Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, marked World Health Day 2025 with a heartfelt call to action, urging increased investment in maternal and newborn health as a vital step toward achieving sustainable development.
In a statement issued on Monday by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady highlighted the ongoing challenge of preventable maternal and infant deaths, emphasizing the urgent need for change.
She stated, “As we commemorate the World Health Day 2025, with the theme, ‘Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,’ let us all remember that investing in maternal and newborn health is not only a moral responsibility but also a fundamental cornerstone of sustainable development.
“Every day, far too many women and newborns lose their lives due to preventable complications during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. No mother should have to risk her life to bring a child into the world, and no newborn should be denied a fair chance at survival.”
The First Lady also expressed appreciation for the dedication of health workers nationwide, recognizing their critical role in building a healthier society.
“On this World Health Day, let us all strive to create a world where mothers can safely give birth and children can live healthy to reach their full potential,” Tinubu stated.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced the disbursement of N397,030,900 as transport allowances to 1,909 officials participating in the 2025 Mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), scheduled for April 10, 2025.
This was revealed by the Board’s Director of Finance, Mr. Mufutau Bello, during a readiness meeting held in Abuja to evaluate preparations for both the mock exam and the main UTME.
Bello highlighted the critical national importance of the examinations, explaining that the released funds represent only the first tranche of payments—covering one-third of the total officials engaged in the exercise.
According to a statement, the mock exam marks the beginning of JAMB’s core mandate, with the success of the exercise being crucial to maintaining the credibility of the country’s educational system. It emphasized, “The nation relies on the success of this exercise,” while warning that “any shortcomings could tarnish the integrity of Nigeria’s education system.”
JAMB staff reaffirmed their full commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful conduct of both the mock and main UTME nationwide. They also acknowledged public concerns regarding local travel allowances but clarified that such concerns often stem from “a limited understanding of the logistical scope involved in the nationwide examination process.”
Manchester United earned a point from a 0-0 draw with rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford, in what turned out to be a largely uneventful Premier League clash.
First Half: Bright Start, But No End Product
The match sparked into life within minutes of kickoff. Alejandro Garnacho came inches away from winning a penalty for United early on, but referee John Brooks deemed the foul to have occurred just outside the box. Bruno Fernandes stepped up for the resulting free-kick but struck the wall.
Despite that early moment of drama, the game quickly settled into a slower rhythm. Kevin De Bruyne had the first shot on target with a tame effort that was easily gathered by Andre Onana. Diogo Dalot nearly set up Garnacho moments later with a pinpoint cross, but the Argentine forward couldn’t direct his header on goal.
Garnacho continued to shine as United’s most influential player, setting up Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu inside the box. However, Dorgu couldn’t sort his feet out in time to take a shot. United’s best moments came through coordinated build-up play, orchestrated by Fernandes, though they struggled to break through City’s defense.
Despite having more possession, City rarely threatened, and both sides went into halftime without truly testing either goalkeeper.
Second Half: Slight Improvement, Same Outcome
The second half began with a scare for United as Phil Foden burst through on goal, only to be denied by a brilliant last-ditch challenge from Noussair Mazraoui. City looked more assertive after the break, but clear chances remained scarce.
Old Trafford briefly came alive following a handball shout after Dorgu’s cross struck Ruben Dias, but replays showed the ball had hit his chest. City threatened again through Omar Marmoush, forcing Onana into two decent saves — one from a free-kick and another from open play. Nico O’Reilly looked poised to pounce on a rebound but failed to control the ball and was flagged offside.
In the closing stages, substitute Joshua Zirkzee injected energy into United’s attack. He linked up play well and nearly broke the deadlock after connecting with a Garnacho cross, forcing Ederson into a sharp save.
However, as the clock wound down, both teams seemed resigned to a draw. The match lacked the spark typical of a Manchester derby and will likely be remembered more for what didn’t happen than what did.
Dr. Morufu Olatunji Alausa, Nigeria’s Minister of Education, has proposed an extension of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) beyond the existing 12-month period. This initiative, he said, would serve as a strategic approach to tackling youth unemployment by providing young Nigerians with extended time to develop market-relevant skills.
