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  • BUA Cement Faces Legal Showdown as Imiokpe Community Cries Exploitation, Issues 7-Day Ultimatum

    BUA Cement Faces Legal Showdown as Imiokpe Community Cries Exploitation, Issues 7-Day Ultimatum

    The Imiokpe community in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, has accused BUA Cement Plc of deliberate manipulation, exploitation, and continued illegal mining operations without accountability or transparency.

    In a petition and demand notice addressed to relevant authorities, the community alleged that BUA Cement is attempting to impose a “One-Centre” Community Development Agreement (CDA) across Okpella — a move they say violates Section 116(1) of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, which mandates companies to sign CDAs directly with their actual host communities.

    “Ownership of land rests squarely on kindreds in Okpella, who by law are recognized as host communities. It is our client, as host community, that BUA Cement Plc is mandated to execute a CDA with — not the entire Okpella clan or any so-called central group,” the petition stated.

    Under Nigerian mining law, a Community Development Agreement (CDA) defines the obligations of mining companies to their host communities in areas such as social investment, infrastructure, and local employment. These agreements are intended to ensure that communities directly impacted by mining activities receive fair and lawful benefits.

    The Imiokpe community further alleged that despite the expiration of the previous “aberrated” CDA in November 2024, BUA Cement has continued to extract limestone, laterite, clay, and iron ore from the Ikpe-Obia and Oke-Igholi mining sites without a valid agreement in place.

    They described the ongoing operations as “daylight exploitation,” accusing the company of paying inadequate royalties while deliberately excluding community representatives from employment opportunities, decision-making processes, and infrastructure benefits.

    “BUA’s pattern is to delay, exploit, and profit without fulfilling its legal and moral obligations to its host communities. This aberration will no longer be tolerated,” the kindred declared.

    In a final demand notice, the Imiokpe community issued a seven-day ultimatum to BUA Cement to cease attempts to impose a centralized CDA and instead conclude a lawful agreement directly with the legitimate host community.

    They warned that continued defiance or attempts to manipulate community representation would trigger an immediate legal response.

    “We are prepared to defend our rights through every lawful means available,” the statement read. “If BUA Cement fails to comply with the Minerals and Mining Act by executing a proper CDA with its rightful host communities, we will proceed without hesitation to a court of competent jurisdiction to halt all illegal operations, revoke its mining licence, and demand full restitution for years of exploitation and neglect.”

    The community concluded with a stern warning that no corporate influence or political alliance would shield BUA Cement from the consequences of lawlessness.

    “The era of intimidation and exploitation is over. Either BUA obeys the law or faces the full weight of justice,” the kindred declared.

  • Aondoakaaa, ex-AGF blames Nigeria’s food insecurity on escalating herders/farmers clashes, profers solutions

    Aondoakaaa, ex-AGF blames Nigeria’s food insecurity on escalating herders/farmers clashes, profers solutions

    A former Minister for Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Mike Kaase Aondoakaaa, SAN said that the escalating conflicts between farmers and herders over land and water resources have disrupted food production in Nigeria.

    Chief Kaase Aondoakaaa, a Fellow of the International Dispute Resolution Institute in the United Kingdom said this today, Sunday October 19, 2025 at the ongoing Plant Science And Molecular Biology World Conference and Agriculture, Forestry and Horticulture, 2025 with its Theme: Mitigating Food Insecurity in Central Nigeria: Gender-Inclusive Agri-Innovative Solutions.

    In his 40 minutes Keynote address at the International Conference which was held at Millennium Hotel, Paris, France, Aondoakaaa, a 2027 Frontline governorship aspirant in Benue state added that the clashes have also displaced millions of Nigerians and have as well exacerbated food insecurity, according to a 2024 report of the UNDP.

    According to him, women and youth who play crucial but often overlooked roles in agriculture have been at the receiving ends of the attacks.

