Aeesha's Blog

Author: Aeesha Zannah

  • JAMB Extends Direct Entry Registration Deadline to May 8

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced an extension of the registration deadline for the 2026 Direct Entry (DE) admission exercise.

    The board disclosed that the new deadline is now May 8, 2026, shifting from the earlier closing date of April 25, 2026.

    According to JAMB, the extension is intended to give prospective candidates additional time to complete their registration processes and ensure wider participation in the 2026 admission cycle.

    A statement from the board, however, emphasised that the latest deadline is final, warning that no further extension would be granted beyond the new date.

    “This extension should be utilised effectively by all prospective Direct Entry candidates, as there will be no additional opportunity after May 8,” the board stated.

    JAMB advised eligible candidates who are yet to register to proceed immediately to accredited centres and JAMB offices nationwide to complete their applications.

    The board reiterated the importance of early registration, noting that delays could affect candidates’ chances of being considered for admission into their preferred institutions.

    Direct Entry admission is designed for candidates with advanced qualifications such as

    • National Diploma (ND)

    • Higher National Diploma (HND)

    • Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) and

    • Equivalent Credentials

    seeking admission into universities without sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

    Stakeholders in the education sector have commended the extension, describing it as a timely intervention that would accommodate more applicants.

    They, however, urged candidates to avoid last-minute rush and ensure all required documents are properly uploaded during registration.

  • Group Rebuts Ukeje, ADC Legislators’ Claims, Labels Allegations “Conspiratorial”

    A civil society group has dismissed recent remarks by former lawmaker Chukwuemeka Ukeje and the ADC Forum of National Legislators, describing their statements as unfounded and driven by conspiracy theories.

    In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, the group said the allegations made by Ukeje and the ADC legislators lacked credible evidence and risked misleading the public on critical national issues.

    The group’s spokesperson, Mr Ibrahim Musa, noted that while public discourse and constructive criticism were essential in a democratic setting, such engagements must be anchored on verifiable facts and responsible communication.

    “It is disappointing that individuals of such standing would resort to speculative claims that have no basis in reality. These assertions only serve to create confusion and erode public trust,” Musa said.

    He urged political actors to refrain from making inflammatory statements that could heighten tension in the polity, especially at a time when the country required unity and coordinated efforts to address socio-economic and security challenges.

    Musa emphasised that democratic institutions thrive on accountability and transparency, but cautioned that misinformation and conspiracy-driven narratives could undermine governance and public confidence.

    Reacting further, the group called on the media and stakeholders to critically scrutinise statements from public figures and avoid amplifying unverified claims.

    It also encouraged citizens to rely on credible sources of information and remain vigilant against narratives capable of inciting division.

    Meanwhile, efforts to reach Ukeje and representatives of the ADC Forum for comments were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.

    Analysts say the exchange reflects growing tensions within Nigeria’s political space, where competing narratives often shape public perception ahead of key policy decisions.

    They stressed the need for issue-based engagement among political stakeholders to strengthen democratic processes and ensure informed public participation.

  • Air Peace Attributes Flight Disruptions to Fuel Crisis, Seeks Passenger Patience

    Nigeria’s leading carrier, Air Peace, has attributed the recent disruptions in its flight operations to the ongoing aviation fuel scarcity across the country, appealing to passengers for understanding as efforts are intensified to stabilise services.

    The airline, in a statement issued on Saturday in Lagos, said the shortage of Jet A1 fuel had significantly affected its scheduling and operational efficiency, leading to delays and, in some cases, rescheduling of flights.

    Spokesperson of the airline, Mr Stanley Olisa, explained that the situation was not peculiar to Air Peace but a systemic challenge currently affecting the aviation sector nationwide.

    He noted that the fluctuating availability and high cost of aviation fuel had made it difficult for airlines to maintain seamless operations, despite their commitment to delivering safe and timely services.

    “The current disruptions in our flight operations are largely due to the scarcity of Jet A1 fuel being experienced across the country. This has impacted our ability to operate flights as scheduled,” Olisa said.

