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501 Blind Candidates To Participate In 2025 UTME – Prof. Okebukola

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No fewer than 501 blind candidates are scheduled to sit for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) across eleven designated centres nationwide.

This was disclosed by the Chairman of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG), Professor Peter Okebukola, during a press briefing ahead of the special UTME for blind and other candidates with special needs.

JEOG was established in 2017 by JAMB Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, with Professor Okebukola appointed to oversee a smooth and inclusive UTME experience for visually impaired and differently-abled candidates.

Professor Okebukola announced that this year’s examination will take place between April 28 and April 29, covering 20 subjects.

“The candidates take the same test papers as the regular candidates and standards are not lowered in any form,” he emphasized.

Highlighting the inclusive policies championed by JAMB, Okebukola, who also serves as President of the Global University Network for Innovation (GUNi-Africa), praised Professor Oloyede for his efforts in ensuring equal access to higher education across the continent.

“As I normally review every year, in the last one week, I have conferred with members of GUNi-Africa on how blind candidates aspiring for higher education in Africa are treated in their countries and all are in agreement that Nigeria, Professor Oloyede, stands clearly out as the best,” he said.

He also revealed that 84 blind candidates who are prima facie qualified for admission—having at least five O-Level credits—will have their UTME registration fees refunded on the spot during the examination.

In addition, he highlighted several forms of support that JAMB has been providing for blind candidates since 2017.

“The other five ‘goodies’ that Oloyede has been showering on the candidates since 2017 are—free hotel accommodation for the blind candidates and their guides, free Braille slate and stylus, customised T-Shirts, free meals through the examination period, and transport supplementation for the blind candidates and their guides,” Okebukola stated.

He further noted that, “This year and for the second time, JAMB, through JEOG, will implement the bimodal system of UTME administration. This involves Fully-Braille and Fully Read-Aloud. Candidates have a choice of mode.”

“JEOG has been resourced by JAMB to make the experience of the two modes of test administration pleasant for the candidates,” he added.

According to Okebukola, JEOG has witnessed steady participation over the years, with 348 candidates in 2022, 313 in 2023, and 529 in 2024.

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Enugu Ministry, NGO Collaborate On Sustainable Agriculture Initiatives

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The Enugu State Government is deepening its commitment to sustainable agriculture through new partnerships, as the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation teams up with the South Saharan Social Development Organization (SSDO), a non-governmental organization focused on development initiatives.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by SSDO to his office in Enugu on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Mr. Patrick Ubru, emphasized the importance of strategic collaborations in unlocking the state’s agricultural potential.

“We welcome and value partnerships that help us fully harness our vast agricultural resources and strengthen the value chain,” Ubru said.

Reiterating the state’s dedication to food security and agricultural development, Ubru noted that the ministry is open to working with organizations committed to enhancing farming practices and boosting production.

“Agriculture remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy,” he stated.

“In Enugu, a significant portion of our population—both in urban and rural areas—relies on farming for their livelihood.”

He commended Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s ongoing efforts to support registered and verified farmers with improved inputs, knowledge, and modern techniques, describing the initiative as a major shift toward transforming agriculture into a viable business.

On his part, SSDO Executive Director, Dr. Stanley Ilechukwu, expressed his organization’s interest in partnering with the ministry to implement sustainable agriculture programs across local communities in the state.

“We are committed to supporting the government’s efforts to enhance farming practices, ensure food security, and promote climate-resilient agriculture,” he said.

Highlighting the growing challenges posed by climate change, Ilechukwu explained that SSDO’s approach will center on agroecology, resilience strategies, and policy advocacy—key pillars for building a sustainable food system.

“This partnership represents a significant step toward developing an agricultural ecosystem that not only empowers farmers but benefits the wider community and strengthens the state’s food economy,” he added.

