society
COVID-19: Buhari’s Ministers Divided Over Cancellation Of NIN Registration
The ongoing National Identification Number (NIN) enrolment exercise in the midst of the deadly second wave of COVID-19 has caused a sharp division among President Muhammadu Buhari’s ministers.
A presidency source said the issue has thrown the ministers into opposing camps as majority of them want the exercise suspended while the other camp, led by Dr. Isa Ali Pantami, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, wants the exercise to continue.
Since the commencement of the exercise, there have been concerns as crowds thronged the offices of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and registration centres after the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) directed telecommunication companies to block SIM cards not registered with NIN.
The rush by applicants is intended to beat the February 9 deadline for registration, verification, and subsequent linking of NIN to Subscribers Identification Modules (SIM) cards. Crowds defied COVID-19 safety protocols such as social distancing and wearing of facemasks which, many fear, may trigger the spread of the virus.
On Monday, Olorunnimbe Mamora, the Minister of State for Health, said the Federal Government may suspend the exercise to avoid the spread of COVID-19 as a result of large crowds. He said the NIMC needs to reorder the whole process so as to ensure that crowds are well-managed and the people protected.
“I don’t feel good looking at the picture where people are gathered in multitudes. It’s like a super spreader event which we don’t like, but I’m also aware that the relevant ministry, which is the communications and digital economy, is looking at this,” Mamora said.
Speaking with our correspondent on Thursday, our source said the development and the rising cases of COVID-19 had caused a sharp division among the president’s cabinet.
“Right now, we have two camps in the cabinet. There is a camp which believes that the registration exercise is not a life and death matter and should be suspended to a reasonable period when COVID-19 would have gone or drastically reduced. This camp is in the majority.
“However, there is another camp which believes that the exercise should go ahead as the registration is crucial to curtailing the rising wave of insecurity in the country. This camp, led by the Minister of Communications, believes that the exercise can continue if people are orderly. I believe the president will review the situation and take appropriate decisions soon,” the source said.
When contacted, an official in the Ministry of Communications said the exercise could go ahead if the NIMC staff were proficient, noting that the enrollees take responsibility for their health and safety and security agents help maintain orderliness.
According to her, if the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) can conduct governorship elections in Edo and Ondo in the midst of the pandemic without hitches, then the NIMC should be able to do likewise.
Speaking on the development, Monday Ubani, a former Second Vice-President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), said anyone saying the exercise should continue in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic was unreasonable.
He said: “It doesn’t require any person to know that if any person wants this exercise to continue, in the light of the deadlier era we are now with COVID-19, it means the person is not reasonable.
“They are saying the exercise is for security, is it not about the security and safety of the lives of Nigerians?
“You are at the same time risking their lives by asking them to congregate and cluster in an environment where they will be exposed to the deadlier COVID-19 that is ravaging the entire world.
“Does it require anyone to know that that is unreasonable? How will any person even support such a thing?
“How will President Buhari support the idea that people should congregate and be made to be infected with the disease? Yet, every day, the government is reeling out guidelines, asking us to observe safety protocols. You have set up a Presidential Task Force that is looking into the matter of COVID-19 and they have given us briefings on what to do to observe protocols, at the same time, you are asking people to congregate and be exposed to the virus?
“The person asking Nigerians to go ahead with the exercise has an ulterior motive that is sinister. He is the only one that knows the reason why he is doing this.”
On its part, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Lagos State chapter, said the development had clearly revealed division, lack of coordination, and internal crisis in the Buhari administration.
While declaring support for the registration, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Taofik Gani, however, said it shouldn’t be done in an atmosphere that may endanger the lives of Nigerians.
“To us in the PDP, it is just another reflection of the division, lack of coordination, and internal crisis in the government of President Muhammadu Buhari. That is why Nigerians have lost hope and have given up on this government. They have made things far worse for the populace.
“How can we have such disagreement in the government? The other time, Pantami said on television that the law on NIMC and the National Identity Card was passed 13 years ago and everybody must be registered within six months.
