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Federal Government Shuts Down 41 Unity Schools as Student Kidnappings Surge Across Nigeria

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The Federal Government has closed 41 unity schools nationwide following a sharp increase in student abductions, raising fresh concerns about school safety in Nigeria. Education Minister Tunji Alausa approved the immediate shutdown after consulting with security agencies, according to a Friday directive from Binta Abdulkadir, Director of Senior Secondary Education at the Federal Ministry of Education. The closure affects schools in high-risk states where bandits have intensified attacks on learning institutions. Principals received orders to shut down operations immediately to protect students and teachers from potential kidnappings. Recent incidents pushed authorities to act. Last week, bandits abducted students from St. Mary’s School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State. Days before that, 25 students were kidnapped in Maga, Kebbi State. Kwara State authorities had already closed over 50 schools on Thursday after bandits raided communities near several learning centers. The 41 affected schools span across northern and north-central Nigeria: Kaduna & Kano: FGGC Zaria, FGA Suleja, FGC Daura, FGGC Minjibir, FTC Ganduve, FTC Kafancha Sokoto & Zamfara: FSC Sokoto, FTC Wurno, FGGC Tambuwal, FGC Gusau, FGC Anka, FGGC Gwandu Kebbi & Jigawa: FGC Birnin Yauri, FTC Zuru, FGGC Kazaure, FGC Kiyawa, FTC Hadejia Niger & Kwara: FGGC Bida, FGC New Bussa, FTC Kuta-Shiroro, FGC Ilorin, FGGC Omu-Aran, FTC Gwanara Kogi: FGC Ugwolawo, FGGC Kabba, FTC Ogugu FCT: FGGC Bwari, FGC Rubochi, FGGC Abaji Yobe & Adamawa: FGGC Potiskum, FGC Buni Yadi, FTC Gashau, FTC Michika, FGC Ganye Bauchi & Gombe: FGC Azare, FTC Misau, FGGC Bajoga, FGC Billiri, FTC Zambuk Katsina: FGGC Bakori, FTC Dayi The ministry said the schools will remain closed while security agencies work to stabilize the affected regions and strengthen protection around learning institutions.

Houses
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NIQS Urges Federal Government, National Assembly to Regulate House Rents in Major Cities

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The Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) has called for measures from both the federal government and the National Assembly to provide regulation for house rents, most especially in major cities such as Abuja. The appeal is contained in a press conference delivered by the president of the Institute, QS Kene Nzekwe, in Abuja yesterday to commemorate the 31st NIQS Biennial General Meeting & National Conference. Nzekwe observed that although the Institute has continued to provide guidance in terms of government policy, it is up to the concerned authorities to provide clear guidelines for regulating the housing sector. “We shall continue to ask the government, the policymakers, even the lawmakers, to make possible either a policy that makes renting reasonable, a legislation that makes renting reasonable. You cannot ask for five million naira to rent a two-bedroom apartment in Abuja,” he said. The president of the National Initiative for Self-Reliance also urged stakeholders in the construction sector to adopt technological innovations to promote transparency, fair competition, and investments in this sector. “It doesn’t matter if you’re educated; if you’re not trained to do it, it is still quackery,” he warned. He also urged support from the press to aid the Institute in dealing with encroachment in the profession, which he characterized as an increasing trend in this sector. “We ought to be rescued from this web of people who attempt what they’re not trained to do,” he further added.

Government
Exclusive News, General, Health

Federal Government Inaugurates Committee to Enforce Ban on Single-Use Plastics Nationwide

