The pupils and teacher abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State have regained their freedom after being rescued by security agencies.

The development was confirmed on Friday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who announced the successful rescue of the victims.

Onanuga disclosed the development in a post on his verified X account, describing the rescue as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping.

“Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo have been rescued by our security agencies,” he wrote.

He, however, did not provide details of the operation or disclose the identities of those involved in the rescue.

The victims’ release has brought relief to their families, residents of Orire and other stakeholders who had expressed concern over their safety since the abduction.

The incident had sparked widespread anxiety in the community, with parents, traditional leaders and residents calling for urgent intervention to secure the safe return of the schoolchildren and their teacher.

Although the victims have now regained their freedom, authorities are yet to reveal whether they were rescued during a security operation, released after negotiations or freed under any other circumstances.

It also remains unclear whether any ransom was paid before their release.

Security agencies are expected to provide further updates as investigations continue to uncover those responsible for the abduction and the circumstances surrounding the victims’ freedom.

The successful rescue comes amid intensified efforts by security agencies to curb kidnapping and other violent crimes across Oyo State and other parts of Nigeria.

The return of the pupils and teacher has eased tension in Orire, with residents expressing hope that authorities will strengthen security measures to prevent similar incidents in schools and communities.

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The Federal Government has signed major contract agreements with four construction firms for the execution of strategic road projects across Nigeria, as part of efforts to accelerate infrastructure development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The contract signing ceremony took place on Thursday at the headquarters of the Federal Ministry of Works in Mabushi, Abuja, and covers road projects in Kaduna, Oyo, Ogun and Osun states.

According to the government, the projects are designed to improve transportation, strengthen regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth.

Road Projects Cover Kaduna, Oyo, Ogun and Osun

Minister of Works, David Umahi, said the projects represent critical national infrastructure aimed at boosting economic activity and enhancing national integration.

He explained that the administration remains committed to delivering durable road networks that will serve Nigerians for decades.

Among the awarded projects is the reconstruction of the Mando–Birnin Gwari Road in Kaduna State, awarded to J. Patel and Sons Nigeria Limited.

Also included is the dualisation of the Ibadan–Ijebu Ode Road covering Oyo and Ogun States, awarded to JRB Construction Company Limited.

In Osun State, the Osogbo–Ikirun–Akoda Road project was awarded to Truecrete Solutions Limited, while the Osogbo–Iwo–Ibadan Road was awarded to Peculiar Ultimate Concerns Limited.

FG Pushes for Long-Lasting Concrete Road Technology

Umahi stressed that the projects align with President Bola Tinubu’s campaign promises and the Renewed Hope infrastructure agenda.

He stated that the government is prioritising rigid pavement technology to ensure durability and long-term value for public investment.

“Our vision is to build roads that will last for generations,” the minister said, noting that the adoption of concrete pavement technology would enhance sustainability.

He also directed contractors to immediately mobilise to site and begin work without delay, adding that performance monitoring would be strict.

Contract Values and Technical Details Revealed

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Rafiu Olarinre Adeladan, said the signing marks the completion of procurement processes and the official commencement of implementation.

Director of Highways, Construction and Rehabilitation, Clement Ogbuagu, disclosed the financial breakdown of the projects.

He said the 122-kilometre Mando–Birnin Gwari Road was awarded at ₦178.1 billion, while the 114.5-kilometre Ibadan–Ijebu Ode dualisation project was valued at ₦295.9 billion.

He added that the Osogbo–Ikirun–Akoda Road project was awarded at ₦101.8 billion, while the Osogbo–Iwo–Ibadan Road project was valued at ₦114.8 billion.

FG Targets Stronger Transport Network and Economic Growth

The Ministry said all projects will be executed using Continuously Reinforced Concrete Pavement (CRCP) technology in line with federal standards for durability and efficiency.

Officials added that the road investments form part of a broader plan to modernise Nigeria’s transport infrastructure, reduce travel challenges and support economic expansion nationwide.