“The question he should have been asked is, when did he (Pantami) register? We in the PDP support the fact that people must be registered to curtail the influx of foreigners into the country but it must not be done punitively or targeted to punish Nigerians or put their lives at risk of this pandemic,” he said.
Matthew Ogunba, a lawyer and rights activist, said the exercise was to distract Nigerians from the failures of the Buhari administration.
He also said: “It is disheartening that ministers that should put heads together to solve Nigeria’s problems are working at cross purposes.
“The exercise should be suspended. No two ways about it. If you remember, the minister ordered the exercise during the period the National Assembly asked President Buhari to appear before them. It is just a ploy to distract Nigerians from the failures of the government. Nothing more,” he said.
However, Prof. Tunde Adeniran, a former Minister of Education, said the registration should continue but the government must find a solution to the surging crowds at the venues through the use of technology.
“My position on the issue is that it must continue because Nigerians have a way of trying to run away from challenges. When challenges occur, we are supposed to face them. This is the age of technology. We should be able to devise ways, in spite of the pandemic, to handle such simple issues as this one on registration. The people who are in charge should be resourceful and think through to find a solution to this challenge.
“That is the essence of their going to school. They should use their brains to find solutions to problems, not that they will see a problem, they run away and the problem remains. Nobody knows when COVID-19 will go. We are praying that, by the grace of God, it should go in the next one or two months.
“At the same time, there is no certainty about that. So, we will have to live our lives. We should not shut down our lives simply because we have this challenge. We should find solutions and I believe that Nigerians are creative enough to find solutions to any problem once they are determined to do so,” Adeniran said.
society
SUPERSTAR7EVEN RELEASES ‘OMO TO SHUN / SORRY’, A POWERFUL TWO-TRACK PROJECT INTRODUCING A LIFESTYLE-LED ERA
SUPERSTAR7EVEN RELEASES ‘OMO TO SHUN / SORRY’, A POWERFUL TWO-TRACK PROJECT INTRODUCING A LIFESTYLE-LED ERA
Lagos, Nigeria – Superstar7even, the rising Lagos-based artist, has dropped her latest project, ‘Omo to Shun / Sorry’, a two-track release that marks the beginning of her journey as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. This release is the first phase of a larger body of work scheduled for later this year, setting the stage for a trailblazing career.
‘Omo to Shun / Sorry’ is more than just a music release – it’s a narrative experience. The two tracks are designed to be experienced together, telling a story of confidence, ambition, and personal independence. ‘Omo to Shun’ is an anthem of self-assurance, capturing the essence of everyday moments where confidence is expressed through presence, not performance. ‘Sorry’ shifts the focus to the importance of hard work, financial autonomy, and long-term vision, creating a cohesive storyline that showcases Superstar7even’s artistic depth.
This project is supported by a three-month rollout strategy that prioritizes community engagement and fan participation. The campaign spans digital platforms, campus networks, radio appearances, and offline touchpoints in student-led environments, encouraging fans to interpret, share, and connect with the music on a deeper level.
“We wanted to create a release that would spark a conversation, not just about the music, but about the lifestyle and values that Superstar7even represents,” said the artist. “This is just the beginning, and we’re excited to share our journey with our fans.”
‘Omo to Shun / Sorry’ is available on all major streaming platforms. Join the movement and experience the sound of confidence, ambition, and modern independence.
*About Superstar7even*
Superstar7even is a Lagos-based artist whose work explores themes of confidence, ambition, and personal independence. Her releases are structured as long-form narratives, emphasizing continuity, audience participation, and cultural relevance.
*Connect with Superstar7even:*
Instagram: @Superstar7even
TikTok: @Superstar7even
X: @thatgirl7even
society
Coalition urges IGP to rebuild public confidence on Nigerian police
Coalition urges IGP to rebuild public confidence on Nigerian police
…Seeks investigation of AIG Moshood time in Lagos
The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in collaboration with the Centre for Citizens’ Rights has urged the Inspector General of Police to rebuild public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.
Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, the President of the Coalition, Adeyemi Olorunsogo and its Secretary, Kolawole Abe Emmanuel, said Nigerians expect professionalism, impartiality, and accountability from the leadership of the Force.
The Coalition expressed concern over consistent and clear repeated interference of the Lagos police command in matters that are purely civil in nature, and actions that suggest a troubling pattern of bias in the handling of sensitive disputes.
It said: “Over the past few weeks, our coalition has repeatedly drawn the attention of the public to the disturbing conduct of the Nigeria Police Force in Lagos State, particularly under the leadership of the immediate past Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olorundare Jimoh Moshood.
“We, therefore, call on the newly appointed Inspector-General of Police to exercise utmost caution in the deployment and assignment of senior officers, particularly in situations where their previous conduct has generated serious public concern.
“We note that Mr. Moshood has now been posted away from Lagos. We also acknowledge the appointment of the new Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Tunji Disu, whose professional reputation in intelligence-led policing, crime management and strategic leadership has earned him public respect.
“In view of this new leadership and in the hope that professionalism and accountability will define the next phase of policing in Nigeria, this coalition has resolved to suspend its earlier planned protest until further notice.
“In situations where the police ought to remain neutral and professional, the conduct of the former Commissioner appeared to tilt the scale in favour of certain interests, thereby undermining public confidence in the impartiality of law enforcement.
“In February 2026, without a valid court order, without a formal invitation, and without a lawful warrant of arrest, the former Commissioner reportedly declared Alhaji Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi wanted for murder.
“This declaration arose in the context of a family and community land dispute involving factions within the Ajiran community. Allegations bordering on murder is a very sensitive one as it does not only speak to law but sanctity of life and one accused of such if not cleared carries a life time burden.
“Following that declaration, the property of Alhaji Akanbi was reportedly destroyed by individuals who allegedly operated under the protection and watch of officers of the Lagos State Police Command.
“The Nigeria Police Force must never be seen as taking sides in private civil disputes. The integrity of law enforcement depends on neutrality, professionalism, and respect for the rule of law.
“Declaring a citizen wanted without a lawful warrant, proper investigation, or court order raises serious concerns about abuse of police authority and must never become a precedent in a democratic society.
“While promotions within the Police Force fall under the authority of the Police Service Commission, we believe that officers whose actions have generated significant public concern should be carefully scrutinized before being entrusted with greater responsibility.
“The appointment of the new Inspector-General of Police presents an opportunity to rebuild public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force. Nigerians expect professionalism, impartiality, and accountability from the leadership of the Force.
“Civil society exists to hold power accountable. Our intervention is not political; it is a duty to protect the rule of law and defend the rights of citizens. We wish the new Inspector-General of Police success in his assignment and urge him to live up to the expectations of millions of Nigerians who desire a police force that is professional, impartial, and accountable.”
society
Ajadi Unveils Ambitious 17-point Plan To Drive Jobs, Security, Growth
Ajadi Unveils Ambitious 17-point Plan To Drive Jobs, Security, Growth
A governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has unveiled a comprehensive 17-point agenda outlining his policy direction ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election.
Ajadi, who described leadership as a “relay race,” said his proposed administration would focus on continuity, consolidation, and innovation, building on existing development initiatives while introducing fresh ideas aimed at strengthening public trust and delivering measurable impact under what he termed the “Omituntun 3.0” framework.
The PDP chieftain said his manifesto prioritises industrial growth, agricultural expansion, security enhancement, infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and improved welfare for civil servants and pensioners, among other key sectors.
According to him, the agenda is designed to reposition Oyo State for sustainable economic growth, job creation, and improved quality of life for residents, while deepening grassroots democracy and inclusive governance.
He added that his vision centres on proactive governance that anticipates challenges and leverages strategic partnerships, technology, and policy stability to drive long-term development across the state.
Ajadi also pledged to strengthen public service delivery and ensure transparent, participatory governance that reflects the aspirations of the people of Oyo State.