    He added that the airline was working round the clock with fuel suppliers and relevant stakeholders to mitigate the impact on passengers and restore normalcy as soon as possible.

    Olisa emphasised that safety remained the airline’s top priority, stressing that no flight would be operated under conditions that could compromise operational standards.

    The airline urged passengers to remain patient and cooperative, assuring them that updates on flight schedules would be communicated promptly through its official channels.

    Some passengers who spoke with the Source at the Murtala Muhammed Airport expressed frustration over delays but acknowledged the broader challenges facing the aviation industry.

    A traveller, Mrs Ifeoma Nwoye, said she had experienced a delay of over four hours, calling for better communication from airlines during such disruptions.

    Another passenger, Mr Sadiq Bello, urged the Federal Government to urgently address the recurring fuel supply issues to prevent further inconvenience to travellers.

    Industry analysts say the recurring scarcity of Jet A1 fuel has remained a major challenge for domestic airlines, often leading to increased airfares, operational disruptions and financial strain on operators.

    They called for strategic interventions, including improved local refining capacity and policy support, to ensure a steady supply of aviation fuel in Nigeria.

    Air Peace reaffirmed its commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence, reiterating that all necessary measures were being taken to minimise inconvenience to passengers.

  • Suspected Boko Haram Militants Kill 11 in Borno Community

    Suspected Boko Haram militants have killed at least 11 persons in an attack on a community in Borno State, residents and security sources confirmed on Friday.

    The incident, which occurred late Thursday night, reportedly targeted a գյուղ in a remote area of the state, where insurgents stormed the settlement, shooting sporadically and setting several houses ablaze.

    Eyewitness accounts indicated that the attackers arrived in large numbers on motorcycles, overpowering local vigilantes before unleashing violence on residents.

    A local source, who preferred anonymity for security reasons, told the Source that the assailants operated for hours without immediate resistance.

    “They came in the night and started shooting. People ran into the bush, but some were not lucky. We counted at least 11 bodies after they left,” the source said.

    Security operatives were said to have been deployed to the area following distress calls, but the attackers had fled before their arrival.

    The Nigerian Army has yet to issue an official statement on the incident as of the time of filing this report. However, military sources disclosed that troops have intensified patrols and launched a manhunt to track down the perpetrators.

    Borno State has remained the epicentre of the insurgency by Boko Haram and its splinter groups, with recurring attacks on civilians, military formations, and humanitarian workers.

    Efforts by the Federal Government and security agencies to restore peace in the North-East have recorded significant gains in recent years, though sporadic attacks continue to pose security challenges.

    The latest incident underscores ongoing concerns about the safety of rural communities and the need for sustained military and humanitarian interventions in the region.

  • Police Recruitment: PSC Schedules Written Test, Cautions Applicants on Fraud

    The Police Service Commission (PSC) has announced that the written examination for applicants seeking enlistment into the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) will hold from April 28 to April 30, 2026, across designated centres nationwide.

    The commission disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, noting that the examination is part of the ongoing recruitment exercise for prospective Police Constables, covering both General Duty and Specialist categories.

    According to the PSC, only shortlisted candidates who successfully completed earlier stages of the recruitment process will be eligible to sit for the examination.

    The commission advised applicants to regularly check its official communication channels for updates on their examination centres, schedules, and other relevant instructions.

    It warned candidates against falling victim to fraudsters, stressing that the recruitment process remains free, transparent, and merit-based.

    “The Commission wishes to categorically state that it does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process. Applicants are strongly advised to disregard any request for payment or inducement from individuals or groups claiming to influence the process,” the statement said.

    The PSC further urged candidates to report any suspicious activity or fraudulent solicitation to the appropriate authorities for prompt investigation and action.

    It reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a credible and transparent recruitment process that would strengthen the operational capacity of the NPF.

    The commission also emphasized that strict adherence to examination guidelines would be enforced, adding that candidates must present valid identification and comply with all instructions at their respective centres.

    The ongoing recruitment exercise is part of efforts by the Federal Government to enhance policing capacity, improve internal security, and address emerging security challenges across the country.

