President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of a federal university in Southern Kaduna, as announced by Vice President Kashim Shettima. The announcement came during Shettima’s condolence visit to the Kukah family following the passing of Yohanna Kukah, the Agwom Akulu of Ikulu Chiefdom.
According to a statement released on Monday by the Vice President’s spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima disclosed the President’s approval during his visit to Ikulu Kingdom in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area, Kaduna State. The traditional ruler was a relative of Bishop Matthew Kukah of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto.
Shettima further revealed that discussions are underway to establish a Federal Medical Centre in Kafanchan, Kaduna State. “With the support of Senator Katung and the House of Representatives member, we reached out to President Tinubu, who approved the university for Southern Kaduna,” he stated.
During the visit, the Vice President highlighted the Tinubu administration’s commitment to developing Southern Kaduna, citing the recent appointment of General Christopher Musa as Chief of Defence Staff as an example of the government’s focus on the region’s security needs.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has the people of Kaduna, particularly Southern Kaduna, at heart,” Shettima assured. He also praised Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his inclusive governance, emphasizing the importance of ensuring all regions feel connected and represented.
He pledged federal support for Southern Kaduna’s development, with a focus on improving road infrastructure in collaboration with the state government.
Bishop Kukah expressed appreciation on behalf of his family, thanking the Vice President for the visit. He also called attention to the poor state of roads in the area, highlighting the difficulty of accessing Ikulu Kingdom. “Your presence shows your friendship with the Ikulu nation, and we are honored to have you here,” Kukah remarked.
In 2024, Nigeria ramped up its war on drugs, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to curbing drug trafficking and abuse. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), under the leadership of Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), achieved significant milestones.
Between January and October 2024, the NDLEA arrested a staggering 14,480 individuals for drug-related offenses, including 15 high-profile drug barons. These efforts led to the seizure of over 2.4 million kilograms of illicit substances, setting new records for the agency.
Key Highlights of NDLEA Operations in 2024
Massive Arrests and Seizures The NDLEA’s operations across Nigeria led to the arrest of thousands, including high-profile individuals deeply entrenched in drug cartels. Among these were 15 notorious drug barons who had long eluded the law.
Major Drug Seizures
In February, the NDLEA intercepted its largest-ever single heroin shipment: 51.9 kilograms at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos.
The agency destroyed 547,378 kilograms of cannabis plantations nationwide.
Rehabilitation and Public Sensitization
The NDLEA counseled and rehabilitated 6,655 drug users.
It also conducted 3,064 awareness campaigns, reaching over 1.3 million people in schools, communities, and religious centers.
Notable High-Profile Drug Barons Arrested in 2024
Chibuzo Nnamdi Okeke Known as the “Narcotics King,” Okeke controlled a vast drug distribution network across West Africa and was arrested in a covert operation in Lagos.
Adebayo Wasiu Bello A Lagos-based logistics expert turned drug trafficker, Bello facilitated the shipment of synthetic opioids to Europe.
Ademola Ibrahim Ajayi Operating from Kano, Ajayi ran a heroin syndicate with links to Asia and was apprehended in a sting operation.
Ngozi Uche-Ejiofor A notorious international courier, Uche-Ejiofor was nabbed at Abuja airport attempting to traffic cocaine to Brazil.
Aliyu Musa Dankoli A major cannabis cultivator in the South-West, Dankoli was arrested in Oyo State.
Mustapha Ibrahim Usman Leader of a trans-Saharan trafficking ring, Usman was captured in a cross-border operation involving Interpol.
Godswill Nwafor Onuoha A financier of drug cartels, Onuoha’s arrest in Port Harcourt disrupted a major methamphetamine production hub.
Zainab Amina Bello Dubbed the “Queen of Meth,” Bello was caught with over 200 kilograms of methamphetamine in Nasarawa State.
Ahmed Idris Wada Wada’s arrest in Kano uncovered his ties to Afghan heroin traffickers.
Kolawole Femi Olanrewaju A Lagos-based chemist, Olanrewaju specialized in the production of synthetic drugs for local and international markets.
Yakubu Suleiman Anka Known for smuggling cocaine via maritime routes, Anka’s network was dismantled following his arrest in Calabar.
Blessing Okoro Eze Eze, a courier for South American drug lords, was intercepted at the Lagos airport with 30 kilograms of cocaine.
John Ebere Dike A Benin City-based trafficker, Dike was apprehended with 45 kilograms of cannabis destined for Europe.
