(Left To Right): PLACID, HUNDEYIN
Anthony Placid Replaces Benjamin Hundeyin as Force Spokesman
In a
significant development within Nigeria’s police hierarchy, Deputy Commissioner
of Police (DCP) Anthony Okon Placid has been appointed as the new Force Public
Relations Officer (FPRO), succeeding Benjamin Hundeyin.
The announcement was made on March 8, 2026, by outgoing spokesman Hundeyin, marking a new chapter in the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force’s communications arm.
Global Theme: Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls
The United Nations has declared the official theme for International Women’s Day 2026 as “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.”
This theme emphasizes dismantling discriminatory laws, strengthening legal protections, and ensuring that justice systems serve women and girls effectively. It aligns with the 70th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70), which focuses on expanding access to justice worldwide.
Alongside the UN’s declaration, the international campaign theme for 2026 is “Give to Gain.” This message highlights the importance of generosity, mentorship, and collaboration in advancing women’s empowerment.
International Women’s Day 2026
International Women’s Day 2026 is being observed today, Sunday, March 8, with the global theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.” The day highlights the urgent need to close legal and social gaps that still disadvantage women worldwide, as women currently enjoy only about 64% of the legal rights men hold.
Introduction
International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated annually on March 8 as a worldwide observance dedicated to recognizing women’s achievements and advocating for gender equality. In 2026, the day carries renewed urgency as governments, organizations, and communities confront persistent inequalities in law, justice, and opportunity.
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| GRACE IKE, NUJ-FCT Council Chair |
Grace Ike, the first female Chair of the NUJ FCT Council, is championing the theme “Give to Gain” this International Women’s Day, urging Nigeria’s government, institutions, and communities to invest deliberately in women’s empowerment as a pathway to national development. Her call emphasizes mentorship, education, and dismantling systemic barriers to unlock women’s full potential.
Give to Gain: NUJ FCT Chair Grace Ike Champions Women’s Empowerment and Investment
In a bold and inspiring message marking International Women’s Day 2026, Grace Ike, Chair of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory Council, has amplified the global theme “Give to Gain”. As the first woman to hold this position, Ike’s leadership is both symbolic and practical, reflecting the strides women continue to make in breaking barriers within male-dominated spaces.
IWD: INWOAD Advocates for Inclusion of More Women in Governance
The Initiative for Women's Accelerated Development in Africa, INWOAD
joins women and all stakeholders to celebrate this year's International Women's
Day.
With the theme, Give to Gain, attention is being focused on the power of reciprocity and support in achieving gender equality and sustainable development.
In a statement issued in Abuja by the President and Founder of the Initiative for Women's Accelerated Development in Africa, INWOAD, Evelyn Onyilo, the organisation called on individuals, government and organisations to rise up to contribute their quota by creating more opportunities for women through donations, skills acquisition and training, advocacy and intergenerational mentorship.
Power Grid
Reform and Its Economic Promise
President
Bola Tinubu’s establishment of an 11-member committee to oversee the creation
of the Grid Asset Management Company Limited (GAMCO) is more than a
bureaucratic reshuffle, it is a calculated attempt to unlock Nigeria’s economic
potential through energy reform.
For decades, the country’s industrial growth has been stifled by unreliable electricity supply, forcing businesses to rely on costly alternatives such as diesel generators. By focusing on stranded power assets and transmission bottlenecks, GAMCO aims to convert wasted capacity into usable megawatts, a move that could reverberate across the economy.
Tinubu’s Bold Step Toward Power Grid Reform
President
Bola Tinubu has taken a decisive step in tackling Nigeria’s long-standing
electricity challenges by inaugurating an 11-member committee tasked with
establishing the Grid Asset Management Company Limited (GAMCO).
This
initiative, approved by the Federal Executive Council, is designed to address
the chronic issues of stranded power, transmission bottlenecks, and
inefficiencies that have plagued the nation’s energy sector for decades.
The committee, chaired by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, brings together key figures including the Attorney-General of the Federation, Ministers of Power, Finance, Works, Petroleum, and other strategic portfolios, alongside energy expert Professor Yemi Oke.
Female CEOs of Federal Agencies Pledge Support for Tinubu Ahead of 2027
In a
striking show of solidarity, thirty-seven female chief executive officers of
federal government agencies gathered at the All Progressives Congress (APC)
National Secretariat in Abuja to pledge their support for President Bola Tinubu
as the nation looks ahead to the 2027 general elections.
The
meeting, led by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora
Commission, underscored the growing influence of women in governance and their
determination to play a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s political future.