Below is the full statement of the agenda released by Amb. Ajadi.
Oyo State 2027 Governorship Aspirant Ambassador Ajadi Unveils 17-Point Agenda
…Ajadi Reveals His Manifesto for the Good People of Oyo State
If I become the governor of Oyo State, my approach will be guided by continuity, consolidation, and innovation. Leadership is a relay race, and my commitment is to carry the baton forward—building on good works and introducing fresh ideas that deepen public trust and deliver measurable impact under the Omituntun 3.0 initiative.
My Core Priorities Include:
ENSURE CONTINUITY OF PROGRESS AND GOOD GOVERNANCE
I will strengthen existing development frameworks, promote policy stability, and introduce innovative solutions where gaps exist. Governance is a continuum, and sustainable progress requires building on tested foundations rather than dismantling them.
INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION AND ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION
To reduce overdependence on federal allocation, my administration will pursue a deliberate industrial revolution through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). We will revive and expand industrial zones, attract local and foreign investors, and provide incentives such as tax holidays, infrastructure support, and land access. This will stimulate local production, job creation, and economic resilience.
AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD SECURITY
We will reposition agriculture as one of the major economic drivers by supporting farmers with inputs, mechanisation, credit facilities, and market access. Large-scale farming of cassava, rice, cocoa, cotton, maize, and other crops will be encouraged, alongside agro-processing and export. Our goal is to make Oyo State food-secure within our first term.
RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND STRENGTHENING LOCAL GOVERNMENTS
Rural development will be prioritised through road construction, ultramodern markets, water supply, electrification, and healthcare.
ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE AND TRANSPORTATION
We will implement Operation “No Single Pothole” policy on our major roads and some inner roads to ensure consistent road maintenance across urban and rural areas. Strategic partnerships with construction firms will be explored for major industrial and border roads, with mutually beneficial tolling arrangements where necessary.
STRENGTHENING SECURITY ARCHITECTURE
Security of lives and property remains fundamental. My administration will strengthen community policing, energise community watch structures, deploy technology for crime monitoring, and improve coordination among security agencies. Increased support for the Security Trust Fund and collaboration with private security operators will ensure safer communities.
Oyo State will continue to develop a modern, safe, and sustainable urban transportation system by introducing electric and hybrid cars and buses equipped with smart technologies such as GPS tracking, digital displays, CCTV, collision-avoidance systems, and cashless payments to reduce congestion, emissions, and operating costs.
The transport system will be inclusive and people-centred, featuring low-floor buses, ramps, wheelchair spaces, and audio-visual announcements to ensure safe and comfortable mobility for all residents, including persons with disabilities, the elderly, and children.
Through sleek modern designs based on the existing built terminals, strong safety standards, and transparent governance, urban transportation will drive economic growth, job creation, and improved quality of life across Oyo State.
This initiative will be achieved in partnership with the existing transport management body in Oyo State.
PUBLIC UTILITIES, WATER, AND WASTE MANAGEMENT
Provision of public waterworks through proper funding, infrastructure maintenance, and effective management. On waste management, modern legislation, private sector participation, recycling initiatives, and environmental sanitation will be pursued to create jobs and improve public health.
PARTY UNITY AND GRASSROOTS DEMOCRACY
Party unity, internal democracy, and grassroots engagement will be strengthened. A united PDP is essential for peace, cohesion, and collective progress.
Ultimately, my goal is to continue the trust in leadership by delivering a government that truly serves the people—one that listens, acts, and remains accountable. I am ready to carry the baton forward with loyalty, competence, and renewed energy for a better and more prosperous Oyo State.
EDUCATION: BUILDING A FUTURE-READY GENERATION
Education will be the backbone of Oyo State’s development, modelled after systems in developed countries where education drives innovation and economic growth.
Key Reforms:
Free and compulsory basic education with strong enforcement and incentives for school attendance.
