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How Many Times Has Atiku Abubakar Dumped and Rejoined The PDP?

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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has once again made headlines with his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on July 14, 2025, marking his third official exit from the party he co-founded in 1998.

In a letter addressed to the PDP Chairman of Jada 1 Ward in Adamawa State, Atiku cited “irreconcilable differences” and the party’s deviation from its founding principles as the reason for his departure.

Publicly announced on July 16, 2025, the move has reignited debates about his political future, particularly as he now aligns with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Atiku’s Political Journey: Exiting and Rejoining the PDP

Atiku Abubakar’s political career is defined by strategic party movements, largely influenced by his presidential aspirations and internal party disagreements. Since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, Atiku has switched parties six times, including three exits from the PDP.

1. 1998–2006: PDP Foundation and First Exit

Atiku joined the PDP in 1998 as a founding member and was elected Governor of Adamawa State in 1999. Before assuming office, he became the running mate to Olusegun Obasanjo and served as Vice President from 1999 to 2007.

His fallout with Obasanjo—especially over the latter’s alleged third-term bid—highlighted internal tensions within the PDP. In 2006, citing a lack of internal democracy, Atiku defected to the Action Congress (AC) to contest the 2007 presidential election. He lost to the PDP’s Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

2. 2009–2014: Return and Second Exit

Atiku returned to the PDP in 2009 after disagreements with AC leaders, including Bola Tinubu. He contested the PDP’s 2011 presidential primaries, where he lost to Goodluck Jonathan, garnering 805 votes to Jonathan’s 2,736.

In 2014, citing again the PDP’s lack of internal democracy, he exited and became a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He contested the APC’s 2014 presidential primaries but lost to Muhammadu Buhari.

3. 2017–2025: Second Return and Third Exit

In December 2017, disillusioned by the APC’s leadership, Atiku rejoined the PDP. He clinched the party’s presidential ticket for both the 2019 and 2023 elections, losing to Buhari and Tinubu respectively.

Persistent internal conflicts, including unresolved zoning issues and post-election crises, led to growing frustration. On July 14, 2025, he announced his third exit, signaling a shift toward leading a new opposition coalition under the ADC.

In total, Atiku has:

  • Left the PDP three times: 2006, 2014, and 2025.
  • Rejoined twice: 2009 and 2017.
  • Contested elections under four different parties: SDP (1993), PDP, AC (2007), and potentially ADC (2027).

Is This Exit Permanent?

Atiku’s latest move, his third resignation from the PDP, raises the question: Is this truly the final break?

His leadership role in the newly formed ADC coalition, launched in March 2025 alongside figures like Peter Obi and David Mark, suggests a long-term realignment. The coalition aims to consolidate opposition forces following a fragmented 2023 election (Tinubu 37%, Atiku 29%, Obi 25%).

Citing “irreconcilable differences” in his resignation letter, Atiku appears intent on forging a new path. At 78, many believe this represents his last presidential run, with the ADC offering a cleaner slate and ideological repositioning.

Moreover, the PDP continues to struggle with internal disunity, unresolved factional disputes (e.g., Nyesom Wike’s bloc), and strategic failures—all of which have fueled Atiku’s frustration.

Yet, given Atiku’s history of returning to the PDP, critics argue his loyalty is flexible. While the ADC has gained momentum, with defections from PDP and APC in states like Borno and Gombe, its electoral viability remains untested. The party secured just 81,919 votes in 2023.

Should the ADC fail to build a cohesive platform or mount a serious challenge to the APC, Atiku might consider another return, especially if the PDP regains stability.

While Atiku Abubakar’s political career has been marked by frequent party shifts, the context of his 2025 resignationsuggests a more decisive and possibly permanent break from the PDP.

His leadership role within the ADC coalition, combined with the PDP’s deep-rooted crises and his advancing age, points to a strategic recalibration. Atiku likely views 2027 as his final shot at the presidency—and the ADC provides a fresh platform for that ambition.

