News

Uyo hosts tourism summit on post-oil growth

Uyo hosts tourism summit on post-oil growth

May 13, 2026 Markup 0

Government officials, corporate leaders and academics will converge in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on May 14 for the Policy Evaluation and Advocacy Forum (PEAF) 2026, a major summit aimed at positioning tourism as Nigeria’s next economic growth engine beyond oil.

Organised by the Institute of Corporate Leadership and Mentorship (ICLM) in partnership with Appleton Private University and the International Federation of Private Universities, the forum will focus on the theme, “Beyond Oil: Redefining the Future of Nigeria’s Tourism Industry.”

Two legal practitioners in Akwa Ibom State have reportedly received death threats after filing a suit to compel all 31 local government councils to disclose how public funds are spent under the Freedom of Information Act, 2011. Akaninyene Archibong and Edidiong Ebong approached the Federal High Court in Uyo in Suit No. FHC/UY/CS/80/2026, seeking judicial review to enforce transparency and accountability in local government finances across the state.

Death threats rock Akwa Ibom transparency case

May 13, 2026 Markup 0

Two legal practitioners in Akwa Ibom State have reportedly received death threats after filing a suit to compel all 31 local government councils to disclose how public funds are spent under the Freedom of Information Act, 2011.

Akaninyene Archibong and Edidiong Ebong approached the Federal High Court in Uyo in Suit No. FHC/UY/CS/80/2026, seeking judicial review to enforce transparency and accountability in local government finances across the state.

A’Ibom community leaders demand EMOIMEE fund probe

A’Ibom community leaders demand EMOIMEE fund probe

May 11, 2026 Markup 0

Tension is mounting in Esit Eket Local Government Area as leaders of thought, traditional rulers, political leaders, women, youths, and community stakeholders convened at the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Esit Eket, His Royal Majesty Edidem Ubong Peter Assam II, in Akpautong Village.

They issued a stern seven-day ultimatum to representatives of Esit Eket in the Seplat/NNPC JV EMOIMEE Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) to account for the management of community funds, scholarships and empowerment programmes over the past four years.

Red Cross seeks stronger Akwa Ibom support

May 10, 2026 Markup 0

The Nigerian Red Cross Society, Akwa Ibom State Branch, has called for stronger government backing, sustainable funding and improved operational support to expand humanitarian services in the state.
Speaking at the 163rd World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day celebration on Saturday, 8 May 2026 in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State Chairman of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Hon. Sam Ikon, said the organisation remained committed to delivering life saving support to vulnerable communities under the global theme, “United in Humanity”.

Court halts INC inauguration amid leadership crisis

Court halts INC inauguration amid leadership crisis

May 7, 2026 Markup 0

A Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt has issued an interim injunction restraining the Conference of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (CITRE), the Ijaw National Congress (INC) President, and the Chairman of the Electoral Committee from inaugurating, swearing in, or presenting any individuals as officers of the INC.

The ruling follows the deepening leadership crisis within the INC after the controversial National Executive Council election held on 13 April, which CITRE, regarded as the apex judicial authority of the congress, declared null and void over alleged constitutional breaches.

Power outage halts Shell divestment hearing

Power outage halts Shell divestment hearing

May 6, 2026 Markup 0

A power outage at the Yenagoa Division of the Federal High Court on Wednesday stalled proceedings in a suit challenging Shell’s divestment from its onshore assets and seeking redress over decades of environmental pollution in Bayelsa State.

When the matter came up for hearing, the presiding judge, Justice Ayo Emmanuel, informed parties present that proceedings could not continue because the courtroom was too hot.

Senate pressures FG over South Africa, Ghana

Senate pressures FG over South Africa, Ghana

May 6, 2026 Markup 0

The Senate has raised serious concerns over what it described as the “intensifying and intolerable persecution” of Nigerians in South Africa and Ghana, warning that continued attacks could strain diplomatic relations and threaten African unity.

This followed a motion of urgent national importance sponsored by Senator Aniekan Bassey, representing Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District, who presented a disturbing account of widespread violence, harassment and systematic targeting of Nigerians residing in both countries.

Oshiomhole demands MTN, DStv licence revocation over xenophobic attacks

Oshiomhole demands MTN, DStv licence revocation over xenophobic attacks

May 5, 2026 Markup 1

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who represents Edo North Senatorial District, has called on the Federal Government to revoke the operating licences of South African-owned companies in Nigeria, including MTN and DStv, following renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.

Oshiomhole made the call on Tuesday during plenary as lawmakers in the National Assembly debated the safety of Nigerians abroad and the country’s response to the recurring attacks.

Lagos introduces street parking charges

Lagos introduces street parking charges

May 5, 2026 Markup 0

The Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA) has announced plans to introduce its On-Street Parking Scheme in selected local government areas, including Ikeja, before the end of 2026.