Teacher retraining and continuous welfare upgrades, including continuous professional development, competitive salaries, and performance-based rewards.
Digital classrooms and smart schools, equipped with broadband internet, tablets, and a conducive environment for students across the state.
Technical and vocational education (TVET) aligned with industry needs, which will fall under the dual education system.
University–industry partnerships to promote research, innovation, and job placement for graduates.
Education loans and scholarship schemes for indigent but brilliant students.
Outcome:
A globally competitive workforce equipped with practical skills, innovation capacity, and strong civic values.
YOUTH, SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT: ECONOMIC GROWTH THROUGH TALENTS
As part of my commitment to youth development, my administration will prioritise youth participation in sports as a strategic tool for building a healthy, disciplined, and productive generation. We will invest in grassroots sports to improve physical and mental well-being, nurture talent, and instil values such as discipline, resilience, teamwork, and respect for fair play. Through sports, we will keep our youths positively engaged, reduce crime and social vices, and open pathways to education, employment, and professional careers. This agenda will also strengthen social inclusion, community cohesion, and collective pride, positioning sports as a pillar of sustainable development.
Drawing inspiration from developed countries that value talent, sports and entertainment will be positioned as part of projecting our talents who are looking for international sports participation and scouting.
Through a strengthened Ministry of Sports and Entertainment:
Grassroots sports development in schools and local communities to discover and nurture talent early.
World-class sports infrastructure, including mini stadiums in all schools, training academies, and community sports centres.
Sports scholarships and talent scouting programmes, connecting Oyo athletes to international clubs and competitions.
Creative industry hubs for music, film, fashion, and digital content creation.
Entertainment grants and low-interest loans for young creatives.
Annual international festivals to attract tourism, investors, and global attention.
Outcome:
Thousands of jobs created, global recognition for Oyo State talents.
EMPOWER YOUTHS AND WOMEN
Youth and women empowerment will be central to our agenda through skills acquisition programmes, entrepreneurship support, provision of access to soft loans, and funding for micro, small, and medium enterprises through partnership with financial institutions. Empowering these groups is key to reducing unemployment, poverty, and social unrest.
HEALTHCARE: A MODERN, ACCESSIBLE, AND PEOPLE-CENTRED SYSTEM
Healthcare will be built on multiple levels to ensure access, affordability, and quality.
Key Initiatives:
Universal health insurance coverage for all residents, especially the vulnerable.
Upgrading primary healthcare centres to operate 24/7 with modern equipment and trained personnel.
Specialist hospitals and diagnostic centres across the zones of the state.
Medical tourism within Oyo State, reducing the need for foreign treatment.
Public-private partnerships (PPP) in healthcare delivery.
Incentives to attract and retain doctors and nurses, including housing and career development opportunities.
Outcome:
A healthier population, reduced medical expenses abroad, and increased life expectancy.
HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT: MODERN CITIES, DECENT LIVING
Inspired by urban planning models in developed countries, Oyo State will undergo a visible transformation.
Key Policies:
Development of high-rise and low-cost modern housing estates in Oyo State.
Affordable housing schemes for civil servants, artisans, business owners, and low-income earners.
Smart city planning, including green spaces, reliable power, water supply, and efficient waste management.
Urban renewal programmes to redevelop slums and ageing neighbourhoods.
Mortgage and rent-to-home-ownership schemes in partnership with financial institutions.
Existing home ownership will be censored and integrated into the existing Oyo State map planning.
Outcome:
A cleaner, modern, and visually attractive Oyo State that supports economic growth and improved quality of life.
SECURITY: SAFE COMMUNITIES, STRONG INSTITUTIONS
Security will be approached using global best practices from community policing models in some developed countries.
Security Strategy:
Technology-driven security, including CCTV cameras, drones, and smart surveillance systems, will be integrated into the existing security system.
Strengthened community policing, working closely with traditional rulers and local leaders.
Rapid response units across all the local government areas of Oyo State.
Youth engagement and employment programmes to address the root causes of crime.
