A Plea & Testimony from Nigeria - Kukah

Comments at the Launch of the ACIN 2025 World Report on Religious Freedom in the World

 

A Plea & Testimony from Nigeria

 

By Matthew Hassan Kukah, Bishop, Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Nigeria, Delivered at the Augustinianum Hall, on October 21st, 2021, Vatican City.

1: I want to thank Aid to the Church in Need for their kind invitation to me to speak in response to the release of their biennial report on, Religious Freedom in the World. The report itself is a huge document of 1248 pages. It covers the state of Religious Freedom around the entire world between Jan 2023 & December 2024. According to the authors, the report reveals a worrying decline that shows more than 5.4 billion living today in countries without religious freedom. It is important to note that this report neither targets a particular country nor a particular faith. It cuts across all faiths and focuses only on the degree to which countries comply with this fundamental human right. The report identifies authoritarianism, religious extremism, ethno-religious nationalism and organized crime as drivers of religious persecution. To rephrase Leo Tolstoy therefore; Every victim of persecution is persecuted differently.

Two OAU students injured as armed robbers attack hostels

Armed Robbery at OAU Hostels Leaves Two Students Injured

In a harrowing incident that has reignited concerns over student safety, two students of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, sustained injuries following a violent armed robbery at off-campus hostels.

The attack occurred late on Monday night, October 20, 2025, at Moremi Estate, a residential area popular among students.

22-Day Government shutdown becomes second-longest in US History

22-Day Government Shutdown Becomes Second-Longest in U.S. History

In a historic and deeply consequential development, the United States federal government shutdown has entered its 22nd day, officially becoming the second-longest in the nation’s history.

This surpasses the 21-day shutdown of 1995–1996, which occurred under President Bill Clinton’s administration following a budget veto that clashed with the GOP-controlled Congress.

Customs Auctions N94.4m Petroleum Product to Oyo Residents

Nigeria Customs Service Auctions ₦94.4 Million Worth of Petroleum Products to Oyo Residents

In a decisive move to curb fuel smuggling and reinforce national resource protection, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), through its Operation Whirlwind task force, has commenced the subsidized sale of confiscated petroleum products valued at ₦94.4 million.

This initiative, unveiled during a press briefing in Ibadan, Oyo State, marks a significant stride in the federal government's campaign against economic sabotage and illegal exportation of fuel.

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Senate Approves Life Sentence for Defilement of Minors

In a significant legislative development, the Nigerian Senate has approved a bill mandating a life sentence for individuals found guilty of defiling minors.

This landmark decision was the focal point of the latest edition of the Newspaper Review aired by AIT Live News, as captured in their YouTube segment titled “NEWSPAPER REVIEW: Defile a minor, get life sentence, Senate approves.”

How EFCC can end corruption — Senator

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In a compelling interview with ARISE NEWS, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, Vice Chairman of the South East Constitution Review Committee, laid out a bold vision for how Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) could eradicate corruption from the public sector.

According to the senator, the key lies in sustaining the Commission’s current momentum and operational efficiency.

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Dissecting the "Newspaper Review Segment" in MORNING SPRING

The "Newspaper Review Segment" featured in the MORNING SPRING broadcast by Western Spring Television on 22 October 2025 offers a dynamic and timely analysis of Nigeria’s most pressing headlines. This segment, streamed live on YouTube, serves as a digest of the nation’s political, economic, and social pulse, curated from leading newspapers and media outlets.

COMMISSIONING OF THE NEWLY PROVIDED ENGINEERING INFRASTRUCTURE IN WUYE DISTRICT

COMMISSIONING OF THE NEWLY PROVIDED ENGINEERING INFRASTRUCTURE IN WUYE DISTRICT, ABUJA

In a landmark event that underscores the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s renewed commitment to infrastructural development, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, officially commissioned the newly completed engineering infrastructure in Wuye District, Abuja, on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. 

