Author: GANUX

 

The Nigeria Union of Pensioners, South-West Zone on Thursday lamented the failure of the government to implement the N32,000 pension increase across board for the pensioners as directed by President Bola Tinubu last year September.

 

President Tinubu was said to have given the directive at the commencement of payment of 70,000 new minimum wage to also ensure that the pensioners were not excluded.

 

The Public Relations Officer of the union, Dr Olusegun Abatan raised this concern while addressing the press during the zonal meeting of the pensioners held in Abeokuta on Thursday.

 

Abatan said that among the six South-West states, only Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has implemented a part of this pension increase, paying N17,500.

 

He explained that Makinde has also implemented the 33 per cent pension increase of 2020, the 20 per cent pension increase of January 2024, and raised the minimum paid for pensioners in the state to N25000.

 

Abatan said the Oyo government has equally completed plans to be paying N2bn every month for payment of pensions and gratuities adding that this kind gesture has brought lots of reliefs for the pensioners in the state.

 

The pensioners spokesman has therefore called on other state governments to follow the good example of Gov Makinde and prioritise making life more rewarding for the pensioners in their old age.

 

He disclosed that “The are two circulars from the office of income and wages in 2024, the first one being a 20 per cent pension increase from January 2024, which has not been done by virtually all the state governments except Oyo State.

In September 2024, the Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu, also gave a directive for the pensioners to have N32,000 added across board to their pensions based on the new minimum wage of N70,000.

 

“I,however regret to tell you that many of our States in the Southwestern have not done this. At the same time we want to thank the Governor of Oyo State for raising the minimum wage for pensioners to 25,000 and for factoring other pension increases such as the 33%, consequential adjustments of 2019, 20% of January 2024 pension increase, though he did not pay N32,000 as directed by Mr President but he gave us N17500.

 

“The pensioners in Oyo State have had a serious leap from their pensions that I make bold to say that the Oyo State pensioners are the highest paid in the federation aside from the federal pensioners. We thank him for this.

 

“Regrettably, the Federal government that said the N32,000 should be given to the pensioners across board has also not implemented fully this directive, so we are appealing to the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate to please get this implemented for the retired workers”.

 

Abatan also begged for the Federal Government’s intervention over the inability of pensioners banking with the failed Heritage Bank to access their funds for the past one and a half year.

 

The pensioners’ leader said that this unfortunate incident has brought lots of anguish and agony to the affected members of their association.

Abatan also praised the Southwestern government for its support for the pensioners and urged them to please attend to their other demands to make their retirement enjoyable and worthwhile.

 

ensioners Lament Non-Implementation of Tinubu’s N32,000 Pension Increase

The Bauchi State Ministry of Education has announced the resumption date for schools following a five-week break for Ramadan.

 

In a statement issued on Thursday by the ministry’s Information and Public Relations Officer, Jalaludeen Usman, parents and guardians were reminded that both day and boarding schools will resume on Sunday, April 6 for the continuation of the second term.

 

The statement read, “The Honourable Commissioner for Education, Dr Lawal Mohammed Rimin Zayam, wishes to remind parents and guardians that the resumption date for the continuation of the second term is Sunday, 6th April, for both day and boarding schools in Bauchi State.

 

“As education remains a top priority for the Bauchi State Government under the leadership of Governor of Bauchi State Bala Mohammed, the Ministry of Education is committed to ensuring the success of all students.

 

“To this end, the ministry will soon commence JAMB CBT training for all sponsored JAMB students, empowering them to excel in all examinations sponsored by the Bauchi State Government.”

The ministry also warned that late resumption will not be tolerated.

 

“Parents and guardians are advised to ensure their wards resume on the stipulated date to avoid any disruptions to their academic progress,” the statement added.

 

Schools were initially closed on March 1, 2025, for the Ramadan break, as stated in the 2024–2025 academic calendar.

 

However, the extended closure sparked criticism from religious groups and civil society organisations, who raised concerns over its impact on the education system.

 

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has announced that the 2025 UTME Mock Notification Slip is now available for printing for candidates who registered for the optional test.

 

JAMB’s Public Communication Adviser, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, said in a statement on Thursday that the slip contains key details such as the examination date, venue, time, and other essential instructions.

 

Candidates can print their slips by visiting [www.jamb.gov.ng](http://www.jamb.gov.ng), clicking on “2025 Mock Slip Printing,” entering their registration number, and selecting “Print Examination Slip.”

Benjamin confirmed that the mock examination will take place on Thursday, April 10, 2025, while the main UTME is scheduled to begin on Friday, April 25, 2025.

 

He urged candidates to print their slips early and visit their assigned centres ahead of time to avoid last-minute challenges.

 

JAMB also wished all candidates success in their preparations.

 

India’s parliament passed a bill on Thursday to reform hugely wealthy Muslim land-owning organisations, with the Hindu nationalist government saying it will boost accountability while the opposition called it an “attack” on a minority.

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government argues the bill will boost transparency to more than a dozen powerful Waqf boards, which control properties gifted by Muslim charitable endowments.

