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OAGF Blames Network Glitch for June Salary Delay to Federal Workers

The Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF) has attributed the delay in the payment of June 2025 salaries for some federal civil servants to a technical network issue experienced during processing. In a statement issued on Friday, the OAGF confirmed that it is aware some federal employees particularly those with salary accounts at Zenith Bank Plc, have yet to receive their June salaries. According to the statement, an internal review uncovered that a “technical network glitch” disrupted the salary processing system, resulting in incomplete disbursement across several Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Read Also: Kano Strengthens Social Protection Policy with Stakeholder Engagement “We deeply regret the inconvenience this unfortunate incident has caused and wish to assure all affected employees that immediate steps have been taken to resolve the issue,” the OAGF said. The Office acknowledged the anxiety and hardship caused by the delay, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring federal workers are paid promptly. It further explained that collaboration is underway with relevant service providers and stakeholders to rectify the problem and reprocess failed payments without further delay. “We appeal to all affected staff of the Federal Public Service to remain calm and rest assured that no effort will be spared in ensuring everyone receives their rightful salaries,” the statement added. The Accountant-General noted that efforts are ongoing to isolate the issue and expedite all outstanding payments. “The welfare of Federal Government employees remains a top priority of the Office,” the statement continued. “The OAGF remains fully committed to transparency, accountability, and efficiency in all payroll operations and welcomes continued engagement with stakeholders to enhance service delivery.”

Abuja, Kano, National, News

Photos: Ganduje Inaugurated as Chairman of FAAN Board

The immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, has been formally inaugurated as Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). The inauguration, which took place in Abuja, was conducted by the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, and also included the induction of other board members. Related: Ganduje Bows Out with Legacy of Political Impact, Party Growth, and National Reach Those inaugurated alongside Dr. Ganduje include the Managing Director of FAAN, Ms. Olubunmi Kuku; Ms. Dorothy Duruaka; Ahmed Ibrahim Suleiman; Nasiru Muazu; Omozojie Okoboh; TP Vembe; and Bridget Gold. Dr. Ganduje was appointed to the position by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in January 2025 as part of efforts to strengthen governance and operational oversight at Nigeria’s airports. Read Also: Ganduje Lauded by Former Kano Cabinet for Party-Building Efforts During the event, Minister Keyamo reiterated the government’s commitment to transforming the aviation sector through strategic leadership and experienced professionals at the helm of key institutions like FAAN. Dr. Ganduje, known for his administrative experience and public sector leadership, is expected to bring his wealth of knowledge to bear in enhancing the efficiency, safety, and infrastructural development of the nation’s airports. The inauguration was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Aviation, industry stakeholders, and political associates of the former Kano State governor.

Kano, National, News

Kano Business Leaders Honour Zone One AIG, Pledge Support for Enhanced Security

In a move to strengthen community policing and deepen collaboration, a delegation from the Kano Business Council Conglomerate paid a courtesy visit to the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Zone One Headquarters, Kano, AIG Ahmed Garba. The delegation, made up of prominent business leaders across Kano, commended the AIG for his outstanding efforts in maintaining peace and security across Zone One, which comprises Kano and Jigawa States. Read Also: AIG Zone I Receives Gauta Club on Courtesy Visit, Warns Against Unguarded Utterances During the visit, the council presented an Award of Excellence to AIG Ahmed Garba in recognition of his leadership and commitment to protecting lives and property—an effort credited with creating a more stable and enabling environment for businesses to thrive. In his response, AIG Garba expressed gratitude for the recognition and described the award as not just a personal honour but a reflection of the tireless work and dedication of officers under his command. “I deeply appreciate this recognition,” said AIG Garba. “Security is a shared responsibility, and we consider the business community as vital partners in our mission. This award further encourages us to remain vigilant and committed.” The business community also honoured Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Kabiru Haruna Fage, head of the X-Squad, with an Award of Selfless Service. The recognition was for his exemplary professionalism and dedication to duty in combating crime and upholding police ethics. The visit, described by stakeholders as timely, marks a new phase of collaboration between the Nigeria Police and the private sector. Both sides agreed on the need for sustained partnership to address security challenges and promote economic development across the region. According to the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer (ZPPRO), CSP Bashir Muhammad (ANIPR), the engagement with the business council reflects the police’s ongoing efforts to deepen community relations and foster trust with key stakeholders. “This engagement highlights the importance of synergy between security agencies and the business sector. Our officers will continue to work round the clock to ensure that Kano and Jigawa remain safe for citizens and investors,” CSP Bashir stated. The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from both the police and the business community to enhance intelligence sharing, support community policing, and sustain efforts that contribute to regional peace and economic growth. Photo News:

