National News
Obasanjo, Sultan advises National Assembly to revisit rejected gender bills
Obasanjo, Sultan advises National Assembly to revisit rejected gender bills
By: Michael Mike
Former Nigeria’s President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar has supported the ongoing call for the revisit of the gender bills rejected by the National Assembly.
Speaking at the UN Women Officially Launch of New Women’s Political Participation project and Advocates for the Gender Bills in Abuja on Thursday night, both leaders said the bills would further the development plans of Nigeria and should be supported by all and sundry.
Obasanjo, who was represented by the Iyalode of Egbaland, Chief Alaba Lawson at the occasion said Nigeria as a regional and global leader has a standard of setting role to demonstrate democracy and good governance and this must not be jettisoned.
The former president added that: “Sadly today Nigeria has the lowest representation of women in elected office in Africa, under 5 percent in national and state assemblies and this is contrary to African Union standard prescription which is 50/50 representation of women and men in political office.
“The ongoing constitutional review process is an opportunity to revisit this and remove the gender based discrimination that impede women and girls from accessing and enjoying their full rights as citizens in Nigeria.”
He insisted that the five gender amendments proposed in the constitution are very pertinent and should be supported by not only the lawmakers but all Nigerian who want the country not only to maintain it’s position as a regional and continental leader but also want development for Nigeria.
He said this bills will raise a more level playing field for women to participate in politics and public life, noting that: “Nigeria needs all hands on deck for this deep seated development challenges. Evidence confirms that increase women participation in the political sphere and leadership helps build safer and more stable society, and when women are in decision making position more inclusive and innovative decisions are made.”
Lawson said on her part she would want to add that women are not competing with men but rather want to cooperate and collaborate with men to ensure things are working well.
The Sultan of Sokoto who was represented by the Emir of Keffi, Alhaji Shehu Yamusa III said the Holy Koran granted women and girls rights and also outlaw cruel and unlawful practices against them.
He said there are verses in the Holy Koran and in the books of the Prophets that guarantee rights for women. He emphasized that in the Holy books women are seen as partners to men.
The Sultan, who is the spiritual head of Muslim in the country also noted that this partnership is above matrimonial and extend to the public sphere.
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To buttress his point, he said “one of the longest chapters in the Holy Koran is dedicated to issues of women and girls”, asking “why not in Nigerian constitution?”
He said: “I am calling on members of the Senate and the House of Representatives including the general public to support the bills for they are in our interest and the interest of our country.”
Earlier in her welcome address, the UN Women Country Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms. Comfort Lamptey, said the SDG Goal 5.5 on promoting gender equality is to: “Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic and public life”; requires Member States to ensure implementation and achievement of the set targets of this goal by the set deadline of 2030. Nigeria is signatory to the Sustainable Development Goals and UN Women as part of the United Nations stands resolutely behind Nigeria towards fulfilling the 2030 agenda.”
Lamptey noted that: “The objective of the ADVANCE project is to strengthen Nigerian women’s inclusion and representation in decision-making and public life. Building on the groundwork laid by UN Women and partners in support of legislative reforms, including the constitutional review process, the program will intensify efforts to pass gender-progressive legislation and strengthen the capacities of women aspirants, candidates, as well as women elected to political office. The project will further apply lessons learned from previous political and electoral cycles, to support effective coordination among multiple stakeholders and partners to enhance this work agenda.”
She said: “Recognizing the breadth of Nigeria as a nation and the need to ensure all women and girls are actively engaged in decision-making, particularly as we approach the 2023 elections, the project focuses on six target states: Borno, Cross River, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Kaduna, Kwara as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
“The significance and timeliness of this program cannot be understated. Nigeria has a standard setting role to play as a leading democracy in Africa. This means that half of its population must have an equal voice in steering this country toward economic, political, and social stability.”
She lamented that: “As it stands, and despite the tireless efforts of women and some critical male allies, Nigeria lags severely behind other African nations for women’s representation in democratic governance. Nigerian women constitute less than 5% of elected members at the National Assembly. In State Assemblies, the figure is 4.43% and for ministerial appointments it stands at 16.2%.”
She said: “The action taken by the House of Representatives under the leadership of the Speaker of the House, to rescind its decision on three gender-related bills is the correct course of action. The bills in question are around: citizenship, indigeneship and, as it relates directly to women’s representation, the bill on affirmative action.”
Lamptey noted that: “Indeed, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Tunisia and Senegal have all adopted constitutions and other national laws that provide for equal rights and opportunities, including the Special Seats or Proportional Representation System.”
Obasanjo, Sultan advises National Assembly to revisit rejected gender bills
National News
Nigeria: Over 740 civilians killed in ten states between 2015 and 2025—Reports
Nigeria: Over 740 civilians killed in ten states between 2015 and 2025—Reports
By: Our Reporter
Data obtained from daily reports indicates that over 740,000 civilians have been killed across ten Nigerian states between 2015 and 2025, according to an extensive analysis conducted by News Net Global Limited from reported cases in three national newspapers: The Daily Trust, Leadership Newspapers, and Daily Post Nigeria.
