The Nigerian military has issued a strong warning regarding the upcoming nationwide protest against economic hardship. Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, expressed concerns that some elements are planning to hijack the protest and turn it into a violent event. This potential for violence could harm innocent Nigerians and their businesses.

General Buba cautioned that while citizens have the right to peaceful protest, the military will not tolerate any form of violence or anarchy. He compared the potential situation to recent violent protests in Kenya, emphasizing that the military will not allow such chaos to unfold in Nigeria. The General also highlighted the severe consequences of war and anarchy, drawing from the military’s experiences in peacekeeping missions.

In response to the planned protests, President Bola Tinubu, state governors, and the APC have urged Nigerians to reconsider participating. The protest, dubbed ‘EndBadGovernance,’ is scheduled to take place across Nigeria and the FCT in August, and is driven by widespread discontent over economic issues such as the removal of the petrol subsidy and unification of forex windows, which have led to soaring prices of essential goods.

Chief Gbenga Eleduma, a prominent APC chieftain, has praised Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for approving an additional ₦2 billion in intervention funds aimed at enhancing food security and alleviating economic hardships in the state. Eleduma highlighted that the governor’s initiatives have significantly benefited farmers and residents, ensuring continued food supply amid current challenges.

Eleduma described Aiyedatiwa’s leadership as people-centered and development-oriented, urging other leaders and well-to-do Nigerians to follow his example. He also encouraged the people of Ondo State to re-elect Aiyedatiwa in the upcoming November 16 governorship election, promising more developmental programs if he is granted another term.

The intervention funds are part of Aiyedatiwa’s broader efforts to support the state’s economy and agricultural sector, reflecting his commitment to addressing the needs of the people.

Filmmakers and industry stakeholders have urged the Federal Government to retain the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) despite plans to dissolve it as outlined in the Oronsaye Report. They argue that the NFVCB plays a crucial role in regulating Nigeria’s film industry, Nollywood, which is a significant contributor to the national economy and a major employer of labor.

Veteran filmmaker Paul Apel-Papel emphasized the board’s role in maintaining the industry’s standards and advocated for its continued existence, even suggesting the establishment of a dedicated ministry for Nollywood. He highlighted the board’s importance in fostering the industry’s growth and promoting Nigeria’s image globally.

Habib Mohammed, National President of the Motion Picture Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MOPPAN), expressed concerns that merging the board into a ministry would set back the industry’s progress. He urged policymakers and the National Assembly to ensure the board retains its independent statutory position.

Emeke Aduah, acting President of the Film Video Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria (FVPMAN), warned that dissolving the board could lead to increased piracy and a surge of illicit films, jeopardizing the industry’s integrity and investment.

The recent directive by George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, to dissolve the NFVCB and subsume it within the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, has faced backlash. Stakeholders argue that such a move should follow a legal process, including the repeal of the act that established the board. The Nigerian Senate has also called for a halt to the dissolution process, citing legal concerns.

The NFVCB, established by Act No.85 of 1993 (amended in 2004), is responsible for regulating the film and video industry in Nigeria, including classification and registration of films and video outlets.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has appointed Ojukaye Flag-Amachree to its campaign council for the upcoming governorship election in Edo State. This appointment, confirmed by a letter from the APC’s National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Muhammad Argungu, recognizes Flag-Amachree’s long-standing commitment to the party and his impressive political track record.

Flag-Amachree, a former political associate of Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has aligned himself with the political camp of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. His appointment is expected to harness his extensive experience in political campaigns and elections to secure a win for the APC’s candidate in Edo State.

The letter from the APC emphasizes Flag-Amachree’s role in leveraging his political acumen and influence to ensure a successful campaign.

Notably, Flag-Amachree has faced legal challenges in the past, including murder charges related to the 2015 general elections in Buguma, Rivers State. However, he has since been cleared by the court.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Kano State secured the conviction of 22 drug dealers in July 2024, marking a significant victory in its ongoing battle against drug trafficking and abuse. Kano NDLEA Commander Abubakar Idris-Ahmad disclosed this achievement while briefing journalists on Thursday.

