A university in the United Kingdom, Teesside University, has sent some Nigerian students packing following their inability to pay tuition fees, as a result of forex shortages.
The university has ordered the affected students to discontinue their studies and leave the UK.
The students were blocked from their studies and reported to the Home Office after the value of Nigeria’s naira plummeted, wiping out their savings.
According to report monitored on the British Broadcasting Corporation, BBC, some of the students said they felt suicidal as they accused the university of taking a “heartless” approach to those who fell into arrears as a result.
A university spokesman said failure to pay was a breach of visa sponsorship requirements, and that it had “no choice” but to alert the Home Office. The Home Office said visa sponsorship decisions rested with the institution.
Nigeria is currently experiencing serious economic crisis, which is having a significant impact on Nigerian students at some UK universities.
Average inflation is almost 34%, and the situation deteriorated due to some policies introduced by the government.
Before beginning their studies at Teesside, affected students were told they had to show proof of having enough funds to pay tuition fees and living expenses.
However, those funds were significantly depleted because of the crisis in their home country.
A group of students, some of whom shared their names with the BBC, began pressing the university for support after several people who defaulted on payments were frozen out of university accounts and involuntarily withdrawn from their courses.
Some were reportedly also contacted by debt collection agencies contracted by the university.
Adenike Ibrahim was close to handing in her dissertation at the end of two years of study when she missed one payment and was then kicked off her course and reported to the Home Office.
She subsequently paid the outstanding fees but said she had not been re-enrolled and was told she must leave the country, along with her young son.
“I did default [on payments], but I’d already paid 90% of my tuition fees and I went to all of my classes,” she said.
“I called them and asked to reach an agreement, but they do not care what happens to their students.”
She said the experience was “horrendous” and she did not know what was happening with her qualification.
“It has been heartbreaking for my son especially, he has been in so much distress since I told him,” Ms Ibrahim added.
No right of appeal
The Home Office told students, including Ms Ibrahim, that their permission to enter the UK had been cancelled because they stopped studying at the university.
The letters, seen by the BBC, offer a date by which the student must leave the country and say they do not have a “right of appeal or administrative review against the decision”.
Since receiving his letter, one master’s degree student – who did not want to be named – said he had seriously considered suicide and was not eating or drinking.
The university said it had made “every effort” to support affected students, who had now been offered individual meetings with specialist staff and bespoke payment plans where requested.
Esther Obigwe said she repeatedly tried to speak to the university about her financial struggles but received no response, until she too was blocked from her studies and received notice to leave the country.
“I attended all of my classes and seminars, I’m a hell of an active student,” she said.
“It is disheartening, I am now on antidepressants and being here alone, I have nobody to talk to.
“For over two months, I’ve barely eaten or slept, and I don’t understand why this is being meted at us, we didn’t do anything wrong.”
She added that most of the students had “spent a lot of money to be here”.
Jude Salubi, who was studying to be a social worker, was midway through a placement when he was told his access to the university was suspended and he would have to leave the country.
Prior to that, he travelled from Teesside to Liverpool each weekend to work 18 hours to pay off the outstanding fees.
“As of now I have paid £14,000 and have a balance of £14,000,” he said.
“I am willing to come to an agreement as to how I will make this payment, but I need guarantees that I will be re enrolled into school and my visa restored.”
A university spokesman said: “Teesside University is proud to be a global institution with a diverse student population but is also very aware of its obligations regarding visa issuance and compliance.
“These strict external regulations ensure that the university fully supports a robust immigration system and is outside of the university’s control.”
The spokesman added it was “aware of the challenging financial situation faced by some students” and had “actively offered bespoke payment plans where requested”.
“This option has been taken up by many of our international students; however, some students have still defaulted on these revised payment plans,” he said.
The Home Office said a decision to offer or withdraw visa sponsorship rested with the sponsoring institution.
