The family of reality TV star Ijeoma "Phyna" Otabor is in mourning following the death of her sister, Ruth Otabor, who passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025. The news was confirmed in a statement released by the family's solicitors, Eko Solicitors & Advocates, and shared by Phyna on her social media channels.
The Federal Government has unveiled a comprehensive, future-focused curriculum for basic, senior secondary and technical education in Nigeria.
The announcement was made through the Ministry of Education after the successful completion of a nationwide curriculum review aimed at reducing content overload and ensuring quality, practical learning for Nigerian students.
Speaking on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa (CON), the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Said Ahmad, explained that the curriculum review was carried out in collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), National Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSEC), National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and relevant departments of the Ministry.
Professor Ahmad noted that the review was not only about reducing the number of subjects but also about enriching content to promote deeper learning. Under the revised structure, pupils in Primary 1–3 will now offer a minimum of 9 and a maximum of 10 subjects, while those in Primary 4–6 will take between 10 and 12 subjects. Junior Secondary School students will take 12 to 14 subjects, while Senior Secondary School students will offer 8 to 9 subjects. Technical schools will now operate within the range of 9 to 11 subjects.
She stressed that the reforms were designed to give students more time to focus on understanding core concepts while ensuring the curriculum remains relevant and adaptable to the demands of today’s fast-changing world.
The Federal Ministry of Education commended all stakeholders for their commitment and collaboration throughout the review process. The Ministry assured Nigerians that the new curriculum will be implemented with strict monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to guarantee effective adoption and a smooth transition across schools nationwide.
With this step, the Federal Government has taken a significant stride towards equipping Nigerian learners with knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a competitive, technology-driven global environment.
Read Press Statement
PRESS RELEASE
FG UNVEILS FUTURE-READY CURRICULUM FOR BASIC, SENIOR SECONDARY AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION
The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Education, has announced the successful completion of the comprehensive review of curricula across all levels of basic, senior secondary, and technical education in Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of Honourable Minister of Education Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa CON on the development, the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Said Ahmad, said the review was carried out in collaboration with all key stakeholders, including the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), National Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSEC), National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and relevant departments within the Ministry.
According to her, the review process was not only about streamlining subjects but also about improving content to allow for deeper learning. At the primary school level, pupils in Primary 1— 3 can offer a minimum of 9 and a maximum of 10 subjects, while those in Primary 4—6 can offer 10 to 12 subjects. For Junior Secondary School, students can offer 12 to 14 subjects. At the Senior Secondary level, the range is 8 to 9 subjects, while technical schools can offer 9 to 11 subjects.
Professor Ahmad emphasised that the revised curricula will reduce content overload and create more learning time for students. She noted that this step reflects the government's commitment to delivering quality education that is relevant, practical, and responsive to the needs of learners in today's rapidly changing world.
The Federal Ministry of Education commends all stakeholders for their commitment and teamwork in the review process, which has produced a stronger, future-focused curriculum for Nigerian learners. The Ministry also assures the public that the revised curricula will be implemented with strict monitoring to guarantee effective adoption and a smooth transition in schools nationwide.
Boriowo Folasade
Director, Press and Public Relations
Yesterday I had the honour of receiving the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr Oliver Abah, alongside a distinguished delegation of Archbishops and Bishops.
The Methodist Church of Nigeria is set to establish a University in Umuimenyi, Bende LGA. This is a monumental step for Abia State, and I assured the delegation of our full support for this transformative initiative.
Education remains a cornerstone of our administration. Since taking office, we have consistently allocated 20 per cent of our budget to education, and we are investing heavily in revitalising Abia State University (ABSU), and other institutions across the State.
To support the Methodist University project, we have already commenced construction of a road along the axis of the proposed site. We are also working to resolve land-related concerns to ensure nothing stands in the way of progress.
The Methodist Church has a rich legacy in education and healthcare, and we embrace this collaboration as a defining moment in our shared pursuit of academic excellence.
When constructing a house, many people focus only on the foundation and forget the importance of the plinth beam. But in reality, the plinth beam is the silent protector of your building.
What is a Plinth Beam?
A plinth beam is a reinforced concrete (RCC) beam constructed at the plinth level (just above the ground level and foundation) to connect all the columns or walls together.