The Federal Government expressed confidence that the projects will significantly improve road connectivity and enhance trade across the affected regions.

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The Federal Government has dismissed claims that funds from the federation account are being diverted, insisting that deductions by the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) are legitimate and properly accounted for.

In a statement, the Minister of State for Finance, Taiwo Oyedele, said recent interpretations of the World Bank Nigeria Development Update were misleading.

According to him, some reports wrongly described FAAC deductions as “leakages” or hidden spending, contrary to the World Bank’s actual findings.

“The interpretations misrepresent the World Bank’s analysis and reflect a misunderstanding of Nigeria’s fiscal system,” the ministry stated.

The government explained that the deductions referenced in the report cover statutory transfers, savings, security expenditures, cost-of-collection charges, and refunds to Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

It stressed that these are legitimate fiscal obligations, including allocations to subnational governments, and should not be classified as missing funds.

The ministry also faulted what it described as selective reporting, noting that positive aspects of the World Bank report were largely ignored.

According to the government, the World Bank acknowledged that recent reforms would enhance transparency and increase revenue available to all tiers of government.

The ministry highlighted that new fiscal measures introduced in 2026, including an executive order to improve petroleum revenue remittance, are already addressing concerns around deductions.

It added that the reforms are expected to boost distributable revenue by about 0.4 per cent of GDP annually.

Beyond revenue concerns, the government said the report pointed to broader economic improvements, including declining inflation, stronger external reserves, and a current account surplus.

It also noted an improvement in Nigeria’s debt indicators, with a reduction in the debt-to-GDP ratio recorded for the first time in over a decade.

The Federal Government maintained that the World Bank’s overall conclusion was positive, emphasising that ongoing reforms are yielding results and should be sustained.

It reiterated its commitment to strengthening fiscal transparency, improving revenue mobilisation, and ensuring efficient public spending.

The ministry urged stakeholders and the media to interpret fiscal data responsibly to avoid undermining public confidence in ongoing economic reforms.

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The Academic Staff Union of Universities has issued a four-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the immediate implementation of the newly approved salary structure for university lecturers.

The directive was announced by ASUU President, Christopher Piwuna, during an address to union members at Sa’adu Zungur University in Bauchi State.

Piwuna said the countdown takes effect immediately, warning that the union would take decisive action if the government fails to begin payment within the stipulated timeframe. He stressed that the demand reflects long-standing concerns over delayed implementation of agreements with the government. 

The ASUU president criticised what he described as the Federal Government’s repeated failure to honour agreements, noting that such lapses have historically led to industrial disputes and disruptions in the university system. 

He also raised concerns over plans to establish a Nigerian campus of Coventry University, warning that the move could undermine the development of local universities. Piwuna described the proposal as a threat to Nigeria’s higher education system, arguing that priority should instead be given to strengthening domestic institutions. 

The ultimatum comes amid ongoing tensions between ASUU and the Federal Government over welfare, funding, and implementation of agreements in the education sector.

Observers say the latest development could signal a potential return to industrial action if both parties fail to reach a resolution within the given timeframe, raising concerns about possible disruptions to academic activities across Nigerian universities.

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The Federal Government has inaugurated the board of the National Pension Commission, charging members to safeguard pension assets and strengthen governance. The PenCom board pension assets responsibility includes protecting over N28 trillion under the Contributory Pension Scheme.

The inauguration took place in Abuja, where officials described the commission as a key institution responsible for managing retirement savings for millions of Nigerians.

FG Tasks PenCom Board on Pension Assets Transparency

Speaking at the event, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the board must uphold transparency and accountability in all decisions. He stressed that strong governance will build public trust in the pension system.

He also warned against interference in daily operations, noting that management should handle routine activities while the board focuses on oversight. According to him, this balance is essential for institutional effectiveness.

PenCom Board Pension Assets Exceed N28 Trillion

Officials confirmed that pension assets under the scheme have grown beyond N28 trillion, reflecting steady expansion in Nigeria’s pension industry.