 

There are around two dozen Waqf boards across India, owning some 900,000 acres (365,00 hectares), a multi-billion-dollar property empire that makes them one of the biggest landholders alongside the railways and the defence forces.

 

Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju, who tabled the bill on Wednesday, said it would check corruption and mismanagement and reduce the hold of a few entrenched groups.

 

The bill was passed by the lower house of parliament after a marathon debate that stretched into the early hours of Thursday.

 

It is expected to be passed by the upper house of parliament later on Thursday, handing far larger powers to civil servants in the supervision of Waqf boards.

 

Amit Shah, the interior minister and a close Modi aide, said the changes will help “catch the people who lease out properties” for individual gains.

“That money, which could be used to aid the development of minorities, is being stolen,” he said.

 

Non-Muslims, who will be included in the boards as part of the new bill, will only be involved in “administrative” matters, Shah said.

 

However, opposition parties accuse the government of pushing “polarising politics” at the expense of India’s Muslim minority of 200 million.

 

“The Waqf (Amendment) Bill is a weapon aimed at marginalising Muslims and usurping their personal laws and property rights,” opposition Congress Party chief Rahul Gandhi said.

 

Gandhi called it an “attack” by Hindu nationalists, which he charged was “aimed at Muslims today but sets a precedent to target other communities in the future”.

 

Opposition parties see the bill as part of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) efforts to win favour with its right-wing Hindu base.

 

Modi’s BJP has backed right-wing claims of mosques built over ancient Hindu temples and led efforts to construct a grand Hindu temple at the site of a demolished Mughal-era mosque in Ayodhya.

The Nigerian Army has commenced the enlistment of tradesmen, non-tradesmen, and women for its 89th regular recruits intake.

 

The NA made this known on its X handle on Tuesday.

 

The statement read, “The Nigerian Army wishes to inform the general public that the online application for 89 Regular Recruits Intake for Non-Tradesmen and Women will commence for all interested candidates.

 

“Application is free for interested candidates. Applicants are advised to apply once, as multiple applications will lead to disqualification. Interested applicants can log on to http://recruitment.army.mil.ng to complete online registration from March 31 to May 17, 2025.

 

“Shortlisted candidates are expected to report to their respective states of origin for the screening exercise, which will take place from 2– 16 June 2025.”

The application website offers additional instructions for eligible candidates on the application process, detailing the required criteria.

 

“Applicants must be single and Nigerian citizens by birth, and must possess a National Identity Card/NIN and BVN printout, and must be medically, physically, and psychologically fit by Nigerian Army Standards.

 

“Applicants must be free of any criminal conviction by the court of law. They must possess a valid birth certificate endorsed by the National Population Commission, Hospital, or Local Government Council, or an age declaration.

 

“Applicants must possess a valid certificate of state of origin and must not be less than 1.68 metres and 1.65 metres tall for male and female candidates respectively,” the post read.

 

President Bola Tinubu felicitates the Chancellor of Joseph Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun, Prof. Anthony Adegbulugbe, on his 70th birthday.

 

Tinubu lauded Adegbulugbe for his achievements and contributions to academia, evangelism, business, and philanthropy. Mr. Bayo Onanuga, his Spokesman, said in a statement on Wednesday.

 

He quoted the President as recalling their shared experiences that “in October 2019, I had the privilege of sharing the podium with Prof. Adegbulugbe as we received honorary doctorates alongside the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Abubakar III, and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Ugochukwu Achebe, at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti.

 

“Standing beside such a distinguished intellectual, known for his outstanding dedication and humility, was truly an honour.”

 

The President acknowledged Adegbulugbe’s academic journey, highlighting his 1976 graduation with a First-Class degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University).

He noted that it was a perfect Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5.0, an extraordinary accomplishment that distinguished him early in his career.

 

Tinubu expressed confidence in Adegbulugbe’s continued pursuit of excellence and is optimistic about his ongoing contributions to the nation’s development.

 

He wished Adegbulugbe and his wife, Princess Afolake Adegbulugbe, many more years filled with good health and abundant blessings.

Germany and Nigerian public policy think tank, Nextier, have explored the evolving landscape of German-Nigerian cooperation, focusing on economic growth, security, climate resilience, and investment opportunities.

 

The discussion was featured in the latest episode of Nextier’s Crossing Perspectives podcast, where Nextier’s Managing Partner, Dr. Ndu Nwokolo, engaged with the Deputy Head of Mission at the German Embassy in Nigeria, Ambassador Johannes Lehne.

 

Lehne noted Germany’s longstanding partnership with Nigeria and the country’s improving economic climate, attributing it to the reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu.

 

“Inflation is decreasing, foreign exchange reserves are stabilising, and oil production is picking up,” he said.

 

He observed that German companies are showing increased interest in Nigeria, reflecting growing confidence in the business environment.

 

He added that Germany’s approach to development aid in Nigeria is shifting from crisis management to investment and business promotion.