Functions of a Plinth Beam
Load Distribution – It spreads the weight of walls evenly on the foundation, preventing excessive stress at one point.
Crack Prevention – Settlement of soil or uneven loads often causes cracks in walls. The plinth beam reduces this risk.
Earthquake Resistance – In earthquake-prone areas, the plinth beam ties the structure horizontally, giving it more stability.
Dampness Protection – It creates a strong RCC barrier that resists water rising from the ground into the walls.
Strong Base for Masonry – The plinth beam provides a stable and level surface for laying blocks or bricks.
Durability – It increases the lifespan of your building by reducing structural weaknesses.
Why You Should Not Skip It
Some builders or owners think they can save money by avoiding plinth beams. The truth is, skipping it may lead to uneven settlement, cracked walls, dampness, or even structural failure in the long run.
Remember: The plinth beam is not just concrete, it’s insurance for your building’s strength and stability.
CONTRACTOR VS CONSULTANT
In the construction and project management industries, two distinct roles often get confused: contractors and consultants. While both play crucial roles, their responsibilities, expertise, and objectives differ significantly.
Understanding these differences is essential for effective project planning, execution, and management.
Let's dive deeper into the roles and responsibilities of contractors and consultants accordingly.
CONTRACTOR
A contractor is an individual or organization that agrees to perform specific work or provide services for a client in exchange for payment.
A contractor's responsibilities during construction typically include the following :
RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Executing the project : Carrying out the construction work according to plans, specifications and contractual agreement.
2. Managing labor and resources : Overseeing the workforce, materials, labour and equipment.
3. Managing site safety : Ensuring a safe working environment for workers and others on construction site.
4. Managing labor and resources.: Overseeing the workforce, materials, and equipment needed for the project.
5. Meeting project deadlines : Managing costs and ensuring the project is completed on time and within the agreed- budget.
6. Communication : Communicating with client and consultant informed about project progress and any issues that arise.
CONSULTANT
A consultant on the other hand is an expert who provides professional advice, guidance, and services to clients in a specific field or industry. Consultants are typically responsible for the following functions;
RESPONSIBILITIES
A consultant's responsibilities during construction can typically be grouped under three headings :-
* Construction monitoring.
* Communication and Coordination.
* Project completion.
(A.) Construction Monitoring
1. Site visits : Regularly visiting the construction site to monitor progress and identify potential issues.
2. Quality control : Ensuring the construction work meets the required standards and specifications.
3. Compliance monitoring : Verifying compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
(B.) Communication and Coordination
1. Client communication : Keeping the client informed about project progress and any issues that arise.
2. Coordination with contractors : Working with contractors to ensure the project is executed according to plan.
3. Resolving issues : Identifying and resolving technical issues or disputes that may arise during construction.
(C.) Project Completion
1. Final inspections : Conducting final inspections to ensure the project meets the required standards.
2. Certification and approval : Providing certification or approval of the completed work.
3. Documentation : Maintaining records and documentation of the construction process
KEY DIFFERENCES
In summary, the key difference between the contractor and consultant are as fallows :
- Contractor : A contractor is responsible for executing specific tasks or projects, such as construction, renovation, or installation. They oversee the physical work, manage labor and materials, and ensure timely completion.
- Consultant : A consultant provides expert advice, guidance, and recommendations to clients on specific projects or issues. They assess, analyze, and solve problems, often specializing in areas like design, engineering, or project management.
PRESS RELEASE
FG REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO END 16-YEAR STALEMATE AND KEEP UNIVERSITIES OPEN
The Federal Government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to resolving the long-standing issues with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in a sustainable, realistic, and constitutionally backed manner.
Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa CON emphasised that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with relevant agencies, to deliver a lasting solution that will prevent future disruptions to the academic calendar. He stressed that the administration will not endorse “unsustainable agreements” but is determined to pursue accords that are practical, affordable, implementable, and constitutionally sound.
“Mr. President has mandated myself and the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, to work with all stakeholders to resolve this issue once and for all. Nigerians can be assured that this process is being handled with the highest level of diligence, accountability, and honesty of purpose,” Dr. Alausa stated.
