The federal government has taken on 50,000 new employees since President Donald Trump assumed office, according to the nation’s top personnel official, with most positions tied to national security in line with the administration’s priorities.
Most of these additions serve within Immigration and Customs Enforcement, said Scott Kupor, the federal government’s chief human resources officer, during a Thursday night interview.
This staffing shift forms part of Trump’s broader effort to overhaul the structure of the federal workforce while significantly reducing positions in other sectors.
Kupor explained that the initiative centers on “reshaping the workforce” to align with what the administration views as its most critical goals.
Even as these new employees were added, hiring was halted and workers were laid off across multiple agencies, including the Internal Revenue Service and the Department of Health and Human Services.
Kupor noted in August that the administration anticipated cutting roughly 300,000 federal jobs this year.
Earlier in January, Trump appointed billionaire Elon Musk to spearhead a plan aimed at reducing the 2.4-million-person civilian workforce, arguing it had grown overly large and inefficient.
As part of the reduction efforts, employees involved in enforcing civil rights protections, tax collection, and clean energy initiatives were dismissed.
Roughly 154,000 workers opted to take buyout packages offered by the administration, affecting numerous government services such as weather monitoring, food inspection, public health programs, and space-related operations, according to former workers and union representatives.
Adamawa State Governor and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Convention Planning Committee, Ahmadu Fintiri, has confirmed that the party’s long-awaited elective convention will be held in Ibadan.
Fintiri made the disclosure during a brief interview with journalists on Thursday night, shortly after a high-level stakeholders’ meeting at the Bauchi State Governor’s Lodge, Asokoro.
The meeting was attended by key party figures including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, PDP National Chairman Umar Damagum, former Senate President Bukola Saraki, PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, and former Minister of Special Duties Tanimu Turaki, among others.
Speaking confidently after the closed-door session, Fintiri said, “We’ve just come out of our critical stakeholders’ meeting where a lot of elaborate decisions were taken. I want to tell you here that we are going to Ibadan for our convention, and the convention is sacrosanct.”
He, however, provided no further details, as his security aides quickly escorted him away when journalists attempted to ask follow-up questions.
Ezra Olubi, born 12 November 1986 in Ibadan, Nigeria, is a software engineer and entrepreneur. He studied computer engineering at Babcock University and co-founded fintech company Paystack alongside Shola Akinlade in 2015, which was later acquired by Stripe in 2020 for a reported sum of 200 million dollars.
In 2022, he was awarded a national honor (Order of the Niger) by the late Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari.
Old Tweets Resurface
In mid-November 2025, Olubi came under intense public scrutiny after a sexual allegation involving a subordinate began circulating on social media (X formerly Twitter).
Alongside the allegation, a wave of old social media posts attributed to Olubi from approximately 2009–2013 resurfaced online, triggering widespread outrage. Some of these quoted tweets include: “Save water. Take a bath with your neighbor’s daughter.”
“On a lighter note, I hear sex with a minor cures HIV. So my +ve followers, help yourselves. Ur neighbour’s daughter isn’t looking bad today.”
“Mtn keeps going down on you guys. I wish I were you guys and MTN was a little girl”
“Monday will be more fun with an ‘a’ in it. Touch a coworker today. Inappropriately.”
“I judge my female friends by the sounds their pee makes.” Thanks to the audio recorder in my bathroom.”
“What a wonderful world it would be if muslim women took the same position as the men do during prayers”
Social Media Reaction
These posts and many others include content referencing minors, sexualised jokes, and workplace misconduct. They have been described by many social media users as “predatory”, “offensive,” and unbecoming of a senior corporate leader.
X user Maryjane shared: “When you think you’ve seen the most degenerate tweet Ezra has made, the next one humbles you.”
When you think you’ve seen the most degenerate tweet Ezra has made, the next one humbles you.
Following the resurfacing of his tweets, he immediately deactivated his X(Twitter) account and has yet to speak publicly on his resurfaced tweets.
Paystack, the Stripe-owned Nigerian payments company, has also suspended Ezra Olubi as Chief Technology Officer following the allegations.
As co-founder and former CTO of one of Africa’s most prominent fintech firms, Ezra Olubi’s alleged conduct has implications not just for him personally but for Paystack’s brand and investor confidence.