A spokesman said wherever a visa was shortened or cancelled, individuals should “take steps to regularise their stay or make arrangements to leave the UK”.
THE President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio is the Publisher of the 98- page 10th Senate Magazine that has been launched to bridge the gap between it and the citizenry.
The Chairman Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs and the Editor-in-Chief of the Magazine, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, APC, Ekiti South made the public presentation of the magazine titled “10th Senate Magazine” during plenary.
Adaramodu said, “We gather here to witness a groundbreaking moment in the history of Nigeria, a moment that marks the birth of a new era of communication between the Senate and the citizenry.
“For the first time in the annals of our great nation, the Senate has bestowed upon us the 10th Senate Magazine.
“It is a platform that will bridge the gap between the Senate and the people it serves. This visionary initiative of the leadership of the 10th Senate is deliberately intended to foster transparency, understanding and engagement, as we strive to build a stronger and more inclusive democracy.”
The Senate Spokesperson who noted that the Senate stood as the upper chamber of the National Assembly, representing the interests of the diverse Nigerian populace, said, “It is here, in the hallowed halls of legislation, that the voices of the people find resonance and their concerns are addressed through thoughtful deliberations and legislation.”
Adaramodu who explained that the magazine, the senate’s beacon of progress, was an embodiment of the senate’s commitment to open dialogue and effective communication with Nigerian people within and outside, said, “within its pages, you will find a tapestry of stories, insights, and ideas that reflect the rich chronicle of our nation.
“It will serve as a platform for the senate to share its legislative achievements, initiatives and aspirations, while also providing a voice to the diverse voices of our citizenry.
“As we embark on this journey together, let us embrace the power of knowledge and dialogue. Let us seize this opportunity to strengthen the bond between the senate and the people, as we work hand in hand towards a brighter future for our beloved nation.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the President of the Senate who himself is the Publisher, distinguished senators and the editorial team who have contributed to the birth of the 10th Senate Magazine.
“Your dedication and commitment have brought us to this momentous occasion, and we stand united in our pursuit of a more informed and engaged society.
“Together, let us build bridges, foster understanding and create a legacy of progress that will resonate for generations to come.”
Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide has finally revealed the secret behind his church's exceptional success.
He spoke during a recent church service.
According to Bishop Oyedepo, the prosperity witnessed by his church is as a result of its longstanding commitment to humanitarian works.
With a congregation numbering over 20 million worldwide, the Living Faith Church has emerged as one of Nigeria’s largest Christian congregations.
Bishop Oyedepo emphasized that the ethos of giving freely has been pivotal to the church’s growth and widespread acceptance.
See reactions and video below:
@vivian__idu said; “Reality that the world don’t want to know about this church.”
@empresspowei said; “We don’t announce it… Grace keeps showing.”
@antonyx001 said; “What will you say about the Catholic Church. The whole Winners does not even give up to half of what the Catholic church in Germany gives yearly. Let me just keep mute.”
@lobajewelries said; “Have a heart of giving.”
@tommy_standard said; “I nor see those wen dey criticise churches for dis comment oo, as una nor like beta tin so.”
@steve_chuks__ said; “See as the comment small … people don’t like positivity for real.”
@doctor_gospel said; “Some ignorant folks who will never say anything good about the body of Christ won’t see this and spread it to their fellow unbelievers.”
@arcartist_simeon said; “This kain news no dey go far, but if it’s to bash pastors or church. Everywhere go full. Very ignorant generation.”
If one has the power to challenge fate, many people would have asked why they are treated very unfairly. But Henry Miller would say: Destiny is what you are supposed to do in life. Fate is what kicks you in the ass to make you do it. So we can’t challenge fate.
Mrs. Nkechi Clement Ugo, a native of Oshigbe Community in Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, would have been one of those to challenge fate if the opportunity had provided that. Fate has indeed kicked her in the ass with the precarious situation she finds herself in.
A blind widow with six children, who lost her husband some years ago, struggling to take care of her five bind children, has been very difficult, especially with the present economic situation of the country.