    Speaking further, Chief Kaase Aondoakaaa, SAN expressed that traditional humanitarian responses have proven insufficient, necessitating innovative, gender-inclusive agro-solutions that addresses both food security and conflict resolution.

    According to him, thirty three states out of the thirty six states of Nigeria have been affected with the farmer/herders clashes.

    Aondoakaaa’s presentation also showed the devastation at a farm settlement in Guma local government area of Benue State where he highlighted the massacre of farmers at Yelewata and the responses from the government.

    He said: “On Friday 13th June, 2025, there was a massacre at Yelewata community of Benue State in North Central Region Nigeria where over 200 people were killed. Majority of the victims (60%) were women and youth.

    “The President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Dr. George Akume CON visit to the Yelewata community is of recent memory”

    Proffering solutions, the Chairman of Mikap Nigeria Limited which the producers of MIVA Rice stated that Nigeria can truly transform if it can intentionally dismantle systemic barriers that exclude women and youth groups that form the backbone of food production but still made to face disproportionate challenges.

    “The culture excluded women and youth from farmland ownership. This needs specific intervention from government. This pillar demands targeted interventions like flexible training schedules for women balancing farm and family duties and youth-focused agripreneurship programs with startup grants” he noted.

    Meanwhile, Chief Kaase Aondoakaaa hinted that Mikap Nigeria Limited, processor of MIVA Rice is collaborating with GIZ/MOVE program in capacity building for women, youth and people with disabilities.

    He pressed further that the company is encouraging the formation of agricultural cooperatives for women and youth.

    According to him, it goes beyond token inclusion to address structural inequalities in land ownership (where women control less that 10% of agricultural land despite providing 70% of farm labor) and financial access (where young agripreneurs face rejection rates of over 50% for formal loans).

    In his conclusion, Chief Kaase Aondoakaaa SAN stated that a transformed agricultural system stands as one of Nigeria’s most powerful levers to unlock door security, ignite sustainable economic growth, and harness the untapped potential of the country’s youth and fertile lands.

    He however acknowledged efforts of the Federal Government of Nigeria under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope but stated that more still needs to be done. He equally called on stakeholders in the sector to contribute to complement the efforts of the government.

    In his recommendation, he said that the country must first create visible success stories by elevating women and youth time models through media campaigns and innovation awards.

    Secondly, he said the government should establish gender-sensitive extension services and mobile learning platforms that account for literacy gaps.

    He also urged the government to institutionize affirmative policies like quotas for women in agricultural leadership programs and youth-focused land leading schemes.

    “He said: When implemented holistically, this pillar won’t just promote inclusion. It will unlock Nigeria’s most underutilized resource: the creativity and energy of its women and young farmers, potentially increasing agricultural output by 20-30% according to FAO estimates.

    “Increase capital access and international support for agric value added companies like Mikap Nigeria Limited”

    In his closing gratitude, Chief Aondoakaaa extended his deepest appreciation to the organizers and participants for their engaged participation and shared commitment for transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.

    “Your presence here today reflects the collective will needed to drive meaningful change. I eagerly anticipate the actionable insights and partnerships that will emerge from this conference, knowing that together, we hold the power to turn dialogue into tangible progress. Let’s carry this momentum forward, ensuring the seeds of collaboration we have planted today yield a harvest of innovation and prosperity for generations to come”

  • Arewa Voters Assembly Warns Sowore Against October 20 Protest, Declares ‘Enough of His Rascality and Impunity’

    The Arewa Voters Assembly (AVA) has warned activist Omoyele Sowore to desist from his planned protest scheduled for October 20, 2025, in Abuja, describing it as a dangerous plot to destabilize Nigeria’s peace, unity, and democracy.

    In a statement released today in Abuja and signed by its Convener, Comrade Ismail Ibrahim Bakori, the Assembly said it was “pertinently and vehemently speaking in unequivocal language to all enemies of the country who have overtly and surreptitiously been working to reverse the appreciable mileage that Nigerians have strenuously struggled to cover in entrenching democracy and representative governance in the country, especially the gains so far achieved by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration.”

