigeria’s bold initiatives to enhance digital access, security, and economic empowerment for women and children.   Speaking at the event, Iklima Musa Salihu, Special Assistant to the Director General of the National Information…

NITDA, MTN foundation partner to enhance digital literacy in Nigeria

Lukman Laleye Babalola

As part of efforts to drive digital transformation and economic growth, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the MTN Foundation have agreed to collaborate on advancing digital literacy and capacity building across Nigeria. The Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE, made this known during a courtesy visit by the MTN Foundation delegation, led by Odunayo Sanya, to the Agency’s Corporate Headquarters in Abuja. Inuwa emphasized the need for strategic partnerships in fostering digital skills, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for industrialization and economic diversification. He highlighted…

House of Reps amends, approves State of Emergency in Rivers … Aguocha, Agbese, Ali Isa, Others raise concerns over process

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The House of Representatives on Thursday approved President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request for a state of emergency in Rivers State but not without key amendments to ensure constitutional compliance and a defined duration. During plenary, Speaker Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, presented the President’s request, allowing lawmakers to debate before a final vote. However, the session took a critical turn when Hon. Obinna Aguocha (Labour Party, Abia State) raised a constitutional point of order, insisted that the House must strictly follow Section 305(6b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandated…

Oyo Govt drops criminal charges against Ooni’s Ex-Wife, Oriyomi Hamzat, School Principal over Ibadan stampede

Emporium Reporters

The Oyo State Government has officially withdrawn criminal charges against Naomi Silekunola, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife; Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, the owner of Agidigbo FM; and Abdullahi Fasasi, the principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, over the tragic stampede that claimed the lives of at least 35 children during a festive event in December 2024.   Following the court’s decision on Thursday, the defendants were seen visibly relieved, exchanging pleasantries after being freed from the legal battle.   Oyo State Attorney General, Abiodun Aikomo, confirmed the development,…

NNPC debunks Port Harcourt refinery explosion rumor, assures public of safety

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has dismissed reports of an explosion at the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) in Rivers State, urged the public and media to disregard the misinformation.   In a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Ltd, Olufemi Soneye, clarified that the incident in question was a controlled flare operation, which has since been fully contained.   “There is no danger or health hazard to staff, the surrounding communities, or the environment,” the statement assured.   The…

Senator Ipinsagba’s 18-Month Scorecard: Transforming Ondo North with Developmental Strides

Emporium Reporters

By James Isaac, Abuja   Senator Emmanuel Olajide Ipinsagba, representing Ondo North Senatorial District and serving as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Procurement, has showcased his achievements over the past 18 months. During an interactive session with selected journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, the APC chieftain highlighted key developmental projects and initiatives that have positively impacted his constituents.   Within his first three months in office, Senator Ipinsagba initiated three signature projects across the six local government areas in Ondo North. These included a state-of-the-art cottage hospital…

Ramadan Series (20): Patience Is The Key To All Success By Imam Murtadha Gusau

Emporium Reporters

Thursday, Ramadan 20, 1446 AH (20/03/2025) In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all creation. May Allah extol the Messenger in the highest company of Angels and grant him peace; and likewise, his family, his Companions and all those who truly and sincerely follow him until the Day of Resurrection. Dear brothers and sisters! For many Muslims, the term Sabr has become synonymous with the word “Patience.” However, the beauty of the Arabic language is that many…

Tragedy in Abuja,as fuel tanker explosion on Karu bridge claims multiple lives

Emporium Reporters

A devastating explosion rocked the Karu Bridge along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway on Wednesday evening, leaving multiple casualties and causing extensive damage. Eyewitnesses reported that the incident occurred after a fuel-laden truck lost control and crashed, leading to a massive explosion that engulfed several vehicles in flames. Thick black smoke billowed into the sky as frantic bystanders called for emergency services. A viral video shared by a witness, identified as General Jhamuha, showed burning vehicles and victims trapped in the inferno while people desperately called for help. “People are burning! Someone…