The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced a remittance of over N6 billion to the Nigerian government in 2024. According to the board’s latest weekly bulletin, issued on Monday by its Public Communication Advisor, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, JAMB generated a total income of N22,996,653,265.25 in the year, from which N6,034,605,510.69 was remitted to the federal coffers.
Furthermore, JAMB highlighted that a reduction of N1,500 in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) form fees for candidates led to an increased effective remittance. With this fee reduction applied to the number of candidates who benefited, the total amount remitted to the government reached N9,013,068,510.69.
The remittance forms part of JAMB’s operating surplus following the successful administration of the 2024 UTME. Additionally, the board shared that over the past seven years under the leadership of its Registrar/Chief Executive, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, JAMB has contributed more than N50 billion to the national treasury.
Reflecting on 2024, JAMB reiterated its commitment to transparency, stating, “In 2024, the board generated a total income of N22,996,653,265.25 and remitted N6,034,605,510.69 to the government. When accounting for the N1,500 reduction in form fees for candidates, the total remittance amount increased to N9,013,068,510.69.”
John Dramani Mahama was inaugurated today as the President of Ghana, marking his third term in office amid significant economic challenges.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at Accra’s Black Star Square, attended by national leaders, foreign dignitaries, and thousands of citizens.
In his inaugural address, President Mahama emphasized his commitment to revitalizing Ghana’s economy, pledging to tackle issues such as corruption, unemployment, and inflation.
He also highlighted plans to reform the cocoa sector and restructure the state regulator to enhance efficiency and support growth in this vital industry.
Mahama’s return to the presidency follows his victory in the December 7 election, where he secured a significant majority, reflecting the public’s desire for change amid the country’s worst economic crisis in a generation.
His administration faces the immediate task of addressing the cost-of-living crisis and restoring public trust through transparent governance and effective economic policies.
The peaceful transition of power reinforces Ghana’s reputation as a stable democracy in West Africa, a region often troubled by political instability.
Citizens and international observers alike are hopeful that President Mahama’s leadership will steer the nation toward economic recovery and sustainable development.
Justin Pierre James Trudeau’s resignation as Canada’s Prime Minister has sent shockwaves across the political landscape, marking the end of an era defined by bold policies, progressive leadership, and increasing polarization. His departure raises pressing questions about Canada’s future, the Liberal Party’s direction, and the country’s domestic and international standing.
Justin Trudeau’s Legacy and Reasons for Resignation
Justin Trudeau, the son of former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, came to power in 2015, bringing youthful energy and a promise of progressive change. Under his leadership, Canada witnessed significant achievements, including the legalization of cannabis, the introduction of carbon pricing to combat climate change, and a commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
However, his tenure was not without controversy. Declining approval ratings, allegations of ethics violations, and internal tensions within the Liberal Party created a challenging political climate. Trudeau faced criticism for his handling of economic policies, rising inflation, and strained relations with opposition parties. These factors, combined with the resignation of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland and other internal party pressures, ultimately led to his decision to step down.
Who Might Succeed Justin Trudeau?
The Liberal Party now faces the task of selecting a new leader capable of maintaining the party’s relevance and addressing the challenges ahead. Potential successors include:
Chrystia Freeland: A seasoned politician and former Finance Minister, Freeland is a strong contender. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and economic challenges has positioned her as a trusted figure within the party.
Mark Carney: Former Governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, Carney brings extensive economic expertise. His potential candidacy could signal a focus on fiscal stability and international relations.
Anita Anand: The transport minister is often touted as one of the more ambitious members of the Liberal caucus.
Other Contenders: Other Liberal Party members may emerge as dark horses, bringing fresh perspectives to the leadership race.
Immediate Political Implications
Trudeau’s resignation has prompted the suspension of Parliament until March 24 to allow the Liberal Party to conduct its leadership race. Meanwhile, opposition parties, led by Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, have called for immediate elections, capitalizing on the uncertainty within the ruling party.
