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Idara Jerome, Uyo The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has confirmed the release of the Nigerian girls who were detained in Mauritius. In a statement issued on Monday by the Commission’s Head of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, NiDCOM Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, disclosed that the girls had been safely released in Nairobi and were already en route to Nigeria. She explained that the Commission had remained in close contact with the relevant Nigerian Embassy, which formally engaged the authorities involved to ensure accountability over the incident and prevent a similar occurrence in the future. While expressing relief over their release, Dabiri-Erewa also sympathised with the affected young women and expressed the hope that they would be willing to share details of their experiences upon arrival in Nigeria. According to her, their accounts would help guide any necessary follow-up actions and support that may be required. The NiDCOM boss reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to the welfare, safety and protection of Nigerians living or travelling abroad, stressing that the wellbeing of citizens in the diaspora remains a key priority of the Federal Government. She added that the Commission would continue working with Nigerian diplomatic missions and relevant authorities to safeguard the rights of Nigerians overseas, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at supporting citizens both at home and across the diaspora.

Idara Jerome, Uyo Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio (MMI) has commended Governor Umo Eno for approving the ₦31 billion Economic Empowerment Programme but cautioned that the initiative would only achieve its full economic and social potential if beneficiaries are selected strictly on merit, fairness and transparency. The foremost Ibibio socio-cultural organisation said ensuring that the right people benefit from the intervention would not only protect public confidence in the programme but also maximise its capacity to create jobs, strengthen small businesses, reduce poverty and stimulate sustainable grassroots economic growth across Akwa Ibom State. In a statement signed by its International Public Relations Officer, Akparawa Idongesit Ikono, and made available to our correspondent in Uyo on Tuesday, MMI described the programme as one of the largest grassroots economic empowerment initiatives in the state’s history and applauded the governor for making such a significant investment in the productive capacity of the people. The organisation particularly hailed the allocation of ₦1 billion to each of the state’s 31 local government areas, describing it as a bold demonstration of the administration’s commitment to inclusive development and shared prosperity. According to MMI, the programme’s focus on youths, women, traders, farmers, transport operators and small business owners reflects a clear understanding that sustainable economic growth is driven by empowering ordinary citizens who constitute the backbone of the state’s economy. It noted that the intervention, expected to benefit about 165,912 people, extends beyond financial support to include skills acquisition, starter packs, agricultural inputs, cooperative support, transport empowerment and enterprise development designed to build long-term economic resilience. While welcoming the inauguration of the implementation committee headed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, the organisation urged members to discharge their responsibilities with the highest standards of integrity and accountability. “We expect the implementation to be guided strictly by merit, fairness and equity, ensuring that genuine beneficiaries are identified through an open and verifiable process that is completely insulated from partisan politics, favouritism and undue influence,” the statement said. MMI stressed that directing the intervention to deserving beneficiaries would significantly increase its developmental impact by enabling recipients to expand businesses, improve productivity, create employment opportunities and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy. “With an estimated 165,912 beneficiaries, this far-reaching intervention has the potential to deepen entrepreneurship, stimulate local enterprise, enhance agricultural productivity, create sustainable employment and significantly reduce poverty across the state,” it added. The organisation also advised prospective beneficiaries to regard the grants and productive assets as investments for wealth creation rather than temporary financial relief. “The grants, productive assets and other forms of support should not be viewed as a share of the ‘national cake’ or an avenue for short-term consumption. Rather, they should be deployed prudently to build sustainable businesses, create employment, increase productivity and improve the socio-economic well-being of families and communities,” MMI stated. It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies that promote inclusive development, economic justice and social progress, expressing optimism that the programme would leave a lasting legacy if implemented transparently and insulated from undue influence. MMI further congratulated the state government on what it described as a landmark intervention and urged citizens, community leaders and relevant institutions to support the implementation process to ensure the programme achieves its intended objectives across all 31 local government areas.

Stephanie Peter, Uyo A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has urged the Commissioner of Police deployed for the August 15 governorship election, Mr. Samuel Etaifo, to ensure a peaceful and credible election. According to ARISE News, Oyintiloye made the appeal while speaking with journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, saying the police must remain neutral and ensure the protection of voters throughout the electoral process. “I want to appeal to the Commissioner of Police deployed for the election to ensure adequate protection of the electorate at all stages of the electoral process,” he said. Oyintiloye noted that the election was already generating tension, stressing that the police had a responsibility to protect voters and safeguard the integrity of the ballot before, during and after the exercise. “The protection of the electorate before, during and after the election should be the major priority of the police,” he said. He added that adequate security is critical to the conduct of a free, fair and credible election. “A credible election can only take place in a peaceful environment. That is why we are urging security agencies, particularly the police, to maintain a peaceful atmosphere,” he said.

