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  • El-Rufai Regains Freedom from ICPC Detention

    Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has been released from the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

    The development was confirmed on Friday by his son, Bashir El-Rufai, who announced the release via his X (formerly Twitter) handle.

    “My beloved great legend of a father is being released. Thank you all for your prayers and support,” he wrote, suggesting that the detention had attracted public concern and reactions from supporters and political associates.

    El-Rufai had reportedly been in ICPC custody since February over allegations bordering on financial impropriety, including claims of abuse of office, diversion of public funds and other related offences.

    Sources familiar with the matter indicated that the anti-graft agency had been conducting investigations into transactions and policy decisions taken during his tenure as governor of Kaduna State.

    Although the ICPC has yet to issue an official statement detailing the circumstances of his release, competent sources within the commission disclosed that the decision may not be unconnected with prevailing humanitarian considerations.

    Unconfirmed reports indicate that the former governor was granted temporary release to enable him attend to pressing family matters, particularly the burial arrangements of a close relative said to have passed away abroad.

    As of the time of filing this report, it remained unclear whether the release was on administrative bail or conditional leave, as well as the specific terms attached, including possible requirements to report back to the commission or restrictions on movement.

    Legal analysts say the development does not in any way invalidate the ongoing investigation, noting that the ICPC retains the statutory authority to re-invite or re-arrest any suspect if necessary in the course of its probe.

    Observers also point out that the case underscores the intensifying anti-corruption drive by Nigerian authorities, particularly in relation to former public office holders, amid growing calls for transparency and accountability in governance.

    Efforts to obtain official confirmation from the ICPC spokesperson were unsuccessful as of press time, while no formal charges had been publicly detailed in court documents at the time of this report.

    Meanwhile, political stakeholders and civil society organisations have continued to monitor developments closely, urging due process, fairness and adherence to the rule of law in handling the matter.

    The former governor, who served Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, remains a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, and his legal situation is expected to attract significant public and media attention in the coming days.

  • FG Directs Abuja Civil Servants to Work from Home Ahead of APC Convention

    The Federal Government has directed civil servants working within the Federal Secretariat Complex in Abuja to work from home on Friday, March 27, as part of measures to ensure smooth conduct of the forthcoming national convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The directive was contained in a circular issued by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and signed by Mr Abdul Garba, Permanent Secretary, Service Welfare Office.

    According to the circular, all access roads leading to and around the Federal Secretariat Complex, Phases I, II and III, will be closed from March 27 to March 28, to facilitate activities at the convention venue, Eagle Square.

    The government explained that the decision was necessitated by the hosting of the APC national convention at Eagle Square, a major political event expected to attract thousands of delegates, party officials and supporters from across the country.

    It stated that all Ministries, Extra-Ministerial Departments and Agencies (MDAs) located within the affected areas, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, would be impacted by the temporary closure and movement restrictions.

    “Accordingly, all personnel whose offices are located within Phases I, II and III of the Federal Secretariat Complex, as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, are to work from home on Friday, March 27,” the circular indicated.

    The government further directed Permanent Secretaries and heads of agencies to ensure that the information is adequately communicated to their staff and that full compliance is achieved.

    The measure, according to officials, is aimed at reducing traffic congestion, enhancing security and ensuring effective coordination during the high-profile political gathering.

    The APC convention is expected to serve as a critical platform for party leaders to deliberate on internal matters and strategise ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Residents and commuters within the Federal Capital Territory have been advised to plan their movements accordingly, as heightened security presence and restricted access are anticipated around key government locations during the period.

  • Auto Crash Claims Five from Same Family in Yobe

    No fewer than five members of the same family have lost their lives in a tragic road accident along the Damaturu–Maiduguri highway in Yobe State.

    The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, also left three other family members with varying degrees of injuries, according to sources.

    A relative of the victims, Dahiru Musa Talba, confirmed the development, describing the حادث as devastating and a huge loss to the family.

    The injured victims were reportedly rushed to the General Hospital in Damaturu, where they are currently receiving medical attention.

    Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in Yobe State, SP Dungus Abdulkarim, said five persons were confirmed dead, while others sustained injuries.
    He added that investigations were ongoing to determine the cause of the accident.

    “The accident involved members of the same family. Five persons were confirmed dead, while others sustained varying degrees of injuries,” Abdulkarim said.

    The deceased were identified as Hajjagana Dahiru Zayi, Ibrahim Dahiru Zayi, Muhammad Dahiru Zayi, Hauwa Dahiru Zayi, and another family member.

    Residents of the area described the incident as heartbreaking, noting that the Damaturu–Maiduguri highway is a busy route prone to heavy vehicular movement.

    They called on motorists to exercise caution and adhere strictly to traffic regulations to prevent further loss of lives.

    The accident has thrown the victims’ community, particularly in Potiskum Local Government Area, into mourning.