The government said the board must protect these funds through strong risk management and internal controls. As a result, contributors can remain confident that their savings are secure.

Board Expected to Drive Policy and Reforms

The government expects the board to provide strategic direction and policy guidance in line with existing pension laws. In addition, members must ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks governing the sector.

The Chairman of the board, Opeyemi Agbaje, said members will prioritise integrity and strong leadership. He added that the board will support national development by investing pension funds in key sectors such as infrastructure and housing.

Management Pledges Collaboration

The Director-General of PenCom, Omolola Oloworaran, described the inauguration as timely. She said it restores the board’s oversight role and strengthens governance within the commission.

She also pledged that management would work closely with the board to ensure decisions benefit contributors and retirees.

The PenCom board pension assets mandate highlights the importance of strong oversight in Nigeria’s financial system. With trillions of naira at stake, the board’s role remains critical to ensuring transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability.

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The Federal Government, in collaboration with the Nigerian Legion, has concluded plans to develop affordable housing estates for military veterans as part of broader efforts to improve post-service welfare and ensure a dignified retirement for former service personnel.

The initiative is designed to prevent situations where retired soldiers, sailors, and airmen are left without stable accommodation after years of service to the nation.

National Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Ms Grace Henry, disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja while speaking with journalists on the sidelines of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.

According to her, the housing scheme forms part of a restructured Legion framework focused on long-term welfare support for veterans, widows, and their families.

“We do not want our people to retire and have nowhere to go,” Henry said. “We are creating a new Legion framework where veterans, widows, and their families can have a place to live and a sense of belonging.”

She noted that recent improvements in veterans’ welfare, particularly in pension administration, had eased tensions and reduced public protests by retired personnel.

“For the past six months, we have not had our members on the streets again. Pensions are now being paid as and when due, and this has brought relief to widows and veterans,” she added.

Henry described the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day as more than a ceremonial event, explaining that its expansion into a week-long programme had helped strengthen public appreciation of the sacrifices made by both fallen and living members of the Armed Forces.

She said the extended programme had also increased awareness of the need for sustained institutional support for military families, especially after active service.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the Ministerial Committee on Military Veterans’ Welfare, Air Commodore Femi Oguntuyi (retd), said the committee was actively engaging the Federal Government on key welfare challenges affecting ex-servicemen.

Oguntuyi explained that priority areas under review include the veterans’ salary structure, access to quality medical care for disabled personnel, and the equitable payment of post-service entitlements.

He acknowledged that while progress had been gradual, discussions with relevant government agencies were ongoing and expected to result in measurable improvements in veterans’ living conditions nationwide.

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The Federal Government has announced plans to raise ₦500 billion through the issuance of green bonds in 2026, as part of efforts to expand funding for climate-related and environmental projects across the country.

Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, disclosed this in a post on his verified X handle following Nigeria’s participation at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.

According to Lawal, the proposed green bond issuance reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening climate financing mechanisms while reducing dependence on oil revenues and conventional borrowing for development funding.

He explained that proceeds from the ₦500 billion green bond would be deployed to support projects focused on climate change mitigation and adaptation, environmental protection, renewable energy development, sustainable agriculture and other environmentally friendly initiatives aligned with Nigeria’s climate objectives.

The minister noted that the planned issuance underscores Nigeria’s growing reliance on climate-linked debt instruments to mobilise long-term capital for sustainable development, while also attracting investors with strong environmental, social and governance (ESG) interests.

Nigeria has previously issued green bonds to finance eco-friendly projects, positioning the instrument as a critical component of its broader strategy to meet international climate commitments and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.

The Federal Government believes that scaling up green bond financing will enhance environmental resilience, promote sustainable economic diversification and support inclusive growth, while reinforcing Nigeria’s leadership role in climate action within Africa.

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A real estate development expert, Dr Meckson Innocent Okoro, has called on the Federal Government and state governments to adopt direct land allocation as a deliberate policy tool to reduce the cost of mass housing delivery across Nigeria.

