Ridoola's blog

Shettima highlighted the government’s commitment to revitalising the healthcare system, with reforms anchored on a robust roadmap designed to tackle persistent issues. Vice-President Kashim Shettima has announced that the Federal Government’s healthcare reforms have attracted over 4.8 billion dollars in potential investments. Speaking at the commissioning of Sahad Hospitals in Abuja, Shettima outlined a comprehensive strategy to address longstanding challenges and propel Nigeria’s healthcare system into the future. He emphasised the need for unity in the health sector, stating, “Our health sector calls upon us all to unite. The promise of this day is one we cannot overlook.” Shettima highlighted the government’s commitment to revitalising the healthcare system, with reforms anchored on a robust roadmap designed to tackle persistent issues. The vice president acknowledged challenges in the healthcare sector, including surging medicine costs, long hospital waiting times, and a shor...

The Commander of the Kano Hisbah board has assured the public that efforts are ongoing to regain control of the Facebook page. A group of hackers have seized an official Facebook page belonging to the Kano State Hisbah Board. The hackers took over the social media platform with over 82,000 followers on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, flooding it with sexually explicit content. The Kano State Hisbah Corps is a religious police responsible for the enforcement of Shari'a on Muslims in Kano state and other parts of Northern Nigeria. Their activities include the prevention of perceived immoral acts , ranging from alcohol consumption, sexual relationships between unmarried couples and prohibition of the use of mannequins in boutiques. Hisbah is famous for confiscation and destruction of alcoholic beverages , arresting unmarried couples in hotels, and disrupting social gatherings perceived as unapproved under its creed, among others. However, since gaining access to its Facebook page,...

Abdulraheem further said that the agency had carried out initial surveillance in the area raided. The Lagos State Task Force on Environment and Special Offences Enforcement Unit has confirmed the arrest of 25 suspected hoodlums allegedly attacking motorists on the Lekki-Epe Expressway. The Agency’s Spokesperson, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem , confirmed this in a statement issued on Friday in Lagos. Abdulraheem said that the suspects were arrested during an operation which took place across key locations, including Chisco Roundabout, Elegushi, Ikate Roundabout and Marwa Bus Stop. He said that the operation was carried out following a series of complaints lodged by concerned motorists and residents through the agency’s feedback channels. According to him, the individuals reported an alarming rise in criminal activities, particularly during rush hour, where hoodlums hide at inconspicuous spots along the expressway to attack unsuspecting passersby and motorists. “We cannot allow these crimi...

Afenifere said allowing corps members to serve in their geopolitical zones will limit their exposure to the possibility of being kidnapped by bandits and other criminal groups. The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has advocated for a slight restructuring of the National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) scheme to allow graduates performing their mandatory one-year programme to serve within their geopolitical zones. The group made the argument amid the increasing rate of kidnapping and banditry across the country. Afenifere, however, commended the Federal Government for rescuing some NYSC members kidnapped on their way from Akwa Ibom to Sokoto State. The organisation also urged the government to double investments in equipment for security agents to optimise their performances. This is according to a statement by Afenifere National Publicity Secretary , Jare Ajayi , who stressed that enrollees in the NYSC scheme should be allowed to serve in their zones rather than goi...

The statement added that LAMATA demonstrated commitment to collaborative efforts, to ensure the successful implementation of the rail project. The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) on Wednesday in Lagos started the controlled test run of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) Red Line. The statement is contained in the official X handle of the agency. According to the statement, the test run had the Lagos State transport family led by the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi , as passengers. “This event marked an important milestone in the lead-up to the commencement of commercial operations on the Red Line by inviting key transport officials from the ministry and sister agencies. “They include the Lagos State Traffic Management Agency, Lagos State Drivers’ Institute, Motor Vehicle Administration Agency, Vehicle Inspection Service, LAGFERRY, Lagos State Waterways Authority, and Lagos State Parking Authority, ” it said. The statement added that LAM...

Oba Aromolaran also raised concern over the timely completion of the project. Oba Gabriel Aromolaran, the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, has cautioned contractors handling the ₦16.5 billion road project in Ilesa against what could lead to a religious crisis during the demolition of buildings. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Governor Ademola Adeleke had on April 30 awarded the construction of the 6.2-kilometre Ereja Square-Brewery, Ilesa dual carriageway at the cost of ₦16.5 billion. The traditional ruler, who gave the warning while addressing newsmen at the end of a stakeholders meeting on Wednesday in Ilesa, said there had been a series of complaints of bias against the contractor by some religious groups in the town. Oba Aromolaran said that he had received complaints that some worship centres were demolished to give way for the road construction, while some were spared without any explanation. The traditional ruler who was represented by High Chief Ibitoye Akanbi , th...