This commissioning marks a significant milestone in the ongoing transformation of the capital city under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Nnamdi Kanu lists Wike, Umahi, Buratai and others as witnesses as he opens defence

Nnamdi Kanu Opens Defence, Lists Prominent Nigerian Figures as Witnesses

In a dramatic turn in the ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the Federal High Court in Abuja was formally notified of his readiness to commence defence proceedings.

This development follows a previous motion of preliminary objection filed by Kanu, challenging the court’s jurisdiction to continue the trial. However, on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Kanu submitted a new motion, personally signed, indicating his compliance with the court’s directive to begin defence on October 24, 2025.

ASUU Suspends Warning Strike, Gives FG One Month To Address Demands

ASUU Suspends Warning Strike, Issues One-Month Ultimatum to Federal Government

In a pivotal move that could shape the future of Nigeria’s public university system, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has officially suspended its two-week warning strike, which began on October 13, 2025.

The decision was announced by ASUU President, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, following an emergency meeting of the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) held in Abuja.

The suspension comes after renewed assurances from the Federal Government and the National Assembly to address the union’s longstanding demands.

ASUU stated that it received commitments from the government through the Yayale Ahmed-led committee and interventions by key legislative figures, including the Deputy Senate President and relevant Senate Committees. These engagements, according to ASUU, signaled a willingness to resolve the issues that have plagued Nigeria’s tertiary education sector for years.

ASUU’s demands include the payment of withheld salaries, release of earned academic allowances, revitalization funds for public universities, and the resolution of promotion arrears.

The union also seeks the release of third-party deductions and an end to what it describes as the victimization of its members. These issues stem from the 2009 FGN-ASUU Agreement, which ASUU claims has been largely ignored by successive administrations.

While the strike has been suspended, ASUU has issued a stern warning: the Federal Government has one month to fulfill its promises. Failure to do so will result in the resumption of industrial action without further notice. This ultimatum underscores the union’s frustration with repeated delays and perceived insincerity in negotiations.

The suspension of the strike offers temporary relief to students and academic institutions across the country.

However, the underlying tensions remain unresolved, and the next few weeks will be critical in determining whether the government can meet ASUU’s expectations and prevent a full-blown strike that could once again paralyze Nigeria’s university system.

 

 

As the countdown begins, stakeholders in the education sector are watching closely, hopeful that this latest truce will lead to lasting reforms and a more stable academic calendar.

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In a bold and strategic move to reclaim its historical economic prominence, leaders, investors, and business stakeholders from Nigeria’s South-East have launched a renewed campaign to transform the region into the nation's leading economic hub.

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In a compelling health feature aired on AIT News Hour, medical experts and wellness advocates raised alarm over the escalating prevalence of diabetes in Nigeria, linking it to lifestyle choices, dietary habits, and systemic gaps in public health awareness.

The report, anchored by health correspondent Aumitu and followed by an in-depth studio conversation with matron and wellness consultant Esther Aqui, painted a sobering picture of the nation’s growing diabetes burden.

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In a bold move to redefine the healthcare landscape of Benue State, the government has unveiled a comprehensive initiative aimed at prioritizing the medical needs of children with special needs.

This announcement was made during the Second International Health Investment Summit held at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi, the state capital.

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In the face of escalating global hunger and worsening food insecurity, Nigeria finds itself at a critical juncture in its agricultural evolution.

Experts and stakeholders across the country are sounding the alarm and urging immediate, strategic action to fortify the nation’s food supply chain. 

EBONYI AUTO CRASH: FRSC Confirms 6 Dead, 14 Injured

Tragedy on the Nkalagu-Enugu Expressway - Ebonyi Auto Crash Claims Six Lives, Injures Fourteen

In a devastating turn of events on the morning of Saturday, October 18, 2025, a fatal road accident occurred along the Nkalagu axis of the Abakaliki–Enugu Expressway in Ebonyi State, Nigeria.