The disclosure was made on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by LASPA’s General Manager, Mrs Adebisi Adelabu, to the Chairman of Ikeja Local Government Area, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda, according to a statement issued by the agency’s Head of Public Affairs, Dunkwu Divine.

May Day: FOSAD demands better pay, lower living costs

May Day: FOSAD demands better pay, lower living costs

May 1, 2026 Markup 0

The Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD) has called for the urgent prioritisation of workers’ welfare in Nigeria, warning that rising living costs, poor wages and worsening economic conditions are pushing workers deeper into hardship.

In a statement marking this year’s International Workers’ Day, FOSAD joined millions of Nigerians and the global community in celebrating workers’ contributions to national development, while expressing grave concern over the deteriorating conditions facing workers across all sectors.

May Day: Eno hails workers, clears N82bn gratuity debt

May Day: Eno hails workers, clears N82bn gratuity debt

May 1, 2026 Markup 0

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has praised workers across the state for their dedication and contributions to the successful implementation of his administration’s ARISE Agenda.

Speaking during the May Day celebration, Eno, who was represented by his deputy, Senator (Dr.) Akon Eyakenyi said the achievements recorded by his government were made possible through the commitment, resilience and cooperation of the state’s workforce.

Timi urges performance-based vote in 2027

Timi urges performance-based vote in 2027

April 30, 2026 Markup 0

Dr Tonye Timi, Executive Director of Corporate Services at the South/South Development Commission, has urged stakeholders in the Bomadi/Patani Federal Constituency to set aside personal loyalty and prioritise performance, accountability and inclusiveness when electing representatives in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking in an interview on Thursday, Timi said representation in a democracy is not merely a political privilege but a serious responsibility that must be measured by legislative effectiveness, responsiveness and tangible development.

NCC deploys technology to fight digital piracy

NCC deploys technology to fight digital piracy

April 29, 2026 Markup 0

Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) says it is deploying digital technology to strengthen its campaign against piracy and protect intellectual property rights in Nigeria.

The Director-General of the commission, John Asien, disclosed this in Uyo on Tuesday during an event marking the 2026 World Intellectual Property Day.

Senate pressure pays off as Police, EFCC rescue 14 kidnap victims

Senate pressure pays off as Police, EFCC rescue 14 kidnap victims

April 28, 2026 Markup 1

Senator Ekong Sampson’s call on the floor of the Senate for the immediate and safe release of abducted passengers on the Calabar–Oron waterways has recorded a breakthrough, following the successful rescue of all 14 victims.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command, in a coordinated joint operation with operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), secured the release of the 14 passengers kidnapped by sea pirates along the Calabar–Oron waterways.

CCD founder, Anyaele impels inclusivity amidst escalating disability figures

CCD founder, Anyaele impels inclusivity amidst escalating disability figures

April 27, 2026 Markup 0

The Executive Director and Founder of the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities, Mr David Anyaele, has cautioned Nigerians against prejudice toward individuals with disabilities, underscoring that anyone can acquire a disability at any moment.

Anyaele observed that disabilities can stem from mishaps, violent assaults, structural collapses, conflagrations, and other unforeseen occurrences. He exhorted the public to embrace integration and treat individuals with disabilities with respect and dignity, accentuating that no one is immune to life-altering events.

Inspector-General of Police, Mr Olatunji Disu

Panel proposes four-phase transition to state police

April 24, 2026 Markup 0

The Steering Committee on the Establishment of State Police has recommended a four-phase transition framework for the creation and rollout of state policing across Nigeria.

The proposal is contained in the committee’s report, sighted on Friday, which outlines a structured 60-month roadmap for implementation.

Bayelsa auto technicians embrace digital diagnostics drive

Bayelsa auto technicians embrace digital diagnostics drive

April 24, 2026 Markup 0

The newly elected Chairman of the Nigeria Automobile Technicians Association (NATA) in Bayelsa State, Mr Peter Omavie, has pledged to deploy digital diagnostic tools to enhance efficiency and modernise the sector.

Speaking to journalists in Yenagoa after the association’s election, Omavie unveiled a three-point agenda centred on technology, collaboration and welfare, aimed at repositioning automobile technicians for the evolving digital economy.

NGO demands end to criminalising street children

NGO demands end to criminalising street children

April 23, 2026 Markup 0

A non-governmental organisation, Street Mentors Network (SMN), has urged the Akwa Ibom State Government to strengthen child protection laws and end the criminalisation of street-connected children.

The Executive Director of SMN, Anita Michael, made the call in Uyo during a press briefing and stakeholders’ engagement to mark the 2026 International Day of Street Children, themed “Protect, Don’t Punish.”

Earth Day: HOMEF demands clean energy shift

Earth Day: HOMEF demands clean energy shift

April 22, 2026 Markup 0

The Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) has called for accelerated action on clean energy, environmental restoration and stronger protection of ecosystems.

