President Bola Tinubu has revised the proposed 2025 budget, raising it from ₦49.7 trillion to ₦54.2 trillion. The adjustment comes in response to increased revenue generated by key government agencies.
In separate letters addressed to the Senate and the House of Representatives, Tinubu detailed the revenue boost, which includes ₦1.4 trillion from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), ₦1.2 trillion from the Nigeria Customs Service, and ₦1.8 trillion from other government-owned agencies.
The letters were read during Wednesday’s plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Following the announcement, Akpabio referred the President’s proposal to the Senate Committee on Appropriations for swift review. He assured lawmakers that the budget would be finalized and passed before the end of February.
With this development, the National Assembly is expected to fast-track deliberations to ensure timely approval and implementation of the 2025 budget.
The Honourable Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to establishing a structured framework for monitoring and evaluating the implementation of Nigeria’s police reform roadmap.
He made this statement during a stakeholder engagement on police reforms held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja. The event brought together key figures, including the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, the German Ambassador to Nigeria, the Director-General of the Institute of Police Studies, and representatives from the Office of the National Security Adviser, Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigeria Correctional Service, Nigeria Police Trust Fund, CLEEN Foundation, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Gaidam emphasized that the Ministry will strategically coordinate donor support to prevent duplication of efforts, enhance the efficiency of assistance, and ensure that resources are allocated to priority areas in the nation’s police development agenda.
“This event aligns with our unwavering commitment to fulfilling President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate to reform the Nigeria Police in line with global best practices. We are dedicated to fostering trust and confidence, which are essential to effective policing,” the Minister stated.
Police Reform: A National Priority
The Minister highlighted that reforming the police force is not just a goal but a key priority for the current administration. President Tinubu’s directive in October 2023 assigned the Ministry of Police Affairs, the National Security Adviser, and the Chairman of the Police Service Commission the responsibility of developing a comprehensive and sustainable police reform blueprint.
“This mandate underscores the administration’s recognition of the urgent need to transform our policing system. Our goal is to move beyond rhetoric and implement tangible reforms that reshape the narrative of policing in Nigeria,” he said.
Stakeholder Collaboration for Effective Reform
Gaidam stressed that the engagement aims to foster a multi-sectoral consensus on police reforms. He noted that achieving meaningful change requires broad societal participation, as educating the public on policing intricacies is vital to building national support for a reform blueprint that aligns with Nigeria’s realities.
“True reform cannot happen in isolation. Engaging stakeholders ensures that public opinion is incorporated at every stage of the process, making the reforms more inclusive and reflective of community needs,” he added.
The Minister also assured that stakeholder engagement will be a continuous process, as public input is crucial to shaping a police force that effectively serves Nigerian communities.
Germany’s Contribution to Nigeria’s Police Reform
German Ambassador to Nigeria, Annett Günther, reiterated her country’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s policing system. She highlighted Germany’s investments in police training by refurbishing and equipping training facilities in Lagos, Enugu, Abuja, and Kaduna. Over 1,000 police trainers have received specialized training in leadership, human rights, crisis communication, and gender-sensitive policing.
“Through collaborations with civil society organizations and national institutions, we have supported governance reforms, including the establishment of the Police Transformation and Reform Office (PORTO), now succeeded by the Police Reform Secretariat, which continues to drive the reform agenda forward,” she stated.
This collaborative approach underscores the commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s law enforcement system, ensuring a transparent, accountable, and community-driven policing structure.
Football has witnessed many great players, but no rivalry has defined an era like that of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Their dominance has sparked endless debates, dividing fans, analysts, and football legends.
The Art of Football: Style and Versatility
Cristiano Ronaldo: complete forward—powerful, fast, two-footed, an aerial beast, and a set-piece specialist. His adaptability across different leagues, teams, and tactical systems makes him unique.
Lionel Messi: magician with the ball—dribbles effortlessly, makes intelligent passes, and has a lethal left foot. However, his game has been more dependent on a system built around him.
Club Success Across Multiple Leagues
Ronaldo’s Legacy:
Premier League (Manchester United): Ronaldo won three Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League title during his first stint with Manchester United.