However, given his history of reversals and the ADC’s uncertain strength, only time will tell if this exit truly marks the end of Atiku’s long-standing association with the PDP—or yet another twist in Nigeria’s evolving political drama.

Nigeria’s Junior D’Tigress Crash Out of Title Race at FIBA U-19 Women’s World Cup

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Nigeria’s Junior D’Tigress have been eliminated from title contention at the ongoing FIBA U-19 Women’s Basketball World Cup in Brno, Czechia, following a 77-51 defeat to Hungary in the Round of 16 on Wednesday.

Coached by Juliana Akhere, the Nigerian team had finished third in Group B behind Canada and Portugal, securing one win and two losses in the group stage to accumulate four points. Making their debut appearance at the tournament, the team began their campaign with an impressive 93-88 win over China, before falling to Canada and Portugal in subsequent games.

Despite the group stage setbacks, Nigeria advanced to the knockout stage, where they faced Hungary with a place in the quarter-finals on the line. The opening quarter ended evenly at 9-9, but the Hungarians took control thereafter, dominating the next three quarters 30-12, 16-15, and 22-15, respectively.

Statistically, Nigeria attempted 64 field goals with a shooting accuracy of 27%, while Hungary shot 74 times and converted at a rate of 38%. Hungary also outclassed Nigeria in assists (27 to 8), rebounds (51 to 37), and blocks (6 to 4), although the D’Tigress recorded more steals (7 to 5).

Toby Nweke led Nigeria’s scoring with 12 points and added four rebounds, while Jessica Ajayi contributed 11 points and four rebounds. Momoluwa Tewogbade also made an impact, posting nine points and three rebounds.

For Hungary, Jesopovits Kinga delivered a standout performance with a game-high 19 points and eight rebounds. Dora Toman and Szidonia Albert also chipped in with 17 and 11 points, respectively.

Although the loss ends Nigeria’s hopes of winning the World Cup, the team will continue in the classification rounds, where they will compete for a final placement between 9th and 16th.

Ex-Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose Cleared Of N6.9B Fraud Charges

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‎The Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, discharged and acquitted former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose of all charges in a high-profile N6.9 billion fraud and money laundering case brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

‎The decision, delivered by Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke, marks the end of a seven-year legal battle that has drawn significant public and political attention.

‎Fayose, who served as Ekiti State Governor from 2003 to 2007 and 2014 to 2018, was initially arraigned by the EFCC on October 22, 2018, alongside his company, Spotless Investment Limited, on an 11-count charge bordering on money laundering and stealing.

‎The charges alleged that Fayose received N1.2 billion in cash and $5 million from former Minister of State for Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro, without using financial institutions, to fund his 2014 gubernatorial campaign.

‎The EFCC further accused him of laundering over N1.6 billion to acquire properties in Lagos and Abuja through proxy companies, De Privateer Ltd and Still Earth Ltd, in violation of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011.

‎Additional allegations included retaining N300 million and controlling N622 million, funds he allegedly knew were proceeds of crime, as well as using N200 million to purchase a property in Abuja under his sister’s name, Moji Oladeji.

‎The trial, which spanned nearly seven years, saw the EFCC call approximately 20 witnesses and present extensive evidence.

‎However, Fayose’s legal team, led by Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) Chief Kanu Agabi and Olalekan Ojo, filed a no-case submission on May 19, 2025, arguing that the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case.

‎Agabi emphasized the absence of key alleged co-conspirator Abiodun Agbele from the charge sheet, weakening the EFCC’s narrative.

‎He also argued that the prosecution could not directly link Fayose to the alleged crimes, noting that witness testimonies, including that of Obanikoro, failed to establish communication between Fayose and former National Security Adviser Sambo Dasuki, from whom the funds allegedly originated.

‎Justice Aneke, in his ruling, upheld the no-case submission, stating that the EFCC’s evidence was insufficient to prove the allegations beyond reasonable doubt.

‎“The prosecution failed to link the defendant to the alleged crimes in a manner that warrants this court to call upon him to open his defence,” the judge declared, discharging both Fayose and Spotless Investment Limited.