The case serves as a reminder that digital footprints from years past can resurface and impact reputations and accountability structures even for senior executives.
It also touches on issues of sexual misconduct in the workplace, especially where power imbalances such as superior-subordinate relationships exist.
A deadly overnight Russian attack on Kyiv has killed four people and caused widespread destruction across Ukraine’s capital, officials confirmed on Friday. The assault, one of the most intense in recent weeks, struck multiple residential areas and critical infrastructure sites.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky described the strike as intentional and devastating, saying, “This was a deliberately calculated attack aimed at causing maximum harm to people and civilian infrastructure.” He confirmed that four people were killed and dozens injured, including a pregnant woman.
According to Zelensky, Russia launched around 430 drones and 18 missiles in the overnight barrage. AFP reporters in Kyiv witnessed anti-missile systems firing and tracer bullets lighting up the sky as Ukrainian forces attempted to intercept incoming drones.
Tymur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv’s military administration, said on social media that “There are a lot of damaged high-rise buildings throughout Kyiv, almost in every district.” Emergency crews worked through the night, rescuing residents from burning buildings and debris. Police reported that 30 residential structures across nine districts sustained damage.
Parts of the Desnyansky and Podil districts temporarily lost heating, according to Mayor Vitaly Klitschko. While transport services were disrupted, with delays affecting buses and trams, authorities said power and heating outages caused by the attack were resolved by morning.
The strikes come amid growing international pressure on Moscow. This week, Canada announced new sanctions targeting Russia’s drone production, energy sector, and cyberattack infrastructure. G7 foreign ministers also renewed calls for an immediate ceasefire, reaffirming “unwavering” support for Ukraine’s sovereignty. Meanwhile, the European Commission is weighing using frozen Russian assets to support Kyiv’s budget and defense needs.
Despite these efforts, the nearly four-year conflict remains deeply entrenched. Russia continues its push across eastern Ukraine, particularly in the Donetsk and Lugansk regions, while Ukraine has intensified its own strikes on Russian infrastructure.
Russia’s defence ministry claimed it shot down more than 200 Ukrainian drones overnight, including 66 over Krasnodar Krai and 45 over Saratov. A fire was reported at the Sheskharis oil refinery in Novorossiysk before being contained, and a civilian vessel was damaged, leaving three crew members injured.
With winter approaching, experts warn that Russia’s repeated attacks on energy facilities could leave Ukraine vulnerable to heating shortages, deepening the humanitarian toll of the prolonged war.
The National Assembly has ordered the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the Federal Ministry of Education to suspend the planned introduction of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), shifting the implementation date to 2030.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hon. Kelechi Wogu during Thursday’s plenary session, in which he warned that the sudden transition to digital examinations could trigger widespread failure and place undue psychological pressure on students across the country.
During the debate, Wogu argued that the Ministry of Education appeared determined to proceed with the CBT model despite strong objections from teachers, school administrators, and stakeholders in rural communities. According to him, more than 70 per cent of WAEC candidates come from areas where schools lack functional computer laboratories, reliable electricity, trained ICT teachers, and stable internet connectivity.
He added that the recent technical glitches that affected the 2025 WAEC results portal showed that even the examination body itself was not fully prepared for a nationwide digital rollout. Following his submissions, the House unanimously adopted the motion and directed relevant committees to meet with stakeholders and report back within four weeks.
Why This New Development
The shift to 2030 is largely a response to concerns that the 2026 target was unrealistic given the current state of educational infrastructure across Nigeria. Lawmakers argued that mandating CBT within such a short timeframe would create conditions that could jeopardise students’ performance, particularly those in public and rural schools.
The House also emphasised the need for a phased transition that allows state governments, school owners, and the Ministry of Education to budget adequately for ICT facilities over a four-year period.
The lawmakers noted that while the long-term vision of digitising examinations aligns with global standards and could reduce malpractice, a policy that does not accommodate Nigeria’s infrastructural realities would ultimately undermine its own objectives. To this end, they directed the Ministry of Education and state governments to include ICT laboratories, computer procurement, recruitment of ICT teachers, backup power installations, and internet services in their 2026 to 2029 budget cycles.
