National News
NAPTIP on Global Manhunt for Human Traffickers

NAPTIP on Global Manhunt for Human Traffickers
… Receives 78 Victims of Human Trafficking from Abidjan
By: Michael Mike
Director General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Binta Adamu Bello has assured of the readiness of the agency to employ all available means and strategies to arrest and prosecute members of the organized human trafficking syndicate responsible for the recruitment and trafficking of Nigerian girls for sundry exploitation anywhere around the world.
She gave the assurance in Lagos while receiving Nigerian victims of human trafficking recruited and trafficked to Côte D’ d’Ivoire and were rescued and evacuated with the support from partners. The victims were brought to Nigeria by the Air Peace Airline.
It would be recalled that the popular social media influencer, Vincent Otse (aka VeryDarkMan), had recently during his visit to the agency’s headquarters in Abuja, expressed concern about the plight of Nigerian girls who are victims of human trafficking and were stranded in Abidjan.

In a swift response to the situation, operatives of NAPTIP few weeks ago arrested two high-profile individuals mentioned by some of the victims, as their traffickers. They were arrested inside their high-wired mansion located within one of the sprawling estates in Lugbe Area of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.
In addition, the agency commenced discussion with partners in Abidjan, leading to the identification, profiling, and the eventual rescue of the victims.
The plane carrying the victims landed at Terminal 2 of the Lagos International airport at about 10.45pm Saturday, and they were received by the Director General of NAPTIP, Binta Adamu Bello, and the Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Mr. Allen Onyema.
Speaking at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport shortly after the arrival of the victims, the Director General of NAPTIP said: “This is a momentous occasion, a day that marks not only the safe return of our beloved daughters, but also a reaffirmation of our unwavering commitment to the fight against human trafficking.
“To the young women and girls who have just returned, we say welcome home. You were taken far from the safety and dignity you deserve, but today, you are back on Nigerian soil, and you are not alone; this country stands with you.
“And to those who have perpetuated this evil, let today be a reminder that Nigeria will never relent in pursuing justice.
“We have also apprehended some of those responsible for this heinous trade, and they will face the full force of the law.
“Let me assure every Nigerian that NAPTIP remains ever committed, ever vigilant, and ever determined to end human trafficking in Nigeria. We will continue to work tirelessly to combat human trafficking, prosecute the traffickers, and protect and rehabilitate the victims. This is our sole duty”, the NAPTIP boss stated.
On plan to assist the Victims, the Director General said, “We have just received them a while ago, our officers shall commence detailed profiling of each and every one of them in addition to a medical check to determine their health status.
“Thereafter, we shall counsel them and allow them to express themselves in the area of skill they want, and they will be adequately trained.
“In addition to this, we shall commence a serious manhunt for their traffickers and ensure that they are brought to justice. There is no hidden place for them anywhere.”
Speaking also, the Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Mr. Allen Onyema, said he decided to evacuate the victims free of charge to identify with the victims and help them to overcome their challenges. This is in addition to the medical intervention he already sponsored for all of them.
A total of 78 victims comprising 75 females adults which age ranges from 13 to 30 years, three babies and two male adults, were evacuated. They all looked malnourished, battered and ruffled, giving a clear indication of mindless exploitation.
About four of them, mostly the underage ones, were pregnant.
Speaking with newsmen, one of the victims, Clara (not real name) said she may not be able to recover from the trauma experienced as a result of the exploitation she facec in Abidjan.
She said: “I thank God that I am alive today. I saw hell in Abidjan and I may not be able to forget the suffering and pain I passed through forever. Human life worth nothing in the hands of those madams over there. I thank the Director General of NAPTIP who personally came to the airport to receive us. She spoke and encouraged us. Since that time that she spoke to us inside the aircraft before we came out, my spirirt is happy again. I thank the Owner of Air Peace also. May God continue to bless them all.”, she stated.
NAPTIP on Global Manhunt for Human Traffickers
National News
US Procurement Report: NEFGAD Insists BPP’s Defence is Weak and Deceptive

