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FG Committed to Youth Development – Minister

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The Minister of State for Youth Development, Olawande Ayodele said the Federal Government is more than ready to foster national solidarity and promote the development of youths in the country.

This was made known by the Minister when he was paid a visit in his Abuja Office by a delegation from the Nigeria Youths Union

On Wednesday, in a statement signed by Chinonso Obasi, the president of NYU, the minister disclosed the demands placed by NYU.

According to Obasi, a delegation of youths demanded that the Nigerian youth structure be reorganized and that Nigerian youths be reoriented on the need for national cohesion.

“The NYU President in his statement unequivocally reminded the Hon. Minister how the bad economy, insecurity, unemployment, and lack of infrastructure are biting wholeheartedly on Nigerian youths.”

NYU’s role in advocating for improvements in critical areas such as primary healthcare, local government autonomy, youth inclusion in governance, anti-corruption efforts, and addressing illegal mining was praised by the minister while responding to the delegation.

He reaffirmed the ministry’s willingness to collaborate with the group in addressing these concerns.

“The Nigerian Youth Union has been at the forefront of advocating for a better Nigeria,” the minister said.
“We are ready to work together on patriotic calls aimed at fostering national solidarity and the development of our youth.”

Air Peace To Increase Lagos-Abuja Ticket To N200,000 From November

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A one-way flight ticket on Air Peace from Lagos to Abuja will cost N200,000 from November 1, 2024.

The aviation business has been affected by the harsh economy causing the increment of fares by airlines amid lamentations from passengers.

This development has forced some Nigerians to abandon flights for road transport.

On Monday airfares of airlines showed that Air Peace fares will hit N200,000 from November, making it the highest among domestic airlines.

Air Peace has about N200,000 and above on its website for a one-way trip between Lagos and Abuja, while Aero is charging N94,000 to over N109,000; Arik Air has between N104,405 to N139,292; and Ibom Air ranges between N124,000 to over N133,000.

Many passengers have been left stranded at airports as they could not secure flights to their destinations as a result of the high airfares in recent times.

The busiest routes, Lagos-Abuja and Abuja-Lagos, are more impacted as many passengers find it tough to secure seats.

An official of Air Peace confirmed the development, tying the increment to the present Nigeria’s worsening economic challenges.

“If you buy a ticket and see the breakdown, you will discover that we are bleeding as an aviation company and even the prices of running the business are almost getting out of control.


“Just as we all know, all these killing taxes go to the government, and businesses especially airlines have been left with no choice other than to do this, it is what it is.”

Adeleke Aina, a businessman said that he has been travelling by air for years and added that with the rates at which “airfares are skyrocketing by the day without any clear explanation other than economy this, economy that, I will be left with no other option than take road transport as my new meanings of movement.


“This is killing everything, fuel has turned into what it is and the Federal seems unconcerned with this abnormality. I fear for this country.”

Global Geopolitical Tensions and Their Far-Reaching Impact on Africa

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In today’s interconnected world, geopolitical tensions are reshaping borders, influencing economies, and shifting alliances. From the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East to broader global disputes, these tensions have significant implications not just for the countries directly involved, but for regions far removed from the epicenters of conflict, including Africa.

The Israel vs. Middle East Neighbors War: Remapping Global Tensions

The ongoing conflict between Israel and its neighboring countries has brought the Middle East back into the global spotlight. This war, like many before it, has the potential to reshape the region in significant ways. The geopolitical struggle is rooted in complex historical, religious, and territorial disputes. However, what’s particularly concerning this time is the potential redrawing of borders, creation of new alliances, and the increasing influence of global powers in determining the region’s future.

Will this lead to a new Middle East order? Could we see a reshaping of power dynamics with new superpower influences, particularly from countries like China, Russia, or the U.S.? As the Middle East is a critical source of global energy supplies, the outcomes of these conflicts have widespread ramifications. How Africa reacts to and prepares for these changes will be key to the continent’s stability and growth.