With the current exchange rate at $1.00 = ₦1,583.98, Laoshe calculated the modern-day equivalent as ₦3,189,217.00. In an admirable display of integrity and gratitude, former House of Representatives member Lanre Laoshe has repaid a student loan of ₦1,200 received between 1976 and 1979, amounting to ₦3,189,217.00 in today's value. The repayment was made to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), as confirmed in a statement released on Tuesday, August 27. Hon. Laoshe, who once served as Deputy Whip in the House, benefited from the defunct Federal Government Student Loan Scheme. Reflecting on the financial support he received during his educational journey, he decided to repay the loan with interest, acknowledging the scheme's vital role in his academic success. "NELFUND has commended Laoshe's gesture, citing it as an example of the impact of government support on individuals and the importance of honouring commitments," read the statement signed by Nasir ...

The series marks a significant achievement for West African independent filmmaking, blending thriller-style storytelling with factual reporting. The London Metropolitan Police is currently investigating a new case linked to the infamous conviction of former Nigerian Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, who was sentenced to ten years in a British prison for human trafficking in 2023. This revelation was made in the newly released documentary "Daniel vs Ekweremadu," written and directed by award-winning filmmaker and TV host, Chude Jideonwo. The first part of the two-part docu-series, which premiered on 23 August, provides a deep dive into the scandal that saw Ekweremadu, his wife Beatrice , and their associate Dr Obinna Obeta convicted under the UK's Modern Slavery Law for organ harvesting. READ ALSO: Senator Ekweremadu bags 9 years in UK prison, makes history The documentary also introduces a new development in the case through an email from Alexandra Meek, ...

The fraudulent activities spanned from March 2019 to May 2023 and involved not only forged Nigerian Customary Marriage Certificates but also other falsified documents. Four individuals have been sentenced to prison for their involvement in a large-scale immigration scam involving the forgery of over 2,000 marriage certificates. According to the Home Office, the fraudulent documents were used to help Nigerian nationals live illegally in the UK. The convicted individuals— Abraham Alade Olarotimi Onifade , 41; Abayomi Aderinsoye Shodipo, 38; Nosimot Mojisola Gbadamosi , 31; and Adekunle Kabir , 54—were sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court in London on Tuesday, August 27. Sky News reported that the group was part of an organised criminal network that specialised in making false applications to the EU Settlement Scheme. READ ALSO: UK court finds 6 Nigerians guilty of internet fraud "This group was absolutely prolific in their desire to abuse our borders and have rightly been brou...

Nigeria was placed on the FATF's grey list due to rising capital inflows and shortcomings in combating money laundering, terrorism, and arms financing. The Presidency will take concrete steps to remove Nigeria from the grey list of the global Financial Action Task Force (FATF), before the May 2025 deadline. Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the President, gave the assurance during a fact-finding visit to the office of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) in Abuja on Tuesday. Gbajabiamila pledged that the Federal Government would address the deficiencies that led to Nigeria’s listing. He made the pledge in response to a request by Hafsat Bakari, the Director and Chief Executive Officer of NFIU, who sought high-level intervention to meet the implementation deadline of the FATF action plan. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that on Feb. 24, 2023, Nigeria was placed on the FATF Grey List. This was due to rising capital inflows and shortcomings in combat...

Governor Adeleke called for continued unity and commitment to the vision that led to the creation of Osun State. Governor Ademola Adeleke has marked the 33rd anniversary of Osun State's creation with a heartfelt tribute to the state's founding fathers, emphasising the unity and determination that brought the state into existence. Speaking during a state broadcast on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, Adeleke reflected on the journey leading to Osun State's establishment in 1991. "Today, we stand united in celebration of a journey that began three decades ago, a journey marked by determination, resilience, and a strong belief in our collective future," Adeleke said. He paid homage to the courageous efforts of the state's founding fathers, who advocated for the recognition of Osun's unique identity within the Nigerian federation. Governor Adeleke highlighted the sacrifices made by key figures such as the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade , and other promi...

