The Historica Nigeria

2025

Benue, News, Politics

Benue Governor Dissolves Cabinet, Appoints New Chief of Staff

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has dissolved the Benue State Executive Council, marking a significant restructuring of the state’s administration. The announcement was made at the conclusion of the 12th Executive Council Meeting of 2025, where the Governor also confirmed the appointment of Barrister Moses Atagher as the new Chief of Staff. Atagher, a two-time former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in the state, is a seasoned administrator with a notable track record, including his previous role as Acting Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank. His appointment takes immediate effect. Read Also: Why They Are Afraid of Dr. Ganduje Governor Alia expressed appreciation to the outgoing Commissioners for their service over the past two years. He urged those who may not be reappointed to remain loyal to the party and continue contributing to its progress, noting that their exit paves the way for others to serve. “The dissolution affects only Commissioners. All former Commissioners are directed to hand over to the Permanent Secretaries of their respective Ministries without delay,” the Governor stated. Speaking on behalf of the former Commissioners, Barr. Bemsen Mnyim thanked the Governor for the opportunity to serve. “At every stage in life, everywhere you are called to serve is a school. We have learnt a lot while working with you,” he said. The development signals a fresh phase in Governor Alia’s administration, with expectations of new appointments in the coming days.

Adamawa, News

Heavy Rainfall Submerges Parts of Maiduguri, Leaves Residents Homeless

Several parts of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, were submerged on Wednesday following a torrential downpour that lasted more than three hours, displacing residents and crippling movement across the city. The heavy rainfall flooded major roads and residential areas, leaving vehicles stranded and forcing residents to wade through rising waters. A correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) who visited affected areas reported severe impacts in neighborhoods such as Moro-Moro, Damboa Road, Customs, Bulumkutu, Dubai near Maimalari Barracks, and the Pompomari By-pass. Read Also: NiMet Forecasts Thunderstorms, Warns of Flash Floods Across Nigeria Many residents scrambled to salvage belongings from their homes and shops as floodwaters surged into buildings. “We did not expect anything like this,” said Ibrahim Goni, a resident of Moro-Moro. “Our drainage systems are completely blocked, and water from the roads just flowed straight into our homes. Many people have lost their properties.” In Bulumkutu, people used planks and old tyres to navigate flooded roads, attempting to avoid being swept away by the current. Aisha Hassan, a trader, lamented the loss of her shop and goods. “It rained non-stop for over three hours. Water started entering our houses before we could pack our things. Women are crying over foodstuffs, clothing, and other items washed away,” she said. At Pompomari By-pass—a major route linking various parts of the city—commercial vehicles and tricycles were forced to abandon the flooded road due to the high water level. Motorists and pedestrians waded through knee-deep water, while some residents erected makeshift barricades in an attempt to redirect the flood away from their homes. Mr. Sirajo Aliyu, Zonal Coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), said the agency is working closely with the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the military, police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Borno State Emergency Management Agency (BOSEMA) to assess the extent of the damage. “We have received reports from several flashpoints across Maiduguri, and we have already mobilised response teams. We have visited some areas around Moro-Moro along Customs,” he said. Aliyu added that the team was currently at Alau Dam to assess the water level, while the State Committee on the Prevention of Flood had begun preliminary checks in other affected locations.

National, News

NNPC Rules Out Sale of Port Harcourt Refinery, Reaffirms Commitment to Rehabilitation

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has dismissed speculations regarding the sale of the Port Harcourt Refining Company, reaffirming its commitment to completing the plant’s rehabilitation and retaining it under national control. The Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPC Ltd, Mr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, made this known during a company-wide town hall meeting held on Tuesday at the NNPC Towers in Abuja. Ojulari clarified that the decision was not a change in direction but rather the result of ongoing technical and financial evaluations of the Port Harcourt, Kaduna, and Warri refineries. According to him, the earlier plan to operate the Port Harcourt refinery prior to full completion of its rehabilitation was “ill-informed and sub-commercial.” Read Also: FG Approves 37 New Oil Evacuation Routes to Tackle Theft, Boost Production — NUPRC While acknowledging progress across the three refineries, he noted that the emerging realities require more advanced technical partnerships to complete and upgrade the Port Harcourt plant. As a result, the sale of the refinery has been ruled out, with Ojulari warning that divestment could lead to further value erosion. The announcement follows widespread speculation after Ojulari’s comments during an interview at the 2025 OPEC Seminar in Vienna, Austria, where he said “all options are on the table.” That remark had prompted media reports about a possible sale of national refining assets. His latest statement was met with applause from hundreds of staff at the town hall meeting, who welcomed it as a clear and reassuring signal of a business-focused direction for the company. More than just a performance review, the meeting provided a platform for frank discussions and strategic realignment. Executive Vice Presidents from various business units including Upstream, Downstream, Gas, Power, Finance, and New Energy delivered progress reports detailing reforms, operational gains, and areas requiring attention. Ojulari acknowledged past challenges and missteps while outlining a clear roadmap for the future. He emphasized that NNPC Ltd remains committed to its role as the strategic custodian of Nigeria’s energy infrastructure. “This decision supports our mandate to ensure energy security, retain critical national assets, and operate with transparency and professionalism,” he said. The announcement also aligns with the Federal Government’s broader objective of strengthening national energy independence. Feedback from staff during and after the session reflected renewed enthusiasm, with many describing the engagement as “transformational” and “hope-inspiring.” NNPC Ltd, Ojulari added, will continue its repositioning as a commercially-driven and professionally-managed national energy company focused on performance and the interest of its primary stakeholders, the Nigerian people.