Improved welfare and training for security personnel.
Outcome:
Safer communities, protected investments, and renewed confidence among residents and investors.
RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE ELECTRICITY:
We will deliver reliable and affordable electricity by investing in independent power projects, renewable energy, and modern distribution systems to guarantee steady power for homes, industries, hospitals, schools, and investors. This will attract foreign investors to choose Oyo State as their investment base and also eradicate dark environments.
Dedicated power supply will be provided to industrial clusters, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions to boost productivity and service delivery. Stable electricity will reduce dependence on generators, lower business costs, strengthen security infrastructure, and accelerate sustainable economic growth in Oyo State.
FAIR WAGES AND TIMELY CAREER PROGRESSION FOR SERVING CIVIL SERVANTS
Under Omituntun 3.0, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo pledges fair wages and entitlements that factor in prevailing economic realities for the workforce.
As a responsible and conscientious government, the Ajadi political ideology has gone ahead to provide a policy hedge for this, prioritising civil servants’ conditions of service.
By this, their salaries will continue to be paid regularly and promptly in line with established civil service rules.
In addition, merit-based promotions will be conducted as and when due, and there will be no issue of administrative delays or bureaucratic bottlenecks denying civil servants merited career progression.
Why will an Ajadi-led government keep faith with regular salary payment and promotion?
First, it is scriptural that a worker is worthy of his wages. In other words, anyone who has laboured to serve the state deserves decent wages for such labour.
Besides, regular payment of salaries is a sure way of sustaining workers’ morale, and my administration will not toy with it, knowing that the service is the engine room of productivity in any state economy.
Through these, therefore, an Ajadi-led government will sustain morale within the civil service, strengthen institutional efficiency, and guarantee that workers retire with dignity.
PENSIONERS AND RETIRED CIVIL SERVANTS: HONOURING SERVICE, SECURING DIGNITY
An Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo-led government would be run on equity and compassion, especially when it comes to pensions for retirees.
From the outset, the administration would put in place a robust pension payment framework that will not allow backlogs, but will instead be calculated upfront and paid as and when due.
This will enable retirees to plan their daily sustenance and also free government from running helter-skelter when it is time to pay.
Pensioners have served with their energy and time and should not be subjected to a beggarly status or have their lives endangered while seeking to receive what is both legally and morally theirs.
In connection with the above, our starting point is to seek to clear all verified outstanding pension and gratuity backlogs.
The modality for a transparent process has already been worked out and would go into operation upon the inauguration of the administration.
One of such modalities is the institution of a sustainable Pension Funding Framework aimed at ensuring uninterrupted and stress-free pension payment on a regular basis.
Digital and Seamless Pension Administration
Knowing very well how bureaucracy can affect genuinely thought-out government policies, the administration of Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has gone ahead to plan for the introduction and expansion of e-payment systems and digital verification platforms.
This will both checkmate fraud and fast-track pension payment for all entitled Oyo retirees.
Health and Social Support for Retirees
Retired civil servants will be integrated into affordable healthcare schemes, while welfare support programmes will be designed to assist elderly pensioners in managing their health conditions.
The policy, already formulated, will, however, accommodate the input of pensioners’ unions in implementation.
Our Watchword
Under Omituntun 3.0, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo pledges that retirement will not mean rejection and that years of service will never be rewarded with neglect. Pensioners will be treated as partners in development and accorded the same respect and priority as serving workers.
An Ajadi administration will protect earned benefits, preserve dignity, and guarantee peace of mind for every retired civil servant in Oyo State.
TRANSPARENT, INCLUSIVE, AND PARTICIPATORY GOVERNANCE
I hereby sign an undertaking to be held accountable and prosecuted in a court of law for failing to fulfil the electoral promises that I hereby make to the citizens of Oyo State.
Anti-corruption measures will be institutionalised, public service delivery digitised, and citizen feedback will be encouraged. Women, youths, and marginalised groups will be actively included in political and leadership spaces to ensure equity and shared ownership of governance.
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