The Historica Nigeria

2025

Feature, National

A Farewell to a Legendary Leader: Air Vice Marshal Terry Okorodudu

It is with profound sadness that we bid farewell to an exceptional individual, Air Vice Marshal Terry Okorodudu. His passing leaves an unfillable void in our lives, but his legacy of excellence, leadership, and service will continue to inspire us. We remember Air Vice Marshal Okorodudu as a steadfast mentor, a guiding light who selflessly offered wisdom, support, and guidance whenever needed. His impact on our lives and careers is immeasurable. Read Also: FCT Minister of State Mourns Passing of Head of Service Grace Adayilo As we mourn the loss of this great man, we take comfort in the knowledge that his life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and commitment to the highest standards. His contributions to the Nigerian Air Force and the nation as a whole will never be forgotten. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, loved ones, and colleagues. May God grant them the strength and comfort they need during this difficult time. Rest in perfect peace, dear Air Vice Marshal Okorodudu. Your memory will be a blessing to us all. Farewell, sir! Sincerely, Engr. Khalil Sagir Koki On behalf of Forte GCC Innovative Solutions Limited

News, Sport

Champions League: Arsenal, Real Madrid Secure Wins as Juventus, Dortmund Share Eight-Goal Thriller

It was a dramatic round of UEFA Champions League fixtures on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 16–17, with Arsenal and Real Madrid picking up crucial victories while Juventus and Borussia Dortmund played out a pulsating 4-4 draw. Arsenal continued their strong campaign with a 2-0 away win over Athletic Bilbao, keeping them in firm contention for top spot in their group. Union Saint-Gilloise pulled off one of the shocks of the night, beating Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven 3-1 to boost their chances of qualification. In Lisbon, Qarabag FK stunned Benfica with a late equaliser in a thrilling 3-3 draw, leaving Group C wide open. The clash of the night came in Turin, where Juventus and Borussia Dortmund produced an eight-goal classic, ending 4-4. The result leaves both teams neck-and-neck in their group standings, though Dortmund remain slightly ahead on goal difference. Read Also: FCT Minister Bunkure Urges Easter Pilgrims to Pray for Nigeria’s Peace, Unity On Wednesday, September 17, Real Madrid edged Marseille 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu to maintain their lead at the top of Group F. In London, Tottenham Hotspur claimed a narrow 1-0 win over Villarreal, pushing them into second place in their group and keeping their knockout stage hopes alive. Group Standings (after Matchday results): – Arsenal’s win keeps them level on points with Union Saint-Gilloise, both battling for top spot. – Real Madrid sit comfortably at the summit of their group, with Marseille slipping further behind. – Juventus and Dortmund remain locked in a fight for qualification, with little separating them. – Tottenham’s victory lifts them above Villarreal in the race for the second qualifying position. The results have set up an exciting final stretch in the group stage, with several groups still wide open and qualification hanging in the balance.

Abuja, National, News

Photos: Tinubu Returns to Abuja After Holiday in France

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday evening returned to Abuja after spending part of his annual holiday in France. On arrival, he was received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, and other senior government officials. Read Also: FCT Minister Bunkure Urges Easter Pilgrims to Pray for Nigeria’s Peace, Unity Photos:

Abuja, News

FCT Minister Bunkure Urges Easter Pilgrims to Pray for Nigeria’s Peace, Unity

The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, has urged Christian pilgrims embarking on the 2025 Easter pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan to focus on prayer, spiritual growth, and support for Nigeria’s peace and development. Dr. Bunkure made the call during the pre-departure orientation programme for intending pilgrims, where she described pilgrimage as a spiritually enriching journey that offers immeasurable blessings. She acknowledged the recent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which caused delays in the pilgrimage exercise, but reassured participants of the FCT Administration’s commitment to their welfare under the leadership of Minister Nyesom Wike. Read Also: Wike to Flag Off 12 Road Projects, Commission Two, and Launch “Light Up Abuja” Programme The Minister also commended the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) for its coordination of pilgrimages nationwide and pledged continued cooperation between the FCT Administration and the Commission to ensure successful spiritual journeys. In her remarks, the Director of the FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Gloria Dandam, reminded the pilgrims that the trip is more than a tour of historical landmarks, describing it as a sacred journey of renewal, reflection, and redemption. “You will have the opportunity to seek God’s blessings and pray for peace in our homes, our country, and the world,” she told the pilgrims, urging them to encourage one another throughout the journey.

