Aeesha's Blog

Author: Aeesha Zannah

  • Sani Bello Foundation Opens Applications for 2026 Undergraduate Scholarship

    The Sani Bello Foundation has announced the commencement of applications for its 2026 Scholarship Programme, aimed at providing financial support to full-time undergraduate students in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

    A statement issued by the foundation on Tuesday said the scholarship initiative is part of its ongoing commitment to promoting access to quality education and reducing the financial burden on students from less-privileged backgrounds.

    According to the foundation, the scholarship will offer educational support to successful applicants, including assistance with tuition and other academic-related costs, to enable beneficiaries to focus on their studies without undue financial pressure.

    “The Sani Bello Foundation Scholarship Programme is designed to empower young Nigerians by supporting their educational pursuits and fostering academic excellence,” the statement said.

    The foundation disclosed that only full-time undergraduate students of Nigerian nationality are eligible to apply for the 2026 edition of the programme.

    It added that the application deadline is Jan. 31, 2026, and advised interested candidates to complete their applications on or before the closing date to avoid disqualification.

    Prospective applicants are required to apply online via the foundation’s official scholarship portal at

    https://scholarship.sanibellofoundation.org.ng/create_account.php.

    The foundation further encouraged students to seek accurate information about the programme through its verified communication channels and avoid unverified third-party platforms.

    The Sani Bello Foundation has, over the years, supported education-focused initiatives targeted at youth development, human capital growth and social empowerment across Nigeria.

    Meanwhile, applicants and interested members of the public can also receive updates on the scholarship and related initiatives by joining the foundation’s information channel at

    https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6v0fr7DAX4HAKLhe3E.

    The foundation reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and merit-based selection in the administration of the scholarship programme.

  • FG Unveils Plan to Accelerate Prosecution of 5,000 Terrorism Detainees

    The Federal Government has intensified its counter-terrorism campaign with plans to fast-track the prosecution of about 5,000 suspected insurgents currently in detention across the country.

    The move, aimed at clearing a huge backlog of terrorism-related cases, is contained in the 2025–2030 Strategic Plan of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

    According to the document, legal teams drawn from the Federal Ministry of Justice, the Defence Headquarters and other relevant agencies have begun an extensive review of case files to determine matters that can be accelerated for trial as well as those lacking sufficient evidence.

    The government said the initiative would ensure that suspects are prosecuted within the ambit of the law while safeguarding human rights and strengthening public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system.

    It noted that prolonged pre-trial detention had remained a major challenge in terrorism cases, stressing that the current effort was designed to balance national security imperatives with the rule of law.

    The NCTC disclosed that in 2024 alone, a total of 393 terrorism cases were prosecuted nationwide, leading to 329 convictions, representing an 84 per cent conviction rate — a significant improvement compared with previous years.

    The review process also led to the dismissal of charges against about 1,200 detainees due to insufficient evidence, after which they were released and reintegrated into their communities in line with extant regulations.

    As part of broader reforms, the Federal Government said it was working towards establishing a national terrorism database, which would include biometric and DNA records of suspects to enhance investigation, intelligence sharing and prosecution.

    The database, to be domiciled at ONSA, is expected to improve coordination among security agencies and strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to track and disrupt terrorist networks.

    Trials are expected to be conducted at designated Federal High Courts, including special court sittings in Abuja and at the Wawa Military Cantonment in Niger State, to hasten the adjudication process.

    The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that victims of terrorism get justice, while suspects are given fair trials in accordance with the law, describing the fast-track initiative as a critical pillar of Nigeria’s evolving counter-terrorism strategy.

    Officials expressed optimism that the exercise would not only decongest detention facilities but also reinforce the country’s resolve to combat insurgency through lawful and transparent means.

  • FRC Announces Plan to Embed Islamic Finance Standards in National Accounts

    The Federal Government has initiated plans to integrate Islamic finance accounting and auditing standards into Nigeria’s financial reporting system — a strategic reform aimed at enhancing transparency, deepening financial inclusion and positioning the country as a leading hub for non‑interest finance in Africa.

    Unveiled by the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) at a high‑level stakeholders’ engagement in Abuja, the initiative focuses on embedding global Islamic finance reporting standards into the Nigerian Financial Reporting Framework.