This staggering figure underscores the severity of violence primarily driven by Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, and other armed attacks affecting states such as Borno, Benue, Taraba, Plateau, Kaduna, Niger, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Katsina in northeast, north-central, and northwest Nigeria.
The persistence of these violent activities has not only resulted in a high death toll but also contributed to widespread displacement and socio-economic destabilization within these regions.
Despite government efforts to curb the violence, criticism remains regarding the effectiveness of security measures implemented during this period.
The complexity of the conflict is further compounded by military actions such as airstrikes that have inadvertently caused civilian casualties, raising questions about operational accountability and humanitarian consequences.
As these challenges persist, there is a pressing need for comprehensive strategies that prioritize the protection of civilians and address the root causes of insecurity in affected regions.
Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that incorporates enhanced intelligence gathering, community engagement, and collaboration with international partners to effectively dismantle the networks of armed groups and restore stability in the regions.
The involvement of local communities in peace-building initiatives has been identified as a crucial element in mitigating violence and fostering long-term stability. The integration of conflict resolution frameworks that emphasize dialogue and reconciliation is essential to bridging the gap between communities and fostering an environment conducive to sustainable peace.
To effectively address these multifaceted issues, it is imperative for both national and international stakeholders to foster collaborative efforts that enhance security frameworks and prioritize the well-being of affected populations.
Strengthening governance structures and promoting transparency in military operations are also vital to rebuilding trust between the government and its citizens.
To address the widespread violence effectively, it is crucial to implement policies that not only enhance military precision and accountability but also focus on socioeconomic development initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty and providing education as a means to deter youth from joining armed groups.
Addressing the root causes of insecurity, such as poverty and lack of education, is paramount in curbing the recruitment of youths into armed groups and fostering a more peaceful society.
Furthermore, the integration of community-based peacebuilding initiatives and grassroots advocacy can play a pivotal role in empowering local populations to actively participate in creating solutions that address their unique security concerns.
Also, by fostering collaboration between governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international partners, Nigeria can develop a comprehensive strategy that not only addresses immediate security threats but also promotes long-term stability and resilience within affected communities.
It was observed that investing in education and economic development programs can also provide alternative pathways for youth, reducing the allure of joining armed groups and contributing to a more peaceful and prosperous society.
Dialogue between conflicting communities and strengthening local governance structures can enhance peacebuilding efforts, ensuring that the root causes of conflict are addressed effectively.
This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms and increased accountability measures to protect vulnerable communities and prevent further loss of life.
To effectively address these challenges, it is crucial for the Nigerian government to implement robust security reforms and enhance accountability mechanisms, ensuring that both state and non-state actors are held accountable for their actions.
Also, bolstering the judicial system to ensure swift and fair trials for those implicated in acts of violence can deter future atrocities and reinforce public trust in the rule of law. Additionally, fostering stronger collaboration with international human rights organizations can help monitor and report on human rights abuses, ensuring that global attention remains focused on these issues and prompting necessary interventions.
Similarly, investing in community-based early warning systems can empower local populations to identify and report potential threats, facilitating timely interventions and potentially saving lives.
Also, integrating community policing initiatives can foster trust between law enforcement and local communities, creating a more inclusive approach to security that prioritizes the protection of civilians.
Nigeria: Over 740 civilians killed in ten states between 2015 and 2025—Reports
National News
FG To Invest $220m In Creating Job Opportunities For Young Nigerians
FG To Invest $220m In Creating Job Opportunities For Young Nigerians
*We’re bridging transition gap between learning and earning for thousands of graduates, says VP Shettima
By: Our Reporter
The Nigerian government has concluded plans to invest $220 million in creating employment opportunities for young Nigerians.
The initiative is to be spearheaded in collaboration with the European Union (EU) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the second phase of the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) 2.0 aimed at connecting high-potential graduates with real-world work experience, training, and mentorship.

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, who disclosed on Wednesday when he formally flagged off the NJFP at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, said the goal is “to bridge the transition gap between learning and earning for thousands of young Nigerians; graduates who have the education, but not always the opportunity.”
According to him, this will translate the nation’s demographic strength “into productive economic power, proving that when government provides structure, partnership, and purpose, young Nigerians rise to the occasion.”
The VP noted that while the NJFP is a Nigerian programme shaped by national priorities and guided by the nation’s sense of purpose, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is determined to deepen the ownership by embedding the programme into government’s national planning and budgeting frameworks.
He stated: “This government will do its part — by ensuring that our financial commitment to the programme reflects our belief in its transformative potential. But national ownership must also mean national participation.

“As we launch NJFP 2.0 today, I call on our partners — from the private sector, the development community, and the donor ecosystem — to join us in building the NJFP Basket Fund, a sustainable financing mechanism to secure the programme’s future.
“Our immediate goal is to raise $220 million, not as charity, but as an investment in the nation’s most valuable asset: our young people.”
VP Shettima implored the EU, the UNDP and other partners to consider the flag-off of the programme as an opportunity to prove that “youth employment is not just a policy priority but a shared responsibility.”
