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NAUTH Management Addresses Tuition Hike Protest, Promises Dialogue With Students

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NAUTH Management Addresses Tuition Hike Protest, Promises Dialogue With Students

Management of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) in Nnewi has pledged to engage students and the institution’s governing board following protests over a sharp increase in tuition fees at the School of Nursing.

Students of the institution staged a protest on Tuesday, rejecting the hike in tuition from ₦90,000 to ₦580,000. The students gathered at the school gate carrying placards to express their dissatisfaction, describing the increase as excessive.

The fee adjustment reportedly followed an internal memo issued on January 23 by O. I. Ezejiofor, which announced the upward review and cited the need to upgrade facilities and maintain standards at the institution.

Some of the protesting students said the new fees were unaffordable and also raised concerns about the rising cost of accommodation around the school.

Responding to the development, the Chief Medical Director of NAUTH, Joseph Ugonna, said the management would meet with the board and student representatives to address the concerns and restore calm within the institution.

Ugonna explained that the decision to review the tuition was taken by the newly inaugurated board, which proposed the ₦580,000 figure to the management. He added that although the proposal had been approved, there was still room for further discussion and possible adjustments.

According to him, the increment was aimed at improving the quality of training and maintaining educational standards, noting that even with the new rate, the institution’s fees remain among the lowest for nursing schools in the South East region of Nigeria.

He also clarified that the institution does not manage student hostels, explaining that most accommodations around the school are privately owned and arranged directly between students and landlords.

Meanwhile, the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Chinyere Onwuka, said the leadership of the students’ union had officially distanced itself from the protest.

Onwuka noted that the revised fee structure includes services such as feeding and transportation for clinical postings to Enugu. She also maintained that tuition at the college remains relatively affordable compared to other nursing schools in the South East, some of which charge as much as ₦800,000 for returning students without additional services.

FG Escorts Nigerians In Iran To Armenia Border For Evacuation

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FG Escorts Nigerians In Iran To Armenia Border For Evacuation

The Federal Government has commenced the evacuation of Nigerians residing in Iran, escorting those willing to leave the country to the border with Armenia amid rising tensions in the Middle East.

The evacuation exercise follows the crisis that erupted on February 28 after coordinated military strikes on Iran by the United States and Israel, which triggered retaliatory missile and drone attacks across parts of the region.

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, disclosed the development in a statement shared on her X account.

According to her, officials of the Embassy of Nigeria in Tehran are coordinating the movement of Nigerians who have indicated interest in leaving the country, ensuring their safe passage into Armenia.

She added that embassy officials remain stationed at the border to receive and assist evacuees as they cross out of Iran.

Dabiri-Erewa also reassured that no Nigerian citizen in Iran has been affected by the ongoing conflict so far.

She noted that while evacuation by air remains the preferred option, the airspace in the region is currently unsafe for flights due to the ongoing hostilities.

According to her, a flight from the United Arab Emirates had arrived in Lagos shortly before another round of strikes led to the closure of the airspace.

She explained that once the airspace is reopened, a multi-agency Federal Government team on crisis management and evacuation is on standby to begin repatriation flights for Nigerians stranded in the affected areas.

The development comes as growing tensions in the Middle East continue to raise concerns over the safety of foreign nationals living in countries affected by the conflict.

Dangote Refinery Reduces Petrol Price By ₦100 To ₦1,075 Per Litre

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Dangote Refinery Reduces Petrol Price By ₦100 To ₦1,075 Per Litre

The Dangote Refinery has reduced its ex-gantry price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, to ₦1,075 per litre, representing a ₦100 drop from the previous price of ₦1,175 per litre.

The company’s Chief Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina, confirmed the development, explaining that petrol supplied through coastal distribution channels will now sell at ₦1,050 per litre.

The refinery also announced a reduction in the price of diesel, which has dropped from ₦1,620 per litre to ₦1,430 per litre, reflecting a ₦190 decrease.