    Bridging Global Standards and Local Practice

    At the event held in Abuja, FRC officials explained that Nigeria’s current reporting landscape — grounded largely in conventional accounting rules — often falls short in capturing the unique features of Shari’ah‑compliant transactions such as profit‑and‑loss sharing, asset‑backed financing, sukuk (Islamic bonds) and takaful (Islamic insurance).

    To address these gaps, regulators are adopting standards developed by the Accounting and Auditing Organisation for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI), a Bahrain‑based international standard‑setting body that has crafted specialised accounting, auditing, governance and ethics standards for Islamic finance institutions.

    Experts say the adoption of AAOIFI standards will enable financial reports in Nigeria to more accurately reflect the economic substance of Shari’ah‑compliant operations, enabling investors, regulators and stakeholders to make better informed decisions.

    Boosting Financial Inclusion and Investor Confidence

    Nigeria’s Islamic finance sector has witnessed considerable expansion in recent years, driven by the growth of Islamic banking, sukuk issuances, takaful products and non‑interest capital market instruments.

    However, many of these institutions have had to adapt conventional reporting practices to fit Shari’ah‑compliant transactions — a practice that experts say has constrained transparency and comparability.

    By integrating AAOIFI standards alongside existing International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), the FRC aims to strengthen regulatory clarity, enhance reporting credibility and improve investor confidence in Islamic finance products offered within Nigeria’s financial system.

    Regional and Global Implications

    Adopting Islamic finance reporting standards aligns Nigeria with jurisdictions that have established robust non‑interest finance markets, including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Malaysia, where AAOIFI principles are widely applied.

    Financial analysts say this reform could also boost Nigeria’s appeal to regional and international capital flows, particularly from investors seeking ethical and profit‑and‑loss sharing investment products rooted in Shari’ah principles.

    Path Forward for Implementation

    Officials emphasised that successful integration of Islamic finance standards will require broad stakeholder engagement, including capacity building for regulators, auditors, financial institutions and preparers of financial statements.

    If fully implemented, the new reporting framework is expected to enhance Nigeria’s financial ecosystem by fostering greater transparency, accountability and global comparability — while supporting the continued growth of non‑interest finance as a vehicle for inclusive economic development.

  • FG, Borno State Sustain Support for MNJTF as Lake Chad Security Improves

    The Federal Government and the Borno State Government have reaffirmed their strong commitment to sustaining and strengthening the operations of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in the Lake Chad Basin, in a renewed push to eliminate terrorism and consolidate peace across the region.

    The reaffirmation was made at a strategic engagement involving federal authorities, Borno State officials and senior security stakeholders, where participants reviewed ongoing security operations and regional cooperation efforts against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists.

    Federal Government’s Commitment

    The Federal Government said its continued support for the MNJTF is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places premium importance on national security, regional stability and the protection of lives and property.

    Federal officials noted that the MNJTF remains a vital security framework for intelligence sharing, joint military operations and border surveillance among Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Cameroon. They assured that Nigeria would continue to provide strategic, operational and diplomatic backing to ensure the task force remains effective in neutralising insurgent threats and preventing cross-border attacks.

    Borno State’s Perspective

    The Borno State Government reaffirmed its unwavering support for the MNJTF, describing the force as instrumental to the improved security situation recorded in several parts of the state.

    State officials said sustained MNJTF operations have enabled the gradual return of normalcy, including the reopening of communities, schools and markets previously affected by insurgency.

    They pledged continued collaboration with the Nigerian military and regional partners, particularly in civil-military coordination, community engagement and post-conflict recovery initiatives.

    Regional Security Angle

    Security experts at the meeting emphasised that terrorism in the Lake Chad Basin remains a transnational threat requiring collective and sustained action.

    They acknowledged the gains recorded by the MNJTF through coordinated offensives and joint patrols, but stressed the need for consistent funding, modern equipment and enhanced intelligence capabilities to consolidate progress.