At the Ebonyi Remand Home located at Mile 50 in Abakaliki, where she and her blind children are currently taking refuge, Nkechi said out of her six children, five are blind like her.
The eldest of her children is 13 while the youngest is 5 years old. She explained that her first child is in the School for the Blind at Opefia in Ezzi Local Government Area of the state.
According to Mrs. Ugo, her ordeal started at a tender age when she woke up one morning to discover that she could not see any longer and all efforts made by her father to enable her regain her sight proved abortive.
“My world came to an end when l lost both parents to the cold hands of death”, she lamented.
However, according to her, succour came her way when a man approached her for marriage despite her condition. But as if she was created for ill luck, her life was further stretched when she lost her husband years ago leaving her and her blind children in a world full of loneliness, suffering, and an uncertain future.
She said that life has been unbearable as her condition makes it difficult for her to engage in any meaningful activity to earn a living. “As you can see, l am blind and all my children except one, are blind. My first blind daughter is currently in the School for the Blind at Opefia through the help of good-spirited individuals. The only one who is free from blindness cannot go to school regularly because she is our eyes and legs as of now, so anytime she is not around, we would be crippled until she comes back”, she narrated.
Mrs. Ugo lamented her inability to train her children in school and recalled how she had the ambition of raising world-class men and women who would contribute to the development of the larger society and wished she could have her children regain their sights.
Mrs. Nwifuru to the rescue
But all hopes seem not lost for the family as the wife of the Ebonyi State Governor, Mrs. Mary-Maudlin Nwifuru has located her and commenced the construction of an ultra-modern bungalow for the blind woman and her children as well as donation of food items, clothing, and cash gifts to cushion the effect of the present economic hardship on the blind woman and her children.
Mrs. Nwifuru got information on the pathetic circumstances of the blind family during her tour of the 13 Local Government Areas of the state for the inauguration of her pet project, “Better Health For Rural Women, Children, And Internally Displaced Foundation”, BERWO.
Touched by the plight of the family, the Governor’s wife who couldn’t hold back tears after seeing and hearing from the blind woman, pledged to take care of the family. She promised that a greater part of her life would be committed to humanitarian services, adding that her foundation would always be at the forefront of the activities geared towards the well-being of the downtrodden in society.
She disclosed that her foundation has enrolled over 4,750 pregnant women across the state into the Ebonyi State Health Insurance Scheme aimed at ensuring safe delivery and adequate health care for the women among other projects.
Responding, Mrs. Ugo thanked the governor’s wife and also appealed to other good-spirited individuals who could come to her aid to further assist her blind children go to school and have quality education like their peers and earn a living without having to depend on people through street begging. “I can’t question God for what He has made me and these children be; we are His creatures and we are grateful to Him”, she said.
…Ministers to present performance reports
…Akume, Bagudu, Idris defend administration’s policies
In what appears as an afterthought, President Bola Tinubu has cancelled an elaborate celebration outlined to user in his first year in office and opted for a low-keyed outing, instead.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, announced the development at a media briefing attended by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris and the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmud.
Notwithstanding the hardship in the country, Akume boasted that the administration of Tinubu has remained calm and unwavering in rendering quality service to Nigerians through exemplary leadership.
The top politician said, “Let me begin by admitting that the first year in Office of Mr. President has been a testament of sorts and goes to show the unwavering commitment and resilience of this Administration towards serving the Nigerian people with diligence, integrity and dedication. Despite the daunting challenges from all angles, President Tinubu has maintained his calm and demonstrated exemplary leadership qualities, thereby guiding our nation with vision and foresight.
“From the outset, President Tinubu’s Administration set forth an ambitious agenda focused on economic revitalization, social inclusion, and infrastructural development. Government has implemented significant economic reforms aimed at stabilizing our economy and fostering sustainable growth. Key among these is the introduction of policies that have attracted foreign investments, reduced inflation, and boosted job creation across various sectors.