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Lagos Faces Shortage Of 66,000 Healthcare Workers – Commissioner

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Governor Sanwolu, 

The Lagos State Government has disclosed that the state urgently needs an additional 66,000 healthcare professionals—33,000 doctors and 33,000 nurses—to meet the medical needs of its growing population.

At the 2025 ministerial press briefing marking the second year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term, the State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, explained the scale of the shortfall.

“There is an urgent demand to exponentially increase quality healthcare professionals in Nigeria,” he said, emphasizing the pressing need for expanded human resources in the health sector.

According to Abayomi, Lagos currently has only 7,000 doctors, a fraction of what is required to serve the state’s population adequately.

He added that similar deficits exist among nurses and other critical healthcare personnel.

To address the situation, the commissioner said the government is banking on the Lagos State University of Medicine and Health (UMH) to help close the gap.

“Within 5 years, UMH will produce about 2,500 healthcare workers (HCWs) annually in Lagos State. Other cadres will include laboratory scientists,” he noted.

On health insurance, Abayomi revealed that only 1,252,959 residents have enrolled in the state’s health insurance program—representing just 4.17 percent of the total population.

He said that 419 health facilities are currently offering services under the scheme.

Nonetheless, he expressed optimism about the impact of recent reforms “The new mandatory nature of the state health insurance act would significantly scale up the size of the pool of funds for the State Health Insurance Scheme.”

In terms of infrastructure, the commissioner provided updates on ongoing hospital projects across Lagos.

He stated that the New Massey Street 150-bed Children’s Specialist Referral Hospital is now 70 percent completed.

The 280-bed Ojo General Hospital and Staff Quarters in Iba, Ojo, has reached 75 percent completion, while the Mental Health Institute in Epe stands at 65 percent.

Abayomi assured the public that “all three health facilities will be commissioned for use in April 2026.”

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Over 135,000 Residents In Lagos Living With HIV – Health Commissioner

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The Lagos State Government has disclosed that a total of 135,224 residents in the state are currently living with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

This revelation was made by the State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, during the 2025 ministerial press briefing held to mark the second anniversary of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office.

Providing updates on the state’s public health initiatives, Abayomi noted that the government has actively involved more than 100 religious leaders as ambassadors in the fight against HIV and AIDS, aiming to drive awareness and community engagement.

On cancer control efforts, the Commissioner shared that the state has provided free cervical cancer screening to 154,228 individuals, and 8,613 patients have received treatment through thermal ablation.

Additionally, he mentioned that 300 men have undergone prostate cancer screening.

In a broader health update, Abayomi highlighted the state’s initiatives to combat hypertension and diabetes.

He stated that 667 blood pressure monitors, 770 glucometers, and 332 stethoscopes have been distributed to general hospitals and primary health centres.

“The government has screened 312,927 people for hypertension and diabetes,” he said.

Citing Lagos’ population of 30 million, the commissioner estimated a 20 percent prevalence rate for hypertension.

“Seventy per cent of them are unaware of their condition,” he disclosed.

He further revealed that the obesity rate in Lagos stands at 12 percent, while diabetes affects about 6 percent of residents, with half of them also unaware of their status.

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Benue Attacks: Ortom Cancels 64th Birthday Celebration In Solidarity With Victims

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Former Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, has opted to forgo any celebration of his 64th birthday in light of the continuing violent attacks plaguing parts of the state.

The announcement was made on Wednesday through a statement by his media aide, Mr. Terver Akase, in Makurdi.

While expressing gratitude for the outpouring of goodwill messages and prayers from within Benue and across the country, Ortom made it clear that the worsening security situation required solemn reflection rather than celebration.

“In light of the ongoing intensified invasion, attacks, and senseless killing of innocent Benue people by herdsmen across various local government areas, Chief Ortom has decided not to hold any celebration,” the statement read.

“Instead, he has chosen to use the occasion to demonstrate solidarity with the victims and their families, who have suffered grievously from the attacks.”