    Participants also called for deeper cooperation among member states to address emerging security challenges such as arms trafficking, illicit trade and terrorist financing.
    Humanitarian and Development

    Outlook

    From a humanitarian standpoint, stakeholders noted that improved security through MNJTF operations would facilitate access for humanitarian agencies and accelerate recovery and development programmes in conflict-affected communities.

    They stressed that lasting peace in the Lake Chad region depends not only on military success but also on rebuilding livelihoods, resettling displaced persons and restoring public confidence in governance.

    Outlook

    The Federal Government and the Borno State Government concluded by reiterating their resolve to work closely with MNJTF member countries, development partners and local communities to ensure sustained peace and stability in the Lake Chad Basin.

    They expressed optimism that with continued political will, regional cooperation and operational effectiveness, the MNJTF would remain a cornerstone in the fight against terrorism in the sub-region.

  • Education Reform: FG Launches Committee on Textbook Quality Assurance

    The Federal Government has inaugurated a high-level committee to strengthen the quality of textbooks used in schools across the country and reform the approval process in line with global best practices.

    The committee was inaugurated in Abuja under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with a mandate to ensure that instructional materials used in Nigerian schools meet approved curriculum standards, promote accurate content, and enhance learning outcomes.

    Speaking at the inauguration, a government official said the initiative was part of broader efforts to reposition the education sector and address longstanding concerns over substandard, outdated and poorly reviewed textbooks in circulation.

    According to the official, the committee will review existing textbook approval guidelines, recommend transparent quality-assurance mechanisms, and propose measures to eliminate errors, content duplication and inappropriate materials in learning resources.

    “The goal is to ensure that every textbook approved for use in Nigerian schools reflects the national curriculum, global standards and the developmental needs of learners,” the official said.

    Mandate and Scope

    The committee is expected to:

    • Review the current textbook evaluation and approval framework;

    • Recommend stricter quality-control and content validation procedures;

    • Promote fairness and transparency in the textbook approval process; and

    • Advise government on policies that support local authors and publishers without compromising standards.

    Members of the committee were drawn from relevant education agencies, academia, publishing experts and other key stakeholders.

    Education Sector Perspective

    Education stakeholders have welcomed the move, describing it as timely, given persistent complaints from teachers and parents about factual errors, poor illustrations and misalignment with approved curricula in some textbooks.

    Analysts say strengthening textbook quality is critical to improving teaching effectiveness, learner comprehension and overall educational performance.

    Policy Angle

    The inauguration aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to human capital development under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which places strong emphasis on education reform, skills development and improved learning infrastructure.

    Officials said the committee is expected to submit its report and recommendations within a stipulated timeframe to guide policy decisions.

    The Federal Government reiterated its determination to work with stakeholders to ensure that Nigerian learners have access to high-quality, accurate and relevant instructional materials at all levels of education.

  • FG to End HND Discrimination, Elevates Polytechnics to Degree-Awarding Institutions

    The Federal Government has announced a decisive policy shift to end the long-standing dichotomy between Higher National Diploma (HND) holders and university degree graduates by granting degree-awarding status to Nigerian polytechnics.

    The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed this in Abuja on Wednesday while addressing stakeholders in the technical and vocational education sector, describing the move as a major reform aimed at repositioning polytechnics for national development.

    According to the minister, the decision is part of broader efforts by the Federal Government to strengthen technical education, promote skills acquisition and eliminate systemic discrimination that has limited the career progression of polytechnic graduates over the years.

    He said the reform would ensure that polytechnics are fully integrated into Nigeria’s higher education framework, while still retaining their core mandate of providing practical, industry-driven training.

    “This policy will finally address the unfair treatment of HND holders in employment, promotion and further academic pursuits. It is a bold step towards equity, productivity and economic growth,” Alausa said.
    Education Reform and National Development

    The minister explained that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to human capital development under the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that countries that prioritise technical education often experience faster industrial growth.

    He added that granting degree status to polytechnics would improve their global competitiveness, attract better funding and strengthen collaboration with industries requiring skilled manpower.

    Alausa stressed that the transition would be guided by strict quality assurance measures to ensure academic standards are maintained, with regulatory agencies playing key oversight roles.

    Stakeholders Welcome Decision

    Education stakeholders and experts have welcomed the announcement, describing it as a long-awaited breakthrough that could restore confidence in the polytechnic education system.