The incident, which unfolded near the Nkalagu Flyover bridge, involved a commercial Toyota bus and a tipper truck. According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the crash was attributed to dangerous overtaking, a reckless maneuver that led to catastrophic consequences.

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In a dramatic turn of events that has gripped Nigeria’s entertainment and political spheres, Senator Ned Nwoko has publicly addressed allegations of domestic violence made against him by his wife, Nollywood actress Regina Daniels.

The controversy erupted following a viral video in which Regina appeared visibly distressed, tearfully stating, “I cannot stand the violence again.” The video sparked widespread concern and speculation about the state of their marriage.

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In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, a striking shift is underway in how top-tier AI professionals evaluate job opportunities.

Once lured primarily by lucrative compensation packages, many are now placing greater emphasis on corporate culture, values, and holistic well-being.

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In a move that marks the definitive end of Prince Andrew’s formal role within the British monarchy, the embattled royal has officially relinquished all his remaining titles.

The decision, announced on October 17, 2025, follows years of mounting scandal and public scrutiny, culminating in what many observers are calling the final chapter of his royal downfall.

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In a deeply emotional and controversial case that has sparked widespread public debate, two daughters have come forward to share their story of being excluded from their father's inheritance despite dedicating over two decades of their lives to his care.

The story, which has gained traction online, underscores the complexities of family dynamics, elder care, and the legal intricacies of inheritance.

Fans rally behind actress Regina Daniels over marital crisis

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Tears in the Spotlight: Fans Rally Behind Regina Daniels Amid Marital Turmoil

In a deeply emotional turn of events that has gripped the Nigerian entertainment scene, Nollywood actress Regina Daniels has found herself at the center of a storm following the emergence of a distressing video that has sparked widespread concern and support from fans and fellow celebrities alike.

Pregnant woman dies after being stabbed 19 times by abusive boyfriend

Tragedy in Walthamstow - The Fatal Stabbing of Alana Odysseos

In a harrowing incident that has reignited debates around domestic violence and criminal justice reform in the United Kingdom, 32-year-old Alana Odysseos, a mother of two and newly pregnant with her third child, was brutally murdered by her partner, Shaine March, in her home in Walthamstow, East London.

The attack occurred in the early hours of July 22, 2024, and has since drawn national attention due to the disturbing details surrounding the case and the perpetrator’s violent past.

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In a compelling address delivered during the 2025 International Leadership Conference held in Ado-Ekiti, Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, founder of Afe Babalola University (ABUAD), issued a stark warning about Nigeria’s escalating debt crisis and its implications for foreign investment and national stability.

The conference, themed “Shaping Transformational Leaders for a Changing World: Tackling Insecurity, Governance and Development,” was co-hosted by ABUAD, Trinity Western University (TWU) in Vancouver, Canada, and the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (CentreLSD).

EFCC, NIS, NCoS complete deportation of 192 foreign cybercrime convicts in Lagos

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In a sweeping and coordinated crackdown on transnational cybercrime, Nigerian authorities have successfully completed the deportation of 192 foreign nationals convicted of cyber-terrorism, internet fraud, and financial crimes.

The operation, led by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in collaboration with the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), marks the final chapter in one of the country’s most extensive anti-cybercrime efforts to date.

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In the annals of Nigeria’s history, the question of its name, its origin, meaning, and relevance, has resurfaced with renewed urgency.

This special report delves into the genesis of the name “Nigeria,” its colonial underpinnings, and the contemporary discourse surrounding its possible renaming.

Army colonel, Michael Randrianirina, sworn in as Madagascar president

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In a dramatic turn of events that has reshaped Madagascar’s political landscape, Army Colonel Michael Randrianirina was officially sworn in as the nation’s president on Friday, October 17, 2025.

This inauguration followed a swift and controversial military intervention that ousted former President Andry Rajoelina, sparking both domestic celebration and international concern.