Among the convicted individuals, Abubakar Mu’azu’s arrest was particularly notable due to a violent incident where he stabbed an NDLEA officer. Mu’azu was sentenced to three years in a correctional facility, while the other convicts received various prison terms. Idris-Ahmad highlighted that Mu’azu was found with multiple illicit substances at the time of his arrest.

Idris-Ahmad reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and abuse, emphasizing that their efforts would not be deterred by intimidation or violence. He commended the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, retired Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Buba-Marwa, for his steadfast support in this fight.

“Our operatives are trained professionals who will stop at nothing to ensure that those who engage in drug-related offences face the full wrath of the law,” Idris-Ahmad stated.

He also called for public support, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to drug abuse and trafficking to the NDLEA.

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has urged residents not to partake in the planned protest over hunger and insecurity, slated to begin on August 1. During an inspection of the ongoing construction of Saburi Road in Abuja, Wike emphasized that the current hardships are temporary and assured that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is working diligently to address these issues.

Wike characterized the protest as a politically motivated effort to destabilize Tinubu’s administration, asserting that those promoting it are not acting in the best interests of Nigeria or its citizens. He appealed for patience, highlighting that the government’s ongoing reforms and policies will soon yield positive results.

“The government is aware of the hunger and that is why it is working hard to find a lasting solution to the problem. I know that hunger makes people lose patience. Please be patient. That is all I am asking. This hunger will reduce very soon,” Wike said.

In response to residents’ requests for a police station and health facility in Saburi, Wike assured them of the government’s commitment to addressing their needs. He promised the construction of a police station, while Christopher Maikalangu, Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council, pledged to construct a health facility. Wike also assured the community that the road project would be completed as scheduled, noting that work has been continuous since its commencement.

Mixed reactions continue to trail the planned nationwide protest called by some unnamed groups over the current hardship in Nigeria. The protest, scheduled for August 1, has generated diverse opinions across the country, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

In Ibadan, some respondents opposed the protest, citing potential disruptions to daily activities and the risk of criminal activities. Toyin Olutimilehin, a civil servant, expressed concerns about the protest affecting work schedules and causing traffic obstructions. Folarin Babatunde, another civil servant, argued that the protest might serve as an excuse for youths to exhibit their presence and for criminals to engage in unlawful activities. He highlighted the risks of vandalism and property destruction, questioning the effectiveness of protests in solving the country’s issues.

Similarly, Olanrewaju Temitope, a trader, worried about the impact of the protest on her business. She feared potential looting and property damage, which could affect her income and ability to pay rent. She urged Nigerians to reconsider the protest, believing it would not solve their problems.

On the other hand, some individuals supported the protest, viewing it as a legitimate means to voice grievances. Ifeanyi Eze, a youth corps member, supported the protest wholeheartedly, emphasizing the need for the country to address the distress and hardship faced by its citizens. He believed the protest would at least draw attention to the demand for change.

Steven Ayobami, a passerby, also supported the protest due to the economic hardship affecting middle-class and poor families. He highlighted the growing disparity between the rich and the poor and called for action to achieve a better life for Nigerians.

As opinions remain divided, the outcome of the planned protest and its impact on the nation’s socio-economic landscape remain to be seen.

The Progressives Governors’ Forum (PGF) has urged Nigerians to remain patient as President Bola Tinubu’s reforms face initial challenges. Following a closed-door meeting on Wednesday night, the governors, elected on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform, expressed optimism about the country’s future despite current economic difficulties.

Addressing journalists, PGF Chairman and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma acknowledged the teething problems associated with the government’s new policies but assured the nation that these measures would eventually lead to prosperity.

“We have looked at the various policies of this government, and we acknowledge a teething problem associated with the initial stage of the programme. We agree that because we are very hopeful, it is also the solution to the current problem and economic hardship that has befallen our country,” Uzodimma said.

Governor Uzodimma appealed to Nigerian youths to refrain from participating in planned demonstrations, urging them to give the government a chance to address the nation’s issues. He emphasised the importance of unity and patriotism, stating, “We use this opportunity to advise our young boys and girls, young men and women, to desist from being instigated into causing crisis or chaos in the country.”