    They noted that the HND-degree dichotomy has discouraged many talented students from enrolling in polytechnics, despite the institutions’ strong focus on hands-on training and employable skills.

    Some stakeholders also expressed optimism that the reform would help address Nigeria’s growing skills gap in sectors such as engineering, manufacturing, technology and agriculture.

    Implications for Students and Employment

    Analysts believe the policy could significantly improve employment prospects for polytechnic graduates by placing them on equal academic footing with university degree holders in both the public and private sectors.

    They also noted that the reform could expand opportunities for polytechnic graduates to pursue postgraduate studies without facing institutional barriers linked to their qualifications.

    Looking Ahead

    The Federal Government said further details on implementation guidelines, timelines and institutional readiness would be communicated in due course.

    Observers say effective implementation will be critical to ensuring the reform delivers its intended benefits and strengthens Nigeria’s technical and vocational education system.

  • Army Nabs Three ISWAP Recruitment Agents in Borno Operation

    The Nigerian Army has arrested three suspected recruitment agents linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) during an intelligence-driven operation in Borno State, as part of sustained efforts to dismantle terrorist networks in the North-East.

    Army sources confirmed on Tuesday that the suspects were apprehended by troops of Operation Hadin Kai in Banki, Bama Local Government Area, following actionable intelligence provided by members of the local community.

    The suspects, whose identities were not immediately disclosed, were allegedly involved in recruiting young men for ISWAP, persuading and mobilising them to join insurgent camps operating within and outside Borno State.

    Intelligence-Led Operation

    According to security sources, the arrest followed weeks of surveillance after reports emerged that some individuals were secretly targeting vulnerable youths with promises of financial rewards and protection.

    Troops were said to have moved swiftly to intercept the suspects during a covert operation, leading to their arrest without resistance.

    Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly served as middle-level recruitment agents, responsible for identifying, indoctrinating and facilitating the movement of recruits to ISWAP enclaves.

    Counter-Terrorism Efforts

    Military authorities described the development as a significant breakthrough in the ongoing campaign to cut off ISWAP’s recruitment and logistics channels, which remain critical to the group’s survival.

    Security experts note that while sustained military offensives have weakened insurgent strongholds, recruitment remains a key strategy used by terror groups to replenish their ranks.

    The arrest, they said, underscores the importance of intelligence gathering and community collaboration in tackling terrorism.

    Community Cooperation

    The Army commended residents of the area for providing timely and credible information, stressing that civilian cooperation remains vital in the fight against insurgency.

    “The role of communities in exposing criminal elements cannot be overstated. This arrest would not have been possible without local support,” a military source said.

    Next Steps

    The suspects have been handed over to relevant military intelligence units for further investigation and prosecution in line with extant laws.
    Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have continued clearance operations across Borno and neighbouring states, targeting insurgent hideouts, logistics routes and recruitment cells.

    The Nigerian Army reassured citizens of its commitment to restoring lasting peace in the North-East and urged the public to continue reporting suspicious activities to security agencies.

  • NOUN Opens Admission into Undergraduate, Postgraduate Programmes

    The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has commenced admission into its undergraduate and postgraduate programmes for the 2025/2026 academic session.

    The university said the admission exercise, which is ongoing nationwide, is open to qualified candidates seeking flexible and affordable university education through its open and distance learning model.

    Admission Exercise

    Checks by source indicate that prospective students can now apply into various programmes offered by the institution, with admission support services available to guide applicants through the process and ensure accurate submission of required information.

    Education officials explained that the admission support covers programme selection, documentation, application processing and follow-up, aimed at reducing errors that often delay admission confirmation.

    They noted that the university’s learning structure allows students to study at their own pace while combining academic activities with work and family responsibilities.

    Programmes on Offer

    Available programmes span several disciplines, including Arts, Education, Social Sciences, Management Sciences, Sciences, Law and other professional courses.

    NOUN operates study centres across the federation, providing students with access to academic support services, examinations and physical learning facilities where necessary.

    Institutional Background

    NOUN is Nigeria’s foremost open and distance learning institution, established to expand access to higher education for Nigerians who may not fit into the conventional university system.