He observed that when resources are pooled and intentions are aligned in the course of building together, a multiplier effect is created that benefits the nation’s economy.
The Vice President acknowledged the contributions of the EU and the UNDP, noting that their belief in Nigeria’s youth has demonstrated what could be achieved through collaboration.
He said it was now time for Nigeria, through its public institutions, private sector champions, and philanthropic community to lead from the front, even as he maintained that inclusivity is key to driving the process.
His words: “As we scale NJFP 2.0, inclusivity remains at the heart of our design. We recognise that our young people are not a single story. They live in different realities, across regions, genders, and social backgrounds.
“Therefore, this next phase will intentionally reach every corner of the country, aligning placements with the sectors that will define our economic future: agriculture, renewable energy, digital technology, manufacturing, and the creative industries.”
Senator Shettima expressed hope that the second phase of the NJFP would turn out to be a success story “of how Nigeria turned its demographic advantage into a generation of productive citizens — creating jobs, building enterprises, and shaping the future of our great nation.

“The task before us is both serious and inspiring. The young Nigerians we seek to serve are not asking for handouts — only for a fair system that recognises effort, rewards merit, and provides opportunity. They are ready to build if we are ready to back them,” he added.
For his part, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, described the NJFP 2.0 as a continuation of the federal government’s success in youth empowerment.
He noted that since the programme began in 2021, it has helped over 13,000 youths to gain skills, assuring that the initiative will build on its progress and achieve its long-term goal of placing 100,000 youths in jobs within five years.
In her welcome address, the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Nigeria, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, said the generous funding from the European Union and implementation support from the UNDP, over the years, are aimed at connecting potential to opportunity.
She noted that the vision behind the NJFP has come to light, resulting in over 40,000 Nigerians being placed in various economic sectors.
She stressed that millions of Nigerians need the NJFP platform to thrive in today’s economy.
Also, the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Gauthier Mignot, said the EU was looking forward to seeing the NJFP 2.0 programme integrated into Nigeria’s governance agenda to ensure its sustainability.
Delivering the keynote address titled “Building a National Workforce for the Future,” the CEO of Sterling Bank, Abubakar Suleiman, emphasized that millions of Nigerians can perform the jobs currently being outsourced to foreign companies if they are given the right opportunities, such as those provided under the NJFP programme.
He urged relevant authorities and stakeholders not to ignore the millions of Nigerians who, without support, may never transition from graduates to gainful employment.
FG To Invest $220m In Creating Job Opportunities For Young Nigerians
National News
CAIDOV Calls on NBA to Take Action Against Nnamdi Kanu’s Lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, Over Professional Misconduct
CAIDOV Calls on NBA to Take Action Against Nnamdi Kanu’s Lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, Over Professional Misconduct
By: Michael Mike
The Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence (CAIDOV) has called on the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to take immediate disciplinary action against Mr. Aloy Ejimakor, counsel to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, for alleged professional misconduct relating to his participation in the recent “Free Nnamdi Kanu” protest in Abuja.
In a statement signed by the group’s Executive Director, Comrade Gbenga Soloki, CAIDOV condemned the lawyer’s appearance and participation at the protest ground, describing it as a clear breach of professional ethics and a violation of the Rules of Professional Conduct (RPC) for Legal Practitioners 2023, particularly Rule 33, which deals with sub judice statements.
Soloki said, according to the rule: “A lawyer or law firm engaged in or associated with the prosecution or defence of a criminal matter, or associated with a civil action shall not, while litigation is anticipated or pending in the matter, make or participate in making any extra-judicial statement that is calculated to prejudice or interfere with, or is reasonably capable of prejudicing or interfering with, the fair trial of the matter or the judgment or sentence.”
He stated that by joining a public protest concerning a case he is directly handling, Ejimakor acted in a manner that could influence public perception and potentially compromise the impartiality of the court.
“The law expects that lawyers argue their cases in court, not on the streets, in protest grounds, or on media platforms. Mr. Ejimakor’s participation in the protest is tantamount to trying to sway public opinion and, by extension, the court’s view on a matter still under adjudication,” he said in the statement.
He further emphasised that the legal profession demands discipline, restraint, and respect for judicial processes, warning that “emotions must never override ethics.”
“This act by Mr. Ejimakor amounts to professional misconduct. The law is not emotional, and every lawyer is bound by its standards, regardless of who their client is,” he added.
CAIDOV therefore urged the law enforcement agencies to investigate the lawyer’s actions to determine if his involvement in the protest constituted a breach of national security or contempt of court.
Similarly, the group called on the Nigerian Bar Association’s Disciplinary Committee to review Ejimakor’s conduct and impose appropriate sanctions to preserve the integrity and credibility of the legal profession.
“Mr. Ejimakor made a very big mistake by publicly protesting for a client in a case he is handling. The NBA must take swift disciplinary measures to send a clear message that professional ethics cannot be compromised,” the group said.
CAIDOV Calls on NBA to Take Action Against Nnamdi Kanu’s Lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, Over Professional Misconduct
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