La Liga (Real Madrid): At Real Madrid, he secured two La Liga titles and four Champions League titles, becoming the club’s all-time top scorer with 450 goals.
Serie A (Juventus): In Italy, he added two Serie A titles to his name, demonstrating his ability to adapt and excel in different footballing cultures.
Saudi Pro League (Al Nassr): Even in the twilight of his career, Ronaldo continues to perform at a high level, contributing significantly to Al Nassr’s successes.
Messi’s Dominance at Barcelona:
Spent the majority of his career at Barcelona, where he enjoyed sustained success under a system built around him.
His subsequent moves to Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami have not mirrored the same level of dominance, raising questions about his adaptability.
The Ultimate Big-Game Player
Champions League Heroics:
Ronaldo is the all-time top scorer in the UEFA Champions League and has been decisive in multiple finals. Delivered iconic moments—such as his hat-trick against Atlético Madrid in 2019 and a bicycle kick against Juventus in 2018.
Messi’s European Struggles:
While he has had brilliant moments, Messi has often struggled in key knockout matches, especially when Barcelona suffered heavy defeats in later stages.
The International Stage: Delivering for Their Countries
Ronaldo’s Leadership for Portugal:
Led Portugal to Euro 2016 victory, even playing a key leadership role from the sidelines in the final. Won the UEFA Nations League in 2019, cementing his international success.
Messi’s Argentina Journey:
Finally won an international trophy with Copa América 2021 and followed it up with the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
However, his international career was filled with heartbreaks before that, including three lost Copa América finals and a 2014 World Cup final defeat.
Career Goals and Assists: The Numbers Game
Cristiano Ronaldo:
Goals: As of February 2025, Ronaldo has scored 923 career goals in 1,254 appearances, making him the all-time leading goal scorer in football history.
Assists: He has provided 257 assists, contributing to a total of 1,180 goal involvements.
Lionel Messi:
Goals: Messi has netted 850 goals in 1,081 games.
Assists: He has recorded 379 assists, totaling 1,229 goal contributions.
While Messi has a higher number of assists, Ronaldo’s goal-scoring record, especially considering his longevity and consistency across different leagues, underscores his claim to the GOAT title.
Work Ethic, Longevity, and Physical Dominance
Ronaldo’s Insane Work Ethic:
Known for his incredible discipline, training routines, and fitness level, maintaining peak performance well into his late 30s.
Messi’s Natural Talent:
While immensely gifted, Messi has relied more on natural ability than sheer physical preparation.
The Mentality of a Champion
Ronaldo thrives under pressure, embraces challenges, and delivers when his team needs him the most.is never-say-die attitude has made him a relentless force in football.
Messi, while incredibly composed, has sometimes been criticized for struggling when things don’t go in his favor. His brief retirement from Argentina’s national team in 2016 after a Copa América loss is an example.
Ronaldo, The Ultimate GOAT
While both players have set records that may never be broken, Cristiano Ronaldo’s ability to excel in different leagues, dominate on the biggest stage, and maintain an elite level for nearly two decades makes him the greatest of all time.is mix of skill, work ethic, mentality, and versatility sets him apart in football history.
The debate may never end, but for those who value adaptability, clutch performances, and an unstoppable winning mentality—Cristiano Ronaldo stands above all.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced an extension of the FX sale period to Bureau de Change (BDC) operators until May 30, 2025, in order to better meet retail market demand.
This decision was communicated through a circular signed by Dr. W. J. Kanya, Acting Director of the Trade and Exchange Department, which was sent to BDCs on Monday and is also available on the CBN website.
The circular, titled “Sales of Foreign Exchange To BDCs To Meet Retail Market Demand For Eligible Invisible Transactions,” extends the original deadline of January 31, 2025. It reads:
“We refer to our circular TED/FEM/PUB/FPC/001/030 dated December 19, 2024, which granted temporary access to existing BDCs to the NFEM for the purchase of FX from Authorised Dealers, subject to a weekly cap of USD 25,000.00.