The Issues
The central issue driving the postponement is the significant infrastructural gap between urban and rural schools. Many rural communities have little or no access to computers, and even schools with computer labs often struggle with erratic power supply, outdated devices, limited bandwidth, and insufficiently trained personnel to supervise CBT sessions. Education unions have repeatedly expressed that these challenges would create unequal conditions for students if WAEC were allowed to enforce compulsory CBT by 2026.
Another concern raised by Wogu and other stakeholders is the sheer scale of WASSCE. Unlike single-subject examinations, WAEC candidates sit for multiple papers, often requiring different session arrangements. This means hundreds of computers must be functional, synchronised, and supported by backup power for hours every day across several weeks.
WAEC’s own minimum requirement, including 250 laptops, a central server, CCTV cameras, uninterrupted power supply, and a backup generator, is currently unattainable for thousands of schools, especially public institutions.
The lawmakers concluded that ignoring these realities would set the stage for chaos, mass failure, and potential disenfranchisement of students who lack digital access.
What Obtains At The Moment
For now, the National Assembly’s directive means CBT will not be implemented in WASSCE until the 2030 academic year at the earliest. WAEC is expected to continue with the traditional paper-based examination while simultaneously supporting schools as they begin gradual upgrades to digital assessment infrastructure.
The House committees on Basic Education, Digital and Information Technology, Examination Bodies, and Labour have also been instructed to meet with WAEC, the Ministry of Education, school associations, and ICT experts to draft a workable implementation roadmap. This framework is expected to outline funding responsibilities, timelines for school upgrades, minimum digital standards, and training requirements for teachers and exam supervisors.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education has not withdrawn its earlier guidelines, which require schools to install computer laboratories equipped with at least 250 functional laptops, central servers, CCTV systems, cooling and lighting systems, and backup generators. However, with the new legislative directive, compliance with these requirements is no longer tied to a 2026 deadline.
Reactions
The development has sparked mixed reactions on X (formerly Twitter), where many Nigerians have expressed frustration, concern, or relief depending on their perspective.
One user, @joe_nne2567, questioned the practicality of the initial 2026 deadline, asking: “How many schools have computers? How many students have access to computer? The timing is wrong.”
As it should be. How many schools have computers? How many students have access to computer? The timing is wrong.
Another user, @Ijele_troyes, expressed disappointment with lawmakers, writing: “How can we move forward with this type of legislators? I feel sorry for this country.”
How can we move forward with this type of legislators? I feel sorry for this country
Similarly, @cr7snap suggested a more flexible model, saying: “There should be two ways. Either you do the manual way or the CBT way. You learn from errors.”
There should be two ways. Either you do the manual way or the CBT way. You learn from errors.
On the other side of the debate, @Goody_Essien criticised the National Assembly’s decision, arguing that halting the transition rather than solving infrastructural gaps is a backward step. He wrote: “Instead of improving digital access and infrastructure for our students, we’re asking WAEC to suspend CBT exams. That’s not empathy – it’s regression. The world is moving forward; why does Nigeria keep circling the past?”
Instead of improving digital access and infrastructure for our students, we’re asking WAEC to suspend CBT exams. That’s not empathy — it’s regression. The world is moving forward; why does Nigeria keep circling the past?
These contrasting opinions reflect the broader national debate: while many Nigerians acknowledge the need for digital transformation in education, there is clear disagreement over how quickly it should happen and whether the country is ready to support such a major shift.
President Bola Tinubu has approved the renewal of Brigadier-General (rtd) Mohammed Buba Marwa’s appointment as Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), extending his tenure for another five years and keeping him in office until 2031.
Marwa, an indigene of Adamawa State, was initially appointed as NDLEA Chairman in January 2021 by former President Muhammadu Buhari. Prior to that role, he served as Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee for the Elimination of Drug Abuse from 2018 until December 2020.
His renewed appointment was confirmed in a statement issued on November 14, 2025, by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu commended Marwa’s dedication, stating, “Your reappointment is a vote of confidence in your onerous efforts to rid our country of the menace of drug trafficking and drug abuse. I urge you not to relent in tracking the merchants of hard drugs, out to destroy our people, especially the young ones.”
A former military governor of both Lagos and Borno states, Marwa is a graduate of the Nigerian Military School and the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA).
Commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1973, he went on to serve in several key military roles, including Brigade Major of the 23 Armoured Brigade, Aide-de-Camp to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Theophilus Danjuma, and Academic Registrar of the NDA.
Marwa also held diplomatic positions, serving as Deputy Defence Adviser at the Nigerian Embassy in Washington, DC, and later as Defence Adviser to Nigeria’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations.
He holds two advanced degrees: a Master of Public and International Affairs from the University of Pittsburgh (1983–85) and a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University (1985–86).
Under his leadership, the NDLEA has achieved major milestones, including the arrest of 73,000 drug mules and barons and the seizure of over 15 million kilograms of illicit drugs, alongside the rollout of nationwide campaigns aimed at curbing drug abuse.
Cristiano Ronaldo, the face of Portugal’s golden generation, found himself at the centre of controversy at the Aviva Stadium as the Republic of Ireland stunned the visitors 2–0. Ronaldo was initially booked for an elbow on Dara O’Shea, but after a pitch-side VAR review, the yellow was upgraded to a red — his first sending-off in 226 Portugal appearances, leaving Portugal down to ten and swinging momentum firmly in Ireland’s favour.
Manager Roberto Martínez publicly defended his captain, calling the sending-off harsh and arguing the replay exaggerated the contact; he also criticised comments from the Ireland camp that suggested referees were being influenced. Despite the loss, Portugal remains top of Group F, but their margin is thin and Ronaldo’s suspension guarantees he will miss the next qualifier — a blow for a side still hunting certainty ahead of the World Cup.
Ireland took full advantage after the sending-off, converting Portugal’s vulnerability into goals and a disciplined display that closed out a landmark 2–0 victory. The result hands Ireland a huge morale boost while forcing Portugal into a nervy finish to the group phase, with one eye now on damage limitation and squad discipline.
France finishes the job, Mbappé shines as Les Bleus qualify
In Paris, France made absolutely sure of their place at the 2026 World Cup, powering past Ukraine 4–0 with Kylian Mbappé the standout performer. France’s clinical showing sealed qualification and allowed Les Bleus to mark a significant victory on an emotional night for the nation.
England keeps rolling with a professional win over Serbia
England maintained their unbeaten qualifying run with a measured 2–0 victory against Serbia. Head coach Thomas Tuchel praised his squad depth after substitutes helped see the game out, with England delivering another clean, functional performance as they continue to build toward next summer’s tournament.
Norway surge closer — Haaland and Sörloth on target
Norway moved to the brink of qualification with a dominant 4–1 win over Estonia. Erling Haaland and Alexander Sörloth took centre stage as the Scandinavians opened up a healthy gap at the top of Group I, leaving them heavily favoured to clinch a spot in North America.
Hungary edges Armenia in tight finish
Hungary grabbed a narrow 1–0 victory away in Yerevan, a result that keeps them firmly in the battle in their group and tightens the race for playoff positions as the final matchday approaches.
Quick takeaway
Thursday’s qualifiers handed up drama and decisive results: Ronaldo’s red card rewrote Portugal’s immediate narrative and raises suspension questions; France and Norway took big steps toward the World Cup; while England and Hungary kept steady, leaving several groups headed to tense final fixtures.
Nigeria and DR Congo will meet in Sunday’s CAF World Cup play-off final in Rabat, with the winners advancing to March’s FIFA Inter-Continental Play-Off and keeping their FIFA World Cup 26™ dream alive.
Kick-off is 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT) at the Stade Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan.
Eric Sékou Chelle’s Super Eagles arrive with momentum after a dramatic 4–1 extra-time win over Gabon.
Nigeria were pegged back late in normal time but finished emphatically, as Chidera Ejuke struck early in extra time before Victor Osimhen sealed it with a ruthless brace, adding to Akor Adams’ opener.
The three-time African champions have now put themselves 90 minutes from the inter-continental shootout that offers Africa’s 10th ticket to 2026.
Opponents DR Congo advanced the hard way, edging Cameroon 1–0 thanks to a stoppage-time finish from captain Chancel Mbemba, who turned in a Cipenga corner after a disciplined defensive display.
Sébastien Desabre’s side kept their shape, relied on Lionel Mpasi’s secure handling, and punished the Indomitable Lions at the death despite André Onana’s earlier saves.