The political vacuum also presents an opportunity for smaller parties like the New Democratic Party (NDP) and Bloc Québécois to assert influence in shaping Canada’s political discourse.
Impact on Canada’s Domestic Policies
A new Liberal leader will likely shape the trajectory of key domestic policies:
Economic Policies: Addressing inflation, housing affordability, and economic recovery will remain top priorities.
Immigration: Trudeau’s progressive immigration policies could see adjustments depending on the new leader’s vision.
National Unity: The rise of political polarization will challenge the next leader to bridge divides across provinces and political factions.
Canada’s International Relations Post-Trudeau
Canada’s foreign policy, especially its relationship with the United States, may undergo subtle shifts under new leadership. The country’s stance on global issues such as climate change, trade, and international security will depend on the priorities of Trudeau’s successor.
Public Sentiment and Future Outlook
Trudeau’s resignation has elicited mixed reactions from the public. While some view his departure as an opportunity for change, others see it as a loss of visionary leadership. The upcoming Liberal Party leadership race and potential federal elections will determine the country’s direction.
Justin Trudeau’s resignation marks the end of a transformative chapter in Canadian politics. As the Liberal Party searches for a new leader, the stakes are high for the future of the party and the nation. Canada stands at a crossroads, with opportunities to address pressing challenges and redefine its place on the global stage. The coming months will reveal whether the country can navigate this transition effectively and build a more united and prosperous future.
The United States Congress has officially certified Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election, solidifying his return to the White House on January 20, 2025. This certification, completed during a joint session of Congress on Monday, marks the final step in validating the Electoral College results from November’s election.
Vice President Kamala Harris, who was Trump’s Democratic rival in the race, oversaw the session, which unfolded smoothly without any incidents. This was a stark contrast to the chaotic events of January 6, 2021, when a violent Capitol attack disrupted the certification of Trump’s defeat in the 2020 election.
In her remarks following the session, Harris emphasized the critical importance of peaceful transitions of power in maintaining the integrity of democracy. “Today was a very important day. It was about what should be the norm and what the American people should be able to take for granted: that one of the most important pillars of our democracy is that there will be a peaceful transfer of power,” Harris said.
The certification confirmed Trump’s victory, with the former president securing 312 Electoral College votes compared to Harris’s 226. Additionally, Trump became the first Republican candidate since 2004 to win the popular vote.
The certification followed a contentious campaign season, but unlike previous years, the proceedings took place without significant challenges or disruptions.
Trump celebrated the certification on his social media platform, Truth Social, calling it “a big moment in history.” His victory not only secures his return to the presidency but also shifts control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate to the Republican Party.
While Trump has faced legal challenges related to his post-2020 election actions, including attempts to overturn the results, his 2024 campaign has been viewed as his most successful yet, culminating in both a presidential victory and notable congressional gains.
In her post-certification address, Harris stressed the fragility of democracy and the collective responsibility to protect it. “America’s democracy is only as strong as our willingness to fight for it,” she stated.
As Trump prepares for his second term, the country looks ahead to January 2025, with the promise of a new administration and a renewed political landscape.
Venâncio Mondlane, the opposition leader of Mozambique, who has been calling for protests from exile in recent weeks, has declared his intention to return to the country on Thursday. His arrival is timed just ahead of the inauguration of the newly elected president next week. Daniel Chapo, from the ruling Frelimo party, is set to take the oath of office on Wednesday after a court upheld his victory in the presidential election.
Mondlane, who came in second in the election, has rejected the court’s ruling and has been at the forefront of organizing protests that have escalated into violent clashes, resulting in dozens of deaths since October. After two of his aides were killed in the same month, Mondlane fled the country, citing security concerns.
In a defiant Facebook live address on Sunday, Mondlane vowed to return to Maputo, stating, “They don’t need to chase me anymore.” He confirmed that he would land at Maputo International Airport at 08:05 local time (06:05 GMT) on Thursday, urging supporters to welcome him. “If they are killing my brothers, I will be there. You can do what you want. If you want to murder, murder. If you want to arrest, arrest too. I will be there,” he said.