‎The verdict sparked emotional scenes outside the courtroom, with Fayose breaking into tears and chanting “Winner ooo, winner!” alongside supporters.

‎In a celebratory gesture, he was seen sharing a meal of amala and ewedu soup with bricklayers, a moment that quickly gained traction on social media. Fayose, a vocal Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, has consistently maintained that the charges were politically motivated.

‎The EFCC, expressing dissatisfaction with the ruling, announced plans to appeal the decision at the Court of Appeal.

‎In a statement by spokesperson Dele Oyewale, the agency reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law and said it was studying the judgment to prepare its appeal.

‎The EFCC’s counsel, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), had argued during the trial that Fayose’s use of proxies for property purchases and failure to use personal bank accounts raised suspicions, citing testimonies from Obanikoro and EFCC investigator Abubakar Madaki. Despite these arguments, the court found the evidence lacking.

‎The acquittal comes amid speculation of political interference, with reports on June 25, 2025, suggesting that the government was attempting to abandon the case.

‎Fayose’s recent meeting with President Bola Tinubu and other PDP leaders, including FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, at the Presidential Villa fueled these claims, though no concrete evidence has been confirmed.

‎Fayose has publicly praised Tinubu’s economic stabilization efforts, urging support across party lines.

‎This ruling adds to the list of high-profile EFCC cases against politically exposed persons that have been dismissed, raising questions about the agency’s prosecutorial effectiveness. For Fayose, the acquittal is a significant victory, reinforcing his status as a resilient political figure in Nigeria’s dynamic landscape.

Oluwatola Wins Fourth AFNIS Golf Tourney

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Dr. Tobi Oluwatola, CEO of TAO Energy, has emerged as the overall best net winner of the 2025 African Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit Golf Tournament held in Abuja.

Oluwatola, playing off a handicap of 19, recorded an impressive 86 gross and 67 net to clinch the title.

The fourth edition of the prestigious tournament took place at the TYB International Golf Resort and Country Club in Abuja, drawing over 250 participants from across the continent.

Speaking after his win, an elated Oluwatola described the victory as deeply meaningful, marking his first-ever tournament triumph after years of coming close.

“It was a hard-fought victory, and I’m truly overjoyed. I’ve been putting in a lot of work and playing this game for four years,” he said. “Golf is a sport I’m very passionate about. I’ve finished second several times in this tournament, so to finally win it means a lot. This trophy holds a very special place in my heart.”

Reflecting on his performance, Oluwatola noted that although he started strong, he faced challenges toward the end of the round that nearly derailed his chances.

“I began well—I was putting confidently and hitting a lot of pars,” he explained. “But the nerves started to kick in near the end. On the 17th hole, a par 3, I hit my tee shot into the bush and thought the tournament was slipping away.

“I managed to recover, chipping the ball out—though it didn’t land on the green—but from just outside the fringe, I chipped it straight into the hole. At that moment, I felt the momentum shift. I parred the final hole, and the rest, as they say, is history.”

Marketers Oppose Dangote’s Plan To Reduce Cooking Gas Prices

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‎Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, has revealed plans to reduce the cost of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), commonly known as cooking gas.

‎He also pledged to begin direct sales to consumers if current distributors fail to pass on the expected price reduction.

‎However, industry stakeholders have pushed back against the proposal, accusing Dangote of attempting to dominate the LPG market.
‎On Monday, dealers voiced concerns, warning that the move could lead to a monopoly in the sector.

‎During a recent tour of his refinery with both local and international guests, Dangote emphasized that the prevailing cost of cooking gas is too high and beyond the reach of average Nigerians, many of whom are forced to rely on firewood.

‎He revealed that the refinery currently produces 22,000 tonnes of LPG daily and is steadily increasing output to meet the growing demand in the Nigerian market, especially as more households transition to gas for cooking.

‎While addressing members of the Lagos Business School’s CGEO Africa group during a visit to the Lekki refinery, Dangote Said, The one that we didn’t write, which you must have seen, is LPG. Currently, we do LPG of about 22,000 tonnes per day. You know Nigeria is gradually moving to the usage of LPG. But I believe it is expensive, but right now we’re trying to bring down the price and make it cheaper.”