Should the World Be Afraid? Where Is This All Leading?

With tensions rising not just in the Middle East but also in Eastern Europe, Asia, and other regions, many are asking a critical question: Is the world on the brink of something much larger? The growing polarization between global powers, the escalation of military interventions, and the arms race have left many fearing a broader global conflict.

The implications of these tensions extend beyond national borders. Countries far removed from the epicenter of conflict could find themselves dragged into economic, political, or military challenges. Global trade, energy security, migration patterns, and international diplomacy are all under threat. As the world teeters on the edge of greater instability, it begs the question—what will the future global landscape look like?

What’s the Significance and Impact for Africa?

Africa, though geographically distanced from many of the world’s geopolitical hotspots, is not immune to the ripple effects of these tensions. The continent relies heavily on international trade and foreign investments, which could be significantly disrupted by global conflicts. Energy supplies, particularly petroleum imports from the Middle East, may face sharp price increases due to instability in the region, placing additional strain on African economies.

Furthermore, Africa’s strategic importance in global geopolitics is rising. As global powers vie for influence and resources, African nations may find themselves caught in a tug-of-war between the West, China, and other emerging powers. This could present both opportunities and challenges, as Africa navigates this shifting global order.

Beyond economics, the displacement of people due to conflicts—refugees seeking asylum in African nations—can lead to social, political, and humanitarian issues. As these global tensions escalate, Africa must be prepared to respond to the cascading effects that may shape the continent’s future in unexpected ways.

The current geopolitical tensions are not isolated events but part of a larger global shift that will likely have profound and lasting consequences. While much of the world’s focus remains on conflict zones like the Middle East, Africa must remain vigilant. The continent’s political leaders, economic planners, and civil societies need to be proactive in understanding these shifts, preparing for potential disruptions, and seizing opportunities that arise from a restructured global landscape. The future remains uncertain, but Africa’s role in shaping it cannot be underestimated.

India and China Agree to De-escalate Border Tensions with New Patrolling Arrangements

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India and China have reached an agreement on new patrolling arrangements to ease tensions along their disputed Himalayan border, according to India’s top diplomat, Vikram Misri. On Monday, Misri announced that both countries have decided on “disengagement and resolution of issues in these [border] areas that emerged in 2020,” referring to the Galwan Valley clashes where both sides suffered casualties — the first fatal encounter between the two nations since 1975.

Since the Galwan clashes, relations between India and China have remained tense. Misri stated, “An agreement has been reached on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the India-China border areas, which will lead to disengagement and resolution of the issues that arose in these areas in 2020.” However, he did not provide specific details about the disengagement process or whether it would address all points of conflict along the disputed border.

Misri’s comments come just before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend a BRICS meeting in Russia, with other members including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. There is no confirmation yet on whether Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the event.

The Galwan Valley clashes, where troops used clubs and sticks due to a 1996 agreement that bans the use of guns and explosives near the border, marked a significant escalation between the two nations. Despite several rounds of diplomatic and military talks since then, no major breakthroughs had been achieved until this recent agreement.

Border disputes between India and China have affected their relationship for decades, with tensions often flaring up due to the undefined 3,440 km (2,100-mile) boundary. The two nations fought a war in 1962, resulting in a heavy defeat for India. Frequent confrontations have occurred due to the shifting nature of the border, marked by rivers, lakes, and snowy peaks. Both nations have also intensified infrastructure development along the border, adding to the tensions.

Despite the recent agreement, uncertainty remains about the complete resolution of all border disputes between these nuclear-armed neighbors.

NECO Warns Against Candidate Registration by Proxy

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The National Examinations Council (NECO) has issued a stern warning to school owners and other stakeholders to refrain from registering candidates for its examinations by proxy. The Council highlighted that this fraudulent practice often leads to identity theft and the generation of fake results.