US Procurement Report: NEFGAD Insists BPP’s Defence is Weak and Deceptive
By: Michael Mike
A leading public procurement advocacy in Nigeria, Network for the Actualization of Social Growth and Viable Development
(NEFGAD), has criticized the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) for offering weak and “deceptive” defense to an honest and highly integrous report of the United States of America alleging corruption and lack of transparency in Nigeria’s public procurement.
NEFGAD made this known in a statement through its Acting Head of Office, Barrister Unekwu Blessing-Ojo and made available to newsmen in Abuja on Tuesday.
He advised the Bureau to stop deceiving the President by owing up to its leadership deficits, which has eroded staff and stakeholders’ confidence in the operations of the Bureau.
In its 2025 fiscal transparency report, the US Department officials found that 61 of 140 government and entities assessed did not meet the minimum transparency requirement of which Nigeria is one of them. The US report is in tandem with our in-house assessment of public procurement transactions within the last one year under the leadership of Dr Adebowale Adedokun, Unekwu said.
Unekwu further averred that Dr Adebowale Adedokun, the current Director General of the BPP is an overrated theorist who lack the requisite capacity and character to deliver on practical organizational promises and or national developmental goals, particularly the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President.
The group warned president Bola Tinubu to be more circumspect on the issue of public procurement in Nigeria, maintaining that the success and failure of any administration largely depends on its public procurement practices, and expresses serious doubt as to the current leadership ability of the BPP to deliver on the renewed hope agenda of the president as urgently required.
In the last one year, there seems to be more of procurement policy formulations and regulations from the BPP aimed at promoting local content participation, service delivery in social sectors, Civil Societies (CSOs) engagements and a promise of a more efficient resource allocations, all these looks more of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated contents without corresponding impact on the Nigerian people. Most procurement are still shrouded in secrecy, due process largely disregarded, access to procurement information habitually denied, while the BPP staffers who should assist in the delivery strategy are largely demoralized/demotivated, stakeholders engagement ended at an event venue without necessary follow-ups by the Bureau.
NEFGAD advised the Director General to resign if the office is too big for him to manage and allow Mr President to appoint a more competent person to run the affairs of the office more efficiently and effectively.
US Procurement Report: NEFGAD Insists BPP’s Defence is Weak and Deceptive
National News
US Embassy Appeals to Nigerian to Study in American Universities to Improve their Lot

US Embassy Appeals to Nigerian to Study in American Universities to Improve their Lot
By: Michael Mike
The United States Embassy has described Nigerians as determined and highly industrious people, appealing to them to consider getting educated in American universities to improve their lot, assuring that numerous opportunities await them.
Speaking at the 2025 Education USA Fair in Abuja, the Public Diplomacy Officer at the US Embassy Abuja, Brian Neubert said numerous opportunities are available for Nigerian students in American universities.

He noted that thousands of Nigerians continue to study in the United States, and the embassy is excited about the growing interest in EducationUSA services across Nigeria.
The Education Fair is theme: “Empowering Future, Discover American Excellence in Education and Innovation.”
Neubert said, “We’ve seen it for decades. It’s really extraordinary. There are exceptional education systems and schools in Nigeria, including up to the university level.”
“What we have seen over the decades is that many thousands of Nigerians take advantage of overseas opportunities. They come back and work in academia, they come back and work as journalists in media, they certainly come back and work in business.”
He noted that popular courses among Nigerian students include engineering, business, law, and medicine.
He said: “We know that Nigerians hustle. The courses of study that are most interesting to Nigerian students are often engineering, business, law, medicine, and many thousands of these students graduate, and then they come back and build this country.”
Neubert outlined the process for applying to American schools, stressing the importance of planning ahead.
“The process for applying to the school of the United States, the first step is coming here today, and also looking at the resources that are available online from EducationUSA,” he advised.
“Plan ahead is critical. It’s absolutely important to plan ahead. If you wait until the last minute, that creates challenges, but if you plan ahead and ask questions, that gives the student the best chance of success.”
On scholarships, Neubert pointed out that exceptional students can access various opportunities.

