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FCTA To Renovate Primary Health Centres, Boost Funding For Healthcare Delivery

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FCTA To Renovate Primary Health Centres, Boost Funding For Healthcare Delivery

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced plans to increase funding and renovate primary health care centres across the territory as part of efforts to improve healthcare delivery.

The Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr Adedolape Fasawe, disclosed this in Abuja during the matriculation ceremony of the FCT School of Nursing.

Dr Fasawe, represented by the Director of Nursing Services, Health and Management Board, Mrs Grace Musa, said several call rooms in FCT hospitals are already undergoing renovation, while the administration has commenced payment of uniform allowances to nurses.

She added that the Secretariat is collaborating with stakeholders to ensure the passage of four health-related bills currently before the National Assembly to strengthen health infrastructure in the FCT.

The Pioneer Provost of the FCT School of Nursing, Dr Deborah Yusuf, called for more infrastructural development in the institution to enhance learning, research, and academic excellence.

Lawmaker representing Bwari/AMAC Federal Constituency, Hon. Joshua Obika, pledged to support initiatives aimed at improving both education and healthcare in the territory.

Also speaking, the Director of Nursing Services, Health Services and Environmental Secretariat, Mrs Ijeoma Jimi-Bada, urged nursing students to uphold the virtues of compassion, diligence, and sacrifice, which she described as the core values of the nursing profession.

Meanwhile, the Registrar of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Dr Alhasan Ndagi, warned against examination malpractice, stressing that strict monitoring measures had been introduced to maintain discipline and integrity.

Represented by the Head of Department, Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr Aliyu Adam, Dr Ndagi encouraged students to develop critical thinking and communication skills, embrace diversity, and adhere to professional ethics to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Kenya’s Ex-Prime Minister Raila Odinga Dies In India At 80

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Kenya’s Ex-Prime Minister Raila Odinga Dies In India At 80

Kenya’s veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, has died at the age of 80 while on a medical visit to India, authorities have confirmed.

According to Indian police, Odinga was walking with his sister, daughter, and personal doctor when he suddenly collapsed. He was immediately rushed to a nearby private hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead.

“An Indian police security officer and a Kenyan security officer were also with them at the time,” an Indian police source said. “He was provided emergency care but could not be revived.”

A spokesperson for the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre in Kerala confirmed that Odinga experienced breathing difficulties before collapsing. Despite CPR and continued medical efforts, he did not recover.

Odinga’s death marks a major turning point in Kenyan politics. A dominant figure for decades, he led the National Super Alliance (NASA) and contested the presidency five times in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022, often alleging electoral malpractice.

A pan-Africanist and pro-democracy advocate, Odinga spent years in detention and exile during the regime of President Daniel arap Moi. Despite coming from one of Kenya’s most influential political families, his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, was Kenya’s first vice president — Raila was widely regarded as a voice for reform and opposition unity.

Tributes have poured in from across Africa. Kenya’s former Chief Justice David Maraga described him as “a patriot, a pan-Africanist, and a democrat who made significant contributions to democracy in Kenya and Africa.”

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed also expressed condolences, writing, “Africa has lost a leading voice in peace, security, and development. May he rest in peace.”

Odinga’s passing leaves a leadership vacuum in Kenya’s opposition as the country prepares for its 2027 general elections, raising uncertainty about who can command his level of national and regional influence.

FCCPC Applauds CBN’s 48-Hour Refund Policy For Failed ATM And Electronic Transactions

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FCCPC Applauds CBN’s 48-Hour Refund Policy For Failed ATM And Electronic Transactions

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has commended the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for introducing draft guidelines that mandate banks to refund customers for failed Automated Teller Machine (ATM) and electronic transactions within 48 hours.

The FCCPC described the initiative as a major victory for Nigerian consumers, noting that it aligns with long-standing calls for stronger protection against failed or delayed transaction reversals.

The draft Guidelines on the Operations of Automated Teller Machines in Nigeria were released shortly after the FCCPC published its Consumer Complaints Data Report (March–August 2025), which showed that the banking and fintech sectors recorded the highest number of complaints nationwide over 3,000 cases in banking alone — with about ₦10 billion recovered for customers across 30 sectors.

Frequent complaints included failed transactions, unauthorised deductions, and delayed refunds issues the CBN’s new policy aims to address.

FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Tunji Bello, lauded the CBN for taking a “timely and long-awaited corrective step” that would ease consumers’ frustrations.