National, News

Tinubu Appoints Olumode Adeyemi as New Fire Service Boss

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Deputy Controller General (DCG) Olumode Samuel Adeyemi as the new Controller General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS). The announcement was made through the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), following the imminent retirement of the current Controller General, Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji Olola, who is due to leave office on 13th August, 2025, upon attaining the age of 60. In a statement signed Wednesday in Abuja by the Board Secretary, Abdulmalik Jibril, DCG Olumode Adeyemi was described as a seasoned officer with vast experience, having transferred from the FCT Fire Service to the Federal Fire Service, and rising through the ranks to become Deputy Controller-General in charge of Human Resources at the Service Headquarters. Read Also: Kano Gets Major Slots in Tinubu’s New Appointments He has completed all mandatory in-service and command courses, and attended training programs both locally and internationally. He is also a member and fellow of several professional bodies, including the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), Institute of Corporate Administration, Institute of Public Administration of Nigeria, and the Chartered Institute of Treasury Management. The Board commended the outgoing CG, Engr. Olola, for his dedication and for initiating impactful reforms in the Federal Fire Service during his tenure.

Health, National, News

Nurses in Federal Health Institutions Down Tools Over Poor Working Conditions

The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI) on Wednesday commenced a seven-day warning strike, defying appeals by the Federal Government to shelve the industrial action. The strike followed the expiration of a 15-day ultimatum issued on July 14, 2025, in which the union demanded improved welfare packages, fair allowances, and better working conditions for nurses in federal health institutions. Read Also: UNICEF Nigeria Gets New Country Representative Speaking on Tuesday ahead of the strike, NANNM-FHI National Chairman, Comrade Morakinyo Rilwan, said the Federal Government failed to make any meaningful engagement within the period of notice. “As far as we are concerned, there has been no communication from the government. That is why we are saying the strike is going on and nothing is stopping it. Even if the government calls today or tomorrow, it won’t stop the strike. They had enough time,” he stated. The union’s demands include an upward review of shift allowances, adjustment of uniform allowance, implementation of a separate salary structure for nurses, increased core duty allowance, mass recruitment of nurses, and the creation of a dedicated department for nursing within the Federal Ministry of Health. Rilwan clarified that the strike action was driven by widespread frustration among members rather than a top-down decision by union leadership. “This strike is not initiated by the leadership of the union; it was initiated by the members, and they said this is what they want. They are not even contemplating the ‘no work, no pay’ policy because they are ready to sacrifice. The salaries they receive are not even enough,” he said. The warning strike is scheduled to last until August 5, 2025.

Humanitarian, National, News

UNICEF Nigeria Gets New Country Representative

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has announced the appointment of Ms. Wafaa Saeed Abdelatef as its new Country Representative in Nigeria. Wafaa, a seasoned humanitarian and development expert, brings more than two decades of international experience to her new role, with a track record of leadership and service across complex global assignments. Prior to her posting to Nigeria, Wafaa served as the UNICEF Representative in Somalia, where she led efforts to advance children’s rights amid ongoing humanitarian crises. Her leadership in Somalia was widely noted for achieving key milestones in child protection, health, and education. Related: UNICEF, KASPA Forge Stronger Ties to Improve Social Protection Outcomes in Kano Throughout her career, she has held senior positions in the United Nations system, including with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the World Food Programme (WFP), and UNICEF. She has served in diverse operational settings such as Sudan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Syria, Ethiopia, and at global headquarters in New York and Geneva. Her professional journey began in her home country of Sudan, where she worked with the private sector, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations on programs supporting displaced populations and environmental sustainability. Read Also: Kano Strengthens Social Protection Policy with Stakeholder Engagement Wafaa holds a Master’s degree in Architecture from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium, a Master of Science in Physical Planning from the University of Khartoum, and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture. UNICEF Nigeria expressed confidence in Wafaa’s capacity to lead its operations in the country, highlighting her expertise in program management, strategic planning, and humanitarian coordination. “We are delighted to welcome Wafaa Saeed Abdelatef as the new UNICEF Representative in Nigeria,” the agency said in a statement. “Her proven commitment to child welfare and extensive international experience will play a critical role in advancing our mission to uphold the rights and well-being of every child in Nigeria.” Wafaa’s appointment comes at a time when Nigeria continues to face significant development challenges, particularly in education, child health, and humanitarian response in conflict-affected regions. Her leadership is expected to strengthen UNICEF’s engagement with government and partners in tackling these issues.