He extended his “deepest sympathies to all affected families,” and urged Benue residents to keep praying fervently for the victims and for peace to be restored.

“He calls on everyone to seek divine intervention to end the carnage and restore peace and security to the state, as well as other parts of the country,” Akase added.

Furthermore, Ortom called on the people to intercede in prayers for Nigeria’s leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, Benue Governor Hyacinth Alia, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.

He prayed that “God grants them wisdom, strength, and divine guidance to confront and overcome the security challenges facing the State and Nigeria at large.”

Despite the somber mood, Ortom acknowledged God’s grace over his life, stating he remains thankful “for His mercy, good health, and blessings over the past 64 years.”

He reaffirmed his enduring dedication to “the service of God and humanity in the years ahead.”

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China Leaves ‘Door Wide Open’ For Trade Talks As Trump Signals Tariff Reduction

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In a move suggesting renewed willingness for economic dialogue, China on Wednesday declared its readiness for trade negotiations with the United States, following President Donald Trump’s remarks hinting at a potential reduction in tariffs on Chinese goods.

Speaking at a press conference in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said, “China pointed out early on that there are no winners in tariff wars and trade wars. The door for talks is wide open.”

The announcement came a day after Trump, who returned to the White House in January, indicated that tariffs—currently at 145 percent on many Chinese imports—would “come down substantially.”

These tariffs were first introduced in response to China’s alleged involvement in the fentanyl trade and what Washington termed unfair trade practices.

Trump admitted the current tariff level is “very high,” adding, “They will not be anywhere near that number” but clarified “it won’t be zero.”

He emphasized, “Ultimately, they have to make a deal because otherwise, they’re not going to be able to deal in the United States.”

Chinese President Xi Jinping also weighed in, warning that escalating trade tensions could disrupt the global economy.

According to state media, Xi said trade wars “undermine the legitimate rights and interests of all countries, hurt the multilateral trading system and impact the world economic order.”

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent echoed this sentiment during a closed-door event on Tuesday. According to an attendee, Bessent characterized the current trade climate as a “reciprocal trade embargo” and anticipated that a de-escalation was likely.

He also noted the reassurance such a shift could bring to nervous financial markets.

Trump further addressed market concerns by clarifying his stance on US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.

Dismissing speculation of an impending dismissal, Trump stated, “I have no intention of firing him,” though he urged Powell to act more decisively. “I would like to see him be a little more active in terms of his idea to lower interest rates — it’s a perfect time to lower interest rates. If he doesn’t, is it the end? No.”

Markets responded positively. Wall Street indices surged following reports of Bessent’s remarks, while Asian stocks, including Hong Kong and Tokyo, each posted gains of around two percent.

Gold, which had recently hit record highs as a safe-haven asset, retreated slightly in response to the optimism.

Bessent also underscored the need for economic balance in China, stating that the intention of US policy is not to sever ties with Beijing.

He noted, however, that container traffic between the two countries had declined amid rising tensions.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reinforced Washington’s optimism, telling reporters that the US was “doing very well in respect to a potential trade deal with China.”

Amid the ongoing spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank in Washington, finance ministers and central bankers from around the world are closely monitoring developments in the US-China trade landscape.

Meanwhile, diplomatic outreach by China continued, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi speaking with his British and Austrian counterparts, calling on the UK and EU to collaborate with Beijing in protecting global trade systems.

Japan also appears to be taking proactive steps, with reports suggesting that a second visit to Washington by tariffs envoy Ryosei Akazawa is in the works.

Tokyo may offer new concessions in a bid to ease rising tensions.

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Peter Obi Spotted At Pope’s Lying-In-State Ceremony In Rome

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Dailygazettenig
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Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, was seen at a solemn lying-in-state ceremony held in honour of the late Pope Francis in Rome.

Pope Francis, aged 88, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21.

According to the Vatican, funeral services commenced shortly after, with global dignitaries attending to honour the legacy of the influential Catholic leader.