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In this regard, the Federal Government has constituted an Inter-Ministerial Committee on the Ban of Single-Use Plastics, marking a vital stride in the direction of fostering environmental sustainability and efficient waste management throughout the country. Speaking during the inauguration, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume represented by the Permanent Secretary in charge of General Services Office, Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma said the ban aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to global environmental standards and determination to combat plastic pollution that threatens public health, ecosystems, and marine life. According to Akume, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the ban following a memorandum presented by the Minister of Environment on June 25, 2024. The decision targets the use of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, styrofoam, plastic bags, sachet water packs, and straws identified as major contributors to environmental degradation and poor sanitation. “The improper disposal of plastic material remains a leading cause of marine pollution and land degradation,” he said. “Plastic wastes take a long time to decompose, posing a serious threat to wildlife and human health due to the release of toxic chemicals.” In a statement by the Director of Information in the Office of the SGF, Segun Imohiosen, the committee was mandated to ensure the coordination and enforcement of the ban across the country. These include studying the effects that single-use plastics have, assessing the wider ramifications of such a ban, and developing plans for encouraging sustainable environmental practices throughout the plastic value chain. The government noted that the move reflects Nigeria’s leadership in environmental protection and its commitment to the attainment of the United Nations SDGs.

ASUU
Events, Exclusive News, Recently Added

ASUU Suspends Two-Week Warning Strike After Fresh Commitments from Federal Government

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The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has suspended its two-week notice strike that began on October 13, 2025, following renewed pledges by the Federal Government to address issues of concern brought forth by the union. The warning strike, which is to be called a close next Monday, was issued following the expiration of the 14-day ultimatum, with ASUU stating that the government had been “chronic neglect and insincerity” in the payment of the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement. The union wants payment of withheld salaries, earned academic allowances, promotion arrears, third-party deductions, and revitalisation funds for public universities. Announcing the suspension at a Wednesday press conference in Abuja, National President of ASUU, Professor Chris Piwuna, said that the suspension was declared at the union’s executive meeting held earlier in the day. He acknowledged the intervention of the Senate, which facilitated the two parties to the negotiation table. “NEC concluded that the warning strike is suspended with effect from today. But in case the government fails to address the issues within one month, ASUU reserves the right to go back to the industrial action,” Piwuna declared.

ASUU
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ASUU, Federal Government Resume Talks Over 2009 Agreement as Warning Strike Enters Ninth Day

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Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has confirmed that negotiations have been opened with the Federal Government on the outstanding 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement and other pending demands after over nine days of warning strike. In a Sunday Strike Bulletin released and signed by ASUU President, Comrade Christopher Piwuna, the union revealed that the government’s Renegotiation Team, led by Alhaji Yayale Ahmed, has resumed talks with ASUU with written responses and some proposals in an effort to solve pertinent contentious issues. The NSCC of the union met last Saturday, 18th October 2025, to consider developments in the progress of the current industrial action and review developments since the commencement of the strike. “The government, acting through its representatives, has come back to the negotiation table. Certain privileged Nigerians have also been engaged in searching for permanent solutions to the stalemate,” the bulletin added. ASUU observed that members across the country have remained faithful to the resolution of its National Executive Council (NEC), which on September 28, 2025, voted the warning strike. The union says that while some progress has been made in certain areas, such as release of third-party deductions, arrears of promotion, mainstreaming of the Earned Academic Allowances (EAA), UNIABUJA land seizure, and victimization of members in Kogi State University, Lagos State University, and the Federal University of Technology, Owerri. But the union admitted that not all had been settled. It renewed its commitment to collective bargaining and further negotiations with the Federal Government delegation. “We value the courage and resilience of our members in branches across the country, but we must remain united and steadfast in the days ahead,” the statement continued. ASUU also called on members to direct all messages through chairpersons at local branches so as not to create misinformation. The ongoing warning strike that is in its ninth day is centered on eight outstanding matters, specifically finalization of the renegotiated 2009 FGN-ASUU Agreement, payment of salary arrears, revitalisation fund, and university funding in a sustainable way, and lecturer victimisation in LASU, KSU, and FUTO. Some of the other significant issues include payment of 25–35 per cent salary arrears, payment of more than four years of promotion arrears, and release of held back third-party deductions like union contributions and cooperative contributions.  