    “In tune with the mood of most rational and patriotic Nigerians, we are hereby warning Sowore that we can no longer put up with his serial acts of rascality that threaten the very foundation of the corporate existence of the country and his unguarded utterances and statements against state institutions and statesmen, very unbecoming of a child brought up from a good home with parents,” Bakori said. “Enough is enough.”

    According to the Assembly, “Omoyele Sowore is an unpatriotic quisling who has been masquerading in the guise of a ‘human rights and democracy activist.’ This posturing is a facade behind which he has been carrying out his treacherous and treasonable offences and actions against the Nigerian state and institutions for a few years now, masquerading under the so-called garb to blackmail and commit atrocious activities that are very inhuman.”

    The statement further alleged that, “Sowore is a hired destabilization agent in the service of foreign forces and interests that have been scheming over the years to disintegrate Nigeria by igniting the fire of ethnic, regional and religious conflagration and inclinations. They have found an ally in Sowore, who does not have the fear of God in him and is never patriotic to the cause and aspirations of the Nigerian state, and who will do anything to bring the country to its knees in order to satisfy his selfish, delusional behavior and character traits of a failed childhood not brought up from a good parentage and family life.”

    “Since the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1999, it has long become obvious to us in the Arewa Voters Assembly, and to discerning Nigerians and certainly to every patriotic observer, that several shadowy forces have been at work in efforts to scuttle the trajectory of our hard-won democracy, to which Sowore has lent his life and service as a traitor and fifth columnist of the first order and an enemy of the state,” Bakori added.

    The AVA further accused Sowore of being “provocative, vulgar, uncouth and lawless,” with “a habit of instigating violence, chaos, anarchy and conflicts between communities, parties, individuals and regions by always whipping up divisive sentiments along the nation’s fault lines.”

    “His latest antics, woven around the trial and detention of Nnamdi Kanu, vividly illustrate the character of Sowore as an opportunistic interloper and renegade spent force who goes on scavenging expeditions for the slightest chance and opportunity, however senseless, of plying his vocation of a rabble-rouser and an enemy of the Nigerian nationhood,” the statement continued.

    “It is obvious to us in the Arewa Voters Assembly (AVA) that Sowore’s recent penchant for hauling disparaging verbal attacks, dissolute, crude and odious invectives at the administration and person of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is a deliberate strategy aimed at arousing the disaffection of the citizens towards their democratically elected political leadership and to cast aspersions on our hard-fought democracy that is thriving in leaps and bounds to the detriment of the undertaker’s principals and sponsors, who are daily licking their wounds because Nigeria is indeed moving towards the right direction under the present dispensation.”

    The Assembly made several demands, including an end to what it described as Sowore’s “narcissistic and egocentric vituperations,” and called on the nation’s security agencies “to, as a matter of urgent national security exigency, go for the scum and threat to the nation in the person of Omoyele Sowore.”

    On the planned protest, Bakori declared:

    “The Arewa Voters Assembly is, for emphasis, vehemently and unequivocally reiterating its position that the Sowore’s planned so-called ‘Free Nnamdi Kanu’ protest slated for the 20th of October, 2025, in Abuja, WILL NOT HOLD! We are very emphatic because that will be his last!”

    He revealed that the Assembly has mobilized 60,000 of its members from across the country to converge on the Federal Capital Territory as a counterforce.

    “We will chase and hunt for any miscreants seen on that day on the streets of Abuja in the name of protest. It is our fervent prayer that Sowore will not test our resolve,” Bakori warned.

    The statement also addressed reports that protesters planned to disrupt business at Wuse Market, saying:

    “On the intelligence we got that architects of the so-called peaceful protest plan to disrupt business activities at the Wuse market, we have promptly called on our members at the market to link up with other traders to jointly come out to resist the anarchists.”