Obi, currently in Rome, joined Cardinal Francis Arinze and other prominent figures at St. Peter’s Basilica to pay his final respects to the late Pontiff.

Sharing his reflections, Obi stated, “Today, I joined Francis Cardinal Arinze, global dignitaries, and thousands of mourners at St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome, to pay my final respects to His Holiness, Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21.”

“The solemn lying-in-state ceremony was a moment of deep reflection, as the world bids farewell to a man who embodied humility, simplicity, and selfless service,” he continued.

Describing Pope Francis as a figure beyond ecclesiastical leadership, Obi remarked, “Pope Francis was more than a pontiff; as he was also a moral light in a world darkened by inequality and indifference.

His life was a testament to leadership as a sacred duty, one rooted in compassion, truth, and service to the poor and marginalised.

He lived for others, spoke for the voiceless, and reminded us all that leadership must be about lifting others, not self-exaltation.”

Obi also recalled his personal connection to the Pope through a prestigious intellectual fellowship.

“I came to truly appreciate what he stood for after my appointment as a member of Scholars Occultantes—an international circle of thinkers he founded during his time as Archbishop.”

“The organisation, dedicated to truth, ethical leadership, and social transformation, gave me a deeper insight into the intellectual and moral force behind his teachings.”

Reflecting on his encounters with the late Pontiff, Obi shared, “I was blessed to meet Pope Francis on three occasions, with each encounter left a lasting impression on me.”

“He said that the late pontiff radiated peace and inspired faith, and his presence was a quiet yet powerful reminder of the divine responsibility that leadership entails, apart that his humility was infectious and his vision deeply human.”

Concluding his tribute, Obi made a heartfelt appeal to African leaders: “As we mourn this great soul, I urge political, religious, and community leaders, especially across Africa, to reflect on his life and commit to the values he upheld: justice, peace, and human dignity.”

Let this moment not just be one of mourning, but a call to lead with conscience, walk with the people, and govern with love,” Obi said.

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NNPP Senator Dumps Party, Pitches Tent With APC

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Dailygazettenig
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Senator Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila, who represents Kano South Senatorial District, has officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) after parting ways with the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).

The announcement came during a media briefing in Kano, where the senator confirmed the widely circulated speculation about his political move.

Sumaila, a former Senior Special Assistant to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari on National Assembly Matters (House of Representatives), described the decision as a reflection of his commitment to his people.

“Yes, it is true — the rumors regarding my defection are accurate. All politics is local, and my primary concern has always been, and remains, the welfare of my immediate constituency,” he declared.

The senator added, “I am resolutely determined to advance the lives of my people, ensuring their needs are met and their future is secured.”

Sumaila was one of four lawmakers suspended earlier by a faction of the NNPP led by Hashimu Dungurawa in Kano.

Others affected by the suspension included Kabiru Alhassan Rurum of Rano/Kibiya Federal Constituency, Ali Madakin Gini representing Dala, and Sani Abdullahi Rogo from Rogo/Karaye.

In a swift reaction to the suspension, Sumaila dismissed it, insisting that it lacked legitimacy.

He maintained his allegiance to what he called the genuine NNPP faction.

He said the authentic wing of the party is the one symbolized by the fruit and basket logo, emphasizing that this faction represents the party’s true ideals and legitimacy.

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Five Places Where The Sun Never Sets

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While most parts of the world follow the natural rhythm of day and night, there are a few unique locations on Earth where the sun refuses to dip below the horizon for extended periods—sometimes for over 70 consecutive days.

This natural wonder can be both mesmerizing and disorienting for visitors and locals alike.

Here are five remarkable places where you can experience this phenomenon:

1. Finland

In the northernmost parts of Finland, especially during summer, the sun stays visible for up to 73 straight days.

This phenomenon affects daily routines significantly—residents tend to sleep less during the summer and make up for it in the dark, wintry months.