According to the refinery, the adjustment reflects the recent decline in global crude oil prices. It explained that its crude supply is priced using international benchmark rates with an additional premium ranging between $3 and $6 per barrel.

The company noted that foreign exchange used for crude purchases is sourced at the prevailing market rate and not subsidised. It added that crude obtained under the Naira-for-Crude arrangement is still calculated based on the global benchmark price before being converted to naira using the current exchange rate.

The refinery stated that the decision aligns with its commitment to responsible corporate practices and the need to reflect global market realities in its pricing structure.

The latest adjustment marks the first reduction in petrol prices after three successive increases in recent weeks that had pushed the commodity’s price significantly higher.

Earlier, the refinery had raised the price of petrol to ₦1,175 per litre after previous increases from ₦995 per litre on March 7 and ₦874 per litre on March 2.

Meanwhile, the refinery’s Chief Executive Officer, David Bird, recently explained that the company is not insulated from global oil market shocks since it sources crude oil based on international benchmark pricing.

The reduction in petrol prices comes as global crude oil prices dropped to around $90 per barrel amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East involving the United States, Iran and Israel.

Oil marketers, however, have warned that petrol prices in Nigeria could still rise further if the geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt global supply chains.

The National President of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), Billy Gillis-Harry, said Nigerians should prepare for possible increases in petrol prices, noting that the cost could rise to about ₦1,500 per litre if the conflict persists.

He added that the consistent supply of petroleum products from the Dangote Refinery remains crucial for Nigeria’s energy security, stressing that product availability is more important than price stability in periods of global market volatility.

Omisore Takes APC To Court, Sparks Fresh Crisis Ahead Of Osun Governorship Election

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Omisore Takes APC To Court, Sparks Fresh Crisis Ahead Of Osun Governorship Election

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State is facing renewed internal tension after Iyiola Omisore dragged the party before the Federal High Court over the conduct of its governorship primaries.

Omisore, a former governorship aspirant on the APC platform, was disqualified from the race alongside several other contenders shortly before the party conducted its primary election.

The disqualification reportedly triggered widespread dissatisfaction within the party’s ranks, with some members describing the move as disruptive to internal democracy in the state chapter of the party.

The legal action has further deepened divisions within the APC in Osun, raising concerns about the party’s cohesion ahead of the next governorship election in the state.

In a move to calm tensions, elders of the party recently paid a visit to Omisore in his hometown of Ile‑Ife in an attempt to reconcile aggrieved members and restore unity within the party.

The reconciliation effort is believed to be linked to the political influence of former Osun governor and current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who remains a key leader of the APC in the state.

Tinubu Submits FCT Budget, Seeks Senate Confirmation For Oyedele, Others

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Tinubu Submits FCT Budget, Seeks Senate Confirmation For Oyedele, Others

President Bola Tinubu has submitted the 2026 statutory budget of the Federal Capital Territory Administration to the Nigerian Senate for consideration and approval.

The letter conveying the budget proposal was read during plenary on Tuesday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, following the Senate’s return from a three-week recess for budget defence exercises.

Ministerial Nomination

In a separate communication, the President also asked the Senate to confirm Taiwo Oyedele as Minister of State for Finance.

The request was referred to the Committee of the Whole for legislative consideration.

If confirmed, Oyedele—who chaired the administration’s tax reforms committee—will replace Doris Uzoka-Anite as Minister of State for Finance.

According to the presidency, Uzoka-Anite will be redeployed to the Federal Ministry of Budget and National Planning as Minister of State.

Other Nominations

The Senate also received a request from the President seeking confirmation of Mainasara Illo as Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Anti-Doping Centre.

The nomination was referred to the Senate Committees on Narcotics and Drugs as well as Sports for joint screening.

In another letter, Tinubu requested the confirmation of Magnus Abe as Chairman of the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, alongside two commissioner nominees.

The President also sought confirmation of Francis Ifeanyi Asogwa as a commissioner representing the South-East in a federal commission. The nomination was referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters.