Hauwa Musa Adamu Adamu’s arrest in Kaduna exposed her role in trafficking opioids into northern Nigeria.
Oluwasegun Alabi Egunjobi Egunjobi was implicated in funding clandestine labs manufacturing methamphetamine in Ogun State.
Recent High-Profile Cases in December 2024
The NDLEA made headlines with several significant busts toward the end of the year:
Paris-Bound Drug Mule Orizu Ifeanyi Arthur, a 48-year-old businessman, was arrested at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja for ingesting 74 wraps of heroin and cocaine. He excreted the drugs over seven days while in custody.
Eleko Beach Interception Operatives intercepted two boats loaded with 1,960 kilograms of Ghanaian Loud, arresting six foreign nationals, including two Ghanaians and four Beninese.
Christmas Day Busts in Katsina Two suspects, Ibrahim Shaibu and Umar Ahmed, were arrested with large quantities of compressed cannabis sativa during separate operations.
The Path Forward
The NDLEA’s success in 2024 highlights its multi-pronged approach to combating drug abuse and trafficking. The agency’s focus on enforcement, public education, and rehabilitation underscores its determination to dismantle drug networks and foster a drug-free Nigeria.
As 2025 approaches, the NDLEA has pledged to intensify its efforts, expand public sensitization campaigns, and deepen collaborations with international partners to disrupt global drug trafficking syndicates. These actions reflect Nigeria’s resolute stand in the global war on drugs.
James Earl “Jimmy” Carter Jr., born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, is a figure of immense significance in American history. As the 39th President of the United States, he left an indelible mark not only through his tenure in the Oval Office but also through his lifelong commitment to humanitarian causes, diplomacy, and public service.
Early Life and Education
Jimmy Carter grew up in a modest farming family during the Great Depression. His father, James Earl Carter Sr., was a farmer and businessman, while his mother, Lillian Gordy Carter, was a nurse known for her progressive views on race and equality. Carter’s upbringing in the racially segregated South profoundly influenced his values and later political career.
After graduating from Plains High School, Carter attended the Georgia Institute of Technology before enrolling at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. He graduated in 1946 and began a career as a naval officer, specializing in submarine operations. His time in the Navy took him and his wife, Rosalynn Smith Carter, whom he married in 1946, to various locations across the country.
Political Rise
Carter left the Navy in 1953 to take over the family peanut farm after his father’s death. Under his stewardship, the farm prospered, and Carter became an active community leader. His foray into politics began with a seat in the Georgia State Senate in 1963. Known for his progressive stance on civil rights, Carter garnered attention for his willingness to challenge the status quo in the deeply segregated South.
In 1971, he became the Governor of Georgia, where he focused on modernizing state government and promoting civil rights. Carter’s gubernatorial tenure was marked by a bold inaugural address declaring that “the time for racial discrimination is over,” setting the tone for his political future.
Presidency (1977–1981)
Jimmy Carter’s ascent to the presidency in 1976 was propelled by his image as a Washington outsider and a man of integrity during a period of widespread disillusionment following the Watergate scandal. His administration prioritized human rights, energy reform, and environmental conservation. Notable achievements of his presidency include:
The Camp David Accords (1978): A historic peace agreement between Egypt and Israel, mediated by Carter, which remains a cornerstone of Middle Eastern diplomacy.
The Panama Canal Treaties: Carter oversaw the transfer of control of the Panama Canal to Panama, fostering better relations with Latin America.
Energy Policy: Amid the energy crisis, Carter emphasized renewable energy and conservation, establishing the Department of Energy.
However, his presidency faced significant challenges, including high inflation, an energy crisis, and the Iran Hostage Crisis, which overshadowed his accomplishments and contributed to his defeat in the 1980 election.
Post-Presidency: A Legacy of Service
Jimmy Carter’s post-presidency is often regarded as the most impactful in American history. In 1982, he and Rosalynn founded the Carter Center, an organization dedicated to promoting democracy, human rights, and global health. The Center has played a pivotal role in eradicating diseases such as Guinea worm disease and monitoring elections worldwide.
Carter has also been a tireless advocate for affordable housing through his work with Habitat for Humanity. His dedication to public service earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, recognizing his efforts to promote peace, democracy, and human rights globally.
Personal Life and Longevity
Jimmy Carter’s personal life reflects his deep faith, humility, and dedication to family. A devout Christian, he has taught Sunday school for decades, even into his 90s. His marriage to Rosalynn, spanning over 75 years, is a testament to their enduring partnership and shared commitment to service.