The police said the allocation papers indicated that the fertilisers, meant for Lagos and Oyo States were being diverted to Bauchi State instead. The Plateau Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has detained five suspects over alleged diversion of two trucks loaded with 70 metric tons of indorama fertilisers. ASC Ruth Rimvyok, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the command disclosed this to newsmen on Monday in Jos. Following the intelligence report, the PPRO explained that suspects were arrested around the state’s Mararaban Jama’a area of Jos South Local Government Area (LGA). She explained that the allocation papers indicated that the fertilisers, meant for Lagos and Oyo States were being diverted to Bauchi State instead. “Acting swiftly on intelligence reports from our headquarters and office of the National Security Adviser, our personnel apprehended these five suspects on Aug. 21 and 23, respectively. ”The suspects were arrested along...

The continued malfunction has left many passport applicants counting their losses and demanding a swift resolution. Nigerians applying for new passports through the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) portal are facing significant challenges. The online payment system has encountered technical difficulties, leaving many applicants stranded and frustrated. The NIS confirmed the issue in a statement titled "Technical Glitches with Online Payment Platform," acknowledging the downtime and expressing regret for the public's inconvenience. The agency assured citizens that efforts are underway to restore seamless service as soon as possible. Despite these assurances, many Nigerians have voiced their dissatisfaction with the prolonged disruption. Lagos-based fintech analyst Epa Stevens pointed out the challenges, noting, "Platforms like Interswitch and Remita have supported the Treasury Single Account (TSA) effectively. "However, with NIS transitioning to a new p...

The police said the successful rescue of the 27 individuals was achieved without the payment of any ransom. The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has said that a notorious kidnap kingpin was killed, and two abductors were arrested during an operation to rescue the 20 abducted medical students. Speaking while handing over the students to their Vice Chancellors in Abuja on Sunday, Egbetokun added that the arrested suspects were in custody. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the 20 medical students were on Aug. 15 abducted in Benue while in transit to Enugu by the criminal gang. Egbetokun said the students, five other passengers, and two other victims who were already in the captivity of the kidnappers were on Aug. 22 following a successful operation by the Nigeria Police. He said the successful rescue of the 27 individuals was achieved without the payment of any ransom. “ I am pleased to inform you that the kingpin of this notorious gang was neutralised dur...

Organisers said no fewer than 20, 000 participants are expected to grace the GEF in Ondo State come November. The Ondo State Government has declared readiness to host the world's largest gathering of entrepreneurs, innovators, investors, creatives, policymakers, and industry leaders at the 2024 Global Entrepreneurship Festival (GES). The festival, themed 'Beyond Boundaries: Poverty Eradication through Entrepreneurship,' promises to provide a platform for government, corporate organisations and entrepreneurs to collaborate towards solving pressing global challenges, including climate change, hunger, poverty, and inequality. The three-day event slated to be held at the Entrepreneurship Village between November 22 and 24, will attract 20 million viewers across over 67 countries, with 5,000 participants, 43 global speakers lined up and 17 plus television stations ready to plug in. Speaking at a media parley and theme unveiling ceremony held at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos l...

Okonjo-Iweala noted that insecurity has been weaponised in Nigeria for political purposes by political players. The Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has cautioned opposition politicians in Nigeria to desist from weaponising insecurity against the government in power. She made this point at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) held at the Eko Hotel & Suites in Lagos on Sunday, August 25, 2024. Okonjo-Iweala delivered a keynote address entitled, ‘A Social Contract For Nigeria’s Future’ at the event well-attended by lawyers. The former Nigerian Finance Minister noted that insecurity has been weaponised in Nigeria for political purposes by political players. She accused some politicians of instigating insecurity to make their opponents look bad and incompetent to govern. “We cannot have socio-economic development without security. We certainly cannot have security without dev...

They also blamed some of the community leaders in charge of the distribution of the palliatives for being biased and not transparent. Some residents of Kaduna, Kano and Katsina States say they are yet to receive the rice recently donated to the states by the Federal Government. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Federal Government had doled out 20 trucks of rice to the 36 states and the FCT. NAN also reports that this was part of its sustained efforts to ramp up food supplies in the country to further bolster food security. It was also part of the Federal Government’s synergy with the sub-nationals to lessen the current hardship being faced by Nigerians. This hardship was aggravated by persistent food insecurity and ever-surging food prices. However, with the recent bumper harvests in parts of Nigeria, Nigerians are having a sigh of relief, although there are palpable fears that the happy development may be temporary. Some residents of Kaduna metropolis have lame...