Highlighting the suffering Nigerians have already endured due to the global economic recession, insecurity, and political tension, Uzodimma called for support for the government’s efforts. “Our citizens must take ownership of this country. We have no other country we can call our own. We took the opportunity also to agree to explain to the larger Nigerians that this government is doing well,” he added.

The governors reiterated their call for patience and support, assuring the public that with these, the nation’s economic situation will improve and bring about the desired prosperity.

Women groups and supporters of Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume from the Southern Borno Senatorial District have vowed to stage a naked protest at the National Assembly. This action comes in response to Ndume’s removal as Chief Whip and Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation, following his critical remarks about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which he described as plagued by hunger and insecurity.

The Coordinators from each of the 101 Wards across the nine Local Government Areas—Biu, Hawul, Bayo, Shani, Gwoza, Chibok, Kwaya Kusar, Askira-Uba, and Damboa—gathered at Ndume’s residence in Maiduguri on Thursday, July 25, to express their solidarity. Mrs. Mada Musa from Damboa condemned the government’s actions, stating, “Instead of addressing the current economic hardships and rampant insecurity, the government teamed up with the APC and the Senate Caucus to unconstitutionally and unconditionally remove Ndume from his position.” She emphasized Ndume’s commitment to representing the people and urged him to continue speaking out against corruption, unemployment, and detrimental policies of the current administration.

Pastor Moni Mushari, speaking on behalf of the Ward Coordinators, quoted John 8:31, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” He affirmed the group’s unwavering support for Ndume, praising his truthfulness and dedication to the people of Southern Borno.

In response, Senator Ndume expressed profound gratitude for the visit, acknowledging the importance of their support and urging his supporters to remain calm and law-abiding. He also acknowledged the recent approval of a N70,000 minimum wage by President Tinubu but pointed out the challenges it presents, equating it to the cost of a bag of rice or maize. Despite calls from the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) to leave, Ndume reiterated his loyalty to the APC, stating, “I am one of the founding members of the APC, and wherever our Leader, Governor Zulum, is, that is where I belong.” Ndume called for continued support and cooperation from his constituency to help the current administration succeed in its efforts.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled September 24 to hear two motions filed by the Edo Government and the House of Assembly challenging the reinstatement of Philip Shaibu as Deputy Governor of Edo State. These motions, filed by the state’s Attorney General, Oluwole Iyamu, SAN, and the House of Assembly’s lawyer, Ken Mozia, SAN, seek to stay the execution of the July 17 judgment that reinstated Shaibu and restrain him from assuming his duties pending the outcome of their appeal.

The motions argue that the appeal raises significant and arguable grounds, particularly concerning the court’s jurisdiction over the matter. The applicants contend that allowing Shaibu to resume his role could disrupt the state’s government operations, especially given his recent public support for the rival All Progressives Congress (APC).

Justice James Omotosho had previously ruled on July 17 that Shaibu’s impeachment was void due to non-compliance with due process by the House of Assembly. Shaibu had sued the Inspector-General of Police, the Deputy Governor of Edo, the Attorney General, the Chief Judge of Edo, the Speaker of the Edo House of Assembly, and the Edo State House of Assembly.

The applicants argue that their right to appeal would be stifled without the court’s intervention and assert that monetary damages could adequately compensate Shaibu if the application is later found unwarranted.

In response to rising tensions and the threat of a nationwide protest, President Bola Tinubu and governors from the All Progressives Congress (APC) are engaged in an emergency meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. This closed-door session aims to develop strategies to address the concerns of protest leaders and seek a peaceful resolution.

The potential protest has prompted swift government action to alleviate the dissatisfaction among Nigerians. President Tinubu has urged those planning the protest to reconsider and wait for the government’s response to their grievances. He has emphasized his administration’s commitment to addressing the public’s concerns.

Following a confidential session of the Progressives Governors’ Forum (PGF) in Abuja, the forum’s chairman, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, announced plans to invite protest organizers to a dialogue. The goal is to understand and address their issues.

“We don’t know what they are protesting for. We invite all of them to sit down with us in a room so we can discuss and agree on the issues, what they are, and proffer solutions,” Uzodimma said. He highlighted the forum’s dedication to national unity and improving the living standards of Nigerians, including creating jobs for graduates.