News, Zamfara

Gusau Gets New Emir as Governor Dauda Lawal Approves Appointment

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has approved the appointment of Alhaji Abdulkadir Ibrahim Bello as the new Emir of Gusau. Alhaji Abdulkadir, who held the traditional title of Bunun Gusau, succeeds his late father, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, the 15th Emir of Gusau, who died on July 25, 2025, after a decade on the throne. The newly appointed monarch is the eldest son of the late Emir. Read Also: Prof. Musa Tukur Yakasai Appointed Sarkin Kudun Gaya by Emir of Gaya The announcement was made on Tuesday in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Malam Abubakar Mohammad Nakwada. He noted that the decision followed the recommendation of the Gusau Emirate kingmakers and was made in accordance with traditional customs and relevant legal provisions. Governor Lawal, while confirming the appointment, urged the new Emir to lead with integrity and foster peace, unity, and development across the emirate.

Education, Kano, News

Girls’ Hostel Razed by Fire at Dano Memorial Secondary School, Gani

A fire outbreak has gutted the Girls’ Hostel of Dano Memorial Secondary School, located at Gidan Mission, Gani in Sumaila Local Government Area of Kano State. This was conveyed in a statement signed by the Information Officer of Sumaila Local Government, Haruna Gunduwawa, and made available to ‘The Historica Nigeria‘ on Tuesday. The incident occurred last Thursday while students had already vacated the school premises for the end-of-term holiday. The inferno razed the hostel building, destroying nearly all the students’ personal belongings. Fortunately, no lives were lost, and no injuries were reported. Read Also: Kano Governor Promises Renovation of Day Science College After Viral Report During an on-site visit to assess the extent of the damage, the Chairman of Sumaila Local Government, Alhaji Farouk Abdu Sumaila, expressed his heartfelt sympathy to the school’s management and the affected students. He described the incident as deeply unfortunate and commended the school’s administration for its swift response. In a show of support, the chairman announced a donation of fifty (50) bags of cement from the local government to aid in the reconstruction of the damaged hostel. He assured the school community of the council’s continued support during this difficult time. The Chairman was conducted around the scene by the School Proprietor, Rev. Alhassan Musa, who confirmed the fire took place shortly after students departed for vacation. He expressed relief that there were no casualties and acknowledged the timely intervention of the local government. Rev. Musa extended his gratitude to the Sumaila Local Government for its concern and generous donation, emphasizing the importance of community support in rebuilding efforts. Efforts are underway to mobilize additional resources to restore the hostel and ensure a safe environment for returning students.

News, Politics

87 Ebonyi Officials Suspended Without Salary Over Missed State Function

In a sweeping disciplinary action, Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has suspended 87 government officials for their failure to attend a crucial state function. The affected officials include 25 commissioners, 14 senior special assistants, 24 special assistants, and 22 permanent secretaries. The suspension, which takes effect immediately, will last for one month and comes with no salary. Read Also: Kano Governor Promises Renovation of Day Science College After Viral Report A statement issued late Monday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Monday Uzor, stated: “The Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has directed that the underlisted government functionaries proceed on a one-month working suspension without salary for failure to attend an important government function.” The statement also noted that the suspended officials are barred from signing any official documents during the suspension period. Commissioners are expected to hand over to their respective permanent secretaries during their absence. Prominent among those affected are Engr. Stanley Lebechi Mbam, Prof. Leonard Uguru, Dr. Mathew Nwobashi, Prof. Nwogo Obasi, Barr. Ikeuwa Omebe, Chief Sunday Inyima, and Hon. Stanley Ogbuewu. Mr. Uzor emphasized that Governor Nwifuru remains firmly committed to discipline and the enforcement of high standards of public service within Ebonyi State. Observers say the action sends a strong signal on accountability and reinforces the Governor’s zero-tolerance stance on administrative laxity and negligence.

National, News

FAAN Honours Super Falcons with Heroic Reception at Abuja Airport

Nigeria’s Super Falcons received a grand hero’s welcome at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, following their triumphant outing at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where they clinched their 10th continental title. The red-carpet reception, organized by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), was marked by energetic cultural performances and jubilant celebrations that echoed national pride. Related: Super Falcons Stage Stunning Comeback to Clinch 10th WAFCON Title Speaking on behalf of FAAN’s Managing Director and Chief Executive, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the Director of Airport Operations, Capt. Abdullahi Mahmood, hailed the Falcons as “icons of resilience, strength, and Nigerian excellence.” The event drew high-profile dignitaries including the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN; Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani; Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; and the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), among others. Read Also: Ganduje’s Enduring Relevance: A Political Legacy That Transcends Tenure To express appreciation for their incredible achievement, FAAN presented each player with a specially curated welcome-back package, symbolizing the nation’s gratitude and the agency’s trademark hospitality. The reception not only celebrated the Super Falcons’ sporting excellence but also reinforced FAAN’s role in promoting national unity, cultural pride, and recognition of those who elevate Nigeria’s global image. As the country continues to bask in the glory of the Falcons’ victory, this heroic homecoming stands as a powerful reminder of what Nigerian women can achieve on the world stage. Photo News:

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