NAN gathered that a combined team of security operatives coordinated by the Office of the NSA carried out the operation that ensured freedom for the abducted students. The Police Command in Benue has confirmed the release of 20 students of the University of Maiduguri and University of Jos kidnapped by gunmen in the north-central State on August 15. Its Public Relations Officer, Sewuese Anene , confirmed their rescue to the News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) at 11.15 p.m. on Friday in Makurdi. NAN reports that the students, who were travelling to Enugu for their annual Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FECAMDS) Convention, were abducted in Otukpo. Also taken was a House Officer, who accompanied them on the journey. Anene, however, declined further details on the rescue efforts. “The victims have been released. Details will be released tomorrow (Saturday) morning please,” he stated. NAN reports that their release is coming five days after the Inspector-General of Poli...

The group highlighted Dangote Cement's substantial contributions to the state's economy, including its status as the highest taxpayer, its scholarship programs, and its role in job creation. The Benue Youth Alliance for Good Governance (BYAGG) has vowed to resist the Benue State government's alleged plans to force Dangote Cement PLC out of the state. The youth group claims that Governor Hyacinth Alia 's administration is plotting to frustrate the company's operations through multiple taxation and harassment by thugs, aiming to take over the cement giant through a proxy. John Yiye, BYAGG President, and Solomon Oche , the group's Secretary, expressed their concerns during a press conference. They argued that this alleged scheme would severely impact the state's economy, lead to job losses, and exacerbate the already dire security situation in Benue. READ ALSO: Arewa youths protest, demand supply of crude to Dangote Refinery "Dangote Cement PLC, wi...

The seized assets by the Chinese firm so far include properties in Liverpool, a Dassault Falcon 7X in Paris, a Boeing 737, and an Airbus A330, with the Bombardier 6000 in Canada being the most recent. A Chinese company, Zhongshang Fucheng Industrial Investment Ltd, has seized another Nigerian jet, a Bombardier 6000, in Canada. This latest confiscation adds to the growing list of Nigerian assets taken by the firm, which has already seized three presidential aircraft in France due to a legal dispute with the Ogun State Government. The ongoing legal battle stems from an arbitration award of over $70 million against Nigeria, leading Zhongshang to pursue enforcement by confiscating assets abroad. The seized Nigerian jets According to Daily Trust, the seized assets include properties in Liverpool, a Dassault Falcon 7X in Paris, a Boeing 737, and an Airbus A330, with the Bombardier 6000 in Canada being the most recent. Judge David Collier of the Superior Court of Quebec dismissed Nig...

The minister said the total value of all the ongoing projects as of May 2023 was ₦14.42 trillion. The Minister of Works, David Umahi, says the Federal Government needs over ₦16 trillion to complete inherited road projects nationwide. Umahi made the disclosure when he briefed newsmen on the achievements of the ministry under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu on Thursday in Abuja. He said that the present administration inherited a total of 18,932.50 kilometres of ongoing road projects, with a total of 2,064 contracts. The minister said that the total value of all the ongoing projects as of May 2023 was ₦14.42 trillion. He said that the amount certified was ₦4.73 trillion; however, ₦3.12 trillion was paid, and the amount owed contractors for certified works was ₦1.61 trillion. “The funding gap to complete all the inherited projects is about ₦13 trillion as of May 2023 and will be more than ₦16 trillion when all projects are reviewed, in line with current market rea...

The EFCC said Bello has become a fugitive but the instruments of the law will eventually catch up with him anywhere he's sighted. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says it's collaborating with local and international organisations to ensure the arrest of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello. Bello was declared wanted by the Nigerian security agencies after evading arrest by the EFCC for a money laundering case. The anti-graft commission had preferred a 19-count charge of money laundering to the tune of over ₦80 billion against the former Governor. The EFCC said the fund was allegedly diverted from the Kogi State Government’s treasury. However, since filing the charges, the commission has not been able to bring Bello to court for arraignments as his whereabouts remain unknown. The embattled former Governor has refused to appear in court six times, further stalling his arraignment. ALSO READ: Tinubu's 2nd term bid at risk over 'betrayal'...

Voters cited competence, personality, and experience as their top decision-making factors, with 43% of respondents recognising Ighodalo as the candidate who best embodies these qualities. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, has emerged as the frontrunner in the upcoming Edo governorship election, according to a recent pre-election poll by the Africa Polling Institute (API). The survey, conducted between August 12th and 16th, 2024, revealed that Ighodalo currently enjoys the support of 43% of likely voters. His closest rival, Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), trails with 20%. Barrister Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP) is further behind, securing just 9% of the voter support. Despite Ighodalo's substantial lead, the poll underscores the pivotal role that undecided voters, constituting 28% of the electorate, will play in shaping the final result. Outcome of the API pre-election survey ahead of the Edo guber poll....