Okoro said affordable housing would remain unattainable for many Nigerians unless governments take greater responsibility for land provision and supporting infrastructure, particularly for large-scale housing estates located outside urban centres.

He identified land, finance and infrastructure as the three most critical components of housing delivery, stressing that the absence of any of these elements significantly increases the final cost of housing units.

According to him, when governments directly allocate land for housing projects and provide basic infrastructure such as access roads, electricity, water supply and mass transit systems, developers are able to deliver homes at significantly lower prices.

“Easy and affordable transportation will encourage people to buy and live in these estates, especially when they are far from city centres. Government involvement in infrastructure development will drastically reduce the selling price per housing unit,” he said.

Commends Renewed Hope Estates initiative

Okoro made the remarks while commending the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for initiating the Renewed Hope Estates and Cities Programme, describing it as a major step towards closing Nigeria’s housing gap.

He noted that the initiative marks one of the closest attempts Nigeria has made toward structured mass housing delivery comparable to global best practices.

The former Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) also praised the administration for aligning housing delivery with long-term mortgage financing, including a 20-year tenure, single-digit interest rates, and a 10 per cent equity contribution by subscribers.

“This is a commendable intervention aimed at giving ordinary Nigerians access to homeownership,” he said.

However, Okoro cautioned that the success of the programme would depend on its continuity beyond the lifespan of the current administration.

He urged the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to institutionalise the strategy, gather data from ongoing projects and refine future housing policies based on feedback from beneficiaries.

Infrastructure, solar power critical

Speaking further on mass housing development, Okoro warned that leaving developers to independently provide roads, electricity and water often leads to inflated housing costs.

He advocated for government-led infrastructure provision and encouraged the incorporation of solar energy solutions in all federal housing estates to reduce long-term energy costs.

“I also suggest that solar panels should be integrated into every federal housing estate so subscribers do not resort to generators, which increase cost and environmental impact,” he said.

Concerns over mortgage access

On funding, Okoro expressed concern about the ease of accessing mortgage facilities under the Renewed Hope Estates programme, particularly through the MOFI Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF).

While applauding the availability of mortgage funding, he warned that delays and bureaucratic bottlenecks by disbursement banks could undermine the initiative.

“My concern is how accessible these mortgage funds are to subscribers. Government must ensure that appointed banks do not create unnecessary delays in fund disbursement,” he said.

He called on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to carry out regular supervision of mortgage disbursement banks to ensure strict compliance with established guidelines.

Drawing lessons from the failed mortgage reforms of the early 1990s, Okoro warned that weak regulation could derail even well-intentioned housing policies.

“No matter how noble the intention, mortgage schemes only succeed when there are strong checks and enforcement mechanisms,” he said.

Clean land titles, anti-speculation measures urged

Okoro further stressed that all Renewed Hope Estate sites must have clean and verifiable land titles, noting that banks would be reluctant to finance properties with disputed ownership.

He also called for strict safeguards to prevent speculative purchases by government officials and politically connected individuals.

“In the past, mass housing schemes meant for ordinary Nigerians ended up in the hands of a few privileged individuals who later resold them at higher prices,” he said.

According to him, effective checks and balances are required to ensure that the houses reach the intended beneficiaries.

Economic benefits for states

The real estate expert argued that sustained mass housing delivery would generate long-term revenue for state governments through ground rents and land use charges.

“If the government succeeds in delivering millions of houses over time, states will benefit from consistent property-related revenues. Without housing development, these income streams are lost,” he added.

The post FG, States Urged to Allocate Land Directly for Mass Housing Projects appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Federal Government has announced plans to demolish 355 buildings in various parts of Anambra State to facilitate the construction of the Alaoji-Onitsha Powerline.

This project, which is crucial to addressing the region’s power supply challenges, is projected to cost approximately N6.5 billion in compensation alone for affected property owners in Anambra State.