The Minister assured Nigerians that recent ASUU protests would not escalate into strike action, as the government has been engaging the union continuously and constructively. He noted that progress has already been made on key demands, including the payment and mainstreaming of earned academic allowances, while clarifying that the outstanding 25/35 percent wage arrears will be paid when the Federal Government begins payment to other public servants.
The meeting held in the Ministry today was attended by the Minister of Labour and Productivity, the Solicitor-General of the Federation, Permanent Secretaries from the Ministries of Education, Labour and Justice, as well as the Executive Secretary of the NUC, the Executive Secretary of TETFund, the Budget Office, and the Chairman of the Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission. The meeting reviewed ASUU’s proposals line by line.
A technical committee chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Mr. Abel Enitan, has been inaugurated to produce a clean counter-draft that will be presented to the Yayale Ahmed-led Committee for further negotiations with ASUU. Unlike in the past, the Ministry of Justice will be fully involved in the process to ensure that the final agreement aligns with constitutional provisions.
Dr. Alausa expressed optimism that with mutual respect and continuous dialogue, the government will deliver a resolution that will end the recurring cycle of disputes and strikes
“This government does not want strikes. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu strongly believes that young people are the heartbeat of this nation, and he is determined to keep our children in school. We are committed to this task with sincerity, transparency, and respect for all parties,” the Minister affirmed.
The Federal Government urged Nigerians to remain patient and supportive as it works to conclusively close this chapter of recurring disputes with a sustainable agreement that will stand the test of time.
Boriowo Folasade
Director, Press and Public Relations
28 August 2025
A Lagos-based legal practitioner, Festus Ogun, has taken Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to court over what he described as a violation of his constitutional right to freedom of expression.
He revealed that the governor had blocked him on Twitter (now X) for about three years, a move he considers an infringement on his civic rights as a Lagos resident. In August 2025, he filed a lawsuit at the Federal High Court, seeking legal remedies.
In his suit, Festus Ogun is asking the court to compel Sanwo-Olu to unblock him and issue a public apology. He explained that while the matter had caused him stress and emotional trauma, he deliberately chose not to demand monetary compensation to avoid being seen as a “gold digger.” According to him, his only request is simple: “Just unblock me.”
Source - https://x.com/mrfestusogun/status/1961453802533360064
NLNG MD Warns of 'Attack' on Oil and Gas Sector, Calls for Unity
Port Harcourt, Rivers State — Dr. Philip Ojulari, the managing director of the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited, has issued a stark warning to the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), stating that the nation’s oil and gas sector is "under attack" and requires a united front to survive. He made the remarks during PENGASSAN's 7th Triennial Delegates' Conference in Port Harcourt.
The Threat Landscape
According to Dr. Ojulari, the industry faces an array of significant threats. He highlighted the global push for energy transition, which is driving a shift away from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy sources. This transition, he noted, poses a long-term challenge to Nigeria's oil-dependent economy.
Furthermore, he pointed to a lack of investment in key infrastructure, persistent security issues in the Niger Delta region, and the rise of other African countries as major oil and gas producers. He emphasized that these challenges are internal and external, creating a complex and volatile environment for operators.
A Call for Collaboration
Dr. Ojulari urged PENGASSAN members to recognize the severity of these threats and work collaboratively with industry leaders and the government. He emphasized that the survival of the industry, and by extension the national economy, depends on the ability of all stakeholders to adapt, innovate, and address these challenges collectively.
"We must find a way to collaborate because the survival of our industry is our collective responsibility," he stated. "We are all under attack from a number of sides, and we must find a way to come together to defend it."
PENGASSAN's Response
In his address, the President of PENGASSAN, Comrade Festus Osifo, acknowledged Dr. Ojulari’s concerns. He reaffirmed the union's commitment to protecting the interests of its members and the broader industry. He said the union is ready to partner with key stakeholders to tackle the challenges, but also called on the government to address lingering issues such as the nation's refineries' lack of operational capacity.
Read Full Press Statement:
We Are Under Attack, Ojulari Tells PENGASSAN
…As Oil Workers Thumb Up On-going Reforms at NNPC Ltd
Group CEO of NNPC Ltd., Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has revealed that the Company is under attack from people who don't mean well for Nigeria and who are against the ongoing transformation efforts in the Company.