    Clarifying its position, the Assembly said it was not against Nnamdi Kanu’s person but insisted that his case must follow the rule of law.

    “The Arewa Voters Assembly (AVA) wishes to make it very clear that its position on Sowore’s planned protest should not be misconstrued to mean that we are against the person of Nnamdi Kanu. As democrats, our position is based on our ardent belief in the principles of the rule of law. Neither VIOLENCE, BLACKMAIL NOR GRANDSTANDING should prevail in the resolution of conflicts and dialogue.”

    Bakori continued:

    “While we are also not averse to the suggestion from certain quarters for ‘a political solution’ to the situation, we insist however that justice, due process, equity and fair play should take precedence over sentiments.”

    “We insist that the freedom or otherwise of Nnamdi Kanu should follow due judicial process. Let him go through his trial that is now ongoing in the court of law and face the outcome at the end of the day.”

    “As much as we are not against justice for Kanu, we are also not unmindful of his violent activities, those of his lieutenants and foot soldiers that resulted in multitudes of deaths, various forms of physical disabilities and massive economic ruination in the Southeast. We believe that the victims of these wanton atrocities also deserve retribution and justice.”

    Bakori concluded with a reaffirmation of the Assembly’s loyalty to the unity and peace of Nigeria:

    “Long live one united, peaceful Nigeria. Long live democracy.”

  • Network of Peace & Security Condemns Sowore’s “Destructive Agenda”

    Network of Peace & Security Condemns Sowore’s “Destructive Agenda”

    The Network of Peace & Security, a coalition of concerned citizens committed to promoting national unity and progress, has strongly condemned what it described as the “atrocious and unpatriotic activities” of activist Omoyele Sowore, accusing him of attempting to destabilize Nigeria and undermine government efforts to deliver on its mandate to the people.

    In a statement issued in Abuja, Comrade Maduka Ogbonna, the National Convener of the Network of Peace & Security, described Sowore’s actions as “reckless, irresponsible, and a threat to national security.”

    “Sowore’s calls for violence and unrest are a clear attempt to disrupt the peace and stability of our nation, and we condemn them in the strongest terms possible,” Ogbonna said.

    The Network commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for what it termed a strong commitment to upholding human rights and promoting the rule of law. According to Ogbonna, “The government has shown respect for human rights, and it is unfortunate that self-proclaimed human rights crusaders like Sowore are abusing this right to pursue their selfish interests.”

    He urged Nigerians to be wary of Sowore’s tactics and instead support the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to entrench peace, security, and development across the country.

    “The President Bola Tinubu Administration is focused on delivering dividends of democracy to the people, and we should support these efforts,” he added.

    The statement further called on security agencies to “immediately arrest” Sowore and ensure that anyone seeking to incite chaos or destabilize the country is brought to justice. The Network also alleged that Sowore is being sponsored by opposition political parties and accused him of being an “undertaker and serial blackmailer,” noting that his family resides abroad.

    The Network of Peace & Security reaffirmed its commitment to defending Nigeria’s stability and unity, warning against any attempts to exploit freedom of speech for destructive purposes.

  • NELMCO, CSOs Hold Strategic Engagement on Power Sector Reforms

    NELMCO, CSOs Hold Strategic Engagement on Power Sector Reforms

    • Stakeholders commend Dekalu Thomas’ leadership,

    • Reaffirms commitment to transparency, collaboration, and sustainable solutions to post-privatization challenges.

    The management of the Nigeria Electricity Liability Management Company (NELMCO) held the second edition of its annual Strategic Stakeholders’ Engagement with over 40 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), aimed at strengthening collaboration, promoting accountability, and advancing reforms in Nigeria’s power sector.