In its efforts to eliminate all forms of examination malpractice, NECO has implemented several measures to combat impersonation in its examinations. These measures include the use of Biometric Data Capturing Devices, customized answer booklets, and the embossing of candidates’ photographs and dates of birth on original certificates.

Last year, NECO also introduced the NECO e-Verify platform, an online tool designed to confirm and verify the authenticity of NECO results. The Council has advised the public that any certificate claiming to be issued by NECO but not verifiable through the e-Verify platform should be considered fake.

The Council urged state Ministries of Education and school proprietors to ensure that only genuine candidates’ details are used during registration for NECO exams. This call aims to maintain the integrity of the examination process and ensure the credibility of results.

NECO revealed that candidates implicated in impersonation during the recently released 2024 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) Internal had their results withheld. This action is part of the Council’s stringent policy to address examination malpractice.

Azeez Sani, the Acting Director of Information and Public Relations at NECO, reiterated the Council’s commitment to upholding examination standards and called for the cooperation of all stakeholders in eradicating fraudulent practices in the education sector.

Nigeria Supplies 24-Hour Electricity to Togo and Benin – TCN

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The Managing Director and CEO of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Sule Abdulaziz, revealed that Nigeria provides uninterrupted electricity to neighboring countries, Togo and Benin, despite ongoing concerns over recent power grid failures in the country.

“We supply power to Togo, Benin, and Niger on a 24-hour basis, and they pay for it,” Abdulaziz mentioned during an interview. When questioned about the lack of consistent power supply in Nigeria, he clarified, “Nigerians also receive 24-hour electricity, but not everyone. Those in Band A enjoy around 20-22 hours of power daily.”

He explained that power supply varies based on customer bands: Band A customers are prioritized with 20-24 hours of electricity, Band B gets 16-20 hours, and Band C receives 12-16 hours daily.

Expressing optimism for the future, Abdulaziz said, “We can achieve a consistent power supply across Nigeria in less than five years. The new minister is taking a proactive approach, not just superficial measures.”

He also addressed the causes of power system failures, stating that the blame doesn’t always lie with TCN alone. “A system collapse could originate from issues in generation, transmission, or distribution, or even be caused by natural disasters. It’s not fair to solely blame TCN, as we only manage the grid,” he explained.

Abdulaziz also clarified the distinction between TCN and the former National Electric Power Authority (NEPA). “When we were NEPA, we handled generation, transmission, distribution, and marketing.

Now, TCN is solely responsible for transmission, but problems can arise in the generation and distribution sectors. Unfortunately, many still associate us with NEPA and direct their frustrations towards TCN,” he said.

Highlighting the infrastructural challenges, Abdulaziz noted that much of the equipment used in power transmission is outdated, with some over 50 years old. He also touched on electricity pricing in Nigeria, stating that while costs may seem high locally, electricity rates in Nigeria are relatively lower than in other African nations like Burkina Faso, Senegal, and Niger.

Okiki is a seasoned journalist with over seven years of experience covering politics, international news, society, entertainment, and the film industry.

DHQ Debunks Appointment Of Acting COAS; Warns Against Calls for Military Coup

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The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed recent rumors circulating in the media regarding the appointment of an acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS). In a statement released today, DHQ clarified that no such appointment has been made, contrary to speculation from certain media outlets.

The current Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, is on his scheduled annual leave and remains fully in charge of his duties.

During this period, Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, has been handling routine briefs and ensuring the seamless execution of responsibilities, in line with standard military procedures.

The DHQ urged media organizations to verify information with appropriate authorities to avoid the spread of misinformation. Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, confirmed that the COAS is in good health and is expected to resume his duties soon.

In response to a viral video advocating for a military takeover, the DHQ strongly condemned such calls as “treasonable” and warned that any push for unconstitutional changes in government would be met with necessary actions from the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and other security agencies.