Governors arriving at the Villa included Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Uba Sani (Kaduna), and Bassey Otu (Cross River), who were promptly ushered into the President’s office. The outcome of this critical meeting is being closely watched by the nation, hoping for resolutions that will prevent further unrest.

The Abuja International Carnival, a celebration showcasing Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, is set to return after an eight-year hiatus. Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, officially unveiled the logo of the rebranded carnival at a ceremony in Abuja. The event, organized by the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy (FMACCE) in collaboration with Yankee Entertainment, will be held from November 21 to 23 in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

In her speech, Musawa emphasized that the carnival aligns with the Ministry’s goals of promoting cultural diversity and supporting the creative economy. She highlighted that the carnival would serve as a platform to showcase Nigeria’s cultural heritage, promote national cohesion, and boost the country’s international profile.

“The Abuja International Carnival aims to boost cultural tourism and enhance Nigeria’s international profile and foster national unity, boost international culture promotion and create economic opportunities for local artists and entrepreneurs,” Musawa stated. She also emphasized the need to create sustainable events that attract investments and tourism, continuing the legacy of the Abuja Carnival started by the former administration.

Kehinde Adegbite, Managing Director and CEO of Yankee Entertainment, mentioned that the rebranded carnival would display Nigeria’s cultural diversity and creativity to a global audience. The carnival will feature various activities, including floats and street shows, musical concerts, traditional food competitions, a boat regatta, Durbar, children’s fiesta, and art exhibitions.

Adegbite reflected on the carnival’s history, created in 2005 by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and its pause in 2016. He expressed confidence that the rebranded carnival would be bigger and better, meeting international standards, hence the name change to the Abuja International Carnival. “The carnival belongs to all of us, it is our pride, and no matter where you go in the world, you still carry a green passport which shows that you are a Nigerian,” he added.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by notable figures from the public and private sectors, including Sen. Ben Murray-Bruce, Ayodele Olawande (Minister of State for Youth Development), Ben Igweh (FCT Commissioner of Police), and Uche Nwosu (former Governorship Aspirant in Imo State). The event also featured performances by various artists, including the renowned Nigerian R&B and pop musical group Styl-Plus.

The Benue Government has begun distributing food palliatives donated by the Federal Government through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to assist the state’s most vulnerable citizens. The distribution includes 17,940 bags of maize (50kg each) and 4,132 bags of garri (25kg each), allocated to the 276 council wards in the state. Each ward will receive 65 bags of maize and 15 bags of garri.

During the distribution ceremony in Makurdi, James Iorpuu, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), emphasized the importance of fair and efficient distribution. He outlined that the palliatives are specifically intended for widows, orphanage homes, the elderly (65 years and above), government schools (particularly boarding schools), religious bodies, and the physically challenged across all council wards.

Iorpuu detailed the systematic distribution plan:

• Zone A: Distribution begins on July 25, 2024
• Zone B: Distribution on July 26, 2024
• Zone C: Distribution on July 27, 2024

Local governments that miss their designated day will have to wait until the mop-up day on Sunday, July 28, 2024. He urged the Local Government Chairmen to ensure transparency throughout the distribution process to uphold fairness and efficiency.

Iorpuu also praised Governor Hyacinth Alia for his dedication to humanitarian efforts and leadership in addressing the needs of the people during difficult times. He announced that an additional set of palliatives from the Governors Forum would be distributed to all citizens the following week.

The House Committee on Aviation recently questioned Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, about the deteriorating infrastructure at Nigeria’s local and international airports. During an interface meeting in Abuja, Rep. Abdullah Garba, Chairman of the House Committee, highlighted the pressing need for government intervention to address the problematic state of airport infrastructures. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of personnel and stakeholders at the nation’s airports and stated that the committee’s major assignment is to identify the equipment and other necessities required to revitalize the aviation sector.

Minister Keyamo acknowledged the severe infrastructural decay at the airports, describing it as a significant concern for the ministry. He mentioned that the ministry is conducting a safety assessment within the industry and an international audit by the International Civil Aviation Authority (ICAO) to address these issues. Keyamo assured the House Committee that the ministry is compiling a list of requirements and equipment upgrades needed to meet international safety standards at all the nation’s airports.