    The one-day engagement, held at the Stratton Hotel, Asokoro, Abuja on Tuesday, brought together the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NELMCO, Mrs. Mojoyinoluwa Dekalu-Thomas, senior directors, special advisers, personal assistants, and representatives of civil society groups across the country. Themed “Establishing a National Power Assets Register for Nigeria’s Power Sector,” the meeting provided a platform for frank discussions on the way forward in addressing long-standing challenges in the electricity value chain.

    In her presentation, Mrs. Dekalu-Thomas emphasized that NELMCO remains central to the Federal Government’s efforts to tackle post-privatization debts and liquidity challenges that continue to impede growth in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). She noted that, in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, NELMCO has been entrusted with additional responsibilities to drive measurable progress and operational efficiency across the sector.

    Referencing the President’s March 7, 2024 statement affirming NELMCO’s pivotal role in ensuring expeditious and measurable progress in managing the power sector’s liabilities, Mrs. Dekalu-Thomas stated that while the task is complex, modalities have been developed to ease, if not completely eliminate, the financial burdens that have long constrained the industry.
    She reiterated her commitment to transparent and accountable leadership, stressing that the active participation of civil society remains crucial for ensuring public confidence and fairness in the reform process.

    Speaking on behalf of the CSOs, Comrade Ogakwu commended Mrs. Dekalu-Thomas for her visionary leadership and consistency in pursuing reform within the power sector. He noted that since her appointment, NELMCO has demonstrated resilience, innovation, and a renewed sense of direction, reflecting the spirit of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
    “Mrs. Dekalu-Thomas has shown exceptional leadership and dedication in tackling long-standing sectoral challenges. Her performance has inspired confidence among stakeholders, and we believe she deserves even greater responsibilities in the service of the nation,” Ogakwu remarked.

    The session concluded on an optimistic note, with participants agreeing that sustained collaboration between NELMCO and the CSO community will strengthen transparency, enhance data management through the proposed National Power Assets Register, and accelerate Nigeria’s journey toward a more stable and efficient power sector.

  • Sowore and Divisive Anti-Democratic Forces Must Be Stopped; Enough is Enough-ACN

    Sowore and Divisive Anti-Democratic Forces Must Be Stopped; Enough is Enough-ACN

    Sowore and Divisive Anti-Democratic Forces Must Be Stopped; Enough is Enough-ACN

    The Amalgamated Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria (ACN) has raised alarm over what it described as a dangerous campaign of division, blackmail, and anarchy being spearheaded by Omoyele Sowore and other paid agents of destabilization plotting to cause a breakdown of law and order in Nigeria.

    In a strongly worded statement jointly signed by Comrade Gbenga Ashiru Abiodun, National Coordinator of the Amalgamated Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria (ACN), and Comrade Yakubu Abdullahi, General Secretary of the group, the organization condemned in totality the ongoing attempts to incite crisis under the guise of protest and advocacy.

    The statement reads:

    “The ongoing campaign of division, blackmail, distraction, disharmony, and anarchy against the Nigerian government, especially the one being spearheaded by the so-called Omoleye Sowore, as well as by some paid characters and agents of destabilization trying to cause a breakdown of law and order in our country, is a cause for concern in our nascent democracy.

    This campaign of calumny, distraction, politics of hate, bitterness, and outrageous intent to precipitate crisis in our dear country must be resisted by democracy-loving Nigerians and forces.

    In memory of the late Comrade Abiodun Aremu of blessed memory, we have resolved not to participate in the planned protest being organized by a known blackmailer and insurrectionist, Sowore, using the name of Nnamdi Kanu as a cheap political cover to unleash mayhem and anarchist tendencies against state institutions, including the National Assembly, National Ecumenical Centre, National Mosque, security formations like Kuje prison, and the courts of the land.”

    The group further alleged that available intelligence revealed plots by Sowore and his associates to burn down major markets, train stations, airports, and other critical infrastructure in Abuja in a bid to precipitate violence and an ethno-religious crisis.

    “We have resolved to urgently alert relevant security and intelligence agencies to nip Sowore’s plot in the bud to curtail the planned insurrection and mayhem that may result from it. Enough is enough of this blackmailer’s shenanigans!” the statement continued.