As America’s oldest living president, Carter’s longevity is a source of inspiration. Despite health challenges in recent years, including a battle with cancer, he remains active in promoting the causes he holds dear.
Jimmy Carter’s legacy transcends his presidency. His unwavering commitment to human rights, peace, and service has left an enduring imprint on the world. From the peanut fields of Georgia to the global stage, Carter exemplifies the values of integrity, compassion, and resilience, making him one of the most respected figures in modern history.
A survivor, one of only two people who made it out alive from the Jeju plane crash on Sunday has been recounting the moment he was rescued.
According to news agency Yonhap, which quoted hospital director Ju Woong, the 33-year-old flight attendant from the Jeju Air plane told doctors he had already been rescued when he woke up.
He was first taken to a hospital in Mokpo, about 25km (15.5 miles) south of the airport, but was later transferred to Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital in the capital.
“He’s fully able to communicate,” Ju said. “There’s no indication yet of memory loss or such.”
The survivor, who suffered multiple fractures, is receiving special care due to the risk of after-effects, including total paralysis, the news agency added.
The plane crash at Muan International Airport in South Korea On Sunday, 29th December, killed 179 people. The Boeing 737-800 flight, operated by Jeju Air, had 181 people on board, including six crew members, and was arriving from Bangkok, Thailand.
A plane crash at Muan International Airport in South Korea has killed 179 people on Sunday, 29th of December, 2024. Two survivors, both flight crew members, managed to escape what could be the worst aviation accident in the country.
The Boeing 737-800 flight, operated by Jeju Air, had 181 people on board, including six crew members, and was arriving from Bangkok, Thailand.
The passenger plane skidded off a runway at a South Korean airport, slammed into a concrete fence and burst into flames after its front landing gear apparently failed to deploy.
Here’s what we know so far about what could be the country’s worst aviation accident:
A plane crash at Muan International Airport in South Korea has left 179 people dead. Four crew members and all 175 passengers were killed.
According to Yonhap news agency, there are two survivors, both members of the flight crew, and one of them has been talking to doctors.
The Boeing 737-800, operated by Korean airline Jeju Air, was arriving from Bangkok, Thailand, when it crashed at about 09:00 local time (00:00 GMT)
Most passengers were South Koreans, apart from two Thai nationals
Footage shows the plane landing without its wheels, skidding along the runway and crashing into a wall, triggering a fiery explosion.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation, and it could take up to a month to decode the flight data as it was damaged.
A government official said air traffic control had issued a bird strike warning, delaying the landing. Two minutes later, the pilot issued a Mayday call and was cleared to land from the opposite direction.
The Flight’s Black Box
Officials had recovered both “black boxes”, the flight data recorder and the cockpit voice recorder from the wreckage.
According to Yonhap, the flight data recorder is partially affected, but the voice recorder appears to be intact.
An investigator told the news agency it could take up to a month to decode because of the damage.
The 2024 Globe Soccer Awards, held on Friday, 27th December, 2024 in Dubai, was a dazzling celebration of football’s greatest, where extraordinary talents and achievements were recognized across various categories. The star-studded event was an unforgettable spectacle, with players, clubs, and officials all shining brightly.
However, it was Cristiano Ronaldo who truly stole the spotlight. Receiving the Best Middle East Player award, the Portuguese legend made waves with his thought-provoking remarks on his career and his opinions on the prestigious Ballon d’Or. Ronaldo didn’t hold back when discussing this year’s controversial selection.
When asked about a potential move into coaching, Ronaldo firmly dismissed the idea but teased another exciting possibility.
“Becoming a head coach or manager? No… but maybe I could become a club owner,” he said, sparking intrigue about his future ambitions.
The football icon also took a moment to express his unwavering love for Manchester United, saying:
“I love Manchester United. I want the best for them. The problem is not the coach; it’s something different.” Reflecting on the ever-competitive football landscape, Ronaldo praised Real Madrid’s resilience, stating, “People don’t expect Real Madrid to be good at the beginning, but in the end… they are now ahead of Barcelona.”
His words ignited further discussion when he boldly claimed that the Saudi Pro League outshines France’s Ligue 1.
“Saudi League is better than Ligue 1, of course. France only has PSG. The rest are finished,” Ronaldo declared, adding a challenge to those doubting the league’s strength. “Try to sprint in 38, 39, 40-degree weather and see…”
Ronaldo, Real Madrid’s all-time top scorer, also sparked a heated debate when he shared his thoughts on this year’s Ballon d’Or winner, stating that Vinícius Júnior deserved the prestigious award over Spain’s Rodri.
