National, governance, politics, policy, and breaking developments.
Nigeria's Ambassador to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, has expressed grave concerns regarding the deaths of over 30 Nigerians at the hands of South African police since 2022. He warned that Nigeria's patience is wearing thin amid growing tensions surrounding the treatment of its citizens abroad.
The Akwa Ibom State Government faces a pressing deadline to either compensate for a controversial school takeover or face the repossession of the institution by the plaintiffs. This legal ruling underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding educational management in the region.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has announced that Gateway Air is prepared to support the airlift of Hajj pilgrims, particularly from neighboring states. This initiative aims to enhance the private-sector-driven arrangements for the annual pilgrimage, benefiting pilgrims from Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti states.
During the BRICS Summit, Vice President Kashim Shettima met with WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, emphasizing Nigeria's commitment to multilateral trade and the significant contributions of its diaspora. Shettima's discussions highlighted the importance of global cooperation in addressing economic challenges.
A suspect has been remanded in custody following allegations of kidnapping and armed robbery in Edo State. The accused, alongside an accomplice who remains at large, reportedly committed the crimes earlier this month.
Governor Sani of Kaduna State has officially approved the 2025 salary agreement between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) for lecturers at Kaduna State University (KASU). This decision comes in response to escalating tensions regarding salary, allowances, and promotion arrears among KASU faculty members.
Veteran journalist Ima Niboro has been appointed as a spokesperson for President Bola Tinubu's campaign council for the 2027 general elections, enhancing the team's communications capabilities. Niboro, who has a rich history in presidential communications, previously served as spokesperson for former President Goodluck Jonathan.
In a decisive move to address a tragic public health crisis, the Ondo State government has banned the production and distribution of local alcoholic drinks as the death toll rises to 29. Authorities report 60 suspected cases linked to the consumption of these beverages, with several individuals currently receiving medical attention.
The Jigawa Pilgrims Welfare Board has fully utilized its allocated slots for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage and is now appealing for additional seats to accommodate more intending pilgrims. The Director General remains hopeful that the national commission will respond favorably to their request in a timely manner.
The Minister of Interior has ordered an inquiry into claims that a prominent Abuja realtor obtained a second passport after reporting her original one as lost. This decision follows allegations raised by the realtor's legal representatives regarding the legitimacy of the new document.
In a significant development, a university in Owerri has confirmed the safe release of female students who were abducted earlier. The announcement, made by the institution's Public Relations Officer, Orakwe Ezugwu, brings relief to families and the community.
A collaborative investigation by PREMIUM TIMES and partners, titled 'The Poisonous Lead Trade,' has been shortlisted for the prestigious Al Neuharth Innovation in Investigative Journalism Award. This recognition underscores the importance of journalistic efforts in addressing critical health and environmental issues in Nigeria.