Abuja, National, News

Ganduje Resurfaces in Public Role as Chairman of FAAN Board After APC Resignation

A former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has resumed public attention in his capacity as Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), just days after resigning as National Chairman of the All-Progressives Congress (APC). Ganduje, who was appointed to the FAAN position earlier this year, made an appearance during the formal inauguration of newly constituted FAAN board members in Abuja. Read Also: Ganduje Bows Out with Legacy of Political Impact, Party Growth, and National Reach His resignation from the leadership of the ruling party last week had stirred reactions across the country, with many viewing his reemergence in an official capacity as a signal of his continued relevance in national affairs. Ganduje had stepped down as APC Chairman citing urgent and personal matters. His role at FAAN is expected to keep him within the orbit of public service and federal infrastructure oversight.

Education, National, News

NECO Releases 2025 BECE Results, Announces Re-sit Exam for Maths and English

The National Examinations Council (NECO) has officially released the results of the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), marking a key academic milestone for students transitioning from Junior Secondary School (JSS3) to Senior Secondary School (SS1) across Nigeria. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Azeez Sani, confirmed the release and shared critical updates on the examination process. Read Also: Underage Admissions Banned as FG Fixes Entry Age at 16 A total of 179,201 candidates registered for the examination, which assessed students in 12 core subjects. The BECE was conducted nationwide from May 12 to May 23, 2025, with the council reporting a smooth and hitch-free exercise across all centers. Sani noted that the release of results followed the successful conclusion of the 2025 BECE Award Committee Meeting, held at NECO headquarters in Minna, Niger State. The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including school principals from various states and senior NECO officials. The Chairperson of the Award Committee and Director of Basic Education at the Federal Ministry of Education, Dr. Folake Olatunji-David, expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the examination and commended NECO for upholding integrity and transparency throughout the process. Meanwhile, NECO also announced that arrangements have been finalized for the re-sit examination for candidates who did not pass Mathematics or English Studies. “The re-sit examination is scheduled to hold on 23rd and 24th July, 2025, for Mathematics and English Studies,” the council stated. However, NECO did not provide a performance breakdown or general analysis of student outcomes in the released statement.

National, News

Most Kidnappers in Anambra Are Not Fulani Herdsmen – Soludo

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State says that nearly all suspected kidnappers and criminals arrested in the state over the past three years have been of Igbo origin.Speaking during a town hall meeting with Anambra indigenes in the diaspora, held at Metro Points Hotel in New Carrollton, Maryland, United States, the governor debunked the widely circulated belief that Fulani herders are responsible for the spate of violence and kidnapping in the South-East. Read Also: Fixing the Forgotten Crisis: Solutions to Nigeria’s Herders-Farmers Conflict “I have been in office for three years and three months. If we have arrested 100 criminals and kidnappers, 99.99% of them are Igbo youths,” Soludo stated. He described the previous assumptions as propaganda, adding that such misinformation had misled some Igbo youths into criminal activities, particularly kidnapping, which he said had become a “lucrative job” following the rise of internet fraud and drug trafficking. “Those behind these crimes are our own people. Igbos are the ones kidnapping Igbos. Most of the camps we’ve dismantled were operated by individuals from within the region,” he said. Soludo urged Anambra indigenes in the diaspora to return home, invest, and contribute their knowledge and resources to the development of the state. “Even people from other states now call it the ‘Anambra job’. They go to their villages, buy motorcycles, and come here to join the business. They get trained in the bush and operate kidnapping rings. But when they are caught, they blame the Fulani herdsmen,” he said. He admitted that he also once believed the false narrative that Fulani herders were the cause of insecurity in the state, saying: “I came in with that same belief that Fulani herdsmen were invading our land and that they were just waiting for the right signal to take over. So, we thought we were the liberators and chased them into the bush. “But no one asked how those claiming to be liberators survive in the forest for months. How are they feeding? How are they armed? “I want to be quoted clearly that 99.99% of all the criminals we have arrested in Anambra are Igbos. All the camps we’ve dismantled are operated by Igbos.” (The Cable)