Abuja, National, News

Wike to Flag Off 12 Road Projects, Commission Two, and Launch “Light Up Abuja” Programme

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, will on Thursday, September 18, 2025, flag off 12 new road projects, commission two completed ones, and inaugurate the “Light Up Abuja” initiative aimed at improving infrastructure and security in the capital city. According to a statement signed by Wike’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the programme will run from September 18 to October 16, 2025, covering roads and solar lighting projects across major districts and expressways in the Federal Capital City (FCC). As part of the activities, the minister will commission access roads in Sector Centre B, Dakibiyu District, as well as the newly constructed Roads ILS 11 (Esther Bali Street) and MAR 24 (Kez Udezue Street) in Mabushi District. The Light Up Abuja project will deliver integrated solar-powered street lighting across Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse, Central Business District (CBD), Airport Expressway, Katampe, Garki I and II, Mabushi, Gudu, Jabi, and Katampe Extension. Read Also: FCT Minister Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Paediatric Surgical Care The road projects set for flag-off include the full development of Arterial Road N1 from Wuye District to Ring Road II, construction of Northern Parkway from Ring Road II to Ring Road III, and provision of access roads to key sites such as the Mabushi Bus Terminal and the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates project site in Karsana West. Other projects include bypass access to the Airport Second Runway with a four-span bridge, access road to the FCT Fire Service Station with erosion control measures in Kaura District, and several bridges and transit connections within the Central Area, Wuse, Asokoro, Guzape, Katampe, and other districts. In addition, the minister will oversee the rehabilitation of the 15-kilometre Old Keffi Road, from Kado Village to Dei-Dei Junction, and the construction of residences for the heads of federal courts, including the President of the Court of Appeal, Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Chief Judge of the FCT, and President of the National Industrial Court. The announcement comes on the heels of recent flag-offs by Wike, including the expansion of water supply to Bwari and Karu satellite towns, the construction of a multi-purpose sports centre in Kafe District, a new Magistrate Court complex in Jabi, and the emergency reconstruction of Karu Road, which was expanded to cover adjoining critical routes. The FCT Administration said the projects reflect its commitment to accelerating infrastructure development, improving mobility, and enhancing the living standards of residents across Abuja.

Kano, Plateau

Kano, Plateau Strengthen Bonds as Deputy Governors Meet

The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, has reaffirmed Kano’s commitment to unity and collaboration with Plateau State during a working visit to his counterpart, Deputy Governor Mrs. Josephine Piyo. The meeting, held in Plateau, was described as a reflection of the growing socio-cultural and political cooperation between the two states. Speaking during the visit, Gwarzo highlighted the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties that connect Kano and Plateau, adding that such bonds must be nurtured for peace and development. He also recalled his personal attachment to Plateau, noting that he had served in the state 37 years ago during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Read Also: ICPC Wins Court Battle to Investigate Kano Scholarship Board “Plateau holds a special place in my heart because of my NYSC experience here. People always look forward to visiting this state to enjoy its warmth and hospitality,” he said. In her response, Deputy Governor Piyo warmly welcomed the Kano delegation, describing the visit as a gesture of inter-state friendship and mutual respect. She praised Kano’s contribution to national unity and commended the spirit of collaboration that the visit represents. Both leaders expressed hope that the renewed ties would pave the way for stronger socio-cultural and political partnerships that would benefit the people of both states.

Abuja, Kano, News

ICPC Wins Court Battle to Investigate Kano Scholarship Board

An Abuja High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has upheld the powers of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate alleged mismanagement of scholarship funds in Kano State. Justice Josephine Obanor delivered the ruling while dismissing a suit filed by the Permanent Secretary of the Kano State Ministry of Higher Education, Dr. Hadi Bala, and others who had sought to block the ICPC from inviting officials for questioning. The case stemmed from a petition to the anti-graft agency alleging irregularities in the management of Kano’s scholarship funds. In response, ICPC invited officials of the Ministry of Higher Education and the Scholarship Board to provide documents and clarifications. Read Also: Kano Protocol DG’s Petition Loses Ground as Lawyers Withdraw Rather than comply, the applicants approached the court with suit No. CV/2857/2025, filed against the Attorney-General of the Federation and the ICPC, claiming the invitation violated their fundamental rights. Justice Obanor ruled that the Attorney-General was wrongly joined in the case and ordered his name struck out. She further held that ICPC acted within its statutory mandate, stressing that an invitation for investigation does not constitute a breach of rights. The court dismissed the suit for lack of merit, affirming that the ICPC cannot be restrained from carrying out its responsibilities under the law. In its reaction, the ICPC welcomed the judgment, describing it as a significant victory that reinforces its determination to ensure accountability and transparency in the management of public resources.