“The AFN is committed to upholding Nigeria’s democracy and remains loyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration,” the statement read. “The military will continue to focus on its constitutional duties to protect the nation’s integrity.”

The DHQ emphasized that the current state of relative peace and stability in Nigeria is a testament to the unwavering support from the President and the dedication of the AFN leadership.

Brigadier General Gusau expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their continued support and prayers, assuring that the military remains steadfast in its mission to secure the nation.

The Defence Headquarters concluded by urging all individuals and groups to respect the constitutional order and refrain from spreading rumors or advocating for actions that could destabilize the country.

FG to Invest $2 Billion in Expanding Nigeria’s Fibre-Optic Network

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The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled plans to invest $2 billion in expanding the nation’s fibre-optic network to 90,000 kilometers. This initiative aims to increase Nigeria’s fibre-optic capacity from 35,000km to 125,000km, significantly strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure.

Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, made the announcement during a tour of the vandalized Digital Innovation Park in Kano. The park was recently damaged during the nationwide protests in August.

Tijani emphasized that this investment will provide enhanced connectivity to communities, facilitating digital access for schools, hospitals, government institutions, and businesses. He noted that this expansion will support growth in key sectors of the economy, such as education, healthcare, and agriculture.

In collaboration with the Kano State Government and through the National Broadband Alliance, the ministry is working to simplify the investment process for private infrastructure companies. This initiative aims to position Kano as a digital hub by connecting vital institutions, thereby boosting the state’s digital economy.

The minister highlighted that technology is crucial for driving productivity and economic diversification in Nigeria. He pointed out that while many countries are experiencing a decline in population, Nigeria’s growing youthful workforce is a significant advantage.

Tijani also discussed the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, an initiative by the federal government to equip three million Nigerians with digital and technical skills. This program targets developing talent in areas like software development, data science, and cybersecurity, to address the shortage of skilled professionals in the digital sector.

The minister praised Kano’s contribution to this effort, noting that over 300 young people from the state are actively participating in the program, the highest number of participants from any region.

Regarding the vandalized Digital Innovation Park, Tijani thanked IHS Towers for their commitment to restoring the facility, which symbolizes Kano and Nigeria’s vision to lead in the global digital economy.

2024 U.S. Elections: What The Candidates’ Policies Mean For Africa

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The upcoming 2024 U.S. Presidential election has garnered global attention, with significant implications for Africa and its relationship with the United States. As the two main candidates, Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, present their visions for America’s future, Africa is watching closely.

USA and the Rest of the World: US Elections and Global Anticipation

The U.S. presidential elections are not just an American affair; they have far-reaching consequences for the rest of the world. Global markets, foreign policies, and international relations are all influenced by who sits in the White House. This section will discuss:

– The international community’s anticipation and response to the 2024 U.S. elections.

– How the election outcome could shape global geopolitical dynamics, trade relations, and diplomatic ties.

– Africa’s position in the global economy and how a change in U.S. leadership could impact its role.

A Review of Effects of U.S. Elections on Africa: A Look Back

Historically, the U.S. elections have had a significant impact on African economies, development aid, and diplomatic relations. In this section, we will review:

– The historical effects of previous U.S. administrations on Africa’s economic growth, security partnerships, and trade agreements.

– How policies from past elections influenced key African sectors like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

– The successes and challenges faced by Africa under different U.S. leaderships, from Democrat to Republican presidencies.

Manifestos of Both Candidates: Trump vs. Harris on Africa

Understanding the candidates’ manifestos and their stance on Africa is essential in predicting the future relationship between the U.S. and African nations. This section will delve into:

  • Donald Trump’s Agenda: An analysis of Trump’s foreign policy towards Africa, focusing on his plans for trade, investment, military cooperation, and economic development on the continent.
  • Kamala Harris’s Vision: An exploration of Harris’s stance on Africa, including her approach to democracy, human rights, climate change, and U.S.-Africa partnerships.
  • A comparative look at both candidates’ strategies to strengthen or reshape U.S.-Africa relations.