    The group accused Sowore of lacking moral justification to lead any protest while facing prosecution, adding that his activities pose a serious threat to national peace and democratic stability.

    “In any civilized world, Sowore would have lost all moral justification to stage a violent protest while undergoing prosecution before relevant courts of competent jurisdiction for a series of incitement and questionable cybercrime-related cases in Nigeria.

    How can someone who is a known blackmailer in the country with no character or moral rectitude be threatening government institutions, state apparatus, and other law-abiding citizens going about their lawful businesses in a country guided by the rule of law?”

    They described him as “a serial rapist, a blackmailer, and a rogue politician” who, despite his rejection at the polls in 2023, continues to sponsor mischief and recklessness.

    “Sowore is also part of the system that has brought Nigeria to its knees, as he was instrumental in fighting on the side of politicians against the hardworking people all these years,” the statement added.

    The organization accused him of receiving funding from foreign powers and opposition elements, describing him as a “non-state actor used by anti-democratic forces to destabilize the country.”

    “We hereby wish to make it abundantly clear to the relevant security agencies and intelligence, especially the NSA, DSS, Nigeria Police, and DIA, to quickly intervene in this matter to prevent the breakdown of law and order,” it stated.

    The group vowed to institute a legal framework to restrain Sowore and his allies from further lawless behavior, while also mobilizing “thousands of democracy-loving Nigerians to confront him anywhere he is seen in Abuja.”

    “We hereby declare Sowore a persona non grata anywhere he is sighted in Abuja. We have assembled a team of citizen volunteers across ethnic and religious divides to enforce this resolution… Nigeria’s unity and peace are more important than the aspiration of one individual! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!”

  • Dr. Mike Odere Bags National Ethical Leadership Award

    Dr. Mike Odere Bags National Ethical Leadership Award

    • Urges Youths to Embrace Integrity and Innovation
    • Calls for moral rebirth, digital skills, and ethical leadership at Abuja summit

    The Commissioner for Finance in Cross River State, Dr. Mike Odere, has been honoured with the National Ethical Leadership and Integrity Award in recognition of his exemplary service, accountability, and commitment to transparent governance.

    The award was presented by the Centre for Ethical Conduct Orientation and Empowerment (CECOE) during the 2025 National Ethical Leadership Summit held at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja, with the theme “From Potential to Prosperity: Powering National Development through Ethical Leadership and Institutional Excellence.”

    In his acceptance speech, Dr. Odere expressed gratitude to Governor Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu for entrusting him with the opportunity to serve, describing the award as a collective recognition of the administration’s commitment to good governance and reform.

    “This recognition is not just about me. It represents a new wave of ethical consciousness in our public institutions. Integrity remains the foundation of sustainable progress, and I am deeply humbled by this honour,” he said.

    Dr. Odere also commended CECOE for its continued advocacy for ethics and governance, noting that such initiatives inspire public officers to remain resolute in upholding accountability and transparency.

    Turning his focus to young Nigerians, the Commissioner encouraged them to embrace innovation, technology, and discipline as tools for success. He stressed that success can be achieved within the country with the right mindset and skills.

    “You don’t need to japa to succeed. With the right skills in AI and technology, you can train yourself here in Nigeria, work remotely for international organizations, and earn in dollars. The world is now digital — opportunity belongs to those who innovate,” he said.

    Dr. Odere further emphasized the need to revive moral values and ethical discipline in society, lamenting the decline of traditional respect and the growing disregard for moral accountability.

    “We must return to our roots of morality. Respecting elders is a mark of good ethical conduct — we need their guidance. We must also be ethically conscious in our dealings because morality is part of our African culture,” he added.

    “Sadly, people no longer ask how youths make money; this should not be so. We must revive moral discipline and ethical responsibility in our society.”