“There are opportunities for scholarships. Exceptional students get to have scholarships. There are a variety of options for scholarships, and international students, students from Nigeria, enrich the experience for the entire community on campus,” he said.
Neubert also addressed concerns about the cost of studying in the US, explaining that the embassy provides resources to help students make informed decisions about financing their education.
“We’re providing resources so that students can make their own decisions of where they want to study and how they want to finance that study,” he explained.
Neubert encouraged students to stay in touch with EducationUSA Nigeria counsellors for support and guidance throughout the application process.
“The US Embassy’s EducationUSA team offers free counseling services to guide students through the application process.
Neubert urged students to responsibly maintain their student visa status, ensuring compliance with all regulations to maximize their time in the United States and bring valuable experiences back to Nigeria.
Neubert noted the long tradition of Nigerian students excelling in US institutions and making significant contributions to their communities and the world.
“As you consider your next steps, know that you are joining a long tradition of Nigerian students who have excelled in U.S. institutions and gone on to make significant contributions to their communities and the world,” he said.
The Public Diplomacy Officer expressed the US government’s pride in partnering with Nigeria to empower the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers.
“The United States is proud to partner with Nigeria in empowering the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers,” Neubert concluded, wishing attendees a successful and inspiring day at the college fair.”
US Embassy Appeals to Nigerian to Study in American Universities to Improve their Lot
National News
APC’s Future in Yobe State: Insights Ahead of the 2027 General Elections and the Case for Baba Mallam Wali as the Next Governor of Yobe State