The delegation included prominent figures such as Aisha Rimi of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, Temitope Ilori of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Olubunmi Kuku of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Zubaida Umar of the National Emergency Management Agency, and several others heading key parastatals.
EFCC Hands Over Recovered ₦279 Million to Wole Soyinka Centre in Lagos
On March
6, 2026, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) formally handed
over the sum of ₦279 million to the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the
Creative Arts in Iganmu, Lagos, formerly known as the National Theatre.
This
event marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against
corruption and the recovery of misappropriated public funds.
The funds originated from a long-standing case dating back to 2009, when a petition was filed against Prince Benjamin Apugo and others concerning a contract awarded through the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation.
Nigeria’s Diplomatic Gamble
Nigeria’s
recent deployment of 65 ambassadors to missions across the globe is more than a
bureaucratic reshuffling; it is a bold statement of intent by President Bola
Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The
appointments, a mix of career diplomats and political figures, reveal a
deliberate attempt to balance institutional expertise with political loyalty.
This duality is both Nigeria’s strength and its potential weakness.
On one hand, the inclusion of seasoned diplomats ensures continuity and professionalism in Nigeria’s foreign service. These individuals carry the institutional memory and technical know-how required to navigate the complexities of international diplomacy.
Special Report: Nigeria’s New Ambassadors to 65 Countries
Introduction
On March
6, 2026, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the deployment of 65 ambassadors
to Nigerian diplomatic missions worldwide. This strategic move, announced by
his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, reflects a blend
of career diplomats and non-career envoys, all previously cleared by the
Nigerian Senate in December 2025. The appointments are designed to strengthen
Nigeria’s global presence and enhance bilateral relations across continents.
Career Ambassadors
The list
of 31 career diplomats includes prominent figures from politics, academia, and
the military. Notable appointments are:
Kenya’s Gulf Advisory Amid Iran Conflict
The
escalating tensions in the Middle East have prompted Kenya to issue a rare
advisory to its citizens living and working in the Gulf region.
With over half a million Kenyans employed across countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain, the government’s call underscores both the gravity of the Iran conflict and the vulnerability of migrant populations caught in geopolitical crossfire.
Peter Obi, presidential aspirant under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has declared that Nigeria’s poverty is not due to a lack of resources but the result of deliberate choices, particularly the culture of rewarding corruption and poor leadership. He insists that Nigerians must demand accountability and responsible governance to reverse this trend.
Peter Obi Attributes Nigeria’s Poverty to Choices
Context of the Statement
Peter Obi made these remarks in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Association of Skilled and Vocational Artisans of Nigeria (ASVAN), led by its National President, Comrade Obijuru Everest. The meeting provided a platform for Obi to outline his views on Nigeria’s economic struggles and the role of citizens in shaping the nation’s future.
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| Nigeria's First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu |
First Lady Urges Women To Mentor Girls, Promote Modest Dressing
In a
recent interfaith gathering held in Abuja, Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi
Tinubu, delivered a heartfelt appeal to women across the nation, urging them to
take on greater responsibility in shaping the lives of young girls.
Her message emphasized mentorship, moral guidance, and the promotion of modest dressing as essential pillars for nurturing the next generation.
ECOWAS Parliament Marks 25 Years with Multi-Country Programme
The
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament has reached a
significant milestone, celebrating 25 years of service to the people of West
Africa.
To mark
this anniversary, the institution has unveiled a year-long, multi-country
programme designed to strengthen regional integration and bring the parliament
closer to its citizens.
The announcement was made in Abuja by the Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Hadja Ibrahima, represented by the Director of Parliamentary Affairs and Research, Mr. Kabeer Garba.
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| Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman |
Iran’s Shadow in Nigeria - Freeman’s Warning
In a striking interview with Arise News, Michael Freeman, Israel’s Ambassador to Nigeria, raised alarm over Iran’s growing footprint in West Africa. He alleged that Iran is not only exporting its ideology but also funding extremist groups, with the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) being a key beneficiary. According to Freeman, this is part of Tehran’s long-standing global strategy of destabilization, which has historically included support for groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah.
Seriake Dickson’s Defection and the Future of Opposition Politics in Nigeria
Senator Seriake Dickson, former governor of Bayelsa State and current representative of Bayelsa West Senatorial District, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the newly registered Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). His move, announced on March 5, 2026, marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s opposition politics.
The Nigerian political landscape witnessed a dramatic turn with Senator Seriake Dickson’s decision to abandon the PDP, a party he once championed as governor of Bayelsa State.