Additionally, Tinubu requested Senate approval for Amina Gamawa from Bauchi State and Abdullahi Murktar from Kaduna State as commissioners of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission.

All the nominations were referred to the appropriate Senate committees for screening and further legislative action.

We’ve Survived, Governors No Longer Borrow For Salaries – Tinubu

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We’ve Survived, Governors No Longer Borrow For Salaries – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has said that Nigeria has overcome significant economic challenges under his administration, noting that state governors are no longer borrowing from banks to pay workers’ salaries.

The President made the remarks on Monday while hosting religious and traditional leaders at an interfaith breaking of fast at the Presidential Villa Abuja, according to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Tinubu said his administration would continue to maximise the opportunity to lead the country by sustaining economic growth and prosperity.

“I am just grateful, one person among millions, that I have been given the opportunity to serve. And all I can do is promise that I will continue to be faithful in discharging my duty. I can report that the economy has turned the corner,” the President said.

“It is getting better. Pensioners are getting their relief gradually. We have saved Nigeria from bankruptcy.”

‘We Have Survived’

Tinubu noted that the economic situation was extremely challenging when his administration took office but expressed confidence that the country has moved past the most difficult phase.

“It was very daunting and challenging when we took over. But today I can say with pride and joy that we have survived. No governor in this country is running around the banks to borrow money to pay the salaries of their workers,” he said.

Security Assurances

The President also reassured Nigerians that the government would not allow agents of instability to undermine the nation’s peace, unity, and sovereignty.

“Yes, we are challenged; the terrorists are very desperate now because they are getting barraged and defeated, they leave trails of blood in their wake. But I assure you of one thing: Nigeria will never surrender. We are not discouraged. We are going to win and win well,” he added.

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in key sectors such as agriculture and education to secure a better future for Nigerians.

Religious Leaders React

Speaking at the event, the Yahaya Abubakar, who represented the Sa’ad Abubakar and the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, thanked the President for bringing together leaders of the country’s two major religions for the interfaith gathering.

He prayed for divine guidance and peaceful coexistence across the country.

Also speaking, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Daniel Okoh, alongside Stephen Baba-Panya of the Evangelical Church Winning All, assured Tinubu of the church’s support for government efforts to transform the economy and strengthen national security.

Traditional rulers and religious leaders from the six geopolitical zones attended the event.

Peter Obi Accuses Nigerian Government Of Persecuting Political Opponents

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Peter Obi Accuses Nigerian Government Of Persecuting Political Opponents

Presidential hopeful Peter Obi has called on the Nigerian government to end what he described as the persecution of political opponents under the guise of criminal prosecution.

Obi made the call in a post on X on Monday, stressing that the integrity of the rule of law in Nigeria is non-negotiable.

According to him, weakening the rule of law could undermine economic development and threaten national stability.

Concern Over Arrests Of Political Figures

The former Anambra State governor said he was particularly concerned about the recent arrests and continued detention of key leaders of the African Democratic Congress.

Among those mentioned were Abubakar Malami, a former Attorney General of the Federation, and Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State.

Obi argued that the timing of the arrests—coming shortly after the politicians pledged to work towards voting out the current administration in 2027—raises serious concerns.

“The methods used in their apprehension contradict the principles of rule of law. Prosecutorial decisions must be grounded in concrete evidence and probable cause, transparently presented without ulterior motives,” he said.

Criticism Of Security Agencies

The Labour Party chieftain also raised concerns about the handling of El-Rufai’s case, noting that the former governor had reportedly been moved between different security agencies.

He cited the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, and the Department of State Services, describing the repeated transfers as suggestive of a search for charges that might stick.

Obi warned that such actions risk turning the justice system into a tool for political intimidation.

Call For Fair Anti-Corruption Fight

While expressing support for anti-corruption efforts, Obi said the campaign must be conducted transparently and without selectivity.