APC’s Future in Yobe State: Insights Ahead of the 2027 General Elections and the Case for Baba Mallam Wali as the Next Governor of Yobe State
By: Yahaya Wakili
As the 2027 general elections approach, the political climate in Yobe State is becoming increasingly lively. Analysts and political commentators are closely observing the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its intentions regarding its continued dominance in the state. Since the APC established a firm foothold in Yobe, many believe the party has fostered significant loyalty among its supporters, dubbing the state a stronghold for the APC.
NEWSng reports that APC has been in power in Yobe State since 2015, following years of challenges and changes in leadership. Under the administration of Governor Mai Mala Buni, the APC has implemented various developmental projects aimed at improving the state’s infrastructure, education, and healthcare systems. These efforts have contributed to a perception among many residents that the APC is committed to the progress of Yobe.
However, political analysts are pondering whether the APC can maintain its influence in the face of emerging challenges. One major factor is the increasing dissatisfaction among some citizens regarding specific policies and governance. Issues such as unemployment, poverty, and insufficient access to basic services remain pressing concerns. As these problems persist, some voters may begin to look for alternatives to the APC, which could impact the party’s performance in the elections.
Recent elections in other states have shown that even long-standing party dominance can be challenged. For instance, the emergence of new parties and alliances has shifted traditional voting patterns. Political analysts are keenly aware of these trends and warn that complacency can hinder the APC’s efforts to secure victory in the upcoming elections.
On the other hand, the APC continues to emphasize its unity and strength within Yobe State. Party leaders assert that the ongoing development initiatives and the restoration of peace and security in the state are testament to their commitment. Also, the integration of youth and women into the party’s activities aims to engage the younger generation, whose voices will be critical during the elections.
Yobe State is divided into three senatorial districts: Yobe East Senatorial District, Zone A; Yobe South Senatorial District, Zone B; and Yobe North Senatorial District, Zone C.
Since the return of democracy in Nigeria in 1999, about 26 years ago, Yobe North Senatorial District has never produced the governor or even the deputy governor; the party didn’t give them or allow them that opportunity or chance, which is now calling for a rotation in the governance of the state. Yobe South Senatorial District produced only one governor, the late Governor Mamman B. Ali, and he didn’t even complete his first tenure; he only spent eighteen months in the seat.
Yobe East Senatorial District has been producing governors since then. So the call for APC to balance the equation, and if the party wants to continue getting acceptance from the Yobeans, the rotation formula of the governorship seat needs to be adopted if the party must continue winning without facing any challenges in the next coming elections in 2027. They should shift the governor’s seat to Yobe North Senatorial District, Zone C.
Analysts in Yobe North Senatorial District, also referred to as Zone C, have expressed their belief that Baba Mallam Wali, the current Secretary to the State Government, stands out as the most suitable candidate for the governorship of Yobe State in 2027. They argue that Wali possesses the necessary qualifications, competencies, and credibility that are vital for effective governance.
“Baba Mallam Wali has a wealth of experience that makes him a formidable candidate. As the Secretary to the State Government, he is already familiar with the workings of government and has built a strong network within the political framework of Yobe State. His current role involves overseeing various government functions, which equips him with the knowledge and skills needed to address the pressing issues facing the state,” Kabiru Umar said.
Analysts argue that this experience could lead to more efficient administration and quicker resolution of challenges, such as infrastructure development and educational reform. They also pointed out that credibility is an essential trait for any leader. Wali is viewed as a person of integrity and has gained the trust of many citizens in Yobe State. This trust is necessary for a governor who will need the support of the public to implement policies effectively.
“Baba Mallam Wali is the longest-serving SSG since the creation of Yobe State. If APC wants to win the election in 2027, let them give the governorship seat to Yobe North and pick Baba Mallam Wali mni as its candidate; the party will win one hundred percent (100%) without any challenge. This is because Baba Mallam Wali mni has the capacity and the vast experience in administration, and everybody in Yobe State knows that Baba Mallam Wali mni is capable of handling and governing the state in 2027. I know if the mandate is given to him, definitely APC will win the seat easily in the 2027 general elections, inshallah,” Abubakar Imam, a political analyst, observed.
In recent years, the importance of integrity in leadership has been highlighted across Nigeria, as communities yearn for leaders who will prioritize their needs above personal gain. Wali’s reputation positions him as a candidate who can work for the people’s best interests, making him a viable option for the position.
Additionally, Wali’s commitment to community development has not gone unnoticed. He has been involved in various initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents in Yobe State. He has demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges that local populations face. His vision for the future of Yobe State aligns with the aspirations of many citizens who are looking for transformative leadership that prioritizes social welfare.
The arguments put forth by analysts regarding Baba Mallam Wali’s candidacy for the governorship of Yobe State in 2027 highlight his qualifications, credibility, and commitment to community development. As the state continues to navigate various challenges, it is crucial to have a leader who is prepared and capable of making informed decisions.
” The current Secretary to the State Government, Baba Mallam Wali mni work with His Excellency, the Honourable Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Geidam for almost good eight years, they take Yobe state to the greater height and they bring a lot of developmental projects in Yobe state and now he is the current Secretary to the State Government of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Yobe state, Hon. Dr Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN, Chiroman Gujba and everybody has witnessed the rapid development they bring to Yobe state and see how they turn Yobe state to a semi London and all these gigantic development which executed by the government of His Excellency, the Executive Governor, Hon. Dr Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN Chiroman Gujba with the support and cooperation of Baba Mallam Wali.” Ibrahim Hassan said.
“Therefore, with these great developments that Yobe State has witnessed under Senator Ibrahim Geidam’s administration and the current governor, His Excellency, the Executive Governor, Hon. Dr. Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN, Chiroman Gujba, Yobe State needs people like Baba Mallam Wali mni to replace Governor Hon. Dr. Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN, Chiroman Gujba in 2027, because of his competence and capacity as well as his long experience, his credibility, his honesty, and his dedication to work. Baba Mallam Wali MNI extends his heartfelt congratulations to their Excellencies, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima GCON, and Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Geidam, on their birthday anniversaries.” He added
NEWSng reports that Baba Wali’s experience as the secretary to the state government and his dedication to serving the people of Yobe State position him as a strong candidate worthy of leadership in the upcoming elections in 2027.
APC’s Future in Yobe State: Insights Ahead of the 2027 General Elections and the Case for Baba Mallam Wali as the Next Governor of Yobe State
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