Mondlane continues to assert that he won the election and has called for further protests until what he calls “electoral truth” is realized. His supporters have organized frequent and violent demonstrations across the country, demanding an end to the 49-year rule of the Frelimo party. Mondlane previously announced plans to declare himself president on January 15—the day of the official inauguration—even though the court has confirmed Chapo’s victory.
The electoral commission initially declared Chapo the winner with 71% of the vote, while Mondlane received 20%. However, the final official results from the constitutional court, released two weeks ago, showed Chapo with 65% and Mondlane with 24%. International election observers have raised concerns about the legitimacy of the vote, citing discrepancies and irregularities in the counting process.
The ongoing protests have led to a violent crackdown by security forces, testing the stability of the country. Over 270 people have been killed, including both protesters and members of the security forces, according to human rights groups. The unrest has also had a detrimental effect on the economy, with over 12,000 people losing their jobs and more than 500 businesses vandalized.
The political unrest has not only affected Mozambique but also spilled over to neighboring countries, with thousands of Mozambicans fleeing across the border. Outgoing President Filipe Nyusi has called for dialogue to resolve the conflict, while Chapo, on December 27, urged for “non-violence” and “unity.”
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has launched a new initiative offering students the chance to resit their West African Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) as early as January and February 2025.
This initiative marks a significant shift from the previous system, which required candidates to wait for the next private exam session. John Kapi, the Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, shared this update in a recent statement.
Felix Oluwaseun Agbesanwa, Chairman of the Ogun State chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), commended this change, calling it a positive step forward.
The new programme, named WASSCE PC1 provides a faster opportunity for students to improve their grades. Kapi explained, “Students who access their WAEC results now and realize they need to resit one or two papers have until 8th January to register online through our website or at WAEC-accredited internet cafés. The exams will take place from 24th January to 15th February 2025.”
To aid candidates in their preparations, WAEC plans to expedite the release of detailed chief examiners’ reports, which will highlight areas where students may have underperformed and offer guidance on how to improve.
Kapi also emphasized the broad promotion of this initiative, noting that the programme has been widely advertised through banners, the official website, and the results checker platform, ensuring both students and parents are well-informed.
Moreover, students whose results were canceled are also eligible to participate in the WASSCE PC1 exams, provided they have not been banned for malpractice in previous exams. “For now, the exams will be conducted in regional capitals due to the limited number of candidates. Prospective participants are urged to complete their registration by the 8th of January to seize this opportunity,” Kapi stated.
WAEC remains optimistic that this initiative will allow students to quickly improve their grades and qualify for the upcoming academic year’s admission cycle, avoiding a year-long delay in their academic progression.
Meanwhile, ASUSS leader Agbesanwa voiced his approval of the policy, stating, “WAEC has introduced a new opportunity for students who failed their examinations to resit the failed papers, with the caveat that this opportunity is only available to those who have not been banned for malpractice.”
However, he suggested extending the registration deadline until the end of January to give students more time to prepare. Agbesanwa also recommended that if students pass the resit exams, their results should be combined with their previous scores to clear any two-sitting gaps, which could further aid their chances of gaining admission into higher institutions.
He further noted that the timing of the exams scheduled for March would likely ensure quick results, allowing students to proceed with their academic plans without significant delays. He also highlighted the potential for this initiative to help curb examination malpractices, although he expressed concern that students might misuse the opportunity if they don’t take their studies seriously.
While acknowledging that the registration fee for the resit exams is lower than that of a full exam session, Agbesanwa urged students not to view this window as a chance to be complacent, but rather as an opportunity to demonstrate discipline and commitment to their studies.
Ultimately, Agbesanwa expressed hope that WAEC would implement the policy transparently and that its intended benefits would be fully realized.
The high cost of petrol in Nigeria has long been a contentious issue, particularly following the removal of fuel subsidies in 2023. With global crude prices fluctuating and Nigeria heavily reliant on imported petroleum products, citizens continue to feel the economic pressure.