Speaking during a visit by the NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Akinyemi Nafiu, and his team to the Ministry in Abuja, the Minister emphasized that Nigerian youths remain the country’s greatest asset for advancing progress in education, healthcare, and economic growth.
According to a statement, Alausa explained that extending the service year would allow corps members to contribute more meaningfully to national development while improving their employability and entrepreneurial capabilities.
He also proposed several key initiatives, including the Teacher’s Call a programme aimed at deploying NCE holders as temporary teachers in underserved areas; the Rural Health Corps, which would send medically trained corps members to rural communities; and a holistic reform of the NYSC orientation programme to integrate vocational, entrepreneurial, agricultural, and ICT training. These initiatives, he said, aim to enhance youth employability and reduce unemployment.
In his remarks, Brigadier General Olakunle Akinyemi Nafiu expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s continued collaboration and shared ongoing NYSC reforms designed to boost service delivery.
He further proposed the development of a pre-departure databaseto monitor Nigerian students abroad, address certificate fraud, and uphold the authenticity of their academic qualifications.
The Director-General also commended the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, calling for deeper collaboration with the Education Ministry to strengthen youth empowerment and education nationwide.
The rainy season is no longer knocking—it’s here. And if we learned anything from 2024, it’s that waiting till the skies open up before taking action is a costly mistake.
Last year, floods impacted over 30 states across Nigeria. From the submerged neighborhoods of Bayelsa to Lagos’ flooded roads and markets, thousands were displaced and daily life was put on pause. In Lagos alone, places like Ojuelegba, Lekki, Surulere, and even upscale Ikoyi became near-rivers. Commuters were stranded, cars broke down, and homes were waterlogged.
NiMet’s 2025 Forecast: Heavy and Prolonged Rainfall
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted intense and prolonged rainfall this year. States like Lagos, Cross River, Delta, Rivers, Niger, and Taraba will experience above-normal rain. For a country with overstretched drainage systems and poor urban planning, this is not just a weather report—it’s a serious red flag.
Why Lagos Suffers the Most
With over 20 million residents, Lagos is naturally prone to flooding. It’s a low-lying coastal city bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Lagos Lagoon. Add clogged drainage, poor waste management, and reckless construction to the mix—and you’ve got a perfect recipe for disaster.
People still remember scenes from last year—canoes inside compounds in Ajegunle, office workers rolling up their trousers in Victoria Island, and traffic frozen for hours due to impassable roads.
So How Can You Truly Prepare? Here Are Practical Steps for Nigerians:
1. Clean Your Gutters and Drains Regularly Don’t wait for local authorities. Mobilize your household or neighbors to remove blocked gutters and clear water pathways. Empty sachet water nylon and plastic bottles are silent culprits of many flood disasters.
2. Elevate Important Items in Your Home Raise your electronics, documents, and furniture where possible. If your area has a history of flooding, this small step can save you thousands in damages.
3. Stay Informed with Local Weather Updates Use your radio, TV, or even NiMet’s Twitter/X page to follow daily weather alerts. This helps you plan ahead—whether it’s rescheduling market runs or avoiding flood-prone routes.
4. Improve Drainage Around Your House If you live in a bungalow or lowland area, dig small trenches around the building to direct rainwater away. These can prevent water from entering your home during heavy downpours.
5. Create Water Channels in Your Compound Simple water flow channels around your yard or compound can do wonders. Even a small shovel job by tenants or homeowners can reduce flooding drastically in shared residential spaces.
6. Gear Up with Basic Rain Essentials Buy rubber boots, a strong umbrella, and waterproof covers for bags. Keep a rechargeable lamp and power bank nearby—especially in case of power outages during stormy nights.
7. Raise Electrical Sockets and Turn Off Power If Flooded If you’re renovating or building, raise sockets higher on your walls. During floods, it’s important to switch off your electrical mains to avoid short circuits or electrocution.
The rain isn’t the enemy—our poor preparation is. Nigerians, especially those in high-risk states like Lagos, must take ownership of their safety. While we wait for government response, let’s do what we can in our homes and communities.