    For more information and official updates, applicants are advised to visit the PSC recruitment portal via: https://psc.gov.ng⁠ (Apply/Check Status).

    Background

    The recruitment drive, which commenced earlier in the year, attracted thousands of applicants nationwide, reflecting sustained interest among Nigerians in joining the police force.

    The exercise is being jointly conducted by the PSC and the NPF in line with statutory responsibilities to recruit and maintain standards within the police.

  • Troops Advance as Airstrikes Target Insurgent Strongholds

    Troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces have sustained their advance against insurgent positions in the North-East, as intensified airstrikes continue to degrade terrorist strongholds across the theatre of operations.

    Military sources confirmed that the coordinated offensive involves close collaboration between ground forces and the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), with fighter jets carrying out precision strikes on identified targets ahead of troop movements.

    The targets, located in remote and densely forested areas, are believed to be occupied by fighters affiliated with Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province, who have long used such المناطق as operational bases.

    A senior military official said the air component had successfully weakened insurgent defences, enabling ground troops to advance with reduced resistance while conducting clearance operations.

    “The synergy between air and land forces has significantly enhanced operational effectiveness. Troops are advancing steadily, clearing remnants of terrorist elements and securing previously contested locations,” the official stated.

    He noted that the offensive was driven by actionable intelligence, with surveillance missions identifying key insurgent camps, weapons storage facilities, and movement corridors prior to engagement.

    Preliminary reports indicate that several terrorist hideouts have been destroyed, while fleeing fighters are being tracked and engaged by advancing troops. Security forces have also recovered arms and ammunition during mop-up operations.

    Residents in nearby communities have reported increased military activity, including aerial patrols and ground deployments, signalling a renewed push to stabilise the region.

    Security analysts say the sustained offensive reflects a deliberate strategy to deny insurgents the ability to regroup, particularly in critical areas such as the Sambisa Forest and the Lake Chad basin.

    The North-East has remained the epicentre of insurgency in Nigeria for over a decade, with recurring efforts by security forces aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and restoring civil authority.

    Military authorities reiterated their resolve to maintain operational momentum until all identified threats are neutralised, while urging citizens to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.

    They emphasised that community cooperation remains vital to achieving lasting peace and preventing a resurgence of insurgent activities.

  • Millions to Benefit as CBN, NCC Enhance Data Collaboration

    CBN&NCC

    Millions of Nigerians are expected to benefit from improved financial and telecommunications services following a strengthened data-sharing framework between the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), aimed at enhancing regulatory coordination, consumer protection, and digital economy growth.

    The development is part of ongoing efforts by both regulatory bodies to bridge existing information gaps between the financial and telecommunications sectors, particularly as Nigeria continues to expand its digital payment ecosystem and mobile connectivity infrastructure.

    According to officials familiar with the initiative, the collaboration is expected to improve identity verification processes, strengthen fraud detection mechanisms, and enhance the monitoring of mobile-driven financial transactions across the country.

    The partnership also seeks to ensure seamless exchange of relevant data sets between both institutions, enabling more efficient regulatory oversight in areas such as mobile money operations, subscriber identity management, and digital lending services.

    Stakeholders say the initiative is timely, given the rapid growth in mobile banking and fintech adoption, which has significantly increased the volume of transactions processed through telecommunications networks.

    In addition, the framework is expected to support policy formulation by providing both agencies with more accurate and real-time data, thereby improving decision-making processes and regulatory responses to emerging challenges in the digital space.

    Industry observers note that the collaboration could also reduce duplication of regulatory efforts, enhance transparency in data management, and promote innovation across Nigeria’s expanding digital economy.

    Officials further explained that the initiative aligns with broader national objectives of financial inclusion, improved service delivery, and sustainable digital transformation.

    The CBN and NCC are expected to continue refining the partnership through joint technical committees and periodic reviews to ensure effective implementation and compliance with data protection standards.

    Analysts have described the move as a significant step toward strengthening institutional synergy between key regulatory bodies in Nigeria’s evolving economic landscape.