The BUA Refinery, located in Akwa Ibom State, is a significant addition to Nigeria’s refining capacity. With an expected output of 200,000 barrels per day, this refinery aims to complement the operations of other projects like the Dangote Refinery, which has a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day.
Slated to begin operations in 2025, the BUA Refinery symbolizes hope for energy security in Nigeria. It is expected to reduce the nation’s reliance on imported petroleum products, which has historically led to high costs and forex pressures. By increasing domestic refining, the country could significantly cut down on the foreign exchange spent on imports, potentially stabilizing the price of petrol.
Implications of Having More Refineries in Nigeria
Economic Benefits The development of multiple refineries brings the promise of economic transformation. Locally refined products are expected to reduce importation costs, easing pressure on the naira. Furthermore, these projects could enhance Nigeria’s trade balance, allowing the country to export surplus refined products to neighboring nations.
Job Creation With more refineries comes a boost in employment opportunities, both during construction and in their daily operations. This ripple effect on the economy could indirectly influence the purchasing power of Nigerians.
Environmental Considerations While more refineries mean more production, environmental sustainability must remain a priority. Mitigating the risks of oil spillage, air pollution, and other environmental hazards will be crucial to ensure long-term benefits.
Can Local Refining Truly Reduce Petrol Prices?
Despite the optimism, local refining is not a guaranteed solution to lower petrol prices. Several factors will influence the cost of petrol in 2025:
Production Costs: The cost of refining crude locally must remain competitive. Infrastructure maintenance, technology, and operational efficiency will play a significant role.
Government Policies: Taxes, levies, and regulatory frameworks can significantly impact the final pump price. The government’s ability to balance revenue generation with affordability for citizens will be key.
Global Oil Prices: Even with local refining, Nigeria’s petrol prices will still be influenced by global crude oil prices. If crude prices surge, it could offset any benefits of domestic refining.
Lessons from Other Oil-Producing Nations
Countries like Saudi Arabia and Venezuela offer valuable lessons. Saudi Arabia, with its massive refining capacity, has managed to keep local fuel prices relatively low while exporting surplus products. On the other hand, Venezuela’s challenges highlight the importance of proper maintenance and operational sustainability.
For Nigeria, achieving affordable petrol prices requires not just refining capacity but also efficient management, consistent policies, and transparency in operations.
Challenges Facing Nigeria’s Refining Sector
Despite the potential benefits, Nigeria’s refining sector faces significant challenges:
Maintenance Issues: Many past government-run refineries suffered from neglect, leading to inefficiencies and shutdowns. Sustaining the operations of new refineries will require a shift in approach.
Policy Inconsistencies: Frequent changes in regulations have historically discouraged investment and created uncertainty. Stable and investor-friendly policies are critical for long-term success.
Corruption: Mismanagement and corruption have plagued the oil and gas sector. Without proper oversight, even the most ambitious projects may fail to deliver on their promises.
Outlook for 2025: Will Nigerians Pay Less for Petrol?
The answer depends on multiple factors. If the BUA Refinery and other local projects operate efficiently and government policies support local refining, Nigerians could see some relief at the pump. However, external factors such as global crude prices and local challenges like infrastructure inefficiencies could temper expectations.
The prospect of more refineries like the BUA Refinery signals progress for Nigeria’s energy sector. With reduced dependence on imports, job creation, and the potential for economic growth, the benefits are undeniable. However, the journey to cheaper petrol prices will require a holistic approach, combining operational efficiency, supportive policies, and public accountability.
While the road ahead is uncertain, the developments in Nigeria’s refining capacity bring cautious optimism that, by 2025, Nigerians might finally experience some respite at the petrol pump.
2024 witnessed great efforts and campaigns to explore and expand Leadership potentials in and for Africa.
At the forefront of these efforts, for 12 years now and counting…. is the Future Africa Leaders Foundation which through Education, Youth Empowerment, Mentoring and other projects is building young people across Africa and preparing them for a positive future.