The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has expressed confidence that he will be granted bail this April after spending four years in custody.
Kanu conveyed this assurance during a visit from the President-General of the Igbo Community Association (ICA) in Abuja, Engr. Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility in Abuja, where he is being held.
Following the visit, Ezenekwe issued a statement confirming that Kanu voiced his disappointment over the absence of strong Igbo leadership advocating for his release and urged renewed efforts to push for the region’s interests.
Ezenekwe noted that he was taken aback by Kanu’s positive demeanor, describing him as upbeat, jovial, and even having gained weight despite his ongoing ordeal.
The statement reads: “Today at the DSS headquarters in Abuja, I had the honor of visiting Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). During our discussion, he appeared healthier and more relaxed and reaffirmed his resilience despite his current circumstances.
“He called for a referendum, describing it as a pivotal step towards self-determination, and reiterated his firm belief that he has committed no offense other than urging our people to awake from their slumber.
“He communicated a strong message of self-assurance, noting that he is taking his prescribed medications and remains in good spirits.
“More significantly, he expressed disappointment at the apparent leadership vacuum within the Igbo community—a neglect that has allowed our people’s voice to fade at a critical moment.
“Kanu expressed unwavering confidence in his legal team and his hope for release by the end of April 2025. This resonated as a powerful testament to his dedication and fortitude.”
Ezenekwe emphasized that the meeting served as an important reminder of the ongoing struggle for recognition, justice, and the advancement of Igbo interests in Nigeria.
He urged President Bola Tinubu to facilitate Kanu’s release, arguing that such an action would reflect the president’s dedication to justice.
“In light of today’s (Wednesday’s) encounter, I issue an earnest appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I call on him to draw upon the spirit of democracy and commitment to justice that defined his own struggles and to take decisive action in securing the freedom of our brother and hero, Nnamdi Kanu.
“Let this moment serve as a turning point—a renewal of our collective determination to safeguard the rights, dignity, and future of the Igbo people,” he stated
Who is Nnamdi Kanu and Why is He Detained?
Nnamdi Kanu, a British-Nigerian activist born in 1967, founded IPOB in 2012 to advocate for the secession of southeastern Nigeria, a region predominantly inhabited by the Igbo ethnic group, to form an independent state called Biafra.
The movement draws inspiration from the short-lived Republic of Biafra, which fought a civil war against Nigeria from 1967 to 1970, resulting in over a million deaths. Kanu’s rhetoric, often broadcast through Radio Biafra, has called for self-determination, but the Nigerian government views IPOB as a threat to national unity, designating it a terrorist organization in 2017.
Kanu was first arrested in October 2015 on charges of treasonable felony and terrorism. Granted bail in 2017, he fled Nigeria after a military raid on his home, only to resurface in 2021 when he was controversially re-arrested in Kenya and extradited to Nigeria in an operation his supporters and legal team describe as “extraordinary rendition.” Since then, he has been held in solitary confinement by the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abuja, facing a litany of charges, including terrorism and incitement.
What his Release will mean for Nigerians
Nnamdi Kanu’s release would have significant implications for Nigerians. It could be seen as a sign that the justice system is evolving and becoming more responsive to the needs and rights of the people. Many Nigerians might view this development as evidence that long-standing grievances are finally being addressed.
For supporters, his freedom represents a beacon of hope, especially for communities that have felt marginalized or ignored. It could help bridge divisions by sparking broader conversations about fairness, accountability, and national unity. This positive step may encourage the government to consider reforms that ensure all citizens receive just treatment under the law.
Moreover, if Kanu is released on fair legal grounds, it could restore public confidence in the country’s judicial process. Both locally and internationally, this move might serve as a powerful example that even controversial cases can be resolved in a manner that upholds the principles of justice and human rights. In essence, his release may contribute to building a more inclusive and transparent society.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) recently debunked claims that it is set to introduce ₦5,000 and ₦10,000 banknotes, describing the viral reports and accompanying circulars as fake and misleading.
In a post shared via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Wednesday, the apex bank stated unequivocally that it has no plans to unveil higher denomination notes and urged the public to disregard the rumor.