Idara Jerome, Uyo Amid growing conversations about the role of the media in a democratic society, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has urged journalists to uphold professionalism, fairness and balance in their reportage, stressing that credibility remains the strongest currency of the journalism profession. The governor, who also acknowledged the difficult working conditions faced by many media practitioners, gave the charge during the thanksgiving service marking the first anniversary of the Comrade Nsibiet John-led Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, held at The Apostolic Church Nigeria (TACN), Ewet Offot Area Headquarters, Uyo. Represented by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, Eno recognised the sacrifices journalists make daily in gathering information, holding institutions accountable and keeping citizens informed, describing the media as an important pillar in the development of society. He noted that while journalists play a critical role in shaping public opinion and strengthening democracy, the profession comes with significant pressures, including demanding working conditions and the responsibility of reporting accurately in a rapidly changing information environment. “Journalists are important partners in governance, but that partnership must be built on truth, fairness and objectivity. The media must continue to provide constructive criticism while also giving room for accurate information about developments in society,” the governor said. He encouraged media practitioners to always present all sides of an issue before arriving at conclusions, stressing that balanced reporting remains essential to maintaining public trust. The governor’s call came at a time when the media industry continues to grapple with challenges ranging from economic pressures, changing technology, declining revenue models and the growing demand for speed in news delivery without compromising accuracy. Earlier, NUJ Akwa Ibom State Council Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John, used the occasion to reflect on the journey of his administration in the last one year, expressing gratitude to members for their support and cooperation. John said the council remained committed to improving the welfare of journalists, promoting unity among practitioners and strengthening professional standards within the industry. He attributed the progress recorded by the council to transparency, teamwork and the contributions of past leaders who laid the foundation for the growth of the union. In his sermon, the Area Superintendent of TACN Ewet Offot Area, Apostle Emmanuel Edoungo, urged leaders to see their positions as opportunities to serve humanity, noting that leadership requires humility, responsibility and dependence on God. The cleric recalled that the NUJ leadership had sought prayers before assuming office, describing the anniversary thanksgiving as a reflection of God’s faithfulness throughout the council’s first year. The event attracted journalists from various media organisations, former NUJ leaders, government representatives and other stakeholders who joined in celebrating the milestone. Goodwill messages were delivered by prominent personalities, including the National Chairman of NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdul; Engr. Etido Inyang; Elder Paul Bassey; Comrade Edet Okpo, PhD; and Senator Ekong Sampson, PhD. The anniversary ended with a special presentation by the church to Governor Eno in appreciation of his administration’s relationship with the media.

Idongesit Mishael, Uyo For thousands of young women in Northern Nigeria, the dream of economic independence remains challenged by a combination of low digital access, limited job opportunities and persistent wage inequality, a new study has revealed. The findings from the Jobberman Young Nigeria Works (YNW) Phase 2 Baseline Study (2026) showed that many women in the region are being left behind in the changing world of work, with limited access to internet-enabled devices and digital skills restricting their chances of securing better employment opportunities. According to the report, about 60 per cent of women in Northern Nigeria lack internet-enabled devices, creating a major barrier to participation in an increasingly digital labour market where online platforms, remote work opportunities and digital entrepreneurship are becoming critical pathways to employment. The study noted that while women across Nigeria contribute significantly to agriculture, trade, education, healthcare, retail and entrepreneurship, many remain concentrated in low-paying and insecure jobs with limited prospects for career advancement. For women in the North, the challenge is compounded by restricted access to professional networks, productive assets, finance and opportunities in high-growth sectors, leaving many dependent on informal employment and small-scale businesses for survival. The report stressed that employment figures alone do not reflect the true economic realities of women, as many who are considered employed still struggle with irregular income, poor working conditions and limited financial security. “The challenge is no longer whether women are working, but whether they have access to dignified, productive and rewarding employment,” the study stated. It revealed that across Nigeria, nearly two-thirds of women surveyed earn below the national minimum wage of ₦70,000, compared with about one-third of men, despite comparable educational qualifications. The report linked the earnings gap to structural challenges including occupational segregation, unequal access to career opportunities, unpaid caregiving responsibilities and barriers that prevent women from entering better-paying industries. In Northern Nigeria, the digital divide remains one of the strongest limitations to economic mobility. The study found that women who used online job platforms and digital tools during their employment search had better chances of accessing improved work opportunities. However, limited internet access, lack of digital devices and low digital literacy continue to prevent many women from benefiting from emerging employment opportunities in technology, creative industries and remote work. Beyond employment, the report identified entrepreneurship as an important pathway for women’s empowerment, noting that many women have turned to self-employment because formal job opportunities remain insufficient. It, however, warned that without improved access to finance, markets, business development support and digital tools, many women-owned businesses may remain small, informal and vulnerable to economic shocks. “Education remains necessary but is not sufficient to secure decent and well-paying employment,” the study noted, emphasising the need to remove structural barriers limiting women’s participation in the economy. To address these challenges, Jobberman’s Young Nigeria Works Programme is combining employability training, entrepreneurship support, digital literacy, career services and employer engagement to expand access to quality employment. With women expected to represent 70 per cent of the programme’s beneficiaries as part of its target to support 10 million young Nigerians by 2030, the initiative seeks to move women beyond mere participation in the labour market to securing decent work and sustainable livelihoods. The study concluded that improving women’s employment outcomes, particularly in underserved communities in Northern Nigeria, would not only strengthen household incomes but also contribute significantly to inclusive economic growth and national development.