“I wholeheartedly support the fight against corruption and wrongdoing, but it must be conducted with integrity and transparency, starting with those currently in power rather than targeting opponents,” he wrote.

He added that Nigeria needs a civil and criminal justice system that gives citizens confidence that they will not face persecution because of their political beliefs or activities.

Tinubu Mourns Former Super Eagles Coach Onigbinde

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Tinubu Mourns Former Super Eagles Coach Onigbinde

President Bola Tinubu has expressed condolences over the death of former Super Eagles head coach Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88.

In a condolence message issued on Tuesday through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President sympathised with the late coach’s family, associates, and the Nigerian football community.

Tinubu also extended condolences to the Nigeria Football Federation, the National Sports Commission, as well as professional colleagues and fans of the veteran football administrator.

Tribute To A Football Icon

The President described Onigbinde as an accomplished football manager who would be remembered for his discipline, integrity, foresight, and passion for the game.

He also acknowledged the contributions of the Modakeke high chief to grassroots football development and football administration in Nigeria.

Onigbinde made history as the first indigenous coach of the Super Eagles in 1982, when the national team was then known as the Green Eagles.

He later guided Nigeria to the 1984 final of the Africa Cup of Nations, where the team lost 3–1 to Cameroon national football team.

Family Announcement

The family confirmed his death in a statement signed by a relative, Bolade Adesuyi.

“With great gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of this great man, a Modakeke High Chief, the first indigenous Nigerian Super Eagles football coach, father, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, High Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde,” the statement read.

The family added that funeral arrangements would be announced later.

Coaching Career

Onigbinde returned to coach the national team in 2002, leading Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup after replacing the late Shuaibu Amodu.

Beyond his coaching career, he also served as a technical instructor for the Confederation of African Football and FIFA.

Oil Falls Below $90 As Trump Signals Possible End To Iran War

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Oil Falls Below $90 As Trump Signals Possible End To Iran War

Global oil prices dropped below $90 per barrel on Monday after Donald Trump suggested that the ongoing war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran could end sooner than expected.

The decline came after oil prices had surged to nearly $120 per barrel earlier in the day amid fears of supply disruptions linked to the conflict.

Oil Retreats After Sharp Surge

Both Brent Crude and West Texas Intermediate fell back below the $90 mark following the remarks by Trump, who said the war was “very far ahead of schedule” and “very complete, pretty much.”

Earlier on Monday, Brent crude climbed to $119 per barrel, its highest level since 2022, while the U.S. benchmark also surged past that level before retreating to about $85 per barrel.

Global Stocks Rebound

The easing oil prices helped global markets recover from earlier losses.

On Nasdaq Composite, shares gained 1.4 per cent, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by 239 points after falling nearly 900 points earlier in the trading session.

Investors had been concerned that the spike in energy prices could worsen inflation and slow global economic growth.

G7 Signals Possible Oil Reserve Release

Meanwhile, finance ministers of the Group of Seven said the bloc was prepared to release petroleum from strategic reserves if necessary to stabilise global energy markets.

The remarks were made after an emergency meeting as oil producers in the Gulf reduced output amid shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments.

Leadership Change In Iran

The geopolitical tension intensified after the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in joint U.S.-Israeli strikes.

His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, was later named as his successor, marking the first quasi-dynastic leadership transition in the history of the Islamic Republic.

While Tehran defended the appointment and called for unity, Trump criticised the move, saying Iran had made a “big mistake.”

Global Reactions

Russia threw its support behind Iran’s new leadership, with Vladimir Putin congratulating Mojtaba Khamenei and pledging Moscow’s “unwavering support.”

Meanwhile, Keir Starmer warned that prolonged hostilities in the Middle East could disrupt global oil supplies and place additional strain on international markets.

The conflict has already disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and triggered sharp volatility in global energy prices, raising concerns about broader geopolitical and economic consequences if the war spreads further across the region.