The ecology-focused non-governmental organisation made the call in a statement on Wednesday to mark the 2026 World Earth Day. The statement was signed by Miss Kome Odhomor, Communications/Media Lead at HOMEF.

Tinubu sacks Edun, Dangiwa in cabinet reshuffle

Tinubu sacks Edun, Dangiwa in cabinet reshuffle

April 21, 2026 Markup 0

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a minor reshuffle of the Federal Executive Council, removing the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa.

A statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Yomi Odunuga, said the decision was conveyed in a memo signed by the SGF, George Akume.

NUJ slams NBC directive as threat to press freedom

NUJ slams NBC directive as threat to press freedom

April 20, 2026 Markup 0

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed grave concern and deep disappointment over the “formal notice” issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) on April 17, 2026.

The union described the directive—warning broadcasters to ensure “strict and uncompromised compliance” in the face of alleged breaches of professionalism—as a veiled attempt to stifle the media and institutionalise censorship.

Ijaw scholar urges governance overhaul, backs plural leadership

Ijaw scholar urges governance overhaul, backs plural leadership

April 18, 2026 Markup 0

A US-based Ijaw scholar has called for a strategic rethink of governance structures across the Ijaw nation, warning that over-reliance on a single institutional authority could undermine accountability and long-term development.

In a candid reflection on recent developments, Prof. Mondy Selle Gold urged the leadership of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) to embrace what he described as “institutional plurality”, the coexistence of multiple credible organisations to strengthen governance, representation and transparency within the Ijaw socio-political space.

Group urges increased funding for South-South Commission

Group urges increased funding for South-South Commission

April 17, 2026 Markup 0

The South-South Reawakening Group (SSRG) has called for increased funding for the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), alongside the immediate release of funds earmarked for its take-off.

Joseph Ambakederimo, convener of the SSRG, appealed while speaking to journalists on Friday in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.

Ijaw rulers declare INC election invalid

Ijaw rulers declare INC election invalid

April 17, 2026 Markup 0

The Conference of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (CITRE) has declared that no valid election of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) was conducted on 13 April, insisting that any exercise held on that date is null and void.

Chairman of CITRE, His Royal Majesty King Bubaraye Dakolo, made this known during a press briefing on Friday, stating that the purported election contravened established procedures.

Police chief urges applicants to meet recruitment deadline

Police chief urges applicants to meet recruitment deadline

April 16, 2026 Markup 0

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Tijani Fatai, on Thursday, visited the 2025 Police Constable Recruitment Screening Centre at the Police College, Ikeja, to assess the ongoing exercise and ensure compliance with established guidelines.

The screening, which began on Monday, 9 March 2026, is being conducted at the Police College in accordance with the approved procedures.

During the visit, the commissioner met with representatives of the Police Service Commission (PSC), the Federal Character Commission (FCC), and the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Lagos State Command, who are overseeing the process to ensure transparency, fairness and credibility.

Kalu takes helm as FRSC commander in A’Ibom

Kalu takes helm as FRSC commander in A’Ibom

April 16, 2026 Markup 0

The Command’s Public Enlightenment and Public Relations Officer, Mr Paul James, disclosed this in a statement issued in Uyo on Thursday.

He said Kalu succeeds Mr Francis Ajatta, who has been redeployed to the Rivers State Command. According to James, her appointment is aimed at enhancing performance and efficiency in road traffic management and safety across the state and the country.

Police chief visits appeal justice, inspects new station project

Police chief visits appeal justice, inspects new station project

April 14, 2026 Markup 0

The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, Baba Mohammed Azare, has paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Justice Ntong Ntong of the Court of Appeal at his residence.

The visit was aimed at strengthening institutional collaboration, fostering mutual understanding, and exploring strategies to further enhance the relationship between the Nigeria Police Force and the judiciary. The engagement highlighted the importance of synergy between both institutions in the effective administration of justice and the maintenance of law and order across the state.

INC clears way for Yenagoa elections on 13 April

INC clears way for Yenagoa elections on 13 April

April 13, 2026 Markup 0

BoT Chairman, Alabo Dumo Lulu-Briggs, disclosed this while briefing journalists after more than four hours of the board’s inaugural meeting held on Sunday in Yenagoa.

Lulu-Briggs, who also heads the Oruwari Briggs War Canoe House in Abonnema, Rivers State, said following consultations with the National Electoral Committee, there was no turning back on the polls. He added that voting could be conducted either physically or electronically.

Ijaw elders defend INC poll suspension, cite constitution

Ijaw elders defend INC poll suspension, cite constitution

April 11, 2026 Markup 0

The Council of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (CITRE) has defended its decision to suspend elections into executive positions of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), insisting the move is in line with the organisation’s constitution.

In a statement issued on Saturday and titled, “On Constitutional Process and the INC Electoral Timeline,” the Chairman of CITRE, HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo Agada IV, said the suspension was necessary to uphold due process.