Idara Jerome, Uyo The demand for an independent judicial inquiry into allegations involving the Director-General of the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council, Mr. Adeniyi Adeyemi, took centre stage on Monday as a civil society organisation, Vital Partners for Development (VipaD), warned that public confidence in the anti-corruption fight could be eroded if investigations are perceived as selective. The Uyo-based advocacy group said only a transparent and comprehensive judicial probe, backed by due process, would reassure Nigerians that justice is being pursued without political interference or preferential treatment. Addressing journalists in Uyo, the Executive Director of VipaD, Dr. Victor David, insisted that every individual linked to the allegations, including Adeyemi, should be subjected to the same investigative standards, stressing that the credibility of the process depends on openness and fairness. The organisation also urged the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to produce Adeyemi before the National Assembly investigative panel, saying the appearance of all relevant witnesses is critical to establishing the truth. According to Dr. David, the Constitution guarantees every Nigerian the right to fair hearing, while the National Assembly possesses the constitutional powers to summon persons whose evidence is required in the course of investigations. “No investigation can be regarded as complete, credible or impartial where a principal witness or key subject of inquiry is denied the opportunity to testify,” he said. The group argued that excluding any material witness from the investigative process could cast doubt on the outcome and weaken public trust in institutions charged with promoting accountability. “The Inspector-General of Police should produce Mr. Adeniyi Adeyemi before the National Assembly panel to give his testimony and respond to all issues raised during the investigation,” David stated. VipaD maintained that the outcome of any inquiry should be evidence-driven, noting that those found culpable should face prosecution regardless of political office, official position or social status, while individuals who make false or malicious allegations should equally be sanctioned in accordance with the law. “The fight against corruption cannot succeed where investigations are selective or perceived to shield certain individuals. Justice demands fairness to both the accuser and the accused,” the Executive Director declared. The organisation further appealed to the Presidency, National Assembly, Nigeria Police Force, anti-corruption agencies, the judiciary and civil society groups to ensure that constitutional procedures are strictly followed throughout the investigation. “Nigerians deserve the truth, and the truth can only emerge through an independent, transparent, comprehensive and constitutionally compliant investigation,” David added, urging all institutions involved to place justice above politics.

The Federal Government has directed Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) not to award contracts or enter into any financial commitments without first obtaining the required budgetary approval and cash backing. The directive, contained in a Federal Treasury Circular dated July 31, 2026, and made available to newsmen on Monday, was signed by the Accountant-General of the Federation, Dr. Shamseldeen Ogunjimi, and addressed to ministers, permanent secretaries, heads of extra-ministerial departments and agencies, accounting officers, and federal pay officers. Under the guidelines, no expenditure is to be incurred without the authority of a Warrant or Authority to Incur Expenditure (AIE). The circular also prohibits MDAs from issuing letters of award, signing contracts or entering into any financial commitments unless the corresponding Warrant or AIE covering the contract value has been released by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy to the Accountant-General of the Federation. “No expenditure shall be incurred except on the authority of a Warrant/AIE (including employee payables). Accordingly, no MDA shall issue letters of award, sign contracts, or enter into any financial obligations unless the corresponding Warrant/AIE covering the full or committed portion of the contract sum has been duly released by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy to the Accountant-General of the Federation,” it stated. The circular further directed MDAs to attach copies of Warrants or AIEs generated through the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) as evidence of fund availability before contracts are awarded or payments processed. It also stated that financial commitments, including purchase invoices and employee payables, must not exceed available warrant balances. In addition, the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) was also instructed to process only requests for “No Objection” certificates supported by valid Warrants or AIEs. According to the circular, the operational guidelines were introduced to strengthen the implementation of the Federal Government’s revised cash management policy following observed violations of the Public Procurement Act, 2007, and other financial regulations. “Further to the Treasury Circular… captioned ‘Revised Policy on Cash Management and Bottom-Up Cash Plan Operational Guidelines,’ it has become necessary to strengthen and deepen the implementation of the policy sequel to the observed non-compliance with the Public Procurement Act, 2007, and other extant laws and regulations,” the circular stated. The circular also reminded accounting officers that awarding or signing contracts without budgetary provision, approval and cash backing constitutes an offence under the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) Act 2000. “Accounting Officers are invited to note that it is an offence under the ICPC Act 2000 to award or sign any contract without budgetary provision, approval and cash backing,” it added. The circular urged accounting officers, directors of finance, internal auditors and other relevant officials to ensure full compliance with the guidelines to strengthen fiscal discipline and improving budget implementation.