The president extended his condolences to the bereaved family, the Gobir Emirate, and Sokoto State Government. President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday condemned the tragic circumstances leading to the passing of Alhaji Isa Bawa, the District Head of Gatawa District, Sabon Birni Local Government Area, Sokoto State. In a statement by Chief Ajuri Ngelale , his spokesman, the president described the attack on Bawa as deeply disturbing and a heinous act that would not go without a decisive response. The president extended his condolences to the bereaved family, the Gobir Emirate, and Sokoto State Government. He prayed for the repose of the soul of the traditional ruler and comfort to his family at this difficult time. Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration would remove threats to ensure the security of the nation, and that desperate acts of terror would be effectively countered. ridoola.blogspot.com.ng

El-rufai and other political bigwigs were spotted at Atiku's residence exchanging pleasantries. In an interesting development, former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasiru El-Rufai, has led a delegation to the residence of former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, located in the Asokoro area of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The visit was to formally request the hand of Atiku’s daughter, Hafsat Atiku Abubakar , in marriage to the family of Kashim Imam . This is contained in a statement on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, by AbdulRasheed Shehu , the Special Assistant (Broadcast Media) to the former Vice President The event also had in attendance prominent political figures, including the National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu , and former governors Sule Lamido of Jigawa State and Aminu Waziri Tambuwal of Sokoto State, among others. Sharing photos from the event on X , Shehu wrote: “ His Excellency Atiku Abubakar welcomed the family of Kashim Imam, led by former Kadun...

The APC mocked the PDP's reliance on Jonathan, reminding the public that the APC had defeated him before and would easily do so again. The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has endorsed the growing call for former President Goodluck Jonathan to run in the 2027 presidential election. The move has sparked controversy, with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) dismissing the idea as a desperate attempt by the PDP to remain relevant. Rumours have been swirling in political circles that northern elites and politicians are increasingly dissatisfied with President Bola Tinubu's administration, leading to quiet calls for a change in leadership. This sentiment gained traction when Bauchi State Governor Senator Bala Mohammed publicly endorsed the idea of Jonathan returning to the presidency. At an event organised by the Save Africa Initiative in Abuja, Mohammed made his stance clear, stating that Jonathan's experience and track record could be pivotal in steering...

The upcoming summit in Kaduna is poised to be a critical moment in shaping the future of Northern Nigeria as the region prepares for the 2027 elections. In a bid to revitalise Northern Nigeria's political and economic influence, key leaders from the region are set to convene at a high-profile summit in Kaduna. The summit, organised by the League of Northern Democrats (LND), aims to address pressing challenges facing the North, including political unity, economic development, and security issues, all in preparation for the 2027 elections. At a recent gathering in Abuja, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau , former governor of Kano State and Protem Chairman of the LND, emphasised the summit's significance. "This summit will serve as a platform for discussing the region's political future, economic development, and security challenges. It will bring together key leaders, thinkers, and influencers to chart a new course for the North," Shekarau stated, according to Punch. T...

The suspects allegedly opened U.S. bank accounts and prepaid debit card accounts to receive the funds using the stolen PII. A Nigerian man has been arrested for allegedly defrauding the United States government of at least $10 million in COVID-19 unemployment benefits. The suspect, Yomi Jones Olayeye , also known as "Sabbie," was detained on August 13 at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York upon his arrival from Lagos, Nigeria. According to a statement released on Monday, August 19, by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts, Olayeye, along with several co-conspirators, is accused of orchestrating a sophisticated scheme that targeted three pandemic assistance programs administered by the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance. The programs involved are Traditional Unemployment Insurance (UI), Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC). Between March and July 2020, Ola...

The move is said to be a continuation of the efforts by Governor Peter Mbah’s administration to rid the state of all forms of crimes and criminalities. The Enugu State Government says it will pull down property, whether a private residence or business premises, used for kidnapping for ransom in any part of the state. The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, disclosed the government’s threat in a statement issued on Tuesday in Enugu by the Senior Special Assistant to Gov. Peter Mbah on External Relations, Uche Anichukwu. Onyia stated that the step was in continuation of the determined efforts by Peter Mbah ’s administration to rid the state of all forms of crimes and criminalities. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Enugu State House of Assembly had in Nov. 2016, amended the Criminal Code Law of Enugu State, which was subsequently signed into Law by former Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, on Jan. 20, 2017. Section 315 of the Criminal Code (Second Amend...