Business, National, News

Africa Can Secure Its Energy Destiny, Says NNPC Boss Ojulari

The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has restated Nigeria’s commitment to collaborating with other African nations to secure sustainable energy for the continent. Speaking at the 7th African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation (APPO) National Oil Companies CEOs Forum, Ojulari stressed the urgency of accelerating Africa’s energy transition, citing declining European investments in fossil fuel refineries, most of which are expected to phase out by 2030. “Africa must take ownership of its resources and policies. Our policies should be designed by us. With our vast resource base and improved governance structures, I am confident the continent can secure its energy destiny,” he said. Read Also: NNPCL Nears Full Crude Production Capacity, Credits Security Agencies’ Collaboration Ojulari highlighted major infrastructure projects being undertaken by NNPC Ltd., including the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline and the Nigeria–Morocco Gas Pipeline Project, an expansion of the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP) aimed at boosting regional integration and cross-border energy trade. He noted that despite initial challenges of alignment, payments, and collaboration, progress has been made. “The plan is to extend the pipeline to Côte d’Ivoire as the first phase, and ultimately to Morocco,” he explained. The GCEO also pointed to the investment opportunities unlocked by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and disclosed that Nigeria has achieved 100 percent pipeline availability for the first time in two decades, thanks to strengthened partnerships with host communities and security agencies. Drawing parallels with global energy giants like Petrobras, Petronas, and Saudi Aramco, Ojulari reaffirmed NNPC Ltd.’s readiness to collaborate with African peers, share knowledge, and drive collective progress to unlock the continent’s full energy potential.

Kano, News

APC Kano Chair Praises Babba Dan Agundi for Empowering Members

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, has publicly praised the Director General of the National Productivity Center (NPC), Dr. Baffa Babba Dan Agundi, for his consistent support toward youth empowerment and party development in the state. Abbas made the commendation during a press briefing held in Kano, emphasizing the significance of Dan Agundi’s monthly contributions to grassroots development. According to Alhaji Abbas, Dr. Dan Agundi has been instrumental in providing essential materials to young people across Kano State, a gesture he described as “critical to the development of the youth.” He noted that the items distributed include tricycles, popularly known as Adaidaita Sahu, motorcycles, financial support, and other tools aimed at enhancing youth productivity and self-reliance. “We are very happy with these materials such as three-cycle machines, Adaidaita Sahu motorcycles, money, and other youth development materials that you are providing,” Abbas stated. He further urged other APC members holding positions of influence to emulate Dan Agundi’s commitment to community upliftment. “We call on our APC members in positions of power to emulate you, Baffa Babba Dan Agundi, in collaboration with our APC members in Kano State to face success by 2025,” he added. Read Also: Abba Ganduje: Reshaping Kano’s Political Landscape Through Empowerment In addition to youth focused initiatives, Abbas revealed that Dan Agundi’s outreach has extended to the agricultural sector, where 1,000 farmers have benefited from fertilizer distribution. “This fertilizer support is helping farmers improve their yields and sustain their livelihoods,” Abbas said, highlighting the broader impact of Dan Agundi’s interventions on rural development and food security. The Kano APC chairman affirmed the party’s appreciation for Dan Agundi’s efforts, describing them as a model of effective leadership and grassroots engagement. He reiterated the importance of such initiatives in strengthening the APC’s presence and performance ahead of future elections.

Katsina, News

Minister hails ex-CMD’s achievements at Katsina Federal Teaching Hospital

The Minister of Health, Dr Ali Pate, has celebrated the immediate past Chief Medical Director (CMD), Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, Dr Bello Suleiman, for successful completion of his tenure. Pate, who spoke through Dr Abdulmajid Umar, an official from the minister’s office, said that Suleiman has put the hospital on a right path, and urged the incoming CMD to work hard in sustaining his good leadership. He stated this during a reception organised in honour of Suleiman in Katsina on Monday, by the state’s chapter of the Hambali Family Union, after his tenure as the CMD. Read Also: AKTH, KEDCO Resolve Electricity Supply Dispute According to Pate, during his eighth years as the CMD, Suleiman has facilitated various developments, uplifting the standard of the hospital. He said:“It’s a well known fact that Suleiman has brought a number of developments to the hospital, which makes it to be the best among its contemporaries.” In a remark, the Ajiyan Katsina, who is also a member of the Hambali family, Alhaji Lamis Dikko, observed that health institutions in Nigeria need committed people like Suleiman. Also, member representing Katsina constituency at the state assembly, Alhaji Ali Abu-Albaba, congratulated the family for having sons and daughters who excelled in their various fields of endeavours. Responding, Suleiman expressed gratitude to the family over the honour, attributing his success as the CMD to the support and cooperation he enjoyed from the staff of the hospital. He commended the organisers, the state government, the assembly member representing Katsina for their unwavering support, and urged them to extend similar cooperation to the incoming CMD. (NAN)

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