National

Nigerians Urged to Check Linked Phone Numbers for Security and Identity Protection

In response to growing concerns over identity theft and unauthorized SIM linkages, mobile phone users across Nigeria are strongly advised to check which numbers are currently linked to their National Identification Number (NIN). This step is crucial in protecting your digital identity and preventing misuse by third parties. To carry out this important check, simply dial 996# on your phone. When the options appear: Read Also: FG, Kano State, Rebuild and Launch Kano Digital Park 1. Select Option 4 to view all phone numbers linked to your NIN. 2. Then, select Option 2 to display the actual numbers. After this, you will receive a text message listing all the phone numbers associated with your identity. This process is essential because in many reported cases, individuals have discovered unknown or unauthorized numbers linked to their NIN, a serious red flag that may indicate fraudulent activity, impersonation, or criminal abuse of their identity. “If you notice a number that isn’t yours, don’t ignore it,” said a security analyst. “Someone could be using your credentials to commit fraud or operate in your name without your consent.” If you find any suspicious or unrecognized number linked to your profile, you are strongly advised to immediately visit the nearest telecom service center or authorized outlet to report the issue. Doing so ensures that the number is investigated and delinked from your profile, safeguarding you from potential legal or financial consequences. This alert is part of ongoing national efforts to enforce SIM-NIN compliance, promote accountability, and protect every citizen’s digital footprint. Mobile users are also encouraged to assist their family members, especially the elderly and those less familiar with digital procedures, to complete this check.

Feature, National, Politics

Ganduje rebuilt APC from crisis to dominance

The resignation of the immediate past chairman of the All-Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje came to many Nigerians as a surprise, considering the heavy spadework he put to reposition and consolidate the party ahead of the 2027 election. The abruptness of the resignation sent some shock waves. This was coming at a time when the party was gathering momentum especially in some hard-to-reach areas like Southeast and South-South. Ganduje strengthened up the crookedness; increased the party’s acceptability; and assembled political powerhouses in each of the states of the federation to warrant the party’s victory in the 2027 elections. Arguably, no past leader of the APC was as innovative, visionary and result oriented as Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. His legacy as the APC chairman speaks loud and with greater clarity, Related: Ganduje Bows Out with Legacy of Political Impact, Party Growth, and National Reach A former governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje bravely accepted the mantle of leadership of the APC on August 3rd, 2023, when the political party was neck-deep in crisis. It was almost at the verge of ideological fracture, courtesy of some misguided handling of the party. The 2023 elections, which produced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had created several fissures and cracks within the party structure and at state levels. Many esteemed party members were going at the jugular of each other; in some states the party was being starved out of ego. As a seasoned bureaucrat and a political bulldozer, Ganduje rolled up his sleeves and began to work. He led a reconciliation committee and embarked on a tour to many states of the federation. He assiduously stitched almost all the political cleavages within the party. The result is the formidable APC we see today. Even Ganduje’s detractors in the presidency are secretly proud of Gnaduje’s gains as the APC national chairman. Ganduje’s scorecard… The stability the party experiences attracted high-profile defections; notably among them are two sitting governors of Delta and Akwa Ibom states, Sheriff Oborevwori and Umo Eno respectively. Satisfied with Ganduje leadership, the duo joined the party alongside their deputies and their entire cabinets. These defections, among others, strengthened the APC and weakened the opposition’s political grasp. To weigh how effective Ganduje’s leadership was, one has to cite the defection of Atiku’s running mate in the 2023 presidential election and a former governor of Delta state, Ifeanyi Okowa, who joined the party alongside his political structure. Read Also: Ganduje Lauded by Former Kano Cabinet for Party-Building Efforts Other prominent political figures who joined the party include Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, former Deputy Senate President; Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North) and Chiedu Ebie, Chairman of NDDC Governing Board. Kano In Kano, Ganduje nearly stripped the ruling NNPP naked. He brought Senator representing Kano South, Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila; a former Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, a serving federal lawmaker, Kabiru Alhassan Rurum (Rano/Bunkure/Kibiya), and a former Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Baffa Bichi; the members representing Rano/Bunkure/Kibiya and Karaye/Rogo Federal Constituencies, Kabiru Usman and Abdullahi Sani Rogo respectively and Zubairu Hamza Massu, former commissioners Diggol and Abbas Sani Abbas. Kebbi In May 2025, three PDP senators from Kebbi state: Senator Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central); Senator Yahaya Abdullahi (Kebbi North); and Senator Garba Maidoki (Kebbi South) defected to the APC and were received by Ganduje: As a political bellwether of repute, Ganduje led the APC to victory in the Edo and Kogi governorship elections. The party also recorded landslide victories in off-cycle elections in Imo, Kogi, Bayelsa, Edo, and Ondo States. The result is that the APC is ensuring electoral dominance and grassroots outreach across the six geopolitical zones of the federation. In Edo, the sacking of the opposition camp by Abdullahi Ganduje continues. In May 2025, Edo State legislators and executives including Blessing Agbebaku, Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly; Sunny Ifada (Esan Central); Yekini Idaiye (Akoko Edo I) as well as several other councillors and party leaders like former Deputy Speaker Roland Asoro, ex–Majority Leader Nosa Nosayaba, and former PDP State Secretary Gabriel Oloruntoba jumped to the APC from the PDP. It was under Ganduje political figures like Prof. Rufai Alkali, former NNPP National Chairman; Sen. Suleiman Hunkuyi, NNPP’s ex–National Organising Sec; Prof. Ben Angwe, ex–NNPP Legal Adviser; Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah (Anambra South) from YPP; and Sen. Uche Ekwunife joined the APC. The Progressive Institute (TPI)… It was under the leadership of Abdullahi Umar Gnaduje the party launched The Progressive Institute (TPI) TPI meant to serve as the official Policy Think Tank of the party to facilitate good governance and to initiate youths into political philosophy. In another regard, as Ganduje said the essence of the institute “is to enhance the policy capacity of the party, especially to enable it to provide policy advice and suggestions for the consideration of governments elected on its platform.” That was the first time a political party in Nigeria found it imperative to establish an institution aimed at addressing the issue of youth inclusion in politics. Ganduje’s resignation on June 27 calls for sober reflection. Of course, his style of leadership attracted a broad array of significant opposition figures across multiple states to the APC, consolidating the party ahead of the 2027 elections. Indeed, there was a seriously innovative and sincere party leader, who gave all he had for the APC to become the party it is today. History will remember Baba Ganduje as a political strategist who fertilized political fields in Nigeria for political democracy to thrive. Aminu Dahiru serves as the visual communication aide to Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON

Education, National, News

JAMB Sets 2025 Admission Cut-Off Mark at 150 for Universities

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially announced 150 as the minimum cut-off mark for admission into Nigerian universities for the 2025 academic session. The announcement was made on Tuesday during the 2025 Policy Meeting on Admissions, held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja. In addition to the university benchmark, JAMB also approved cut-off marks for other tertiary institutions. Colleges offering nursing programmes now have a minimum cut-off mark of 140, while polytechnics, colleges of agriculture, and colleges of education are set at 100. Read Also: Underage Admissions Banned as FG Fixes Entry Age at 16 “The minimum admissible scores for admissions for the next academic session have been fixed at 150 for universities, 100 for polytechnics, 100 for colleges of education, and 140 for colleges of nursing sciences by the stakeholders (Heads of Tertiary Institutions),” JAMB posted on its official X handle. Details later… (Platinum Post)

Education, National, News

Underage Admissions Banned as FG Fixes Entry Age at 16

The Federal Government has officially set the minimum entry age into Nigeria’s tertiary institutions at 16 years. Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced this on Tuesday while declaring open the ongoing Policy Meeting of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in Abuja. He emphasized that the new directive is non-negotiable. Dr. Alausa also warned that any admission conducted outside the Central Admission Processing System (CAPS) would be considered illegal, with perpetrators both individuals and institutions to face prosecution. Read Also: Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage Appointed Chancellor of Northwest University, Kano He noted that institutional heads found engaging in admission fraud would not be spared, as the Ministry is committed to enforcing strict compliance with all admission guidelines. The issue of age eligibility for tertiary education in Nigeria has been the subject of prolonged public debate, particularly regarding the readiness and suitability of students under 18 for university education. The Minister’s announcement is expected to put an end to the controversy and streamline the admission process nationwide.

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