Idara Jerome Chairman of the maiden Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Leadership Summit, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke has urged media leaders to shun the pursuit of personal glory and instead build institutions and future leaders, declaring that the true measure of leadership is not the fame it attracts but the generations it inspires. Addressing journalists and union leaders at the NUJ Press Centre, Uyo, during the summit marking the first anniversary of the administration of Akwa Ibom State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John, Luke said enduring leadership is rooted in values, empathy, integrity and sound judgment, not popularity or public applause. “Don’t be in a race to build a name. Work as if you’re building a generation. Today, there are places leaders built that are celebrated not because of their names are on buildings, but because of how they worked and how they made other people feel,” Luke said. He urged journalists to cultivate emotional intelligence and resist making decisions driven by emotion, ego, social pressure or resistance to change, stressing that effective leadership requires careful analysis, facts and principled judgment.

The family of Nigeria’s first military Head of State, Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, has called on the Federal Government to issue a formal apology, pay compensation and pursue reconciliation over his assassination during the July 1966 counter-coup. Punch reports that the call was made by Imo Aguiyi-Ironsi, a nephew of the late military leader and head of the Aguiyi-Ironsi family, during an interview on Arise News on Thursday. “I think the family needs an apology. The family needs to be compensated. We need a sincere apology. We need sincere reconciliation,” he said. Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi became Nigeria’s first military Head of State on January 16, 1966, following the January 15 military coup that claimed the lives of several political leaders. He survived the coup and moved to restore order before assuming leadership. During his administration, he introduced Decree No. 34, which sought to replace Nigeria’s federal structure with a unitary system, a move that drew criticism and heightened political tensions. On July 29, 1966, Aguiyi-Ironsi was assassinated alongside his host, Lieutenant Colonel Adekunle Fajuyi, during the counter-coup carried out by northern soldiers, bringing his brief administration to an end. Speaking on his uncle’s legacy, Imo described Aguiyi-Ironsi as “a man of vision,” “a detribalised Nigerian” and “a good leader.” He said his uncle’s six-month tenure as Head of State ended not because of any wrongdoing on his part, but because he was not involved in the January 1966 coup. “He occupied the seat of Head of State for only six months, and he was taken away from us. “Not because of a sin committed, because he wasn’t part of the January 1966 coup,” he said. Imo maintained that Aguiyi-Ironsi’s death was the result of his position as the country’s most senior military officer rather than any wrongdoing on his part. “Only because of his position as the most senior military officer, he was told to take charge. And then that cost him his life. “Well, I hope there are people who are in positions to make this happen that are listening tonight,” he said. The family’s appeal comes nearly six decades after Aguiyi-Ironsi’s assassination as they continue to seek an official apology, compensation and reconciliation over what they describe as a long-standing historical injustice.

Idara Jerome, Uyo Concerned by the growing rejection of Nigerian agricultural produce in international markets, the Federal Government on Tuesday unveiled a fresh strategy aimed at helping farmers and exporters meet global standards and earn more from non-oil exports. To drive the initiative, the government inaugurated an Inter-ministerial Committee on the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS), saying the move would strengthen the country’s biosecurity system, improve the quality of agricultural exports and open wider access to regional and global markets. Representing the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, Permanent Secretary Dr Deborah Odoh said, “Nigeria can no longer afford the losses associated with the rejection of agricultural exports due to non-compliance with international standards.” Comptroller-General of NAQS, Dr Vincent Isegbe, said Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential can only be fully harnessed if institutions responsible for agriculture, trade, customs, transport, research and border security work in synergy. He noted that a stronger quarantine system would reduce export rejections, boost foreign exchange earnings and create greater opportunities for farmers, exporters and agribusinesses. “Strengthening the nation’s agricultural quarantine system will reduce the rejection of Nigerian agricultural exports, improve foreign exchange earnings and enhance Nigeria’s reputation as a reliable exporter of safe agricultural products,” he said. The committee, comprising representatives of key ministries, regulatory agencies, farmers’ associations and research institutions, is expected to recommend measures to strengthen the operational capacity of NAQS, improve laboratory and inspection facilities, develop sustainable funding mechanisms and ensure compliance with international sanitary and phytosanitary standards.