‎Dangote warned that “if the distributors are not trying to bring it down, we’ll go directly and sell to the consumers, so that people will now transit from firewood or kerosene to LPG for cooking.”

‎Dangote plans to begin the nationwide direct distribution of petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel to marketers in August, using 4,000 CNG-powered buses for the rollout.

‎Currently, cooking gas sells for between ₦1,000 and ₦1,300 per kilogram, but Dangote has promised to reduce the price to make it more accessible.

‎Operators in the LPG market are reportedly unhappy with his intention to disrupt the sector.

‎In an interview, Godwin Okoduwa, former Chairman of the LPG and Natural Gas Downstream Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, described the move as monopolistic.

‎He emphasized that Dangote should acknowledge the role of investors who expanded the market from 70,000 metric tonnes in 2007 to over 1 million metric tonnes in 2022, and urged for collaboration rather than control.

‎“I think it’s monopolistic. I think a market should be protected to encourage growth. The LPG industry in Nigeria grew from 70,000 metric tonnes in 2007 to over 1.3 million tonnes in 2022. That was done by collaboration — collaboration with the Federal Government, the NLNG, and offtakers. Everything was done in collaboration. It grew from 70,000 to 250 to 800, and now over a million,” Okoduwa said.

‎He emphasized that growth comes from collaboration, not monopoly.
‎ “Today, we are just under 5kg or 6kg per capita consumption in terms of LPG. Other countries are doing much more. South Africa is doing double digits, Morocco and Tunisia are doing double digits. We can do much more.

‎“So, we should, as an industry and as a country, focus on how to grow the LPG industry and not allow someone (to frustrate the players). Yes, he has invested; yes, it’s a capital economy, but he should not be allowed to frustrate the players.

‎“There are people who have spent money, spent resources, even business and development, and someone just comes in to reap from the work that has been done. I’m sure he wouldn’t have built if there had not been an existing market. The work has been done, he should respect the market and let us grow. It shouldn’t be a zero-sum strategy. It should be collaborative,” he said.

‎The gas expert recommended that while Dangote holds a significant advantage, he should opt for a collaborative approach.

‎”My advice to him is that the pie can be bigger. The Nigerian market is about 1.3 million tonnes. The Nigerian LPG market can be 5 million tonnes. He should work towards collaboration rather than competition, because at the end of the day, everybody benefits,” he added.

‎When informed that Dangote’s primary goal is to make cooking gas affordable for all and reduce reliance on firewood, Okoduwa responded, “I have news for him. He should go to the Northeast, where you have the least consumption of LPG. He should go to the Northeast and start developing the LPG infrastructure there. I think we will tell him thank you for that.”

‎Likewise, Bassey Essien, Executive Secretary and CEO of the Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers, expressed doubt over Dangote’s ability to sell gas directly to consumers or significantly reduce the price.

‎”l am saying that it’s unrealistic. What is the position with PMS? Has the refinery been able to sell petrol directly to you and me into our cars at a very cheap rate?” Essien asked.

‎The refinery, poised to become a key supplier of refined products across West Africa, remains at the center of ongoing debate over its potential impact on domestic pricing and market competition.

‎Experts observe that while Dangote’s strategy to lower LPG prices could bring temporary relief to consumers, it also sparks important concerns around regulation, market access, and fair competition in the industry.

‎So far, the Federal Government has not addressed the possible regulatory consequences of the refinery’s plan to enter the LPG retail market directly.

West Indies Star Russell To Retire From International Cricket

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Two-time T20 World Cup champion Andre Russell will retire from international cricket at the age of 37, following the second T20 match against Australia on July 22 in his hometown of Kingston, Jamaica, Cricket West Indies (CWI) announced on Wednesday.

Russell, a dynamic all-rounder, was part of the West Indies squads that clinched the T20 World Cup titles in 2012 and 2016. Over the course of his T20 international career, he earned 84 caps, scoring three half-centuries and claiming 61 wickets.