“Mr. President’s commitment to enhancing our nation’s infrastructure is also evident in the completion and ongoing execution of numerous projects, notable among which are the extensive road networks, improved rail systems, and the modernization of our ports, which are vital for boosting trade and connectivity.
“In the same vein, recognizing the importance of human capital development, the present Administration has made substantial investments in healthcare and education. The launch of new healthcare facilities and the upgrade of existing ones, along with reforms in our educational system, underscores Government’s dedication to the wellbeing and future of our citizens.
“More importantly, ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians remains a top priority of Government. It has therefore strengthened our security apparatus, enhanced intelligence gathering, and fostered greater collaboration among security agencies to address the multifaceted challenges of security across the country.
“This Administration has also rolled out several social intervention programs aimed at alleviating poverty and empowering the vulnerable segments of our society. These initiatives have provided financial assistance, skill acquisition opportunities, and improved access to essential services.
“I make bold to say that, Nigeria, under its present stewardship, have witnessed significant policy strides in various sectors including but not limited to: The Presidential accent to the 2023 Electricity Bill, a move that dismantled monopolistic control over electricity generation, transmission and distribution at the national level and granted authority to State Governments, Corporations and individuals to generate, distribute and transmit electricity, thus decentralizing the power sector;
accent to the passage into law of the Nigeria Data Protection Bill 2023 that established a legal framework for safeguarding personal information and promoting data protection practices in Nigeria; and
the challenging but very necessary removal of fuel subsidy, a longstanding policy notorious for fostering corruption, inefficiency and imposing significant fiscal strain on the government annually, and primarily benefiting the affluent and smugglers, rather than effectively aiding the general populace.
“It is apt to say, that under President Tinubu’s stewardship within his first year in office, we have witnessed significant strides in various sectors of our economy. Through prudent fiscal policies and strategic investments, the Nigerian economy has shown resilience and potential for growth. The administration’s focus on infrastructure development, job creation and economic diversification has laid the foundation for sustainable progress and prosperity for all Nigerians.
“Furthermore, government’s commitment to good governance and the rule of law has strengthened our democratic institutions and enhanced transparency and accountability in governance. His unwavering resolve to combat corruption and promote ethical leadership has earned the admiration and support of the Nigerian people.
Akume however called on all Nigerians to join hands with the administration to build a stronger and more prosperous nation as the country moves into the second year of the administration.
Answering a reporter’s question, the Budget and Economic Planning Minister, Atiku Bagudu, defended the various harsh economic and financial policies so far applied by the government, arguing that they were necessary to elicit direct foreign investments and propel growth.
The minister argued that if those measures has been taken long ago, Nigerian would have been better off economically and financially and praised Tinubu for taking firm decisions to move the country forward.
Super Eagles coach Finidi George has emphasized his unwavering commitment to victory, regardless of tactical formations.
Finidi, who was appointed coach of the three-time African champions on April 19, was unveiled on Monday, May 13, by NFF President Ibrahim Gusau and Sports Minister Sen. John Owan Enoh at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
The 53-year-old, who is currently on a media tour, made this known in an interview on Brilla FM on Tuesday.
His words: “My philosophy is to win. For me, formation is not that important, because if players interpret when to attack and when to defend and do it well, there won’t be problems.
“You can play 2-5-2 or 4-4-2, but if the players know they have to attack or defend, the team won’t have problems. That is what Manchester City, Arsenal, and every other team do, but the difference is when players recognise this moment.”
In another interview, Finidi, who was a guest on Arise TV on Wednesday, addressed issues surrounding his contract as Super Eagles head coach.
Finidi stated that regardless of the number of years on his contract, performances on the pitch will determine whether he stays longer as coach, adding that the NFF is not being disrespectful with the terms of his contract.