  • Iran Rejects U.S. Talks Claim, Dismisses Trump’s Statement as Misleading

    The Iranian government has firmly denied any ongoing negotiations with the United States, contradicting claims by U.S. President Donald Trump that both countries were engaged in “productive” discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict.

    Iran’s Foreign Ministry, through state-aligned media, stated unequivocally that no talks were taking place between Tehran and Washington, describing the U.S. president’s remarks as misleading and politically motivated.

    The rebuttal followed Trump’s earlier announcement suggesting that diplomatic engagements were underway, a claim that briefly influenced global markets, particularly oil prices, amid hopes of de-escalation.

    Iranian officials, however, insisted that the narrative of negotiations was fabricated, alleging that it was intended to manipulate global energy markets and ease economic pressure.

    Further reinforcing Tehran’s position, senior Iranian figures, including parliamentary leadership, maintained that no direct or indirect dialogue had been held with U.S. representatives since the escalation of hostilities.

    Source reports that the conflicting narratives come against the backdrop of heightened military tensions in the Middle East, with both countries involved in ongoing hostilities and strategic posturing.

    Despite the denial, diplomatic observers note that third-party countries, including Pakistan, Egypt and some Gulf states, have been making efforts to facilitate indirect communication between the two sides, although no formal negotiations have been confirmed.

    Meanwhile, analysts warn that the absence of clear diplomatic engagement could prolong the crisis, with implications for global oil supply and regional stability.

    Oil markets have remained volatile amid the uncertainty, as traders react to mixed signals over possible peace efforts and continued military developments.

    As of the time of filing this report, neither the White House nor Iranian authorities had indicated any shift in their official positions, leaving prospects for immediate diplomatic resolution uncertain.

    Sources observes that the divergence in claims underscores deep mistrust between both nations, complicating efforts to broker peace and heightening fears of further escalation in the region.

  • Rising Jet Fuel Costs Push Nigerian Airlines to the Brink of Operational Review

    Nigerian airlines are increasingly being compelled to reassess their operational models as the sharp rise in aviation fuel prices threatens the sustainability of domestic air travel.

    Industry operators say the surge in the cost of Jet-A1 fuel—reportedly exceeding 100 per cent in recent weeks—has disrupted financial projections, forcing airlines to consider difficult adjustments to remain viable.

    The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) said the spike in fuel prices has significantly inflated operational costs, with aviation fuel accounting for the largest share of airline expenditure.

    Spokesman of the association, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, noted that while airlines were under intense pressure, many had chosen to maintain current ticket prices to avoid placing additional burden on passengers already grappling with economic hardship.

    He, however, warned that such a strategy could only be sustained for a limited period.

    Mounting Pressure on Operations

    Investigations reveal that airlines are exploring cost-cutting measures, including optimising flight schedules, consolidating routes, and improving operational efficiency to reduce fuel consumption.

    Aviation experts say these adjustments may temporarily cushion the impact but are unlikely to fully offset the rising cost of fuel.

    “Airlines are entering a critical phase where operational efficiency alone may not be sufficient to absorb the shocks,” an industry analyst told Source.

    Passengers Yet to Feel Full Impact

    Despite the surge in costs, many airlines have not immediately increased fares, a move analysts describe as a deliberate attempt to retain customer loyalty and sustain travel demand.

    However, stakeholders caution that continued losses could force operators to introduce fuel surcharges or review ticket pricing structures in the near future.

    They note that any significant fare increase could lead to reduced passenger traffic, further compounding the challenges faced by airlines.

    Global and Domestic Factors at Play

    Experts attribute the fuel price surge to a combination of global crude oil market volatility and domestic supply constraints.

    Geopolitical tensions affecting oil-producing regions have driven up international energy prices, while local distribution challenges have exacerbated the situation in Nigeria.

    The development has mirrored global trends, where airlines in several regions are adjusting fares and scaling down operations in response to rising fuel costs.

    Sector Faces Uncertain Outlook

    Stakeholders warn that if the current trend persists, the aviation sector could experience reduced connectivity, with potential cuts in flight frequency and suspension of less profitable routes.

    They also highlight the risk of job losses and reduced economic activity linked to the aviation value chain.

    Call for Strategic Intervention

    Industry players have called on the Federal Government to prioritise policies that will stabilise aviation fuel supply and encourage local refining to reduce dependence on imports.

    They emphasised that timely intervention would not only support airlines but also preserve the broader economic benefits of a functional air transport system.

    Outlook

    As airlines continue to absorb rising costs, the sector stands at a crossroads, balancing commercial survival with service delivery.

    Observers say the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether operators can sustain current pricing or be forced into decisions that could reshape Nigeria’s domestic aviation landscape.