“The message circulating about the introduction of ₦5,000 and ₦10,000 banknotes is fake. The CBN has not issued any such statement,” the bank wrote.
The denial comes after a fake circular, which spread rapidly across WhatsApp and social media platforms, claimed that the bank would begin circulating the new notes from May 1, 2025. The forged document falsely asserted that the move was part of efforts to “streamline cash transactions and improve liquidity management.”
The misinformation stoked anxiety among Nigerians still reeling from the effects of the controversial 2022 naira redesign, which caused nationwide cash shortages and disrupted economic activities.
Nigeria’s History of Naira Redesigns
Although the current claim has been dismissed, it has revived public interest in Nigeria’s long-standing history of currency changes. The country has revised or introduced new naira notes at least five times since independence — often sparking national debates and, at times, economic upheaval.
1. 1973 – The Birth of the Naira
Nigeria transitioned from the British pound to its own currency — the naira and kobo — in 1973, under General Yakubu Gowon. It marked a major milestone in asserting economic sovereignty.
2. 1991 – Colour Changes Under Babangida
The military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida changed the colours of ₦5, ₦10, ₦20, and ₦50 notes in what was described as an anti-corruption measure aimed at flushing out hidden cash.
3. 2007 – The Polymer Note Era
Under Governor Charles Soludo, the CBN introduced polymer notes for lower denominations to improve durability. However, by 2012, the policy was discontinued due to concerns about cost and environmental impact.
4. 2014 – Commemorative ₦100 Note
To mark Nigeria’s centenary, a redesigned ₦100 note featuring enhanced security features and a QR code was released under President Goodluck Jonathan.
5. 2022 – Buhari’s Redesign of High-Value Notes
In one of the most disruptive redesign efforts, the CBN introduced new versions of the ₦200, ₦500, and ₦1,000 notes in 2022. The policy aimed to reduce cash in circulation and curb vote-buying, but poor implementation led to widespread hardship and litigation.
With inflation pressures and digital currency trends evolving, speculation about currency changes may not disappear anytime soon. However, the CBN has made it clear that any genuine update regarding Nigeria’s currency will be officially communicated through its verified channels.
The apex bank also urged Nigerians to verify information from credible sources before sharing, especially on matters with economic and financial implications.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced that the 2025 UTME-Mock Notification Slip is now available for printing. This slip is essential for candidates who registered for the optional *UTME-Mock examination, as it contains critical details such as the *exam date, venue, and time.
In an official statement, JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, urged candidates to print their slips starting from Thursday, April 3, 2025. He emphasized that early printing would allow candidates to make the necessary logistical arrangements to reach their designated exam centers on time.
How to Print the UTME-Mock Slip
Candidates can print their notification slips by following these steps:
Enter your registration number and click on “Print Examination Slip”
Dr. Benjamin also advised candidates to visit their exam centers at least a day before the exam to familiarize themselves with the location and avoid last-minute challenges.
Exam Schedule
UTME-Mock Examination Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025
Main UTME Examination Start Date: Friday, April 25, 2025
JAMB wished all candidates success in their preparations, reiterating its commitment to conducting a seamless and transparent examination process.
Lagos, Nigeria’s economic engine, is buzzing, this time not for its relentless hustle but for a transport meltdown.
On April 1, 2025, the sudden closure of Independence Bridge, a crucial artery linking Lagos Island to Victoria Island, unleashed gridlock hell on many commuters who ply the route.
Emergency repairs triggered the shutdown, but unmanaged traffic planning left many stranded, businesses crippled, and tempers flaring across the megacity.
Lagosians Cry Out
The closure hit like a sucker punch. By dawn on Tuesday, April 1, traffic choked Ikoyi, Victoria Island, and Lagos Island, with tailbacks snaking for miles.
Social media lit up as furious residents vented their frustration over the lack of notice or decent detours.
With no solid alternative routes, the chaos rippled outward, affecting Third Mainland Bridge and Eko Bridge—already notorious bottlenecks in Lagos’ overstretched road network.