Tinubu: No Agent Of Instability Will Undermine Nigeria’s Peace, Unity

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Tinubu: No Agent Of Instability Will Undermine Nigeria’s Peace, Unity

President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the country will not allow agents of instability to undermine its peace, unity and sovereignty.

The President gave the assurance on Monday evening while hosting religious and traditional leaders from across the country for an interfaith breaking of fast at the State House Abuja.

Tinubu acknowledged the role of religious and traditional leaders in promoting peace, stability and moral guidance within their communities.

Despite ongoing security challenges, the President said Nigeria would prevail over those seeking to destabilise the country.

“Yes, we are challenged; the terrorists are very desperate now because they are getting barraged and defeated, they leave trails of blood in their wake,” Tinubu said.

“But I assure you of one thing: Nigeria will never surrender. We are not discouraged. We are going to win and win well.”

Tinubu Speaks On Economy

The President also pledged to continue working to sustain the country’s economic recovery and prosperity.

According to him, his administration inherited serious economic difficulties but has made progress in stabilising the nation’s financial outlook.

“I am just grateful, one person among millions, that I have been given the opportunity to serve. And all I can do is promise that I will continue to be faithful in discharging my duty,” he said.

“I can report that the economy has turned the corner. It is getting better. Pensioners are getting their relief gradually. We have saved Nigeria from bankruptcy.”

Tinubu said the situation was difficult at the start of his administration but expressed confidence that the country had moved past its most challenging phase.

“It was very daunting and challenging when we took over. But today I can say with pride and joy that we have survived. No governor in this country is running around the banks to borrow money to pay the salaries of their workers,” he added.

Religious Leaders Speak

Earlier, the Yahaya Abubakar, who represented the Sa’ad Abubakar and the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, commended the President for bringing together leaders of the two major religions for the interfaith event.

He prayed for divine guidance and success for the administration.

Also speaking, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Daniel Okoh, assured the government of continued support from the church in efforts to strengthen the economy and improve national security.

Traditional rulers and religious leaders from the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria attended the event.

US Warns Of Possible Terror Threat Against Its Facilities, Schools In Nigeria

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US Warns Of Possible Terror Threat Against Its Facilities, Schools In Nigeria

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has issued a security alert warning of a possible terrorist threat targeting American facilities and U.S.-affiliated schools in the country.

In a notice released in Abuja, the embassy advised U.S. citizens in Nigeria to take extra precautions when visiting American diplomatic premises and institutions linked to the United States.

The advisory specifically mentioned the US Embassy Abuja and the US Consulate General Lagos, urging American nationals to remain vigilant and adopt additional safety measures while travelling to these locations.

“U.S. citizens should take additional precautions when travelling to the U.S. Embassy, the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos, and U.S.-affiliated schools,” the embassy said in the notice.

Precautionary Measures

The embassy advised its citizens to vary travel routes and times, avoid predictable routines, and remain alert to their surroundings to minimise potential risks.

It also recommended that individuals keep a low profile in public places, avoid large gatherings or demonstrations, and review personal security plans with family members.

Other precautions include ensuring mobile phones are fully charged in case of emergencies and identifying emergency exits when entering buildings.

Despite the warning, the consular sections of both the embassy in Abuja and the consulate in Lagos will remain open and continue providing services.

The mission urged U.S. citizens to monitor updates on its official website and follow travel and security advisories issued by the United States Department of State.

Tensions In The Middle East

The security alert comes amid heightened global tensions linked to the ongoing Israel–Iran War, which began on February 28, 2026.

The conflict escalated after joint strikes by the United States and Israel targeted Iranian military and nuclear facilities. Early in the war, the attacks reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, was later named as his successor during the conflict.

In response, Iran launched waves of missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and U.S. military assets in countries including Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates.

The conflict has also shaken global energy markets, with Brent Crude prices surging amid fears of supply disruptions and shipping challenges through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments.

Authorities say the situation continues to evolve, with governments around the world monitoring developments closely.

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