  • Nigeria Positions Itself as Catalyst for Africa’s Mining-Led Growth

    Nigeria has unveiled an ambitious vision to position its solid minerals sector as a driving force for regional economic transformation, signalling a strategic shift toward mining as a key pillar of Africa’s future growth.

    The renewed focus, stakeholders say, reflects a broader continental push to harness vast mineral resources for industrialisation, job creation and intra-African trade.

    Industry experts note that Nigeria’s approach is anchored on reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment, strengthening regulatory frameworks and promoting value addition across the mining value chain.

    Speaking at a recent stakeholders’ forum in Abuja, officials of the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development said the country was committed to building a globally competitive mining sector capable of supporting regional supply chains.

    According to the ministry, Nigeria is prioritising the exploration and development of critical minerals such as lithium, gold, and iron ore—resources considered essential for emerging technologies and infrastructure development.

    Analysts believe the move aligns with Africa’s broader ambition under the African Union frameworks to promote resource-based industrialisation and reduce dependence on raw material exports.

    They added that Nigeria’s large domestic market, combined with its strategic location in West Africa, places it in a strong position to serve as a hub for mineral processing and distribution across the region.

    However, experts caution that achieving this vision will require addressing longstanding challenges, including illegal mining, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to financing.

    “There is strong potential, but execution is key. Nigeria must invest in geoscience data, security of mining sites, and transport networks to unlock full value,” a mining consultant told Source.

    The government has also emphasised partnerships with private investors and international organisations to bridge funding gaps and deploy modern mining technologies.

    In addition, efforts are underway to formalise artisanal mining activities, which account for a significant share of the sector but often operate outside regulatory oversight.

    Development economists argue that integrating these small-scale miners into the formal economy could boost revenue generation and improve environmental standards.

    Meanwhile, regional observers say Nigeria’s mining drive could enhance economic cooperation within Economic Community of West African States by fostering cross-border trade in mineral resources and related services.

    They note that improved policies and infrastructure could enable neighbouring countries to benefit from shared value chains, thereby strengthening economic resilience across the sub-region.

    The initiative also aligns with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which seeks to deepen trade integration and industrial capacity across the continent.

    As Nigeria advances its mining roadmap, stakeholders stress the importance of transparency, community engagement, and sustainable practices to ensure long-term benefits.

    They maintain that with the right policies and investments, the country could emerge as a key player in shaping Africa’s mining future and driving inclusive regional growth.

  • NCoS Raises Alarm Over Fake Contract Scam, Urges Public Vigilance

    The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has issued a strong warning to Nigerians over the circulation of fraudulent contract offers allegedly linked to the Service, describing the development as a coordinated scam aimed at defrauding unsuspecting members of the public.

    In a statement released in Abuja, the NCoS said it had uncovered fake documents, particularly one titled “Payment/Mobilisation Request Form,” being distributed by individuals posing as government officials and representatives of the Service.

    The agency stressed that it does not engage contractors or award projects through unofficial channels, urging citizens to disregard such documents and avoid making any payments to individuals or groups claiming to act on its behalf.

    According to the statement, the fraudulent scheme involves requests for advance payments under the guise of facilitating contract approvals, mobilisation fees, or administrative processing—practices the Service described as “entirely alien” to its operational procedures.

    “The general public is advised to verify all contract-related communications directly with the Service through official channels. The NCoS does not request or receive payments from contractors outside established government processes,” it stated.

    The Service reaffirmed that all its procurement activities are conducted in strict compliance with extant public procurement laws and are duly advertised through recognised government platforms.

    It further warned that those found perpetrating the scam would be tracked and prosecuted in accordance with the law, adding that security agencies had been notified to investigate the matter.

    The NCoS also called on victims and members of the public who encounter such fraudulent offers to report promptly to law enforcement authorities.

  • FG Clarifies UK Deportation Deal Targets Only Undocumented Nigerians

    The Federal Government has clarified that its recent migration agreement with the United Kingdom applies strictly to undocumented Nigerians and does not involve the acceptance of foreign nationals.

    The clarification, issued by the Presidency on Friday, followed widespread public concern and misinformation suggesting that Nigeria might be compelled to receive non-Nigerian deportees under the bilateral arrangement.

    Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr Temitope Ajayi, stated that the agreement only covers Nigerian citizens who do not have legal status to remain in the UK.

    “The Nigerian government is not taking back non-Nigerians. The UK government is not compelling Nigeria to take those who are not our citizens,” Ajayi said.

    He explained that the deal targets categories such as visa overstayers, failed asylum seekers, and individuals convicted of crimes who have exhausted their legal rights to remain in the UK.

    The Presidency emphasised that the clarification became necessary to counter misleading narratives surrounding the agreement.

    Under the framework, deportations will be carried out following proper identification and verification processes, with each case treated individually.