    Presenting the award, CECOE’s National Coordinator, Dr. David Owah, described Dr. Odere as “a reform-driven technocrat whose leadership has inspired a culture of accountability and transparency within and beyond Cross River State.”

    He noted that the award was part of CECOE’s initiative to honour public officials whose actions reflect the values of ethical leadership and institutional credibility.

    The summit attracted policymakers, civil society groups, youth advocates, and development experts from across the country, all united in their call for a national moral renaissance anchored on ethics, innovation, and integrity.

  • AGEAD Urge Caution Over Minister Nnaji’s Certificate Allegations, Warn Against Political Witch-Hunt

    AGEAD Urge Caution Over Minister Nnaji’s Certificate Allegations, Warn Against Political Witch-Hunt

    • As coalition calls for fairness, restraint, and competence-based evaluation in public service appointments

    A coalition of civil society organizations under the banner of Advocacy for Good Ethics and Accountability for Development has cautioned against what it described as the politicization of the ongoing certificate forgery allegations leveled against the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji.

    Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, the group’s Executive Director, Comrade Thomas Henry, clarified that the coalition was not out to defend the minister’s academic record but to demand fairness, objectivity, and restraint in public discourse.

    He expressed concern that the issue had taken a political dimension, pointing to the alleged rift between the minister and Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, as a possible underlying factor. According to him, “It is worrisome that the first official action of the new Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Professor Simon Ortuanya, was to revisit the long-standing allegation — a move that suggests a premeditated agenda.”

    Comrade Henry also drew parallels with past controversies, recalling the certificate saga involving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu before the 2023 elections, which was later resolved. He warned against allowing politically motivated narratives to mislead the public and cause irreparable reputational damage.

    The coalition further criticized Nigeria’s recruitment culture, which it said prioritizes paper qualifications over competence and proven experience. “Sacrificing competence for degrees has cost this nation dearly,” Henry said, urging Nigerians to instead assess public officers by their performance and impact.

    He highlighted the improved performance of several agencies under the Ministry of Science and Technology, including the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI), the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), and the Project Development Agency (PRODA), describing them as “more functional and innovative than ever.”

    The group also called on Premium Times and other media outlets to uphold journalistic ethics by ensuring balance and fairness in their reportage, warning against being used as tools for political blackmail.

    “We must not let politics overshadow merit. Our democracy must evolve beyond propaganda and personal vendetta,” Henry concluded.

  • CPTA Slams Politically Motivated Attacks on Minister Nnaji, Demands Probe of UNN VC

    CPTA Slams Politically Motivated Attacks on Minister Nnaji, Demands Probe of UNN VC

    • Accuses opposition figures of orchestrating a smear campaign
    • Urges media and public to uphold truth and fairness.

    The Center for Peace, Transparency and Accountability (CPTA) has condemned what it described as a politically motivated attempt to discredit the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, over renewed allegations concerning his academic credentials. The group said the recent report by Premium Times was part of a “desperate witch-hunt” by political opponents unsettled by the Minister’s rising profile and track record of performance.

    In a strongly worded statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Patrick Ogheneyero Jr., CPTA clarified that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), had in December 2023 officially confirmed Chief Nnaji’s graduation with a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology/Biochemistry, Second Class (Lower Division). The organization described the emergence of a contrary letter in May 2025 as “suspicious,” especially given the alleged political affiliations of certain individuals recently appointed to leadership roles at the institution.

    CPTA also questioned the integrity of the current Vice Chancellor of UNN, alleging political interference and possible abuse of office. The group called for an immediate investigation into the VC’s academic background and political connections, stating that using the university to fight partisan battles violates academic ethics and undermines institutional credibility.

    The statement further criticized Premium Times for what CPTA termed “biased and unbalanced reporting,” accusing the platform of amplifying a politically motivated narrative without verifying facts. The group reminded the public that the matter is already before the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Justice H.J. Yilwa has restrained UNN from tampering with the Minister’s records pending the determination of the case.