His words: “It’s not a one-year deal,” he clarified. “It is based on how well we perform. Even if you have given me a five-year deal and I don’t perform, definitely, I will leave before that five years… My focus is on adding value, winning games, and playing attractive football. If I achieve that, the contract length becomes secondary. But currently, it’s a two-year performance-based deal.
“Personally, I don’t think so, even Peseiro who came was given a target; Nigeria has gotten to a level that you can’t bring a coach and say, let him stay for four or five years hoping he will turn things around.”
The Super Eagles will host South Africa in their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying fixture at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, June 7th.
The three-time African champions will travel to face Benin at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan three days later.
As Nigerians and other nationals continue to relocate in search of greener pastures, the United States stands as the most desirable destination with the five best cities revealed to live in.
According to the US News and World Report, five best cities for Americans and immigrants to travel to for business, visit, vacation or relocation are most desirable for their qualities.
These cities are ranked the best places to live because of the abounding opportunities of life.
1. Naples, Florida
This is the number one on the chart of best places to live in the US boasting of all desired qualities of life. It is a resort city, which also offers ample job opportunities.
Naples provides a rich and stable economy and financial stability for residents and tourists who relocate or visit for business. It has beautiful beaches, renowned schools and colleges, and reliable healthcare system that make it the most desirable desirable city.
Naples — with an ultra-low unemployment rate of just 2.9% as of April, well under the overall US. rate of 3.9% — also offers relatively high salaries and boasts one of the strongest job markets in the North American country.
A report said top local industries in terms of job prospects include tourism and health care.
U.S. News’ analysis ranks 150 larger U.S. cities based on criteria including the health of the local job market, affordability of housing, value, quality of life and overall desirability. The rankings are designed to help Americans make informed decisions about where to reside based on their priorities, according to the media outlet.
2. Boise, Idaho
Boise, Idaho is the second best city in the US for quality life for American people and the immigrants, as well for tourists.
Boise is the cultural center and home to many small businesses alongside a number of high-rise buildings. The area has a variety of shops, bars, and restaurants.
The city is widely known as the headquarters for several major companies, such as Boise Cascade LLC, Albertsons, J.R. Simplot Company, Lamb Weston, Idaho Pacific Lumber Company, Idaho Timber, WinCo Foods, Bodybuilding.com, and Clearwater Analytics.
It has major manufacturing facilities present and the state government is one of the city’s largest employers.
3. Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs is the third best city in the US, with its rich cooler, dry-winter semi-arid climate.
The city has its location just east of the Rocky Mountains which affords it the rapid warming influence from chinook winds during winter but also subjects it to drastic day-to-day variability in weather conditions.
Colorado Springs’s economy is driven basically by the military, the high-tech industry, and tourism, in that order. The city is experiencing growth in the service sectors as well. It is the city with one of lowest unemployment rates in the US.
It is a desirable city for Americans and tourists to live and work as it has more than 55 attractions and activities in the area, including Garden of the Gods park, United States Air Force Academy, the ANA Money Museum, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College, Old Colorado City, The National Museum of World War II Aviation, and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center.
4. Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville is the fourth best city in the US with abundant life for the residents including education, sports, employment, arts, and all-round developments present in almost all sectors.
The city has more than 60% of residents owning a home, spurring development which has resulted in many new condominiums and apartment complexes. It also has numerous large companies located within the city, such as Michelin, Prisma Health, Bon Secours, and Duke Energy. Greenville County Schools is another large employer and is the largest school district in South Carolina.
Greenville’s economy was formerly based largely on textile manufacturing, and the city was long known as “The Textile Capital of the World”but in the last few decades, favourable wages and tax benefits have lured foreign companies to invest heavily in the area.
5. Charlotte, North Carolina
The fifth best city in the US is Charlotte, boasting as a commercial hub in North Carolina. Its modern city center (Uptown) is home to the Levine Museum of the New South, which explores post–Civil War history in the South, and hands-on science displays at Discovery Place.