The expiry date of January 31, 2025, which was granted in the above-mentioned circular has been extended to May 30, 2025.
All other terms and conditions in the above-mentioned circular remain unchanged,” the acting director stated.
Dr. Kanya further emphasized that the CBN remains committed to ensuring a fully operational foreign exchange market and will continue providing liquidity to manage price volatility.
The Federal Government has launched the National Broadband Alliance (NBAN), a new initiative designed to enhance the country’s digital infrastructure and improve internet access nationwide.
Unveiled on Tuesday in Lagos by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, and represented by Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the initiative aims to significantly increase broadband penetration across Nigeria.
Tijani highlighted that NBAN would play a crucial role in advancing broadband access, noting that the nation’s broadband coverage has increased from just 6 percent in 2015 to nearly 42 percent by October 2024.
To facilitate this growth, the government is utilizing a Special Purpose Vehicle to deploy 90,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables nationwide, ensuring that underserved and rural communities gain access to high-speed internet.
He explained that the initiative is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on innovation, technology, and collaboration as pillars for national growth and prosperity.
Tijani stressed that expanding broadband access would not only enhance internet connectivity but also empower Nigerians, particularly in rural areas. “While the progress made in broadband penetration is commendable, we recognise that much more needs to be done to ensure every Nigerian can enjoy the benefits of reliable, high-speed internet,” he stated.
The minister also underscored the importance of strategic partnerships with donors, investors, and other stakeholders to achieve the objectives set forth in the National Broadband Plan (2020-2025). These collaborations, he noted, are key to overcoming infrastructure challenges and making broadband both affordable and accessible to all Nigerians.
“These targets reflect our unwavering commitment to ensuring that broadband is accessible, affordable, and inclusive for all Nigerians. However, we are also aware of the challenges ahead,” Tijani remarked.
He added that achieving the government’s ambitious targets—70 percent broadband penetration by 2025, internet speeds of at least 25 Mbps in urban areas, and broadband access for 80 percent of the population by 2027—would require sustained efforts. “Achieving these goals will require more than just the efforts of the private sector. It will require a holistic approach that includes strategic partnerships with donors, investors, and other key stakeholders in accelerating the rollout of critical infrastructure,” he concluded.
Lagos app-based drivers, represented by the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), have strongly opposed Bolt’s 50% fare reduction, arguing that it exacerbates their financial difficulties.
As a response, the union has announced plans for a protest, demanding fairer treatment and improved working conditions within the ride-hailing industry.
AUATON members have expressed concern that the steep fare cuts have worsened their already difficult financial situations, making it harder to meet basic needs. The union’s Lagos spokesperson, Steven Iwindoye, issued a statement on Sunday, stressing that the ongoing fare reductions and the unfair treatment of drivers by companies like Bolt, Uber, Indrive, and Rida have reached an intolerable level. He pointed out that the only way forward is for drivers to unite and take action.
The statement emphasized, “We call on all drivers, regardless of union affiliation, to participate in the upcoming protest. We cannot afford to have drivers undermining the effort by continuing to work and accept the unfair conditions. The protest’s success relies on the unity and solidarity of all drivers.” Iwindoye also acknowledged that some drivers have been hesitant to take a stand, or even worked against the interests of their fellow drivers. He views the protest as an opportunity to unite, despite differences, for a common cause.
“While we await the announcement of the protest date, drivers can take action by expressing their dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs. Writing to Bolt and registering our displeasure with the 50% price slash is a crucial step. This will demonstrate our collective dissatisfaction and prepare the ground for the upcoming protest.”
Iwindoye further urged, “When the protest date is announced, we must stand together and use our collective power to bring about change. This may require drivers to take bold action and assert their rights. By doing so, we can create a better future for ourselves and the entire ride-hailing industry.”
He concluded with a call to unity, stating, “We urge all AUATON members and drivers to unite and demand fair treatment from ride-hailing companies. Together, we can bring about the change we deserve.”
As the world marks World Cancer Day 2025 on February 4, the fight against cancer remains a global priority. This year’s theme, “Close the Care Gap,” highlights the urgent need for equitable access to cancer treatment and awareness, especially in low-resource countries like Nigeria.