At a press conference in Abuja, Dickson lamented the state of the PDP, describing it as “gravely ill” and “presently in the ICU.” His words reflect not just personal disillusionment but a broader sentiment among many who believe the PDP has lost its vigor as a credible opposition force.
MultiChoice to Shut Down Showmax After 11 Years
MultiChoice
has announced that it will discontinue its streaming platform, Showmax, after
more than a decade of operation.
Launched
in 2015 in South Africa, Showmax quickly expanded across the African continent,
offering subscribers a wide range of entertainment including movies, series,
documentaries, and live sports.
The service was designed to compete with global streaming giants while catering to the unique demands of African audiences.
FEC Approves 100% Exit Benefit for Retiring Civil Servants
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a landmark policy granting retiring federal civil servants a gratuity equal to 100% of their total annual emolument, effective January 1, 2026. This reform is designed to strengthen welfare provisions and ensure financial security for those who have served the nation for at least 10 years.
Background and Approval
The Federal Executive Council (FEC), presided over by President Bola Tinubu, approved a new Exit Benefit Scheme during its March 2026 meeting at the State House in Abuja. The scheme was recommended by an inter-ministerial technical committee and formally announced by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
Alcohol Abuse and Nigeria’s Social
Crisis: NAFDAC Boss Speaks Out
Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has sounded a stern warning about the devastating impact of alcohol consumption in Nigeria.
She asserts that alcohol abuse is not merely a health issue but a driver of insecurity, social instability, and moral decay.
According to her, the widespread availability of cheap sachet and small-pack alcoholic drinks has fueled banditry, youth suicide, unwanted pregnancies, road accidents, and other destructive behaviors.
Suspension of Cashless Payment at Nigerian Airports
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the immediate suspension of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria’s (FAAN) newly introduced cashless payment system at airport toll gates and parking points, following widespread gridlock and hardship for travelers. The directive came after reports of severe congestion at Lagos and Abuja airports, with many passengers missing their flights.
Background of the Policy
On March 1, 2026, FAAN rolled out a cashless payment system across Nigerian airports. The initiative aimed to replace cash transactions at toll gates and parking points with electronic payments. The policy was designed to curb corruption, improve transparency, and modernize revenue collection, ending a decades-long reliance on cash.
Clinton County House Fire Tragedy
A devastating predawn house fire in Clinton County, Ohio, claimed the lives of a mother and her five children on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. One adult male survived and is currently hospitalized, while investigators continue to search for the cause of the blaze. The tragedy has left the local community in mourning and rallying to support the surviving father.
Incident Overview
The fire broke out around 6:40 a.m. at a residence near Spring Hill and West Main Street in Clarksville, Clinton County. Emergency crews responded within minutes, but the blaze had already engulfed much of the home. Firefighters entered despite dangerous conditions, including collapsing stairs, and discovered the victims inside. The lone survivor, an adult male believed to be the father, was rescued from the ground floor and rushed to Clinton Regional Hospital for treatment.
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| Nigeria's IGP, Tunji Disu |
IGP Tunji Disu’s “No Sacred Cows” Doctrine and the Legacy of Police Reform
The declaration by Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, that “there will be no sacred cows” marks a decisive moment in Nigeria’s policing history.
His warning that rank, seniority, or position will not shield officers from accountability is not merely rhetoric, it is a deliberate attempt to dismantle a culture of impunity that has long plagued the Force. Yet, to fully appreciate the weight of his words, one must situate them within the broader trajectory of reform agendas pursued by his predecessors.
IGP Tunji Disu’s Warning to Police Officers
Acting Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has declared that under his leadership, there will be no sacred cows in the Nigeria Police Force. He warned that rank, seniority, or position will not shield any officer from accountability, stressing that misconduct, corruption, and indiscipline will be met with dismissal and prosecution.
Background and Context
On March 4, 2026, at the Peacekeeping Conference Centre in Abuja, IGP Disu addressed senior police managers, including Deputy Inspectors-General, Assistant Inspectors-General, and Commissioners of Police. This was his inaugural strategic meeting since assuming office. His remarks set the tone for a new era in the Nigeria Police Force, emphasizing discipline, accountability, and transparency.
SFG Places Six-Year Ban on New Universities, Polytechnics, and Colleges of Education
Nigeria’s Federal Government has announced a six-year moratorium on the establishment of new universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. The move, approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) under President Bola Tinubu, is aimed at strengthening quality, improving sustainability, and stabilizing existing tertiary institutions.
Background of
the Decision
At the Federal Executive Council meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed that the government had resolved to halt the creation of new tertiary institutions for six years. This policy applies to both public and private universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