Charlotte is home to the corporate headquarters of Bank of America, Truist Financial, and the East Coast headquarters of Wells Fargo, which along with other financial institutions has made it the second-largest banking center in the US..
Other beautiful qualities of Charlotte are parks including Bryant Park established in the 1930s becoming one of the earliest small-scale public parks in Charlotte. It is the only green space remaining in West Morehead Street’s industrial sector.
Infrastructural facilities, transportation, sports, as well resort centers that add value to the lives of the people are present in Charlotte for Amricans and immigrants to enjoy.
Nollywood actor, Lateef Adedimeji has recounted some of the amounts he got paid in the past despite playing lead roles in movies.
The ‘Ayinla’ star recalled that he was receiving as low as N4,000 for a lead role in 2014.
According to him, he only started getting paid N100,000 to N200,000 for a role in 2015
He disclosed this on the latest episode of the ‘Deep Dive’ podcast hosted by comedian, Teju Babyface.
Adedimeji said, “If I tell people that I wasn’t collecting N100,000, N200,000 until 2015/16, a lot of people would not believe me.
“Before then, the highest I collected for a lead role was either N4,000, N5,000, or N10,000. I was paid that low back in 2014 because it was more like a learning process.”
Lateef Adedimeji is known for his work in the Yoruba and English-language sectors of Nollywood, Nigeria’s film industry.
He has gained widespread recognition for his versatile acting skills and his ability to portray a wide range of characters with depth and authenticity.
The Police said on Wednesday that divers were battling to recover the body of a 30-year-old man who allegedly drowned at the Elegushi Beach, Lagos, where he had gone for prayers.
The Lagos Police Command spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, told the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos.
He said that a report to the police indicated that the man, simply identified as Samuel, had gone to pray at the beach with his friends.
Hundeyin said that the case was reported to the Ilasan Police Division at about 7.20 a.m. on Tuesday by a man whose name was not mentioned.
Hundeyin said that the man’s report revealed that on Tuesday, at midnight, he and three of his friends left Igbesan in Ogun to Elegushi Beach, Lekki for prayers.
The image maker said that the report stated that during the prayer session, at about 4.00 a.m., one of the friends, named Samuel, 30, allegedly drowned.
“The scene was promptly visited by detectives of the division and effort is in progress by divers to recover the corpse.
“The family members of the deceased have been contacted and the investigation is ongoing,” he said.
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has singled out President Bola Tinubu and his policies as the cause of the deteriorating standard of living, inflation and unemployment in Nigeria.
According to the forum, if these issues are not addressed, Nigeria might witness social chaos, particularly in the northern region.
The ACF made the remarks after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Kaduna on Tuesday.
ACF noted that times continued to be tough and challenging for average citizens whom it said were daily confronted with crisis of inflation, unemployment, rapid deterioration in standard of living coupled with incidents of insurgency, terrorism and banditry.
In a communique issued and signed by the National Spokesman of the Forum, Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba, it lamented that the problems had remained dire, acute and chronic in some places, especially in the North.
The Northern mouthpiece largely blamed the economic hardship on fuel subsidy removal, introduction of taxes and levies by the federal government, saying that these policies were responsible for rapid decline in living conditions of citizens.
The communique read, “With grave concern, NEC decries the continuing deterioration or escalation in the spate of insecurity-related incidents in all three geopolitical zones under which the northern states are grouped.
“These problems reflect on the region’s cascading political, social, economic challenges. NEC reiterates ACF’s earlier expressed position that the emergent protracted dimension of these problems, if untamed, are harbingers of citizens’ discontent, social chaos.
“Equally worrisome is the widening regional disparities in social demographic factors, such as access to education, health public, infrastructure, economic inclusion, political participation, living conditions, etc. Governments must move to curb such disparities so as to ensure that Nigeria does not become two-states-in-one. Factors that unify rather than divide citizens along any lines should attract the attention of all concerned, government and citizens alike.