What Prospects Exist for Africa and Nigeria in the Presidency of Trump or Harris?

The potential presidency of either Trump or Harris brings unique opportunities and challenges for Africa, particularly Nigeria.

– The economic prospects for Africa and Nigeria under Trump’s “America First” policy—will there be room for African economies to thrive under his leadership?

– Harris’s potential to advance U.S.-Africa relations with a focus on development, innovation, and human rights—how will Nigeria benefit from a Harris-led administration?

– The anticipated impact on bilateral trade, investments, foreign aid, and technological advancements for Africa and Nigeria under both administrations.

– Key areas where African nations could leverage the U.S. election outcome to enhance socio-economic growth and stability.

The 2024 U.S. Elections represent a crucial turning point for Africa’s future, with Trump and Harris each offering distinct visions that will shape U.S.-Africa relations for years to come.

As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria’s strategic positioning and diplomatic engagements with the U.S. will be vital in determining how it can maximize these prospects. The video embedded in this article will offer a deeper analysis of the candidates’ policies and their potential implications for Africa.

GPA Exposes Constitutional Breach In Nigeria’s National Health Act

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The Global Prolife Alliance (GPA) has raised significant concerns regarding the proposed establishment of the National Health Regulatory Agency in Nigeria.

According to the GPA, the creation of this agency is seen as a direct violation of Nigeria’s constitutional provisions and represents a fundamental shift away from established practices that have governed the regulation of healthcare services at the state and local levels.

Constitutional Breach

The GPA argues that the planned National Health Regulatory Agency conflicts with the devolution of powers outlined in the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria. They assert that healthcare regulation has historically been the responsibility of state and local governments, as specified in the constitution’s directive principles and the functions of local government councils.

Concerns About the National Health Act 2014

A major point of contention for the GPA is the National Health Act (NHAct) 2014, which they claim has created legal loopholes that could facilitate human organ trafficking. Specific provisions in the Act, such as Sections 13, 20, 43, 45, 48, 51, 53, and 58, are highlighted for enabling the removal of organs without consent, thus posing risks of exploitation and abuse.

Section 51 and Organ Transplantation

The GPA critiques Section 51 of the NHAct 2014, which deals with organ transplantation. They argue that this section improperly prioritizes the authority of medical administrators over the rights of donors and recipients. According to GPA, this is a violation of the legal principle that only the rightful owner of an organ can consent to its use. They claim that this section was intentionally designed to benefit foreign stakeholders involved in organ trafficking.

Emergency Waiver and Organ Harvesting

The GPA highlights concerns with Section 48 of the Act, which allows the waiver of informed consent in medical emergencies. They argue that the definition of an emergency can be broadly interpreted, potentially leading to non-consensual organ harvesting under the guise of urgent medical treatment. The GPA believes this provision is being exploited to facilitate illegal organ transplants.

International Human Rights Violations

The GPA asserts that the NHAct 2014 violates several international agreements, including the Helsinki Declaration on human subject research and the UN Universal Declaration on Human Rights. They also warn that these violations could lead to international sanctions against Nigeria and damage its reputation as a member of the United Nations.

Exploitation of Gametes

Another critical issue raised by the GPA is the exclusion of gametes (ovarian eggs and sperm) from the definition of human tissue in the NHAct 2014. They allege that this exclusion has led to illegal trade in ovarian eggs, with severe health risks to women undergoing procedures for egg extraction.

Call for Repeal and Reform

The GPA concludes with a call for the National Assembly to repeal the NHAct 2014 and remove all provisions that facilitate organ trafficking. They recommend establishing an independent investigative body outside the medical profession to monitor and prevent organ trafficking within Nigeria.

Political and Social Implications

Copies of the GPA’s petition have been sent to key political figures, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, and other high-ranking officials, urging them to take immediate action to address these constitutional and human rights concerns.