“It is consistent with what the FCCPC has been advocating, given the number of complaints we receive about failed transactions,” Bello said. “We commend the CBN for this decisive move, which will ease the burden on consumers and rebuild trust in financial services.”

The Commission noted that the proposed guidelines are consistent with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, particularly provisions that mandate the elimination of unfair practices and the protection of consumer interests.

The FCCPC urged the swift adoption and enforcement of the policy, saying it would provide immediate relief to customers and enhance accountability in the banking sector.

To ensure compliance, the FCCPC said it will work with the CBN to establish a monitoring framework and redress mechanism for banks that fail to process refunds within the stipulated timeframe.

Consumers were also reminded to first report unresolved transaction issues to their banks or the CBN, and, if still unresolved, escalate complaints to the FCCPC through its complaint portal, email, or phone channels.

According to the FCCPC, closer regulatory collaboration will improve dispute resolution and strengthen consumer confidence in Nigeria’s growing digital financial ecosystem.

NCAA Warns Airlines: Ticket Refunds Must Be Completed Within 14 Days

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NCAA Warns Airlines: Ticket Refunds Must Be Completed Within 14 Days

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has cautioned domestic airlines against violating the official 14-day ticket refund policy, warning that misleading passengers with longer timelines is a breach of aviation regulations and unfair to consumers.

The warning was issued by Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, in a statement shared on X on Monday.

Achimugu said the agency received reports that some airlines were informing passengers that refunds could take up to four weeks, contrary to the provisions of Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023, which mandate completion within 14 days.

“Domestic airlines need to stop telling passengers that their refund process takes four weeks. The NCAA regulations are clear about the timeframe for ticket refunds — it is 14 days. Operators cannot create their own rules in this regard,” Achimugu stated.

He urged affected passengers to forward evidence of delayed refunds or communications from airlines to michael.achimugu@ncaa.gov.ng, ifueko.abdulmalik@ncaa.gov.ng, or cpd@ncaa.gov.ng for regulatory intervention.

The NCAA reiterated that any attempt by airlines to impose extended refund periods undermines regulatory authority and violates consumer protection standards established to ensure fairness in air travel operations.

Fans Commemorate Third Anniversary of BBNaija Star Rico Swavey’s Death

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Fans Commemorate Third Anniversary of BBNaija Star Rico Swavey’s Death

Three years after the tragic passing of Big Brother Naija star and singer Patrick Fakoya, popularly known as Rico Swavey, his fans and management have paid emotional tributes to his memory.

In a message posted on X on Monday, his management described Rico as “a beacon of love and creativity whose memory blooms like a garden of everlasting flowers.”

“On this 3rd anniversary, we remember not just your departure, but the life you lived and the love you gave. Keep resting, Rico,” the post read.

Rico Swavey, who gained fame during the 2018 Double Wahala edition of BBNaija, died on October 13, 2022, from injuries sustained in a car crash along the Lekki-Ajah Expressway in Lagos.

The accident sparked widespread grief across Nigeria, with his mother later recalling the emotional moment she watched her son pass away in her arms at a Lekki hospital.

An eyewitness and the Uber driver who accompanied him clarified that Rico was not intoxicated before the crash, countering early rumours surrounding the incident.

Earlier this year, Big Brother Naija Season 10 honoured Rico alongside late ex-housemates Francisca Owumi and Joseph Ada during a special tribute segment.

Rico Swavey, remembered for his gentle personality and artistic talent, remains one of the most beloved figures from the BBNaija franchise, with his legacy still celebrated by fans across the entertainment industry.

Kebbi Government Denies Reported Bandit Attack in Sakaba

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Kebbi Government Denies Reported Bandit Attack in Sakaba

The Kebbi State Government has dismissed reports of a bandit invasion in Maku-ku village, Sakaba Local Government Area, describing the claims as false and misleading.

The report, initially aired by a local FM radio station in Birnin Kebbi, alleged that several people were killed in an attack. However, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ahmed Idris, clarified in a statement on Monday that the incident actually occurred in Rijau, a community in Niger State, not in Kebbi.

“There was no such incident in Kebbi. The report is misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic,” Idris said.

He explained that a military base established in Sakaba had significantly bolstered security in the area, assuring residents that there was no cause for alarm.

The state government urged the public to disregard the false report and continue their normal activities, noting that security agencies remain fully supported to sustain peace and order across Kebbi State.