    Reaffirming its support for Chief Nnaji, CPTA described him as a visionary leader whose reforms have repositioned the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The group urged the media and the public to reject sensationalism and remain committed to truth, fairness, and accountability in the interest of national progress.

  • Africa’s infrastructure deficit takes spotlight at pre-G20 event

    Africa’s infrastructure deficit takes spotlight at pre-G20 event

    ..Two-day side event in Johannesburg seeks to mobilize global capital and deepen intra-African investment.

    Africa’s infrastructure challenges and investment opportunities will take center stage when global leaders, financiers and development experts gather in Johannesburg for a high-level side event ahead of the G20 Summit in November.

    In a press release signed by its president/CEO, Dr. Alfred Chiakor, and made available to journalists in Abuja, the Africa Think Tank for Infrastructure Development (ATTID) announced that it will host the Infrastructure and Sustainable Development Side Event on Nov. 20–21 at the Capital Empire Hotel in Sandton.
    The meeting, themed “Enhancing Africa’s Infrastructure Transformation Agenda through Investments and Partnership,” will proceed the Nov. 22–23 G20 Summit of industrialized natio South Africa under the chairmanship of former President of the United Republic of Tanzania, His Excellency, Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, with Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Special Guest of Honour and Irina Unkovski , international PPP and infrastructure specialist, as the Keynote speaker.

    Organizers say the forum will bring together world leaders, executives of international development agencies, global banks, private investors, and regional economic commissions to chart a roadmap for transforming Africa’s infrastructure backbone. The gathering is expected to set the tone for deeper global partnerships at the G20 and beyond.

    Africa’s infrastructure deficit remains one of the continent’s biggest barriers to growth, according to ATTID. The African Development Bank estimates that the region needs between $130 billion and $170 billion annually to meet its development goals in energy, transportation, water, sanitation, and urban systems. Poor infrastructure, officials note, has already cost African economies up to 40% in productivity losses and sliced two percentage points off annual growth.

    Despite these gaps, the investment picture is shifting. Foreign direct investment (FDI) flows to Africa climbed from $53 billion in 2023 to $97 billion in 2024, or about 6% of global FDI, UN Trade and Development data show. North Africa led the inflows, buoyed by energy and transport projects, while sub-Saharan Africa saw rising intra-regional investment from players such as Dangote Group, MTN, and leading Nigerian banks.

    Still, the continent faces steep hurdles. The World Bank reports that 22 African countries are at high risk of debt distress, and sub-Saharan Africa’s median debt-to-GDP ratio has nearly doubled since 2010. Weak road networks, underperforming railways, and costly transport logistics continue to stifle regional trade, which accounts for just 31% of commerce compared with 53% in emerging Asia.

    ATTID leaders argue that innovative financing and partnerships are crucial. The side event will highlight successful models such as Egypt’s $10 billion Ras El Hekma megaproject with the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia’s light rail system, and the AfDB-backed Enugu-Bamenda Highway linking Nigeria and Cameroon. Such initiatives, they say, prove Africa can deliver high returns for investors while addressing pressing development needs.

    The forum’s agenda includes business sessions on financing models, regional linkages, and public-private partnerships. Organizers expect the meeting to generate new investment pipelines, strengthen advocacy for infrastructure funding, and foster collaboration between governments, international lenders, and private sector stakeholders.

    “The side event provides an auspicious window to deepen intra-African and global investment,” said Dr. Chiakor. “It is a clarion call to investors to tap into Africa’s infrastructure transformation that promises enduring returns.”

    By the close of the two-day summit, ATTID hopes to secure commitments that will accelerate Africa’s integration into global value chains and position infrastructure development as a pillar of sustainable growth. Observers say the discussions in Johannesburg could shape Africa’s economic trajectory for decades, and help ensure the continent’s fast-growing population of 1.5 billion people benefits from inclusive development. He maintained.