In recent years, Nigeria has mourned the loss of several beloved celebrities to cancer, a disease that continues to challenge the nation’s healthcare system. These individuals not only entertained and inspired millions but also brought to light the pressing issue of cancer prevalence and treatment in Nigeria.
Notable Nigerian Celebrities Lost to Cancer (2020-2025)
Majek Fashek (1963–2020)
Renowned reggae musician Majek Fashek, famous for his hit song “Send Down the Rain,” passed away on June 1, 2020, after battling cancer.
Karibi Fubara (1980–2021)
Nollywood actor Karibi Fubara, known for his roles in films like “God Calling, was diagnosed with cancer in 2020 and died on December 15, 2021.
Deji Aderemi (1951–2024)
Veteran Yoruba actor Deji Aderemi, popularly known as Baba Olofana, died on January 4, 2024, at the age of 73 after a battle with cancer.
The Prevalence Cancer in Nigeria
Cancer has become a significant public health concern in Nigeria, with an estimated 80,000 deaths and over 100,000 new diagnoses annually. The most common types include breast, cervical, prostate, and liver cancers. Factors contributing to the rising cancer rates encompass lifestyle changes, environmental exposures, and limited access to early detection and treatment services.
Challenges In Cancer Treatment
Nigeria faces severaobstacles in providing effective cancer care:
Limited Access to Radiotherapy: Despite the high demand, there are only a few functional radiotherapy centers in the country, making it challenging for patients to receive timely treatment.
Shortage of Oncology Specialists: There is scarcity of trained oncologists, radiotherapists, and oncology nurses, leading to overburdened healthcare providers and delayed treatments.
Financial Constraints: The high cost of cancer treatment, coupled with limited insurance coverage, makes it unaffordable for many Nigerians, resulting in late presentations and poor outcomes.
The untimely deaths of these cherished celebrities underscore the critical need for improved cancer awareness, early detection, and accessible treatment in Nigeria. By addressing these challenges, the nation can work towards reducing the cancer burden and honoring the legacy of those lost to this disease.
On Monday, President Bola Tinubu urged the Federal High Court in Abuja to dismiss a lawsuit filed by lawyer Olukoya Ogungbeje, which seeks his removal from office due to alleged mishandling of the nationwide #Hunger protests from August 1 to 10, 2024.
In a joint preliminary objection submitted alongside Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the President argued that Ogungbeje had failed to provide a valid cause of action and lacked the legal standing to bring the case.
Filed on September 4, 2024, under case number FHC/ABJ/CS/1334/2024, the lawsuit sought six demands, including “an order compelling the National Assembly to initiate impeachment proceedings against President Tinubu over alleged violations of fundamental rights related to the #Hunger protests in August 2024.”
Ogungbeje claimed that President Tinubu’s actions during the protests amounted to gross misconduct and warranted impeachment. He cited Section 143 of the Nigerian Constitution, which empowers the National Assembly to begin such proceedings.
In response, Tinubu’s legal team argued that Ogungbeje’s case was without merit and jurisdiction, urging the court to dismiss the suit. They pointed out that Ogungbeje failed to demonstrate how his fundamental rights were violated or provide evidence of any illegal actions regarding the protest management.
The protests had emerged in response to Nigeria’s worsening hunger crisis, with demonstrators accusing the government of ignoring the growing food insecurity. However, Tinubu’s administration maintained that the protests were managed peacefully, with appropriate legal measures and security in place to safeguard participants.
The Attorney General’s counter-affidavit defended President Tinubu, stating that he had consistently supported democratic principles, including allowing peaceful protests, and had taken steps to protect citizens’ rights. The affidavit also argued that there was no breach of the President’s oath of office and that the impeachment claim lacked merit.
At the Monday hearing, Ogungbeje’s lawyer, Stanley Okonmah, requested an adjournment to properly address the defendants’ objections. Justice James Omotosho granted the request and scheduled the next hearing for March 4, 2025.