Why Independence Bridge Matters
This isn’t just any bridge. Built in the post-independence boom of the 1960s, Independence Bridge (often tied to the Falomo corridor) is a lifeline for Lagos’ workforce—traders, bankers, and hustlers shuttling between Victoria Island’s skyscrapers and Lagos Island’s markets.
Decades of neglect had left it creaking, with cracked concrete and rusted joints flagged by engineers for years. Yet, action only came when collapse loomed.
What Sparked the Shutdown?
The Federal Ministry of Works cited urgent safety risks. A recent inspection, they say, revealed structural weaknesses too dire to ignore, with crumbling supports and shaky beams, and repairs couldn’t wait. But the abrupt move blindsided everyone.
According to an official from the Ministry of Works who preferred to be anonymous: “This bridge don dey beg for fix since. It’s part of a bigger push to save Lagos roads, but the rollout? Pure ojoro—no coordination.”
However, Lagosians are not buying the excuse as there was no prior heads-up and no traffic diversion plan.
The city’s history of botched infrastructure projects—like Third Mainland’s endless repairs or Lekki’s flood-trapped roads, only fueled the skepticism.
Government Scrambles: Bridge Reopens
By Thursday April 3, 2025, the backlash forced action as Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, announced a partial reopening to ease the snarl, bowing to public pressure after just two days of total closure.
The statement from Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, was made in an official statement released to the public on April 3, 2025, following the public backlash and pressure regarding the bridge closure. She commented on the efforts being made to balance safety and movement during the ongoing repairs of the Independence Bridge: “We feel una pain, abeg. We’re working 24/7 to balance safety and movement.”
Repairs will now proceed in phases, with lane-by-lane fixes and night works to minimize disruptions. But the damage to public trust? That will take much longer to repair.
Lagos’ Bigger Problem
This issue also lays bare the city’s transport Achilles’ heel.
Lagos, with its 20 million-plus population, can’t keep lurching from one reactive fix to the next.
Urban planner Bode Falana put it bluntly: “Megacity wey no plan well na disaster waiting. You can’t just lock a bridge like this without options, where the foresight dey?”
Lagos thrives as Africa’s commercial pulse, but its veins, roads, bridges, ferries are clogged.
The Third Mainland Bridge saga of 2023-2024, with its stop-start closures, showed the same playbook: act late, communicate less, then scramble.
Without proactive maintenance and smart traffic management, productivity bleeds out in exhaust fumes.
What’s Next?
The Independence Bridge drama could be a wake-up call in Lagos’ infrastructure development even as the rains are here.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) Rivers State Chapter has reaffirmed its stance that suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara is responsible for the political turmoil currently plaguing the state.
In a recent statement, Tony Okocha, the APC Chairman in Rivers State, asserted that the public revelation by former Rivers State Head of Service, Dr. George Nwaeke, confirms the party’s long-held position. According to Okocha, Dr. Nwaeke’s eye-witness account of the October 29, 2023 bombing of the Rivers State House of Assembly directly implicates Governor Fubara and his associates.
Okocha stated that the testimony has not only validated the APC’s claims but also reinforced the party’s image as the main opposition voice and a credible alternative in the state.
“Dr. Nwaeke’s revelation is a game-changer. It has vindicated us and confirmed beyond doubt that the crisis was orchestrated by Governor Fubara,” Okocha said.
He described the APC as the “voice of the voiceless” and emphasized the growing public support for the party among well-meaning citizens of Rivers State.
The chairman also maintained that the verbal attacks targeted at Dr. Nwaeke following his resignation and subsequent disclosures will not deter him or the APC from speaking the truth and exposing alleged misconduct in the state’s leadership.
Okocha further expressed trust in Nigeria’s security agencies to thoroughly investigate the matter and reveal the full extent of the crisis for the sake of justice and stability.
He reiterated that the APC has consistently pointed fingers at Fubara as the mastermind behind the destruction of the Rivers State House of Assembly, an iconic structure admired across the country.
With the 2027 elections in sight, the APC says it is positioning itself as a credible, transparent, and people-centered alternative ready to take over the leadership of Rivers State.
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