INEC Accredits 121 Observers for Anambra Governorship Election

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INEC Accredits 121 Observers for Anambra Governorship Election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has accredited 121 domestic and international organisations to observe the forthcoming Anambra State governorship election scheduled for November 8, 2025.

According to an announcement published by the commission on Monday, the list includes prominent foreign observers such as the British High Commission, the European Union, and the High Commission of Canada.

Among domestic observers are Yiaga Africa Initiative, The Electoral Hub, and the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), all cleared to monitor the exercise.

INEC stated that the observers are expected to evaluate the transparency, credibility, and compliance of the election with democratic standards.

The electoral body also confirmed that 2.8 million registered voters are expected to participate in the off-cycle poll.

A total of 16 political parties met the submission deadline of May 12 and will field candidates in the election. INEC has released the final list of candidates and officially declared campaign activities open.

Ex-PDP Secretary Udeh Okoye Resigns, Says Party Has Lost Its Moral Compass

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Ex-PDP Secretary Udeh Okoye Resigns, Says Party Has Lost Its Moral Compass

Former National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Udeh Okoye, has resigned from the party, declaring that it has “lost its moral compass and ideological direction.”

In a resignation letter dated October 13, 2025, and addressed to the PDP Ward Chairman in Agbogugu, Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State, Okoye said his decision followed “deep reflection and careful consideration.”

“After deep reflection and careful consideration, I wish to formally tender my resignation as a member of the Peoples Democratic Party. This decision did not come lightly,” he wrote.

Okoye, who previously served as National Youth Leader and later National Secretary of the PDP, expressed gratitude to the party for the opportunities to serve at various levels, including as a member of the Enugu State House of Assembly.

“For these privileges of service and trust, I remain profoundly grateful to the party, its leaders, and members at all levels,” he said.

The former lawmaker lamented that the PDP had deviated from the ideals of its founding fathers, noting that the principles of “unity, justice, and equity” had been eroded.

“Over time, I have watched with increasing concern as the ideals and vision of the founding fathers of the PDP, built on the principles of unity, justice, and equity, have been eroded,” he stated.

According to him, “The PDP that once stood as a beacon of hope for democratic governance has regrettably lost its moral compass and ideological direction.”

He said his conscience would no longer allow him to remain in a system that had “strayed so far from its original purpose.”

“Therefore, I am compelled to part ways with the PDP as I embark on a progressive journey dedicated to restoring the values of democracy, accountability, and service to the people, which the party has sadly abandoned,” Okoye declared.

Despite his criticism, he ended on a conciliatory note, thanking his colleagues and party members for their support over the years.

“I thank you, the ward executives, and all party members at all levels for your support, friendship, and shared moments of service,” he wrote.

Okoye’s resignation adds to a growing wave of defections and exits within the PDP amid internal crises, leadership disputes, and ideological drift.

He has not yet announced any affiliation with another political party.

Reps Member Quits PDP, Cites Loss Of Direction Amid Growing Party Crisis

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Reps Member Quits PDP, Cites Loss Of Direction Amid Growing Party Crisis

Political instability within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) deepened on Monday as Hon. Sadiq Abdullahi, a member of the House of Representatives representing Sabon Gari Federal Constituency in Kaduna State, announced his resignation from the party.

Abdullahi, who serves as Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), attributed his decision to the PDP’s “persistent internal conflicts” and what he described as a “loss of direction,” saying the infighting had undermined his ability to effectively serve his constituents.

“The persistent internal conflicts and factionalisation within the PDP, which have culminated in a prolonged party crisis, are adversely affecting my ability to effectively represent my constituency and perform my duties optimally,” Abdullahi stated in his resignation letter addressed to his ward chairman.

He said his decision followed extensive consultations with political stakeholders and was motivated by a desire to sustain “purposeful, inclusive, and effective representation” for his constituents beyond partisan divisions.

“I wish to sincerely thank the PDP for the privilege and opportunity to serve under its platform. The support, trust, and experiences I have gained during my time with the party have been invaluable,” he added.

Abdullahi’s exit came just hours after the resignation of former National Secretary, S.K.E. Udeh Okoye, further exposing cracks within the opposition party’s leadership.

The twin resignations reflect growing dissatisfaction among PDP members over the party’s internal leadership crisis and its strategic direction ahead of the next election cycle.

FG To Disburse ₦6.3bn Interest-Free Loans To 21,000 Flood Victims

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FG To Disburse ₦6.3bn Interest-Free Loans To 21,000 Flood Victims

The Federal Government has announced plans to disburse ₦6.3 billion in interest-free loans to 21,000 Nigerians affected by recent flood disasters across the country.

Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, disclosed this on Monday in Abuja during a roundtable event marking the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction.

Sununu said the initiative aims to cushion the impact of flooding and boost food security across affected communities.

“In the next few weeks, 21,000 Nigerians will receive interest-free, collateral-free loans of ₦300,000 each,” he stated. “This intervention is designed to support farmers and strengthen communities affected by flooding.”

He added that through the National Social Investment Programme, the Federal Government has reached over 8.1 million households with more than ₦300 billion in Conditional Cash Transfers. “This support has improved the resilience, health, and education of many vulnerable households. The process will continue under the Hope Agenda of Mr. President,” he said.

Sununu also unveiled a plan to empower internally displaced persons (IDPs) through an agricultural scheme that guarantees a market for their produce. “Under our new collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, IDPs will retain 30% of their produce while the government will off-take 70%, providing direct cash payments to the participants,” he explained.

The Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Zubaida Umar, highlighted the increasing risks of climate-related disasters in Nigeria and called for a proactive shift in disaster management.

Umar announced the launch of two new policy frameworks — the NEMA Strategic Plan (2025–2029) and the National Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy (2025–2030) — to guide preparedness and resilience efforts. “These frameworks promote innovation in financing, institutional collaboration, and risk-informed development,” she said.

She also revealed that NEMA is developing a National Risk Monitoring and Information Platform to enhance early warning and data-driven decision-making, while advocating for innovative funding options such as catastrophe bonds, climate funds, and blended finance models to sustain disaster response efforts.

The event was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, lawmakers, and international development partners.

According to NEMA’s 2025 Flood Dashboard, as of October 10, floods have claimed 238 lives, displaced 135,764 people, and affected over 409,000 others nationwide, with 826 injured and 115 still missing.

Trump Declares ‘End of the Age of Terror’ as Israel-Hamas Peace Deal Ushers In ‘New Middle East’

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Trump Declares ‘End of the Age of Terror’ as Israel-Hamas Peace Deal Ushers In ‘New Middle East’

United States President Donald Trump has hailed the landmark Israel-Hamas peace agreement as “the end of the age of terror,” describing it as a defining moment that ushers in “a new Middle East.”

Addressing the Israeli Knesset on Monday, Trump said the deal marked the close of years of bloodshed and the dawn of a new era of faith, hope, and unity in the region.

“This is not only the end of a war,” he declared, “this is the end of the age of terror and death the beginning of the age of faith and hope and of God.”

Trump praised Israel’s perseverance and the cooperation of Arab and Muslim nations that facilitated the truce. “This is the historic dawn of a new Middle East,” he said. “I convey my tremendous appreciation to all nations of the Arab and Muslim world that came together to press Hamas to set the hostages free and to send them home.”

Describing the breakthrough as a global victory, Trump said, “It’s an incredible triumph for Israel and for the world to have all these nations working together as partners in peace. It’s pretty unusual to see, but it happened in this case.”

The U.S. president lauded Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him “a man of exceptional courage and patriotism whose partnership made this momentous day possible.”

Reflecting on the human cost of the conflict, Trump noted that 20 hostages had been freed and 28 others returned home for burial. “After two harrowing years in darkness and captivity, they are returning to the glorious embrace of their families,” he said.

Trump credited the U.S. and its allies with helping to dismantle terrorist networks and neutralise threats across the region. “The forces of chaos, terror, and ruin that have plagued the Middle East for decades now stand weakened, isolated, and totally defeated,” he said.

He also confirmed that U.S.-led airstrikes had destroyed key components of Iran’s nuclear programme. “We dropped 14 bombs on Iran’s key nuclear facilities,” Trump revealed. “Together, we stopped the number one state sponsor of terror from obtaining the world’s most dangerous weapons.”

Trump emphasised that Israel’s military successes had paved the way for sustainable peace. “With this week’s ceasefire, we’ve achieved the most challenging breakthrough of them all. People are dancing in the streets not just in Israel, but across nations that never imagined celebrating peace together,” he said.

He urged Palestinians to seize the opportunity for reconciliation. “This is their chance to turn forever from the path of terror and violence,” Trump declared. “Now is the time to build their people up instead of trying to tear Israel down.”

Concluding his speech, Trump called the moment “the golden age of Israel and the golden age of the Middle East,” adding, “Generations from now, this will be remembered as the moment everything began to change and change for the better.”

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