The Federal Government has earmarked a total compensation package of N12 billion for the entire Southeast region, which will cover communities in Anambra, Abia, and Imo States, as well as other impacted stakeholders.

The compensation, aimed at those whose properties will be demolished to make way for the transmission line, has been the subject of recent discussions between Anambra State stakeholders, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), and consulting firm BGM Limited.

The Alaoji-Onitsha Powerline is a major infrastructure project spearheaded by TCN, and it is expected to span 15 communities across three local government areas in Anambra.

Once completed, the powerline will significantly boost the region’s electricity transmission capacity, alleviating power shortages that have plagued local businesses and industries.

In a meeting held in Awka, Anambra’s capital, project stakeholders, including traditional rulers, government officials, and representatives from non-governmental organizations, gathered to discuss the project’s progress and the compensation process. Omobola Oluwaseun Sogo, the Project Manager and Assistant General Manager at TCN, confirmed that the Federal Government has already allocated a portion of the funds for compensation.

She urged the affected communities to engage in discussions and come to an agreement swiftly, emphasizing that the project’s long-term benefits for the region outweigh any short-term inconveniences.

N6.5 Billion Compensation for Anambra

According to Basil Uzodinma, Managing Director of BGM Limited, the compensation package for Anambra alone will amount to N6.5 billion.

The demolition of 355 buildings in the state is part of a broader effort to remove encroachments and ensure the successful implementation of the powerline project. Uzodinma highlighted the historical loss of businesses in the region due to power outages, noting that some small enterprises had relocated to neighboring countries like Ghana in search of stable electricity.

He also noted that the project’s completion would mark a significant milestone in correcting power supply anomalies in the Southeast. “If we were transmitting 100 megawatts before, this project will increase that to 1,000 megawatts. This will help businesses thrive and eliminate the constant complaints of power shortages,” Uzodinma said.

A Promising Future for Southeast Businesses

For Ifeanyi Okonkwo, the Assistant General Manager in charge of TCN operations in Anambra, the Alaoji-Onitsha Powerline project is a much-needed step toward economic revitalization in the Southeast. Okonkwo stated that without reliable power, economic growth would remain stunted, adding that the powerline would create a more favorable environment for local businesses to thrive.

“We are here to talk about the way forward for the project,” Okonkwo remarked. “This project will positively impact our people. Power is the backbone of every successful business, and we need this project to drive growth in the region.”

Project Set to Begin Soon

With compensation discussions in progress, stakeholders are optimistic that the Alaoji-Onitsha Powerline project will proceed without further delays. As Sogo emphasized, “Once the communities come to terms with our discussions, we are good to go.”

The project is expected to be completed in phases, with the powerline improving power supply across the region and contributing to economic development in Anambra and beyond.

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The Federal Government has terminated the reconstruction and expansion contract for the Mararaba–Keffi dual carriageway awarded to China Harbour Engineering Company, citing negligence and failure to comply with approved engineering designs despite repeated warnings.

Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, announced that local contractors with proven competence will now handle the project to ensure timely delivery and adherence to standards. He expressed displeasure over the contractor’s poor performance, noting that the slow pace of work has caused severe hardship for commuters and residents along the corridor.

Umahi, who visited the site with the Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, and senior officials of the ministry, met with Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, Senator Ahmed Wadata, and other stakeholders at the Keffi flyover to review the project’s progress.

“We cannot continue to tolerate uncooperative contractors who delay projects and ignore directives,” Umahi stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to delivering world-class and durable road infrastructure.

In a related development, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani held a strategic meeting with Umahi in Abuja to review the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Expressway project, focusing on accelerating work on the Abuja–Jere–Kaduna segment, a critical route serving millions of Nigerians daily.

Sani described the expressway as an economic corridor vital to Northern Nigeria’s development and aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to modernise infrastructure and enhance national competitiveness. Umahi commended the governor’s proactive involvement and disclosed that contractors have been directed to operate double shifts to fast-track completion without compromising quality.

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