Regarding the award of contracts by the ministry, Keyamo informed the committee that most of these contracts are for ongoing projects. Following the public session, the House Committee Chairman and other stakeholders moved into an executive session to further address the issues raised.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reduced the allowances for Nigerian students studying in Moscow, Russia, due to ongoing economic challenges. This decision was announced in a letter dated July 23, 2024, issued to the scholars’ association by the Federal Scholarship Board under the Federal Ministry of Education.

The letter, signed by Ndajiwo H.A., the Director of the Federal Scholarship Board, on behalf of the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, is titled, “FG slashes allowances of Nigerian foreign scholars over hardship.”

The reductions are as follows:
– **Monthly Allowance**: Reduced from $500 to $220
– **Graduation Allowance**: Reduced from $2,500 to $2,000
– **Postgraduate Research Allowance**: Reduced from $1,000 to $500

Previously, each student was paid $5,650, but with the new adjustments, they will receive $4,370 per scholar. However, allowances for health insurance ($200), pilot allowance ($700), and medical allowance ($500) remain unchanged.

The letter states, “The Scholars’ Association is hereby notified that due to the prevailing economic situation, the payment mandate for the BEA scholars’ allowances will be as per the new adjustment.” It also mentions that the balances for the years 2023 and 2024 owed to scholars will be paid as soon as funds are available.

This situation has left students facing significant financial strain, as they have reportedly not been paid for nearly eight months. The scholars, studying under the Federal Government’s Bilateral Educational Agreement Scholarship, are stranded due to the delay in receiving funds.

In November 2023, about 179 Nigerians were awarded scholarships to study different programs in Russia. The recent cuts have added to the financial difficulties these students are already enduring.

Reports indicate that various Nigerian groups are planning a nationwide protest between August 1 and 10 to address the country’s rising cost of living and economic hardship.

In response to these planned protests, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, is currently holding a closed-door meeting with ministers regarding the proposed ‘EndBadGovernance’ nationwide protest. Sources reveal that over 40 ministers in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet attended the meeting.

This situation has led to police and other security agencies being placed on high alert in anticipation of the protests.

President Bola Tinubu has previously urged protesters to cancel next month’s planned ‘EndBadGovernance’ demonstration. Despite his appeal, the planned protests have garnered significant attention and support due to the increasing economic challenges faced by many Nigerians.

Ministers spotted at the meeting include Nyesom Wike (FCT), Yusuf Tuggar (Foreign Affairs), Zephaniah Jisalo (Special Duties), Tahir Mamman (Education), Abubakar Bagudu (Budget and Planning), Wale Edun (Finance), Mohammed Idris (Information), Bello Matawalle (Defence), David Umahi (Works), and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, among others.

The government’s response to these planned protests will be closely watched as the nation navigates these challenging times.

Senator Ifeanyi Ubah has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the Southeast Development Commission Bill into law. This bill is a significant step towards addressing longstanding developmental challenges and fostering regional unity in the Southeast.

“The passage of this bill marks the culmination of the Southeast’s tireless efforts, as championed by me and other lawmakers, to establish a development commission that will address the region’s critical needs,” Senator Ubah stated.

The Southeast Development Commission will manage funds allocated from the Federation Account for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses, and other infrastructure damaged during the civil war. It will also tackle ecological problems and other environmental or developmental challenges in Abia, Imo, Enugu, Anambra, and Ebonyi states.

Ubah’s commendation of President Tinubu underscores the importance of the President’s commitment to the region. This new law reverses the previous administration’s denial of assent, which had reinforced feelings of injustice and hindered the progress of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Southeast.

Ubah re-presented the bill to the Senate on October 4, 2023, after it was initially denied assent by the former administration. At that time, he emphasized the bill’s aim to establish a commission focused on the development of the historically marginalized Southeast region, which has faced various challenges in terms of infrastructure, healthcare, and economic development.

Senator Ubah’s appreciation reflects the collective gratitude of the Southeast people, who eagerly anticipate the positive impact of this development commission on their region’s growth and prosperity.