The final sets up an intriguing clash of styles: Nigeria’s direct speed and penalty-box punch, led by Osimhen and supplied by Wilfred Ndidi’s line-breaking passes, against a Leopards unit that has married organisation with timely set-piece threat.
Cedric Bakambu’s experience and Fiston Mayele’s running give DR Congo counters to Nigeria’s high press, while Mbemba’s leadership anchors a back line comfortable absorbing pressure.
With no second chances, detail will decide it: transitions, set-plays, and game management in the Moroccan capital.
The winners move on to the six-team FIFA Inter-Continental Play-Off in March—two spots available for the world stage—while the losers see their route to 2026 close.
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Super Eagles following their commanding 4–1 victory over Gabon in the FIFA World Cup Africa qualifiers.
In a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, titled “President Tinubu Celebrates Super Eagles’ 4-1 Victory Over Gabon, Says Nigeria’s March To The World Cup Continues,” the President hailed the team’s performance as a reflection of Nigeria’s resilience and determination to secure a World Cup spot.
“The team showcased courage, precision, and balance—qualities that define the Nigerian spirit,” Tinubu said, emphasizing that football continues to be a unifying force and a source of national pride.
He highlighted that the victory not only boosts national morale but also reinforces Nigeria’s ambition to reach the World Cup finals. The President extended commendations to the players, coaching staff, and the technical and administrative teams for their dedication and hard work.
“This triumph underscores Nigeria’s rich talent pool and the Super Eagles’ commitment to reclaiming their status among Africa’s elite teams,” he added.
Tinubu also praised the fans at home and abroad for their unwavering support, noting that public enthusiasm often plays a decisive role in international competitions.
He urged the team to approach the remaining qualifiers with focus, discipline, and character. “Every match is an opportunity to demonstrate resilience and ambition. Nigerians, both at home and in the diaspora, remain a powerful source of encouragement,” the President said.
Concluding his message, Tinubu charged the Super Eagles to maintain their momentum, saying, “This is the true Nigerian spirit—resilient against all odds. Keep pushing until qualification is secured. Super Eagles, keep soaring. The nation stands firmly with you!”
Nigeria’s Super Eagles booked their place in the final round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers after a hard-fought 4–1 victory over Gabon at the Stade Prince Moulay Al Hassan in Rabat.
Despite the emphatic scoreline, the game was far from straightforward. Nigeria were forced into extra time after Mario Lemina’s late equaliser cancelled out Akor Adams’ opener. But a dominant extra-time display, led by Victor Osimhen’s brace and Chidera Ejuke’s well-taken strike, sealed a deserved win for the Super Eagles.
First Half: Missed Chances and Caution
Both teams began cautiously, aware of the stakes. Nigeria dominated early possession but lacked precision in the final third. Osimhen’s glancing header and Iwobi’s curling effort both went narrowly wide, while Gabon goalkeeper Jean-Noël Amonome made several key interventions to keep the scores level.
Gabon, on their part, were disciplined defensively and relied on quick transitions through Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who tested Francis Uzoho with a long-range effort midway through the half. The first 45 minutes ended goalless, with tension rising among the Nigerian supporters in the stands.
Second Half: Late Drama
Nigeria finally broke the deadlock in the 78th minute when Akor Adams pounced on a defensive lapse to slot home from close range, sending the Super Eagles’ bench into celebration.
However, the lead didn’t last long. With just a minute of regulation time remaining, Mario Lemina rose highest to head home from a corner, forcing the game into extra time and momentarily silencing the Nigerian fans.
Extra Time: Osimhen Takes Charge
Extra time saw a rejuvenated Nigeria take control of the match. Substitute Chidera Ejuke restored the lead in the 97th minute with a superb solo effort, weaving past two defenders before firing low into the corner.
Then came the Osimhen show, the Galatasaray striker struck twice in quick succession (102’ and 110’) to crush Gabon’s resistance. His first, a precise finish after a sweeping counterattack; his second, a poacher’s effort from inside the box.
Gabon’s energy wilted as Nigeria’s confidence grew, and by the final whistle, the Super Eagles were well in command.
What’s Next
The win sends Nigeria into the final playoff round, where they will face the winner between Cameroon and DR Congo. A win in that fixture would seal their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
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