Ojulari disclosed this while playing host to a delegation from the national body of the Petroleum & Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) at the NNPC Towers in Abuja on Thursday.
He said because change always comes with a price, the NNPC Management will not succumb to such attacks. Instead, it will work for the larger interest of Nigerians.
“We are under attack. We will not budge to short-term pressure, as it will not be in the best interest of Nigerians. You cannot drive change without a price, and the transformation is tough,” Ojulari explained.
The GCEO emphasised that patience will be required from the Nigerian people at large to get to the other side of change, which will benefit Nigeria and her citizens.
He reiterated his commitment to stay focused in driving the mandate given to the team by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
While thanking the leadership of the Union for its support, Ojulari assured them to stay calm and build resilience to stay focused during these trials.
“I am overwhelmed with the support from the union executives present here. The enemies of this company and Nigerians will not win,” he added.
He said since coming on board about five months ago, his Management Team prioritised reviving the nation's refineries in order to put them back into more sustainable and profitable venture by considering the Incorporated Joint Venture (IJV) model.
"Mr. President doesn’t pressure me to do the wrong thing. That is why we are looking at the baseline to ensure whatever we are doing, the refineries work sustainably going forward. We don’t want to pretend and just do some quick fix because there is pressure on us,” Ojulari added.
Earlier in his address, the President of PENGASSAN, Comrade Festus Osifo, said the oil workers union came to thank the NNPC Management for its partnership during the recently held 2025 PENGASSAN Energy & Labour Summit (PEALS) in Abuja.
The Union also acknowledged the “remarkable milestones” recorded so far under the GCEO’s watch.
“Our pipelines are now working. Also, crude oil theft has significantly reduced, leading to increased production. As PENGASSAN, we assure you that we are solidly behind you. We will work with you and collaborate with your team to ensure the stability of the system for the benefit of all Nigerians,” he concluded.
Signed
NNPC Ltd
Abuja
28th August 2025
ANAMBRA STATE GOVERNMENT PASSES IGBO APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM (IGBA-BOI) INTO LAW.
The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed the Igbo Apprenticeship Bill, also known as the (Igba Boi) Bill, officially recognizing and regulating the traditional Igbo business mentorship system. The law, which takes effect on September 10, 2025, aims to strengthen entrepreneurship, create jobs, and drive economic growth in the state.
Sponsored by Sir Ejike Okechukwu, the bill provides a legal framework that protects apprentices, sets minimum training standards, and outlines the rights and responsibilities of both mentors and trainees to ensure fairness and accountability. It requires apprentices to have a basic education before enrollment and limits the training period to a maximum of seven years.
The legislation also establishes the Anambra State Igbo Apprenticeship Commission, a body tasked with registering apprentices, supervising training, and resolving disputes.
This move is expected to modernize the Igba Boi system while preserving its cultural value and economic importance.
The Government of Anambra State has officially enacted the Igbo Apprenticeship System (Igba Boi) Law, with implementation set to begin on September 10, 2025.
Key Provisions:
Minimum Education Requirement: All apprentices must complete Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3) before qualifying.
Apprenticeship Duration: The approved training period is seven (7) years.
Government Oversight: A State Commission will be established to regulate, monitor, and enforce compliance with the scheme.
Why This Matters:
– Protects apprentices’ rights and welfare
– Standardizes mentorship and settlement processes
– Preserves and modernizes Igbo entrepreneurial heritage
– Empowers Anambra youth with both education and practical business skills
This historic legislation secures the future of the world’s most successful business incubation model by giving it the force of law.
Anambra State has become the first Igbo state to officially enact the Igbo Apprenticeship into law.
ABIA AT 34: A CONTINUING JOURNEY IN FAITH AND DISCOVERY
Being the Text of an Address by Governor Alex C. Otti OFR, on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, to Mark the 34th Anniversary of the Creation of Abia State
1. Umunne m Ndi Abia, I bring you warm and joyful greetings from Umuahia, our beloved State capital, on the auspicious occasion of the 34th anniversary of the creation of our great State, Abia. I want to congratulate all of us for how far we have come as a people, united by a common heritage and connected to a shared destiny of infinite possibilities. Our primary gratitude is to the Almighty God who has continued to preserve, protect and provide for us as individuals and a collective.