Chelsea are set to offload João Félix to AC Milan on loan before the January transfer deadline. The Blues initially signed the 25-year-old for £46.3 million last summer, committing him to a seven-year contract. Now, just six months later, he is on the verge of leaving Stamford Bridge once again.
AC Milan will reportedly pay Chelsea a £5 million loan fee and cover the Portugal international’s wages. The Italian club has shown consistent interest in Félix throughout the transfer window, and reports indicate he was spotted watching the Milan derby at San Siro last Sunday.
A Disappointing Spell at Chelsea
Félix’s time at Chelsea has been underwhelming. Since rejoining the club permanently from Atlético Madrid, he has struggled to make a significant impact, scoring just seven goals in 20 appearances.
This season, he has played 12 Premier League matches but accumulated only 363 minutes of game time. Despite being named in the starting XI three times, he has primarily been used as a substitute. His last appearance for Chelsea came on January 20, when he played just six minutes in a 3-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
So far in the 2024/25 campaign, Félix has managed just one goal and one assist in the Premier League, while also picking up two yellow cards. His only goal came against Wolves in a 6-2 win on August 25.
Interest from Other Clubs
Aston Villa showed interest in signing Félix during the January transfer window, with their president of football operations, Monchi, publicly acknowledging Unai Emery’s admiration for the player. However, Villa ultimately opted to pursue Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio instead.
Now, a move abroad looks more likely for Félix, as AC Milan offers him the chance to revitalize his career with more consistent playing time.
Why Chelsea Loaned João Félix
Chelsea’s decision to loan out Félix stems from several key factors:
Limited Playing Time – Félix struggled to secure a regular spot in Chelsea’s starting XI due to intense competition for attacking positions.
Injury Problems – Persistent fitness issues affected his availability and overall effectiveness.
AC Milan’s Interest – Milan’s strong desire to sign him provides an opportunity for more playing time and a fresh start.
Squad Depth – Chelsea boasts a deep attacking lineup, making Félix’s departure less of a concern.
Financial Considerations – Loaning Félix out helps Chelsea preserve his market value by ensuring he remains active and relevant in top-level football.
Additionally, maintaining a good relationship with AC Milan could facilitate future transfer dealings between the two clubs.
Félix’s Career Before Chelsea
Before returning to Chelsea in August 2024, Félix had a mixed spell at Barcelona, making 30 LaLiga appearances, scoring seven goals, and registering three assists. Prior to that, he spent time at Atlético Madrid, where he made 96 league appearances, scoring 25 goals and assisting 13 times.
His Premier League debut, however, was one to forget. On January 12, 2023, he received a red card in his first match for Chelsea against Fulham. Since then, he has played 28 times in the English top flight, managing just five goals and one assist.
What’s Next for Chelsea?
Chelsea will resume their Premier League campaign with an away fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion on February 14. Meanwhile, Félix will look to make the most of his loan move to AC Milan, hoping to reignite his career and justify his hefty price tag.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced the disbursement of over N20 billion in institutional fees to tertiary institutions across Nigeria, benefiting 192,906 students.
In a statement released on Monday in Abuja, NELFUND clarified misconceptions about the total amount disbursed, refuting claims that N104 billion had been allocated.
“As of February 3, 2025, NELFUND has received 364,042 student loan applications. So far, the Fund has disbursed N20,074,050,000 for institutional fees, covering 192,906 students across various tertiary institutions,” the statement read.
Beyond tuition support, NELFUND has also provided financial aid for students’ living expenses, distributing over N12 billion in stipends.
“NELFUND has disbursed N12,818,960,000 to 169,114 students, each receiving a monthly stipend of N20,000,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and efficiency, NELFUND assured the public of continued updates on disbursements.
The student loan scheme remains a key initiative under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, aimed at expanding access to higher education. Shortly after his inauguration, Tinubu signed the Access to Higher Education Act, establishing a legal framework for providing low-income Nigerians with tuition loans.
Reintroduced earlier this year, the Act empowered NELFUND to manage the loan process, from application and disbursement to recovery. The Fund is financed through multiple revenue streams, with additional strategies being explored to sustain its operations.
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