“In my opinion, he (Vinícius Jr.) deserved to win the Ballon d’Or. It was unfair,” Ronaldo said during the ceremony. “I’ll say it in front of everybody. They gave it to Rodri, he deserved it too, but I think they should’ve given it to Vinícius because he won the UCL and scored a goal in the final. When you deserve the award, you should give them the award.”
The Real Madrid legend didn’t stop there, further praising the Globe Soccer Awards for their transparency and merit-based approach.
“This is why I love Globe Soccer Awards, as they are honest. Vinícius Jr. clearly deserved to be the winner,” he added.
Alongside Ronaldo, Aitana Bonmatí and FC Barcelona Femení were recognized for their dominance in women’s football, and legends like Alessandro Del Piero and Florentino Pérez were celebrated for their remarkable careers.
Nigeria has firmly denied allegations of any military collaboration with France, emphasizing that its relationship with the European nation is purely economic. The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, made this clear during an interview on Friday, responding to claims from Niger’s military junta leader, General Abdourahmane Tchiani.
Tchiani had accused Nigeria of allowing France to use its territory as a staging ground to destabilize Niger. Ribadu, however, dismissed these accusations as baseless and implausible, describing them as an attempt to strain diplomatic ties between the nations.
He clarified, “Nigeria has no history of hosting foreign military bases. Even our former colonizer, the United Kingdom, has never established a base here. We have consistently resisted such attempts, including from the United States.
“In contrast, Niger has hosted foreign bases, including one by the U.S., which they recently expelled. Our relationship with France has always been centered on economic cooperation, not military collaboration. While Niger’s leadership may have their grievances with France, it is unreasonable to expect Nigeria to sever ties with France over Niger’s internal issues.”
Ribadu reiterated Nigeria’s stance: “We will not allow our country to be used as a tool for destabilizing Niger. We hope that Niger’s leadership will understand this and work with us as allies and brothers to ensure peace and stability in the region.”
Highlighting Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful coexistence, Ribadu cited the country’s long-standing friendly relations with neighbors such as Chad, Cameroon, and Benin Republic.
“Nigeria has no intention of sabotaging or destabilizing Niger. We have always maintained peaceful relations with our neighbors. Why would we suddenly have a reason to be in conflict with Niger? It simply doesn’t make sense,” he concluded.
This statement reaffirms Nigeria’s dedication to regional stability and economic partnerships over military engagements.
Donald Trump will be inaugurated for the second time as President of the United States on January 20, 2025. His inauguration has rekindled conversations about the potential impact of his leadership on global affairs. For Nigerian students in the U.S. and those aspiring to study there, this development raises critical questions about immigration, education policies, and cultural dynamics.
Trump’s First Term and U.S.-Nigeria Relations
Trump’s first term was marked by policies that significantly affected international students, including those from Nigeria. The travel ban, which targeted predominantly Muslim-majority countries, initially included Nigeria, creating apprehension among students and parents. Additionally, stricter visa issuance processes and reduced funding for international students added layers of difficulty for Nigerian applicants.
Despite these challenges, Nigerian students continued to thrive academically and professionally, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. Trump’s emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields also provided some Nigerian students with unique opportunities in industries with labor shortages.
What Nigerian Students Should Expect During Trump’s Second Term
Potential Changes in Visa Policies Trump’s administration is likely to revisit immigration reforms, potentially tightening visa issuance for international students. Nigerian students may face increased scrutiny during the application process, requiring meticulous preparation of documents and proof of financial stability.
Tuition and Funding With limited federal support for international students, tuition costs may remain high. Aspiring students will need to explore alternative funding options, such as scholarships from Nigerian organizations or global initiatives.
Post-Graduation Work Opportunities Trump’s policies on H1-B visas and Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs, critical for international students seeking employment in the U.S., may see further restrictions. This could affect the ability of Nigerian students to gain practical experience post-graduation.
Challenges Nigerian Students May Face
Increased Scrutiny Nigerian students might experience more stringent background checks during visa applications, with an additional focus on financial and academic credentials. This could lengthen the process and increase rejection rates.
Rising Costs of Living Economic policies under Trump’s administration may lead to inflation and rising costs of living in the U.S., making it harder for students to manage expenses while studying.
Community and Cultural Adjustments The heightened political and social polarization in the U.S. could exacerbate feelings of isolation among international students. Potential incidents of xenophobia or racial profiling might also become concerns.