ASUU
Events, Recently Added

Tension as ASUU’s 14-Day Ultimatum to Federal Government Expires Todayp

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Doubt looms large over Nigeria’s public universities as the 14-day ultimatum issued by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to the Federal Government today expires. The ultimatum issued on September 28 was part of a renewed drive by the union to compel the government to settle long-standing issues that affect the nation’s university system. When questioned by LEADERSHIP Weekend on the next step of the union, ASUU President, Professor Chris Piwuna, declined to speak. But a union source confirmed that the National Executive Council (NEC) would convene after the deadline was up to decide the way forward. In recent weeks, ASUU had begun the nationwide full mobilisation of its members ahead of a strike for what it quoted as the government’s persistent refusal and failure to resolve the sector’s issues outstanding. A memo sent to all branches stated that during an emergency NEC meeting held on September 29, the union counted referendum votes of its chapters and voted unanimously to issue a 14-day ultimatum. The goal, the statement added, was to pressure the government into signing and implementing the renegotiated deal submitted since February 2025. While formally reporting its actions to the Labour and Education Ministers, and Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), ASUU was disappointed by the government’s silence. In a previous missive to members, Professor Piwuna regretted the fact that, “I regret to inform you that there is no meaningful development deserving of any consideration to be reported.” He stressed that the union’s current stance is hinged on holding the government to its word, particularly signing and implementing the renegotiated agreement as well as attending to other outstanding demands. ASUU’s key demands include implementation of the 2022 renegotiated agreement, increased funding of public universities, and payment of outstanding earned academic allowances.

Exclusive News, Health

Federal Government Issues Flood Alert for 15 States, 69 Communities

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The Federal Ministry of Environment has given a flood alert across 15 states and 69 local councils, warning that excessive rain forecasted between 24 and 28 September 2025 can release generalized flooding. Signed by Usman Abdullahi Bokani, Director of the Department of Erosion, Flood, and Coastal Zone Management, the alert was issued through the Ministry’s National Flood Early Warning Centre in an attempt to mitigate risks during the peak rainy season. Flooding is still one of the most destructive natural disasters in Nigeria, displacing thousands of people each year, damaging infrastructure, and endangering food security. In the period up to 20 September 2025, 232 individuals died and 121,224 were displaced by floods across the country, at least 339,658 affected and 681 hurt, reported the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). The latest warning had high-risk areas in a range of states, including: Adamawa: Farkumo, Jimeta, Mayo-Belwa, Wuro Bokki, Yola Anambra: Ogbakuba Bayelsa: Amassoma, Odi, Oporoma, Yenagoa, Sagbama, others Delta: Asaba, Warri, Ughelli, Patani, Sapele, Forcados, others Kano: Bebeji, Gezawa, Wudil, Tudun-Wada, Kano city Katsina: Jibia Oyo: Iseyin, Oyo Rivers: Ahoada, Itu Zamfara: Gusau, Shinkafi, Anka, Bungudu, Maradun, others Other states that have been affected include Borno, Edo, Imo, Ondo, Sokoto, and Taraba. The Ministry called on state and local governments, community leaders, and the public to take the initiative in doing such as draining waterways, making emergency shelters ready, and informing communities about safety precautions. “Since it’s already on a full rainy season mode, watchfulness and readiness are of utmost concern,” the statement furthered, remembering that early action can save lives and cut damage.

central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)
General

FG Mandates Banks to Report Monthly Transactions Above ₦25m for Individuals, ₦100m for Companies

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The federal government has introduced a new policy requiring financial institutions to report high-value transactions to tax authorities, in line with recent amendments to the Nigerian Tax Act. Under the revised provisions, all banks, insurance companies, stockbrokers, and other financial institutions are mandated to submit quarterly returns to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), which is set to be renamed the Nigeria Revenue Service by January 2026. As part of the implementation, financial institutions must report any individual transactions that cumulatively reach ₦25 million monthly, and ₦100 million for corporate entities. The Act stipulates that: “Every person who has an obligation to deduct and remit tax under this Act or any other tax legislation shall render monthly returns to the appropriate tax authority.” It further specifies that financial institutions must submit quarterly reports—including details of new and existing customers whose monthly transactions meet or exceed the stated thresholds—regardless of whether the tax authority makes a formal request. Previously, only transactions of ₦5 million and above were required to be flagged, primarily as a safeguard against illicit financial activity. However, the updated law is considered part of a broader strategy to improve anti-money laundering compliance and strengthen the regulatory framework around financial activities. The move also aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to meeting global financial standards. In 2023, the country was placed on the grey list by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) due to gaps in its systems for tackling money laundering and terrorism financing. Since then, authorities have accelerated reforms. Notably, in November 2024, the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit reported measurable progress in five of the FATF’s key areas of concern.