A white-ball specialist, Russell played only one Test match but made 56 appearances in One-Day Internationals (ODIs), taking 70 wickets. His last ODI outing came in 2019.

“Words cannot express what this journey has meant to me. Representing the West Indies has been one of the greatest honours of my life,” Russell said in a statement.
“As a child, I never imagined reaching this level, but as I played more and grew to love the game, I realized the possibilities. That inspired me to keep improving because I wanted to make my mark in maroon and become a role model for others.”

Known for his powerful performances in T20 leagues around the world, Russell recently featured in the U.S.-based Major League Cricket. He expressed a desire to end his international career on a high note.

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy paid tribute to Russell’s impact on the game, saying, “His desire to perform and win for the West Indies has never faded. I wish him nothing but success in this next chapter, and may he continue to inspire future generations.”

The West Indies will host Australia in the opening match of the five-game T20 series this Sunday in Kingston. Australia recently completed a 3-0 sweep in the Test series.

Evander Sets Record as FC Cincinnati Dominates Inter Miami

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All-Star midfielder Evander made history on Wednesday night, setting an FC Cincinnati record by scoring in his fifth consecutive match during a commanding 3-0 victory over visiting Inter Miami.

Evander struck early in the second half, doubling Cincinnati’s lead with a precise left-footed finish from the center of the box into the bottom right corner. He added a second later in the half, bringing his MLS regular-season goal tally to 15, after being denied on several first-half attempts.

Miami’s attack faltered against Cincinnati’s rock-solid defense, ending the Herons’ impressive five-game winning streak and marking their first regular-season loss since May 18.

Cincinnati got on the board in the 16th minute through Gerardo Valenzuela, who netted his fourth goal of the season with a low, left-footed strike from the left side of the box.

The hosts controlled much of the first half and the six minutes of stoppage time, registering seven shots (four on target) before halftime. They ended the night with 11 total shots, six on goal.

Cincinnati’s back line effectively neutralized Lionel Messi and the Miami attack. Messi had two promising chances late in the first half—one blocked by defender Lukas Engel, the other saved by a diving Roman Celentano.

Celentano finished with two saves and earned his seventh clean sheet of the season. On the other end, Miami goalkeepers Oscar Ustari and Rocco Rios Novo combined for four saves in a match dominated by the Eastern Conference leaders.

With the win, FC Cincinnati improved to 14-6-3 (45 points), while Inter Miami fell to 11-4-5 (38 points).

LASIEC Issues Certificates Of Return To LG Poll Winners

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‎The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has formally issued certificates of return to the newly elected chairmen, vice chairmen, and councillors across the state’s local government areas and local council development areas (LCDAs).

‎The event, which took place at the LASIEC headquarters in Sabo, Yaba, Lagos, served as the official confirmation of the public’s mandate to the incoming leadership of the 57 local councils in the state.

‎The ceremony was attended by key members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Lagos State Executive, including the State Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi; his predecessor and Chairman of the APC Campaign Council, Alhaji Babatunde Balogun; Party Secretary, Adeola Jokomba; Women’s Leader, Jumoke Okoya-Thomas; and several other dignitaries.

‎In her remarks, LASIEC Chairman, Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile, expressed appreciation to voters, stakeholders, and the over 45,000 ad-hoc staff for their commitment and active involvement in the electoral exercise.

‎She acknowledged that there were initial delays in voter accreditation but commended the timely response of security agencies, which ensured the maintenance of peace and order throughout the state.

‎“The certificates of return signify the beginning of a new era in the political journey of the elected officials, who are expected to serve the people of Lagos State for the next four years,” she said. Justice Okikiolu-Ighile also noted that the tenure of the new officials will commence on July 26, 2025, at the conclusion of the current administration’s term.

‎Speaking with journalists, the Chairman-elect of Ajeromi Local Government, Akindikpe Olaleko Olu, vowed to build upon the successes of the outgoing administration, emphasizing a commitment to continuity and transparency.