  • Nigeria Deepens Defence Ties with Türkiye on Technology, Training Support

    The Federal Government has intensified efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s defence capabilities through expanded collaboration with the Republic of Türkiye, focusing on advanced military technology acquisition and specialised training programmes for security personnel.

    This development comes amid growing security challenges across parts of the country, prompting renewed commitment by authorities to modernise the nation’s armed forces and enhance operational efficiency.

    The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, disclosed this during a high-level bilateral engagement held on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Türkiye, where both countries reaffirmed their strategic partnership in defence and security cooperation.

    Badaru noted that the partnership would prioritise the transfer of cutting-edge defence technologies, including unmanned aerial systems, surveillance equipment, and combat support platforms, aimed at improving Nigeria’s counter-insurgency and internal security operations.

    According to him, Türkiye has emerged as a reliable partner with proven expertise in defence production and military training, making it a strategic ally in Nigeria’s quest to strengthen its security architecture.

    “Nigeria is committed to building a modern, well-equipped military capable of addressing contemporary security threats. Our engagement with Türkiye is a critical step towards achieving that objective,” the minister said.

    He added that discussions also covered capacity-building initiatives, including the training of Nigerian military personnel in specialised fields such as intelligence gathering, cyber defence, and tactical operations.

    Officials of the Turkish government, in their remarks, expressed readiness to deepen defence cooperation with Nigeria, highlighting opportunities for joint ventures, local production of military hardware, and knowledge exchange programmes.

    They emphasised Türkiye’s track record in supporting allied nations through technology transfer and sustainable defence solutions tailored to local needs.

    Security analysts say the collaboration could significantly enhance Nigeria’s operational capabilities, particularly in tackling insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West, and other emerging threats.

    They also note that leveraging Türkiye’s advancements in drone technology and defence systems could provide Nigeria with cost-effective and efficient tools for surveillance and rapid response missions.

    The partnership is expected to pave the way for broader economic and diplomatic engagement between both countries, strengthening bilateral relations beyond the defence sector.

    Nigeria has in recent years sought to diversify its defence partnerships, moving beyond traditional allies to include emerging global players with competitive technological offerings.

    The renewed cooperation with Türkiye is seen as part of this broader strategy to build a resilient and self-reliant defence ecosystem.

  • Nigeria Deepens Defence Ties with Türkiye, Secures Training Slots for 200 Elite Troops

    Nigeria has intensified its defence cooperation with Türkiye, securing advanced training opportunities for 200 elite troops as part of efforts to strengthen its military capabilities against evolving security threats.

    The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, disclosed this during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2026 held in Antalya, where he engaged in high-level discussions with Turkish defence officials.

    Musa said the initiative reflects Nigeria’s renewed focus on strategic international partnerships aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, particularly in specialised combat operations.

    According to him, the training programme would equip Nigerian personnel with advanced skills in counter-terrorism, intelligence gathering, and modern warfare techniques.

    “This collaboration is not just about training; it is about building a long-term defence relationship that will improve our readiness and response to security challenges,” he said.

    The minister noted that the partnership also includes provisions for joint military exercises, technology transfer, and possible co-production of defence equipment, signalling a shift toward self-reliance in Nigeria’s defence sector.

    He explained that Nigeria’s engagement with Türkiye is informed by the latter’s extensive experience in combating insurgency and terrorism, adding that such exposure would be invaluable to Nigerian forces currently addressing internal security concerns.

    Musa further revealed that the deployment of the personnel would commence shortly, marking a significant step in the Federal Government’s broader military reform agenda.

    The Source reports that the development comes amid sustained efforts by the Federal Government to modernise the Armed Forces and strengthen international defence collaborations.

    Security analysts say the move underscores Nigeria’s commitment to adopting global best practices in military training and operations, particularly in response to asymmetric threats confronting the nation.

    They added that partnerships of this nature could enhance professionalism within the ranks and improve coordination in joint operations.

    The forum, which attracted delegates from across the world, provided a platform for countries to explore diplomatic and security collaborations in an increasingly complex global environment.

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