    Education analysts say the institution plays a key role in the Federal Government’s policy on inclusive and lifelong learning, particularly for working professionals, entrepreneurs and mature students.

    Public Interest

    Stakeholders in the education sector have observed increased interest in NOUN admissions in recent years, attributing it to the flexibility of its academic calendar, affordability and nationwide acceptance of its certificates.

    Prospective candidates have been advised to apply early to avoid delays associated with late registration and incomplete documentation.

    Application Procedure

    Interested applicants are encouraged to commence their admission process promptly through the approved admission application channel:

    Apply Link:
    https://wa.link/gbb4a1

    Programme Information:
    https://puredu.net/noun-programs

    Outlook

    Observers say the ongoing admission exercise is expected to record strong enrolment, further strengthening NOUN’s role in widening access to university education across Nigeria.

  • 300-Level Niger Varsity Student Found Dead Inside Apartment

    A 300-level student of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, has been found dead inside his off-campus apartment in Lapai, Niger State.

    The Niger State Police Command confirmed the incident on Tuesday, saying the student was discovered hanging in his room under circumstances suspected to be suicide.

    Police Account

    The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said the incident was reported at about 10:30 a.m. on Monday by residents of the area.

    According to him, neighbours raised an alarm after noticing that the student had not been seen for some time, prompting them to force open his room.

    “Upon entry, the victim was found hanging from the ceiling fan with a piece of cloth tied round his neck,” Abiodun said.

    He added that the body was immediately evacuated to the General Hospital, Lapai, where a medical doctor confirmed the student dead.

    The police spokesperson said investigation had commenced to ascertain the circumstances that led to the incident.

    University’s Position

    Reacting to the development, the management of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University described the incident as tragic and expressed sympathy to the bereaved family.

    In a statement issued by the Deputy Registrar, Information, Baba Akote, the university clarified that the deceased lived off-campus and that the institution was not involved in any tenancy or financial arrangement between the student and his landlord.

    The management urged students and members of the public to avoid speculation and the spread of unverified information, noting that the matter was under police investigation.

    Possible Circumstances

    Although the police have yet to establish a motive, sources within the university community suggested that the student may have been under financial pressure prior to his death.

    Authorities, however, cautioned against drawing conclusions until investigations are concluded.

    Campus and Public Reaction

    The incident has thrown the university community into mourning, with students expressing shock and grief over the sudden loss.

    Some students called for improved student welfare and counselling services, stressing the need for stronger mental health support structures on campuses.

    Investigation Ongoing

    The police said findings from the investigation would be made public after due process, while the body of the deceased has been deposited at the hospital morgue pending further action by the family.

  • 6 security personnel killed in Zamfara ambush

    At least five soldiers and one police officer were killed in a deadly ambush along the Bingi–Kekun Waje–Gusau Road in Zamfara State, security sources confirmed on Tuesday.

    The troops, part of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, were returning from coordinated raids in Birnin Magaji and Anka Local Government Areas when they were attacked by heavily armed gunmen.

    Captain David Adewusi, Media Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, said the troops had recovered weapons, including machine guns and AK‑47 rifles, from previous raids, but were ambushed during a response to a distress call.

    “Despite the surprise attack, our troops responded gallantly, preventing further harm to nearby communities,” Adewusi said.

    Immediate Response and Pursuit

    Reinforcements from Forward Operating Bases in Kanoma and Kekun Waje were deployed, forcing the attackers to retreat. Local vigilantes also assisted in the pursuit of fleeing gunmen.

    Military sources said that key suspects, including a bandit leader known as Janwuya, were reportedly injured during the clash.

    Impact and Public Reaction

    Authorities offered condolences to the families of the slain soldiers and police officer, praising their bravery and dedication. Residents of affected communities remain anxious as armed attacks persist in north-west Nigeria.

    The military has assured the public that security in the area is under control and urged citizens to provide credible intelligence to aid operations.

    Security Analysis

    Analysts warn that the ambush highlights the evolving tactics of armed groups in the North-West, emphasizing the need for intelligence-led patrols and community cooperation to reduce threats to both civilians and security forces.

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