2. Iceland

As Europe’s second-largest island after Great Britain, Iceland experiences continuous daylight from around May 10 to late July.

This makes the country an attractive summer destination. An interesting bonus—there are no mosquitoes in Iceland.

3. Antarctica

In the southernmost part of the world, certain areas within the Antarctic Circle are bathed in sunlight continuously from September to March during the austral summer.

This non-stop daylight contributes to the region’s extreme and surreal atmosphere.

4. Russia

St. Petersburg, located in northern Russia, is known for its “White Nights”—a period when the sun barely sets and darkness never truly falls.

For about six weeks in summer, twilight persists even at midnight, creating a magical experience for residents and tourists alike.

5. Greenland

In Northern Greenland, especially near the Arctic, the sun remains above the horizon from late May to July.

This natural occurrence, called the Midnight Sun, offers a unique experience to those seeking the surreal beauty of round-the-clock daylight.

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Tension In Zamfara As State Assembly Splits Into Two, Each Faction Orders Governor To Re-present 2025 Budget

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The Zamfara State House of Assembly is embroiled in a fresh wave of political turmoil as two rival factions held simultaneous sittings on Wednesday, deepening the division within the legislature.

Both groups are calling on Governor Dauda Lawal to re-submit the 2025 budget and to urgently address the state’s worsening insecurity within the next month.

One session was presided over by embattled Speaker Hon. Bilyaminu Ismail Moriki.

The second, however, was conducted by 10 lawmakers loyal to Hon. Bashar Aliyu Gummi, who insists he is the legitimate Speaker following Moriki’s impeachment last year over allegations of highhandedness and misconduct.

During their session, Gummi’s camp—which includes members from both the PDP and APC—issued a strong condemnation of the escalating security crisis plaguing all 14 local government areas of the state.

They gave Governor Lawal a one-month ultimatum to curb the persistent threats of armed banditry, kidnappings, and general insecurity.

“The state government appears indifferent to the suffering of the people,” one of the lawmakers stated.

“While insecurity and poverty engulf the state, huge sums are being spent on frivolities, and victims of bandit attacks are left without support.”

The lawmakers also took issue with the state’s recent dismissal of more than 4,000 civil servants, describing the action as arbitrary and devoid of due process.

They called for the immediate reversal of the decision and demanded the prompt payment of all withheld salaries and benefits.

Further criticism was directed at the inadequate resourcing of the state’s local security outfit, the Askarawa.

The faction blamed poor equipment and neglect for the deaths of more than half of the security team during confrontations with criminal elements.

They urged Governor Lawal to channel part of the state’s N2 billion monthly security vote towards compensating families of the deceased.

They proposed, “at least N10 million in compensation for each bereaved family.”

The lawmakers didn’t spare the governor’s associates either, accusing some individuals from neighboring states like Niger, Kaduna, and Adamawa of suddenly acquiring enormous wealth.

“If his associates can build multi-billion-naira mansions after visiting Zamfara, then the governor has no justification for downsizing the workforce under the guise of insufficient resources,” they charged.

In addition, the faction labeled the suspension of their members by Speaker Moriki as invalid and unconstitutional.

They argued that since Moriki had been impeached, he no longer held the authority to take such disciplinary actions.

Among the lawmakers at the Gummi-led sitting were: Hon. Aliyu Ango Kagara (Talata Mafara South), Hon. Ibrahim Tudu Tukur Bakura (Bakura), Hon. Nasiru Abdullahi Maru (Maru North), Hon. Faruk Musa Dosara (Maradun 1), Hon. Bashar Aliyu Gummi (Gummi 1), Hon. Barr. Bashir Abubakar Masama (Bukkuyum North), Hon. Amiru Ahmed (Tsafe West), Hon. Basiru Bello (Bungudu West), and Hon. Mukhtaru Nasiru (Kaura Namoda North).

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