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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of veteran lawmaker and former presidential aide Ita Solomon Enang as Nigeria’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Germany. The appointment, announced on Thursday through Enang’s media aide, Uduakabasi Ikpatt, is expected to see the former senator assume duties at the Nigerian Embassy in Berlin in the coming weeks, pending formal diplomatic procedures. Ikpatt described the posting as part of President Tinubu’s broader effort to reposition Nigeria’s foreign policy toward investment-driven diplomacy, particularly in energy transition, trade expansion, and technical cooperation. The statement noted that Germany has remained one of Nigeria’s most significant European partners, with sustained collaboration in renewable energy, vocational training, industrial development, and governance support, much of it facilitated through the German Agency for International Cooperation. Enang, 63, brings decades of legislative and executive experience to the role, having served three terms in the House of Representatives and later representing Akwa Ibom North East Senatorial District in the 8th National Assembly. Between 2020 and 2023, he served as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Niger Delta Affairs, where he played a key liaison role between the Presidency and stakeholders in the region. In his new assignment, Enang is expected to promote trade and investment opportunities, strengthen consular protection for Nigerians in Germany, and advance cooperation in education, technology, and climate initiatives. Nigeria and Germany have maintained diplomatic relations since 1960, with Berlin consistently supporting development projects across Nigeria through grants, technical assistance, and institutional partnerships. As Nigeria’s new envoy, Enang will also engage with key German institutions, including the Bundestag, to deepen legislative and economic collaboration in support of Nigeria’s reform and industrialisation agenda. He is expected to formally present his letters of credence to German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier upon arrival in Berlin, after which he will officially commence diplomatic duties.

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has said the attainment of international status by the Victor Attah International Airport, VAIA, will not only benefit Akwa Ibom State, but Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea region. In a world pess briefing upon his return from the maiden international flight to the airport from Accra, Ghana, the Governor said the feat will help to stimulate other sectors of the economy. “We cannot succeed in tourism if we don’t have a functional airport whether internationally or locally. Now, we have gone international, and through Akwa Ibom, we can travel to other countries in the sub region without having to go out of Nigeria to overfly Nigeria to get to countries in the sub-region as obtained before. That is one of the things the international flight has stopped immediately. “Akwa Ibom will become another Kigali, with the international conference centre that is the best in the country yet; people will begin to have international conferences in Uyo,” he added. He expressed hope that the benefit for the Gulf of Guinea will be enormous, adding that the State was also planing to add the Cargo Terminal, a trading route, that will also enhance the capacity. Governor Eno announced the creation of a Ministry of Aviation and Airport Development, and also appointed the Managing Director of the Ibom Airport Development Company Limited, Engr Uwem Ekanem to oversee the affairs of the ministry, pending the appointment of a substantive Commissioner. He appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting approval for the airport’s designation as an international facility, and also commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, for his dedication and strategic support, particularly in coordinating aviation stakeholders and ensuring regulatory compliance leading to the successful take-off of international operations. Tracing the evolution of the airport, Governor Eno paid glowing tribute to past leaders, Obong Victor Attah, Senator Godswill Akpabio and Mr Udom Emmanuel for their respective contributions to the current status of the airport. He described leadership as a relay race, with successive administrations building on each other’s efforts to achieve the milestone. The Governor further announced that Ibom Air is set to expand its fleet to ten aircraft with the expected arrival of an additional Airbus in June, and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to training indigenous pilots, engineers, and personnel to meet the airport’s specific demands. He said so far, the State has sponsored the training of 20 pilots in Paris, including the co-pilot who manned the return flight from Accra, 20 engineers currently working in the airport, with another 10 cadet pilots in training in Ethiopia, as well as three pilots and one engineer in the Aviation school in Zaria. The Governor said beyond pilots and engineers, the State was going to train others in airport handling, facility management for cleaning of the airport, and general maintenance. Governor Eno revealed that no fewer than ten critical projects are being constructed and completed within the aviation ecosystem, including a second runway, apron expansion, aviation village, perimeter fencing, hospital, and modern security surveillance systems. He clarified that the maiden international flight was not merely ceremonial but a validation and activation of the airport’s international certification, adding that scheduled international operations will commence after completion of necessary regulatory procedures. For sustainability of Ibom Air, Governor Eno said the State was planning on diversification, adding that in the nearest possible future, Ibom Air will be listed in the Stock Exchange Market for privatisation. He noted that in few years, when all the dots are connected, with the international conference center, ARISE Palm Resort, the Mary Slessor House, the Lord Lugard Amalgamation House, the Bridge of no return, the International Market and others comes alive, the State will be fully ready to receive the world. Governor Eno expressed appreciation to stakeholders in the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government, as well as the broader aviation community, noting that the milestone represents a shared accomplishment and a significant turning point in the state’s history.