“As it has severally reiterated in recent public outings, ACF calls for urgent action and definitive attention, by government at all levels, to confront rapid decline in living conditions of citizens. The addition of new taxes and levies is becoming increasingly burdensome, too heavy to bear for ordinary Nigerians. The need for a roll out of public policy programmes and projects aimed at addressing low purchasing power challenges is clearly indicated.
“On the national front and specifically applicable to the Northern states, NEC notes that the times continue to be tough and challenging for the average citizen who is daily confronted with runaway inflation, unemployment, rapid deterioration in standards of living in the face of incidents of insurgency, terrorism and banditry problems that have remained dire, acute (or even chronic in some places in the North in particular.
“The immediate causes of the problems have been policies put in place by government over the past months, including but not confined to removal of subsidies from the prices of petroleum products, floating of the Naira, and astronomical hike in the cost of poorly supplied electricity, increasing tariffs and taxes against the seemingly insensitive profligacy in spendings by public officials, to list a few.
“ACF acknowledges the federal, state and, to a little extent, local governments have been making efforts to tackle the problems identified above. However, overall, it is undeniable, perhaps due to the quantum and widening dimension of the problems, that public policy response to the problems remains weak and ineffective at best.
“ACF calls on citizens to rally around government and offer prayers for God Almighty’s intervention in our various tribulations such as will translate into a new, prosperous Nigeria where justice, equity, love, righteousness and hope emerge to replace the current despair and hopelessness.
“To inspire the spirit of needed sacrifices by citizens, ACF calls on public functionaries to shun profligacy and recklessness in spending of public funds.
“As always, ACF unequivocally supports Nigeria’s security agents in their determined efforts to rid the country of criminality, insecurity and instability and pray that they very soon enough prevail over insurgents, terrorists and bandits. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.
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The Federal Government says it has initiated a comprehensive review of the basic education curriculum, to ensure it aligns with the evolving needs of the country and global standards.
The Minister State for Education, Dr Yusuf Sununu announced this during the opening of a five-day workshop on the review of syllabus of technical examination in Abuja on Wednesday.
He said that the strategic move was aimed at enhancing the quality of education, fostering critical thinking, and equipping students with the necessary skills to thrive in a dynamic world.
The minister emphasised the importance of a robust educational foundation, while highlighting that the current curriculum required updates to meet contemporary educational demands and aspirations of the nation.
“The world is changing rapidly and our education system must keep pace with the changes.
“We need a curriculum that not only imparts knowledge but also develops the critical thinking and problem-solving skills of our young learners.
“This review will involve key stakeholders, including educators, parents, and industry experts, to ensure a holistic approach to curriculum development,” he said.
Sununu said that the review process would encompass various aspects of the curriculum, including content, teaching methodologies and assessment strategies.
He said it would also integrate modern technology and innovative practices, to create an engaging and effective learning environment for students.
The minister urged stakeholders to actively participate in the review process, noting that public consultations and forums would be organised to gather input and recommendations from diverse groups.
He said this would ensure that the revised curriculum reflects the needs and aspirations of the Nigerian society.
“The Federal Government remains committed to improving the quality of education at all levels, and believes that this curriculum review is a critical step towards achieving that goal.
‘By equipping students with relevant skills and knowledge, the government aims to build a brighter future for the next generation and contribute to the nation’s overall development,” he said.
Sununu highlighted the necessity of data-driven approaches to tackle challenges such as tracking school enrollment and teachers allocation.
He reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s and the Ministry’s commitment to prioritising education as the cornerstone of Nigeria’s development agenda.
He, therefore, expressed gratitude to stakeholders for their dedication and called for continued collaboration.
Also speaking, Prof. Ifeoma Abanehe, Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, National Business for Technical Examination Board (NABTEB), announced the commencement of a comprehensive review of technical college syllabus.
She said the initiative undertaken by various stakeholders, aimed to modernise the curriculum to meet the current demands of society and enhance technological development in the country.