Abia is a creation of God and the events of the last few years have further justified the wisdom of our fathers who wholly dedicated this State to the one Sovereign God from the very beginning, announcing it to the ends of the earth that we are Ndi Abia, God’s own people, living in God’s own State.
It is therefore fitting that we spare a moment on this great day of our anniversary to thank the founding fathers of this great State for their foresight and courage in working diligently to carve out a distinct land that would be defined by the resilience of the population, the entrepreneurial spirit of the people and the positive disposition of its men and women to the tough realities of life.
2. Abia is a unique place. Beyond its vast array of human talents, this State is also blessed with an industrial supply of rich mineral resources. Our environmental, social and cultural realities support multiple economic ventures including agriculture, trade, manufacturing, tourism and artistic enterprises.
I am quite proud of what we have achieved over the past 34 years even amidst the difficult challenges we face. The significant number of first-class professionals with Abia roots and origin in different frontiers of human enterprises across the world offers an immense source of pride on a day like this.
It also points us to the greatness that each of us carries. Beyond the exploits of our parents, brothers and sisters, children and grandchildren across the world, we have also given an excellent account of ourselves here at home, overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds to give this land its core identity as the home of the brave and resilient.
3. This land called Abia, since the beginning of time, and in the 34 years it has existed as a distinct political entity, has achieved a certain distinction as a place that gives life to the dreams of its inhabitants if they consistently work hard.
Our greatest treasure is in the mind and intellect of our people; it is in our creative spirit and willpower — the attitude to confront whatever life throws at us with equanimity of heart and the quiet confidence that breaks the hardest rocks. We are also blessed in the places where we trade, whether in Aba, Umuahia, Ohafia or any of the traditional or evening markets you find across our communities.
Our farmlands are a source of immense wealth to us, supplying the food we need for our sustenance and income for millions of families in urban and rural communities. Our schools form the foundations of our intellectual accomplishments and imbue us with the confidence to take on the world — walking with our heads held high, wherever we go. We are a proud people who glory, not in the vain things of life, but in the appetite to advance the borders of material success for each succeeding generation.
In a decisive move to curb rising fraud in Nigeria's digital payments space, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has ordered that all Point-of-Sale (PoS) terminals across the country be geo-tagged within 60 days.
According to a circular dated August 25, 2025, issued by Dr. Rakiya O. Yusuf, Director of Payments System Supervision, the directive applies to both existing and new PoS terminals deployed by licensed operators — including banks, fintech firms like Moniepoint, OPay, and PalmPay, as well as Payment Terminal Service Providers (PTSPs) and Payment Solution Service Providers (PSSPs).
Key Highlights of the Directive
Geo-tagging requirement: Every PoS terminal must capture and transmit its precise location using double-frequency GPS before each transaction. Devices operating beyond a 10-meter radius of their registered merchant address will be automatically flagged.
Deactivation of non-compliant devices: Terminals not geo-tagged by the October 20, 2025 cut-off will be deactivated, effectively stopping them from processing payments.
Technical standards: All PoS terminals must be registered with a Payment Terminal Service Aggregator (PTSA) and run Android OS version 10 or higher to be compatible with the National Central Switch’s geolocation and geofencing SDK.
ISO 20022 compliance: The migration to the ISO 20022 messaging standard is mandatory by October 31, 2025, ensuring all transaction messages domestically and internationally adhere to global best practices.
Why This Matters
The rapid expansion of PoS terminals has been instrumental in driving financial inclusion, especially amid diminishing ATM access and bank branches. However, it has also created security vulnerabilities. Reports have shown cloned or "ghost" terminals being used in scams, including kidnapping-related ransom transfers via PoS networks.
By geo-tagging every terminal, the CBN aims to:
i. Guard against fraud and unauthorized usage.
ii. Facilitate real-time monitoring and transaction traceability.
iii. Align payment infrastructure with international standards for enhanced consumer protection and regulatory oversight.
Financial analyst Osas Igho commented: “This move will boost security and improve the cashless policy of the Nigerian government.”
NUC Declares War on 'Honorary Degree Mills,' Bans Fake 'Doctors' Abuja, November 21, 2025 – The National Universities Com...