Nigeria
History

JUST-IN: Nigerian Government Declares March 31, April 1 Public Holidays To Celebrate Eid-el-Fitr Festival

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Monday, March 31, 2025, and Tuesday, April 1, 2025, have been declared by the Federal Government of Nigeria as public holidays to mark the celebration of the Eid-el-Ftr festival after the completion of the Ramadan fast. This declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in warm congratulatory wishes to the Muslim Ummah on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast. Reports from leadership.ng indicated that the letter, which was signed by the Ministry Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, conveyed the best wishes of the Minister and urged all Muslims to embrace the values fostered during Ramadan – self-discipline, mercy, kindness, and peace. Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the role of love, forgiveness, and unity as key elements in a harmonious society. The Minister also called on Nigerians to make use of the festive season to pray, praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of the nation. He hoped that the festive celebration of Eid-el-Fitr would be an integrative force and a mobilizing factor that brings people together and closes gaps in religious and ethnic divides. Tunji-Ojo also called on citizens to celebrate responsibly and safely without forgetting the less privileged with goodwill and charity—remaining faithful to the spirit of Ramadan and Eid.

Exclusive News, Politics

NNPP Slams El-Rufai Over Federal Government Interference Accusation

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The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) strongly denounced former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, for saying that the Bola Tinubu federal government was accountable for the present internal crisis facing the party. In a statement on Wednesday, the NNPP factional National Secretary, Oginni Olaposi, dismissed El-Rufai’s claims as baseless, insisting that the former governor lacked a proper understanding of the issues that led to the party’s division. The row came after a viral video where El-Rufai, in his speech to leaders of his new party, the Social Democratic Party (SDP), accused the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration of deliberately fueling crises among opposition parties, including the NNPP. He categorically referred to the sacking of NNPP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, as a “contrived” move intended to cripple the party. NNPP to El-Rufai: Retract Your Statement or Face Legal Action In his reaction, the NNPP factional leadership issued a 48-hour ultimatum to El-Rufai to retract his statement and offer an unreserved apology to the party’s national leadership as well as its founder, Dr. Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam. “To put the records straight and enlighten Mallam Nasir El-Rufai on the true cause of the crisis that led to the expulsion of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, we challenge him to ask the following pertinent questions from his friend before making baseless allegations,” the statement said. The NNPP enumerated the following questions, intended to invalidate the allegations made by El-Rufai, among others: Did the federal government force Kwankwaso to beg Dr. Boniface Aniebonam for the NNPP platform in 2022? Did the federal government instruct Kwankwaso to insult the founder of the party? Did the federal government instruct Kwankwaso to sue the NNPP leadership at the Kano State High Court? Did the federal government stop Kwankwaso and Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf from testifying before the party’s disciplinary committee? The party invited El-Rufai to seek clarification from Kwankwaso before accusing the federal government of interference in NNPP affairs. Legal Threat Hangs Over Their Heads The NNPP faction threatened that not apologising within 48 hours would result in legal action against El-Rufai for defamation. We are calling Mallam El-Rufai to come out publicly and apologize to Dr. Boniface Aniebonam and NNPP leadership for his reckless statement,” Olaposi stated. “If he fails to do so within 48 hours, we will take him to court for defamation of our party leadership.” NNPP’s Leadership Crisis The NNPP has been under an internal leadership crisis ever since the 2023 general elections, creating two factions. In September 2023, Agbo Major-led faction suspended and then expelled Rabiu Kwankwaso on claims of involvement in anti-party activities and improper management of party funds. However, a faction owing allegiance to Kwankwaso eventually dropped the expulsion, further worsening the crisis in the party. With the NNPP still grappling with internal divisions, El-Rufai’s claims of government interference have only escalated tensions, setting the stage for further political drama.

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