According to her, the revamping process which will begin immediately will include updating the National Business Certificate and National Technical Certificate.
She underscored the significance of adapting to contemporary requirements, assuring that the changes would take effect immediately, with plans for implementation and distribution immediately after the five-day review period.
The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has explained their constant interactions with, and regulations for, financial technology companies, fintechs.
The CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, gave the explanation yesterday in Abuja while announcing the new interest rate.
Citing the need to rein in inflation and achieve price stability, the CBN raised its benchmark interest rate, the Monetary Policy Rate, MPR, by 150 basis points to 26.25 percent from 24.75 percent. It is the third raise less than three months.
However, the CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, added that there was no magic wand to tackling the inflationary challenges.
But he expressed optimism that the various tools deployed by the bank to tame inflation and create a stable foreign exchange market would yield the needed results in the coming months.
These were announced yesterday, Tuesday, during the press briefing of the 295th monetary policy committee (MPC) meeting in Abuja.
Inflation had sustained upswing for over 13 months hitting 33.69 percent Year-on- Year, YoY, fueled by food inflation.
Fintechs…
On Fintech companies, the CBN Governor explained that the move to tighten regulations around their operations.
He noted that it was not aimed at putting them out of business but to ensure that the Nigerian public obtains the maximum benefit from the sector.
“The Fintechs have definitely not been singled out for any exceptional kind of treatment.
“On the contrary we are very proud of what the Fintechs, over the years, have been able to do for the country and the positive impact it has been having not just in the country but worldwide.
“It is for us to support them and help them to strengthen what they have been able to accomplish,” he stated.
However, he noted, the CBN was concerned about illicit flows and money laundering through the sector.
He said these crimes created the need for heightened surveillance of the sector.
Cardoso stated that despite the increase in regulatory guidelines, no Fintech organization has had its licence revoked by the CBN.
“We have had conversations with a number of them. And we have explained the need for them take another look at what they are doing and the need to strengthen them,” Cardoso, the CBN boss explained.
Nollywood actor Yul Edochie has stirred controversy after revealing why he didn’t attend a burial ceremony.
This is coming a few days after his late colleague Junior Pope was laid to rest in Enugu State on Friday.
According to Yul Edochie, due to betrayal, he chose to stay away as he promised to provide details on the matter.
He wrote, “I didn’t want to say anything till after his burial. I know many asked why I wasn’t there. Why I haven’t said anything about it since.
“I took him like a brother & good friend. I was there for him when he needed me. But he stabbed me in the back repeatedly. That’s life!
“I’ll drop the full details soon so others can learn from it.
“Be careful what you wish people, it could come to you.”
The announcement has sparked a mix of reactions among fans and colleagues within the Nollywood community, with many eagerly awaiting Yul Edochie’s full account of the events that led to his decision.
Philanthropist and founder of Christ Mercy Land Church Warri, Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin, has donated N5 million to support the burial of the late veteran Nollywood actor, John Okoafor popularly called Mr. Ibu.
The donation was made when members of the burial committee visited Fufeyin at his church to seek support.
Fufeyin announced that N2 million of the fund would go directly to Mr. Ibu’s immediate family, while the remaining N3 million would be allocated for the burial expenses.
The cleric who had initially offered the family of the Sound Engineer Precious Ofurum, who died alongside Junior Pope and four others in River Niger, N10 million, added an extra N1 million when they came down to appreciate the man of God
The man of God was also awarded Best of Friend award by the River State Chapter of Nollywood.
The development is also generating reactions on the internet, as an X user @Nwoke_samson says, “This PapaJ is always there to help those grieving and in need. To be honest, this is true love, always him showing love to people. The man dey try abeg.”
Another user, @SisterKelechi_italy, says, “Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin no dey ever fall hand when it comes to showing love. This man is indeed a replacement of TB Joshua. Only Prophet TB Joshua did these things.“