Potential Opportunities for Nigerian Students
Policy Reforms While challenges exist, Trump’s administration may continue to emphasize STEM fields, creating opportunities for Nigerian students with interests in technology, engineering, and healthcare.
Strengthened Nigerian Networks Nigerian students in the U.S. have consistently demonstrated the power of community. Organizations like the Nigerian Students Association can serve as vital support systems, offering advocacy, mentorship, and camaraderie during challenging times.
Voices from the Ground: Nigerian Students in the U.S. Speak
“Trump’s second term is a mixed bag for us Nigerian students. On one hand, we worry about stricter immigration policies, but on the other hand, the emphasis on STEM fields could open up more opportunities for funding and internships. The key will be staying informed and proactive,” said Tolu Ogunyemi, a Nigerian student pursuing a Master’s in Computer Science at a U.S. university.
Trump’s second term presents both challenges and opportunities for Nigerian students. While stricter immigration policies and rising costs may pose hurdles, the emphasis on STEM and the resilience of the Nigerian student community remain bright spots. Staying informed, leveraging networks, and being proactive will be essential for navigating this new era. Nigerian students have consistently proven their ability to adapt and excel, and with strategic planning, they can continue to achieve success despite the evolving landscape of U.S. policies.
South Korea’s political landscape plunged further into chaos as lawmakers impeached acting president Han Duck-soo, marking the country’s second presidential impeachment in just two weeks. This follows the suspension of his predecessor, President Yoon Suk Yeol, over a controversial martial law declaration that sent shockwaves worldwide.
Han, previously serving as prime minister, assumed the role of acting president on December 14 after Yoon’s impeachment by parliament on charges of insurrection. However, opposition lawmakers accused Han of stalling Yoon’s impeachment process and failing to ensure justice, leading to his own ousting.
“The impeachment motion for Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has been approved,” announced National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik. “Out of 192 votes cast, all 192 were in favor.”
The ruling People’s Power Party (PPP) strongly opposed the decision, arguing that impeachment required a two-thirds majority rather than a simple majority. Tensions flared in parliament as PPP members protested loudly, with some rushing toward the speaker and demanding his resignation. Notably, PPP lawmakers abstained from the vote.
Friday’s development also made history as South Korea’s first impeachment of an acting president. PPP leader Kweon Seong-dong urged Han to remain steadfast in his role despite the opposition’s actions. However, Han stated he would honor the parliament’s decision and await the Constitutional Court’s ruling on whether to uphold the impeachment.
Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok has since stepped in as acting president and prime minister. In his inaugural address, Choi emphasized the urgency of stabilizing the nation, pledging, “The government will focus all its efforts on mitigating the turmoil and steering the country through this challenging period.”
The ongoing political instability has taken a toll on South Korea’s economy. On Friday, the won hit a 16-year low against the US dollar, performing worse than it did after Yoon’s martial law declaration. Additionally, the KOSPI Index fell by 1.02% at market close, further underscoring the economic strain.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly dismissed allegations by Niger’s military leadership accusing Nigeria of actions that have worsened the Sahel crisis. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government described the claims as baseless and an attempt to deflect attention from internal challenges within Niger.
The accusations stem from Nigeria’s decision to cut off electricity supplies to Niger following the military coup in July 2023. Niger’s leadership has alleged that this action, along with sanctions imposed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has deepened the humanitarian crisis in the country.
A spokesperson for the Nigerian government clarified that the sanctions, including the suspension of electricity, were ECOWAS decisions aimed at restoring constitutional order in Niger. “Nigeria remains committed to regional peace and stability. These measures were taken in good faith to ensure the restoration of democracy and to uphold the principles of governance agreed upon by ECOWAS member states,” the statement read.
The Sahel region has been grappling with widespread insecurity, including insurgency and political instability, which has been compounded by military takeovers in several nations. The Federal Government emphasized that the root causes of the crisis are complex and require collaborative efforts among regional and international stakeholders.
Meanwhile, Niger’s military leaders have continued to resist calls to relinquish power, instead accusing Nigeria and other ECOWAS nations of seeking to undermine their sovereignty. In response, Nigeria has reiterated its support for diplomatic solutions while warning against rhetoric that could inflame tensions.
Observers note that the strained relationship between Nigeria and Niger highlights the challenges facing regional diplomacy in addressing the Sahel’s multifaceted crisis. As both countries navigate these tensions, the international community continues to call for de-escalation and a focus on humanitarian relief for the affected populations.
This development underscores the urgent need for regional cooperation to address the Sahel’s security and governance issues while balancing political interventions with humanitarian concerns.
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