 

“We will put more investment into the country. We will shift from crisis management to promoting businesses,” he stated, while also reaffirming Germany’s commitment to bolstering Nigeria’s defence sector.

 

According to him, Germany has already established a military support programme with the Nigerian Armed Forces and is likely to increase its assistance. He also highlighted Germany’s role in strengthening ECOWAS’ counterterrorism capabilities by providing mobile headquarters, hospitals, and logistics infrastructure.

 

On concerns over potential budget cuts in climate resilience, food security, and gender-related initiatives, Lehne reassured that funding remains intact.

 

“The Green Party in Germany secured €100 billion for climate, resilience, and gender programs. As the United States reduces its aid footprint, Germany will step in to fill the gap,” he said.

 

Germany, he added, will maintain its active development cooperation through GIZ, focusing on energy, agriculture, and job creation, including expanding the African Power Program for regional electricity integration.

On migration, Lehne acknowledged the desperation that pushes young Nigerians to seek illegal routes abroad but warned against the dangers of human trafficking networks.

 

“Don’t do it. It’s highly dangerous. Criminals exploit migrants, and the journey is filled with risks,” he cautioned.

 

Instead, he noted that Germany is working on a legal migration agreement with Nigeria to create structured opportunities for skilled workers.

Lehne also highlighted Germany’s investment in Nigeria’s energy transition and infrastructure development, citing projects such as the West African Power Program, which aims to integrate electricity networks across the region.

 

Regarding Nigeria’s critical minerals sector, he revealed that German companies have begun exploring opportunities, conducting satellite mapping of resources, and engaging with state governments.

 

However, he stressed that security and energy infrastructure must improve to attract sustainable foreign investment.

 

The discussion also addressed challenges facing ECOWAS, particularly the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. Lehne compared the situation to Brexit, stating that ECOWAS must decide whether to tolerate military rule or uphold democratic values.

 

“Countries cannot cherry-pick benefits without sharing responsibilities,” he said.

 

With an upcoming transition in the German government, he predicted heightened defence investments due to global security concerns.

 

He noted that Germany recently strengthened military cooperation with Nigeria through a $2 million defence support programme for 2025–2026 while continuing its counterterrorism support for ECOWAS.

 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, announced the launch of Air Algérie’s inaugural direct flight service from Algiers to Abuja, set to begin on April 6, 2025.

 

This is said to strengthen the diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and Algeria.

 

According to a statement signed by the Acting Spokesperson for the Ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the new route, which is the result of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between the two countries, will be operated by the national carrier, Air Algérie, using a Boeing 737 aircraft.

 

This new service is expected to boost connectivity, encourage tourism, and facilitate trade and investment between Nigeria and Algeria.

 

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pleased to announce the commencement of Air Algerie’s inaugural direct flight service from Algiers to Abuja, scheduled for 6th April 2025.

 

“This historic development marks a significant milestone in the growing diplomatic and economic relations between Nigeria and Algeria.

 

“It is pertinent to state that it is the implementation of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between both countries, which culminated in this successful venture,” the statement read in part.

 

The ministry also praised the efforts of the Nigerian Embassy in Algiers for its key role in making the flight a reality.

The inaugural flight is expected to carry the Charge d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy in Algiers, Nigerian community leaders, and representatives from the Algerian government.

 

The Federal Government has extended congratulations to Air Algérie and offered its full support to ensure the success of the new service.

 

With affordable fares and Algeria’s proximity to Europe, the flight also offers Nigerians a convenient gateway to Europe, enhancing Nigeria’s position as a regional hub for business, tourism, and transit.

 

The statement added, “The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant aviation authorities, extends its warm congratulations to Air Algerie and assures all necessary support to ensure the success and sustainability of this new service.

 

“We believe this initiative will further strengthen the longstanding friendship between Nigeria and Algeria, while opening new opportunities for mutual growth.

 

“The affordable fare structure and the proximity of Algeria to Europe would also provide Nigerians with a convenient gateway to Europe, thereby enhancing Nigeria’s position as a regional hub for business, tourism, and transit.”

The ministry encouraged citizens and businesses to take advantage of this new connectivity to explore opportunities for trade, tourism and cultural exchanges between the two nations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Popular Nigerian Singer, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Face or 2Baba, made a striking appearance on Wednesday at the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Abuja.

 

He arrived with his new partner, Natasha Osawaru, the lawmaker representing Egor Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly and the Deputy Majority Leader.

 

Osawaru was elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.

 

The tribunal is poised to deliver its verdict on a petition filed by the PDP and its candidate, Asuerinme Ighodalo, seeking to annul the election of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress.

In January, 2Baba/2face publicly announced his separation from his wife, Annie Idibia. The following month, he proposed to Natasha, a move that captured widespread attention.

 

Since then, the couple has been seen together frequently, making appearances at social events and shopping outings. Recently, Natasha updated her Instagram bio to reflect the singer’s surname, Idibia.

 

Click the link below to watch the video:

 

https://x.com/MobilePunch/status/1907370962300912000?t=bIDIOIfXrcZeCg-CUplcxg&s=19