‎He announced the launch of a new initiative, Ounje Ajegunle, aimed at addressing food insecurity by distributing subsidized food to every ward on a weekly basis.

‎He further pledged to maintain the council’s annual security summit and to ensure that all roads within the local government are properly tarred.

‎Meanwhile, the Chairman-elect of Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area, Prince Lanre Sanusi, highlighted the poor state of road infrastructure—especially in FESTAC—as a pressing issue.

‎He criticized the Federal Housing Authority for its failure to maintain the roads but assured residents that his administration would prioritize road rehabilitation.

‎“We are excited about the outcome of this election. We have assured our people that we will continue to improve their lives. Road infrastructure, especially in FESTAC, will receive urgent attention,” Sanusi stated.

‎The certificate presentation represents a key milestone in the local governance process, paving the way for fresh leadership and enhanced community development across Lagos State.

Wike, Alausa Moves Teachers’ Salary Dispute To National Assembly

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‎The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has revealed plans to collaborate with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in engaging the National Assembly to resolve the persistent issue of unpaid salaries for teachers in government-owned schools, especially in Abuja.

‎He made this known on Wednesday during the official unveiling of the National Policy on Non-State Schools in Abuja, an event organized in partnership with the British High Commission and the Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria.

‎Alausa, in his address, confirmed that both ministers are actively working together to advocate for a long-term structural solution to the ongoing salary challenges facing the FCT education sector.

‎“Getting the teachers back to school is just one part of fixing the problem.

‎“We must address the root cause. Unlike other states that have functional State Universal Basic Education Boards paying teacher salaries under the UBE initiative, the FCT still lacks such a structure,” he said.

‎Alausa acknowledged Wike’s vital behind-the-scenes efforts in resolving the recent teachers’ strike, which enabled pupils in early childcare and primary schools across the territory to return to the classroom.

‎“I will work with Wike and we will make a representation to the National Assembly on how the salaries of teachers in the FCT can be funded directly, possibly through a functioning SUBEB,” he said.

‎The minister also took the opportunity to launch the new National Policy on Non-State Schools, calling it a key element of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

‎“This policy is a crucial step toward reforming our education sector. By tapping into the potential of non-state schools, we can expand access, enhance quality, and reduce the number of out-of-school children,” he stated.

‎The policy establishes clear standards for infrastructure, teacher qualifications, curriculum implementation, and provides a framework for collaboration between the public and private sectors.

‎Alausa further disclosed that a committee is already developing a model that would allow private schools to receive indirect reimbursements for each out-of-school child they successfully return to the classroom.

‎“Our target is to implement this programme by the 2025/2026 academic session, starting in September,” he disclosed.

FG Halts Paramilitary Recruitment, Resumes Portal On July 21

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‎The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board has temporarily closed its recruitment portal to enhance system performance.

‎In a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja, the Board’s Secretary, Maj. Gen. AM Jibril (retd.), confirmed the development.

‎He clarified that the suspension affects the portal used for recruiting personnel into the board’s paramilitary agencies.
‎According to him, the portal will reopen on Monday, July 21, 2025.

‎He explained that the temporary shutdown became necessary due to the overwhelming number of applications, in order to streamline the recruitment process.

‎“This development will ensure that the portal accommodates the high volume of applications while guaranteeing a smooth, transparent, and fair recruitment process,” the statement read.

‎He expressed the board’s appreciation to Nigerians for their interest in joining the services and assured that the recruitment process would be fair and transparent.

‎“We appreciate the enthusiasm and interest of young Nigerians to serve their country through these vital agencies.

‎“We remain committed to ensuring a fair and transparent recruitment process,” the statement added.

‎Jibril explained that the suspension impacts all agencies under the CDCFIB, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigerian Immigration Service, Federal Fire Service, and Nigerian Correctional Service.

‎The board urged applicants to keep an eye on the portal and ensure they submit their applications promptly once it reopens on July 21.

‎The recruitment exercise, which commenced on July 14, 2025, has already drawn thousands of applications from Nigerians aspiring to work in the various agencies under the board.