Ahead of the 2027 governorship election, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has submitted his nomination form for the primaries of the All Progressives Congress ( APC) with a call on party faithful to support his aspiration. Speaking with Government House Correspondents at the Victor Attah International Airport upon his return from Abuja, where he submitted the form, the Governor said his aspiration is premised on the need to consolidate and further on the numerous ongoing projects in the State. He noted that the State, under his administration, has recorded several developmental milestones anchored on the ARISE Agenda, adding that some of the projects cannot be completed within the remaining part of the current administration. The Governor noted that as the visioner of the projects, it would be more beneficial to the State for the projects to be executed as envisioned by the visioner. “We will continue to pray, trust in God, and remain committed to serving our people. But you can see clearly that there is still so much work on ground. Many of the projects we have started will not be fully completed within this term. “That is why we are asking for another mandate to drive home these initiatives and consolidate on the progress already made for the benefit of our people,” he added. The Governor appreciated the citizenry for their unwavering support for him in the last three years, and expressed hope that such will be sustained in the remaining one year of the first term and in the second term.

Professor Christopher Nyong Ekong has been appointed Vice-Chancellor of the University of Uyo. An abridged profile made available to newsmen on Thursday indicates that Ekong, an indigene of Uyo Local Government Area, was born on October 25, 1967, during the Nigerian Civil War. The new Vice Chancellor studied Economics at the University of Cross River State, now University of Uyo, graduating in 1988, before earning a Master’s degree from the University of Port Harcourt. He joined the University of Uyo as an Assistant Lecturer in 1993 and later obtained a PhD in Economics in 2001 under the supervision of Akpan Hogan Ekpo. Within the university, Ekong rose through the ranks, serving as Head of Department of Economics, Director of International Programmes, and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences. He also delivered the university’s 73rd inaugural lecture, focusing on development challenges and policy solutions in Nigeria. Outside academia, Ekong built a strong profile through consultancy and development work, including engagements with the United Nations Development Programme and the Shell Petroleum Development Company. His public service career began in 2001 when he was appointed by Victor Attah into the Revenue Mobilization and Fiscal Commission. He later served as Commissioner for Youth and Sports, and Commissioner for Economic Development under former governor Godswill Akpabio, where he also acted as Chief Economic Adviser. During his time in government, he chaired several strategic committees and contributed to economic policy development in the state. A senior university official described the appointment as “well deserved,” noting that Ekong combines academic depth with administrative experience. “He understands the system and has the capacity to drive reforms,” the source said. With decades of experience spanning teaching, research, and governance, Ekong is expected to bring a pragmatic leadership style to the university.

Strong cost control and rising demand have pushed Lafarge Africa Plc to a Profit After Tax of N97.95 billion in the first quarter of 2026, a sharp 101 per cent increase from N48.64 billion recorded in the same period last year. The company also posted a 35 per cent jump in revenue, with net sales rising to N334.88 billion from N248.35 billion year-on-year. Details of the Q1 results show that operating profit grew by 97 per cent to N141 billion, reflecting improved efficiency across operations. Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, said the performance was driven by steady execution of the company’s plans. “Our Q1 2026 results reflect continued progress in executing our strategic priorities. Net Sales grew by 35 per cent year-on-year, supported by improved volumes, enhanced plant stability, and distribution efficiency,” he said. He added, “Operating Profit increased by 97 per cent to N141 billion, while Profit After Tax rose by 101 per cent to N98 billion, driven by supply assurance, disciplined cost management, and improved route-to-market.” Alade-Akinyemi said the growth was mainly driven by higher sales volume, cost discipline and prudent financial management. He noted that easing economic pressure and fewer global supply disruptions helped boost demand during the period. “We anticipate continued market expansion from Nigeria’s infrastructure and construction sector demand, underpinned by improving economic fundamentals and demand across key segments,” he said. The CEO said the company would continue to tap into the technical strength of its partner, Huaxin Building Materials Co., Ltd., to improve operations. He added that Lafarge Africa would maintain tight cost control and focus on key growth areas in its markets. “Our sustainability-led growth model continues to anchor our long-term value creation agenda, supported by effective execution of our strategic priorities and an unwavering commitment to operational excellence,” he said.

Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, in collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), have secured the freedom of 14 persons abducted by sea pirates along the Calabar–Oron waterways. The development was disclosed in a press release signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, and made available in Uyo on Wednesday, indicating that the victims were recovered unharmed following sustained security operations. According to the statement, the breakthrough came after intensified intelligence gathering and coordinated inter-agency efforts aimed at dismantling criminal activities along the maritime corridor. Police said operatives deployed targeted surveillance across identified flashpoints, mounting pressure on the suspected pirates and restricting their operational movement. “The operation followed sustained intelligence-driven efforts, robust inter-agency collaboration, and relentless pressure mounted on criminal elements operating within the maritime corridor,” the statement said. Authorities noted that the sustained crackdown weakened the kidnappers’ hold, forcing them to abandon their captives without inflicting harm. The Command confirmed that all 14 victims were rescued safely, with no casualties recorded during the operation. “The rescued victims are currently undergoing medical evaluation and treatment, alongside necessary debriefing, before being reunited with their families,” the statement added. Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the joint efforts of the Police and EFCC, describing the operation as a significant success in ongoing efforts to secure the waterways. “He noted that the success recorded underscores the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in addressing complex security challenges,” the statement said. The Command further disclosed that efforts are ongoing to track down and apprehend the perpetrators responsible for the abduction. Police assured that those behind the crime would be identified and brought to justice, reiterating their commitment to sustaining security across the waterways. Residents and maritime operators were urged to support security agencies with credible and timely information, as authorities warned criminal elements to desist or face decisive action.

The African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child has given Nigeria a 180-day deadline to outline concrete steps toward ending the abuse of children accused of witchcraft, following a landmark ruling that found the country in violation of its obligations under the African Charter. The decision, delivered in Communication No. 0017/Com/001/2021 and adopted at the Committee’s 46th Ordinary Session in December 2025, was released yesterday after a petition by Child Rights and Rehabilitation Network, Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa, and the Centre for Human Rights. The Committee found that Nigeria failed to protect vulnerable children from severe abuses linked to witchcraft accusations, including torture, abandonment, starvation, and in extreme cases, killings. According to findings presented before the panel, children as young as three years old were subjected to inhumane treatment, often at the hands of family members, community leaders, and religious actors who branded them as witches. The Committee ruled that such acts constitute grave violations of the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, stressing that cultural and religious beliefs cannot justify harm against minors. “We commend the Committee for its important work in addressing complex and deeply rooted violations affecting vulnerable children, including those subjected to harmful practices such as witchcraft accusations,” said Michael Gyan Nyarko. The ruling directs the Nigerian government to implement legal, social, and institutional safeguards to prevent further abuses and to ensure protection, rehabilitation, and reintegration of affected children. “I have been campaigning for the rights of these children since 2000, drawing attention to the federal government without being heard. This victory proves that witchcraft accusation is real, but witchcraft itself is not real,” said Sam Ikpe Itauma.

A renowned medical influencer, Chinonso Egemba, popularly known as Aproko Doctor, is set to headline a major malaria awareness campaign in Akwa Ibom State as part of activities marking the 2026 World Malaria Day. The awareness drive, tagged “Walk Against Malaria,” is being organised by Ibom Air to mobilise residents and promote preventive measures against the disease. The event, scheduled for Saturday April 25, 2026, will commence at Ibom Plaza in Uyo by 6:00 a.m., featuring public sensitisation, health education, and aerobic sessions. As part of the intervention, Ibom Air has also donated 50,000 doses of anti-malaria medications to the Akwa Ibom State Government to support ongoing efforts to curb the disease. The airline, through its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, FAMPact (Fight Against Malaria in Pregnant Women and Children Today), presented the drugs to the State Malaria Elimination Programme (SMEP) under the Ministry of Health in Uyo. The donation includes 30,000 doses of Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine, 10,000 doses of Lokmal DT, and 10,000 doses of Paracetamol DT, targeted at vulnerable groups, especially pregnant women and children under five. Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, Mr. George Uriesi, who led the management team during the presentation, said the initiative underscores the airline’s commitment to improving public health. Receiving the items, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, described the gesture as timely and critical to strengthening malaria control efforts in the state. Ibom Air said the intervention marks the third consecutive year it is supporting malaria prevention and treatment, reinforcing health as a key pillar of its corporate social responsibility. In a statement signed by Aniekan Essienette, Group Manager, Marketing and Communication, Ibom Airlines Ltd, the airline aligned its intervention with the 2026 World Malaria Day theme, “Driven to end malaria, Now we can, Now we must.” The statement stressed the need for collective action to tackle malaria, which remains one of Nigeria’s leading causes of death. Group Manager, Corporate Services at Ibom Air, Mrs. Imelda Aba, said the initiative reflects the airline’s responsibility beyond air transportation. “At Ibom Air, we believe that our responsibility extends beyond flying passengers to their destinations. Through FAMPact, we are investing directly in the health and well-being of our communities,” she said. Programme Manager of SMEP, Dr. Ukeme John, commended the airline’s sustained commitment, noting that the support would significantly boost interventions targeted at protecting vulnerable populations. “This donation comes at a critical time and will significantly support our efforts to protect pregnant women and children. We encourage all Akwa Ibom residents to turn out for the walk and join hands with us to end malaria,” he said.