    The Federal Government also assured that all returnees would be treated with dignity and in accordance with Nigerian laws, with provisions allowing them to reapply for entry into the UK in the future if they meet immigration requirements.

    The agreement, signed during President Bola Tinubu’s recent state visit to the UK, introduces the use of UK-issued identification documents, known as “UK letters,” to facilitate the return of undocumented Nigerians without valid passports.

    Officials say the move is aimed at streamlining deportation processes, strengthening migration management, and enhancing cooperation between both countries on border security, information sharing, and capacity building.

  • US, Japan Seal $40bn Nuclear Energy Deal to Boost Clean Power, Strengthen Alliance

    The governments of the United States and Japan have sealed a landmark 40 billion dollars agreement aimed at expanding nuclear energy capacity, marking a significant step toward strengthening global clean energy supply and deepening bilateral cooperation.

    The agreement, announced on Thursday, is expected to accelerate the development and deployment of advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs), in both countries and across strategic partner nations.

    Officials from both sides described the pact as a strategic response to growing global energy demand, climate change concerns, and the need to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

    A senior official of the U.S. Department of Energy said the partnership would leverage American innovation and Japanese engineering expertise to deliver safe, reliable and low-carbon energy solutions.

    “This agreement reflects our shared commitment to achieving net-zero emissions while ensuring energy security for our citizens and allies,” the official stated.

    On its part, Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry noted that the deal would also support the revitalisation of its domestic nuclear sector, which has faced challenges since the 2011 Fukushima disaster.

    According to the ministry, the collaboration will prioritise safety, regulatory compliance and public trust, while investing in next-generation reactor designs and fuel cycle technologies.

    Industry analysts say the agreement could position both countries as global leaders in nuclear exports, particularly in emerging markets seeking stable and clean energy alternatives.

    The deal is also expected to create thousands of jobs across the nuclear supply chain, from research and development to construction and long-term plant operations.

    Experts further noted that the partnership may help counter the growing influence of other nuclear-exporting nations by offering competitive and transparent alternatives.

    In addition to energy production, the agreement includes provisions for workforce development, knowledge exchange, and joint research initiatives between universities and private sector stakeholders.

    Environmental groups have cautiously welcomed the move, stressing the importance of strict safety standards, waste management, and non-proliferation measures.

    The agreement comes amid renewed global interest in nuclear power as countries seek reliable baseload energy to complement intermittent renewable sources such as wind and solar.

    Observers believe the pact could reshape the global energy landscape by reinforcing nuclear power as a key component of the clean energy transition.

  • Borno Blasts: Nationwide Security Tightened Ahead of Eid Celebrations

    Security has been heightened across the country following recent explosions in Borno, as authorities intensify efforts to safeguard lives and property ahead of the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.

    The Federal Government on Wednesday directed all security agencies to maintain maximum vigilance, particularly in vulnerable locations, including worship centres, markets, motor parks and other public spaces expected to witness large gatherings during the festive period.

    This development follows reported bomb blasts in parts of Borno State, which have heightened concerns over public safety and the potential threat of renewed insurgent activities in the North-East.

    Security agencies, including the police, military and paramilitary organisations, have since deployed additional personnel and surveillance resources to strategic areas nationwide.

    The Nigeria Police Force, in a statement issued in Abuja, assured citizens of adequate protection before, during and after the celebrations. It urged members of the public to remain calm but vigilant, and to report any suspicious movements or objects to the nearest security formation.

    Similarly, the military high command reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining ongoing counter-insurgency operations, particularly in the North-East theatre, to prevent further attacks and ensure a peaceful festive season.

    Authorities in Borno have also imposed tighter security measures in Maiduguri and surrounding communities, with increased patrols, checkpoints and restrictions in certain high-risk zones.

    Eyewitness accounts from affected areas indicated that emergency responders were swiftly mobilised to the scene of the blasts, while injured victims were evacuated to nearby medical facilities for treatment. However, official casualty figures were yet to be confirmed at the time of filing this report.

    Meanwhile, religious leaders and community stakeholders have called for calm and unity, urging citizens not to allow fear disrupt the spirit of the Eid celebration.

    A cleric in Maiduguri emphasised the importance of prayers and collective responsibility in ensuring peace, noting that security is a shared duty between authorities and the public.

    The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) also announced plans to intensify patrol operations on major highways to ensure safe travel during the holiday period, as increased vehicular movement is anticipated.

    Analysts say the proactive measures by security agencies are aimed at preventing any spillover of violence and reassuring citizens across the country.

    As preparations for Eid-el-Fitr gather momentum, residents in various parts of the country expressed mixed feelings, with some commending the visible security presence, while others called for sustained intelligence efforts to address underlying security challenges.

    The government has reiterated its resolve to protect citizens and maintain law and order, urging Nigerians to celebrate responsibly and cooperate with security agencies.

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