Representing various countries from Africa, these ten winners, which includes one Star Prize Winner for 2024, shared their convictions and inspirations which drive them to invest their lives into impactful projects and campaigns.
Senior Executives and Officials of the Future Africa Leaders Awards took their time to explain the reason and other aspects of the Future Africa Leaders Foundation and shared how previous Winners, now Ambassadors of the Foundation have gone on to do impactful works in their countries.
They include a member of the central executive Council of Loveworld Inc. Pastor T.T Temisan as well as the COO or Loveworld Inc. in the person of Barr. Arinze Emmanuels. Senior Executive of the Future Africa Leaders Foundation, Dr. Olajumoke Ola-Akinsanya was also present.
The FALA 2024 Star Prize Winner, Julienne Ariori, a 23 year old visionary young Leader from Benin Republic launched the GMO’s Pesticides STOP Program and locally sourced for materials and manufactured bio-pesticides amongst other impactful projects.
Raising Leaders is at the very heart of the Mandate of the Future Africa Leaders Foundation, nurturing the Youth in order to positively impact their World.
This is why the Media has been urged to highlight the positive and impactful deeds of the youth in order to inspire resilience and hope for the youth in Africa.
Ethiopia and Somalia have now agreed on a multinational force to battle Islamist insurgents bedeviling their countries.
This signals a further reduction of diplomatic tensions between the neighboring countries. Talks in Mogadishu on Thursday between senior government officials resulted in an agreement to “collaborate” on the so-called African Union Support and Stabilization Mission and “strengthen bilateral relations,” Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on X on Friday.
However, details on how the nations would work together were not provided.
Somalia’s minister of state for foreign affairs, Ali Balcad, didn’t immediately respond to a text message requesting comment.
Under a previous accord, Ethiopia stationed 3,000 soldiers in Somalia as part of the African Union peacekeeping mission. In addition, as many as 7,000 Ethiopian troops were deployed in the Horn of Africa nation under a separate bilateral agreement.
Ethiopia has been one of the main contributors to the United Nations-backed force that’s been fighting al-Qaeda-linked militants in Somalia for almost two decades. Mogadishu previously objected to Addis Ababa’s future participation in the mission after a yearlong dispute over Ethiopia’s offer to recognize Somaliland — a breakaway territory in northern Somalia — in return for access to a port in the semi-autonomous region.
The talks between the two countries took place as Somalia on Thursday assumed its role as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council after a 54-year hiatus.
At least 14 people were killed and dozens injured after a driver plowed a car into a large crowd on Canal and Bourbon Street in New Orleans in the early morning on New Year’s Day.
City officials said 35 injured people, including a police officer, have been transported to five local hospitals.
The FBI has said it is investigating Wednesday’s attack as an act of terrorism and does not believe the suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar acted alone.
Jabbar was killed in a brief shootout with police after crashing his vehicle.
Who Is Shamsud-Din Jabbar
The FBI identified the driver as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, a U.S. citizen from Texas and Army veteran who was inspired by the Islamic State.
The half-brother of the terrorist suspect Shamsud-Din Jabbar blamed radicalization for the attack on New Year’s Day in New Orleans.
Fox News spoke with Abdur Rahim-Jabbar in Beaumont, Texas, where they grew up alongside three additional siblings.
Abdur said that they grew up Muslim, along with his whole family. He said that Jabbar stepped away from Islam, but found his way back following his 2022 divorce.
Jabbar struggled to find himself throughout his life, his half-brother told Fox News. He said that his half-brother joined the army to “find something, to set him straight, ground him, and maybe find a viable career path.”
Following Jabbar’s two divorces, his brother said that he was “looking for some type of guidance.”
His half-brother blamed radicalization for the attack and said that he did not see any signs prior to the attack, as well as expressing his condolences for the 15 lives lost.
He said this “was not a direct reflection of his brother and the Muslim community.”
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