President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Shamsedeen Ogunjimi as the new Accountant General of the Federation following an extensive selection process.

A statement from the Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), Bayo Onanuga, announced that Ogunjimi’s appointment, which was approved on Tuesday, will take effect from March 7, 2025, coinciding with the retirement of the current Accountant General, Oluwatoyin Madehin.

Ogunjimi, 57, was initially named as Madehin’s successor in December.

According to the statement, a selection committee chose him through a competitive, thorough, and merit-based process, which involved Directors of Accounts in the Federal Civil Service.

The selection was carried out in three stages: a written assessment, an ICT proficiency test, and oral interviews.

The process reflects President Tinubu’s dedication to ensuring transparency, excellence, and competence in crucial public service roles.

Ogunjimi holds a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, which he obtained in 1990, as well as a Master’s in Accounting and Finance from the University of Lagos.

He is a fellow of both the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria.

President Tinubu congratulated Ogunjimi on his appointment and encouraged him to serve with integrity, professionalism, and commitment to the nation.

The Rivers State House of Assembly has given Governor Sim Fubara 48 hours to submit the 2025 budget to the lawmakers.

This directive was made during the plenary session in Port Harcourt on Monday.

Fubara had previously presented and signed the ₦1.1 trillion 2025 budget into law on January 2nd, after presenting it to the legislature led by Victor Oko-Jumbo.

Read Also: Rivers Government Announces Commissioning Of 10-Day Project

However, following a Supreme Court ruling last week, which declared Martin Amaewhule and his faction of lawmakers as the rightful members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, the legislature has now called on Fubara to present the budget bill, referred to as the “Budget of Inclusive Growth and Development.”

In addition, the Supreme Court instructed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to withhold funds allocated to Rivers State until the state addresses its disobedience to court orders.

The court also invalidated last year’s local government elections in the state. As a result, Fubara announced plans for new local government elections in compliance with the court’s ruling.

Fubara also ordered that the Heads of Local Government Administration assume control of the 23 local government councils until fresh elections are conducted.

He further directed the outgoing local government chairmen to formally hand over power to the Heads of Local Government Administration by Monday, March 3, 2025.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan explained on Sunday why his administration did not act on the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference.

Jonathan made this statement while visiting the family of late Afenifere leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, in Lagos to offer his condolences. He said the political situation in Nigeria at the time was too unstable to present the conference’s recommendations.

He acknowledged that without individuals like Adebanjo, the 2014 National Conference would not have taken place. Adebanjo passed away on February 14, 2025, at the age of 96.

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Jonathan addressed the repeated questions about why the recommendations were not implemented, explaining that many Nigerians did not understand the political unrest the country was experiencing back then.

He pointed out that a key legislator from his party had defected and worked against his administration, and that there were others who sought to bring down his government at the time.

“It was not the right time to present such a document,” Jonathan remarked. “We trust that one day, another government will review it and take action.”

He emphasized that the recommendations came from credible Nigerians who were not influenced by politics and expressed that their conclusions remain important for the nation’s future.

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured the citizens of the state that his administration will comply with the Supreme Court’s ruling after thoroughly reviewing its Certified True Copy (CTC).

This follows the court’s decision on Friday, which declared the local government election held in the state on October 5, 2023, to be invalid.

In a state broadcast on Sunday, Fubara mentioned that he had met with his legal team, who are expecting to receive the CTC by Friday, March 7, 2025.

He stressed that his government is committed to upholding the law and constitutional principles.

In response to the Supreme Court’s decision, the governor instructed the Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) to immediately take charge of the 23 local government councils across the state.

This comes after the court’s annulment of the October 5, 2023, elections. Fubara stated that civil servants will manage the councils until fresh elections are conducted by the State Electoral Commission.

The governor also directed the outgoing chairmen to formally hand over their duties to the HLGAs by Monday.

Amid ongoing political uncertainty, Fubara urged residents to remain calm and assured them that his administration remains dedicated to good governance and due process.

In a separate ruling on Friday, the Supreme Court barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other agencies from releasing funds to Rivers State until it complies with the court’s orders.

The court also dismissed an appeal filed by Fubara, challenging the validity of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Martin Amaewhule.

The court directed that Amaewhule should resume his duties as Speaker along with other elected members of the House of Assembly immediately.

Former Imo State Governor Achike Udenwa stated that in Nigeria, a politician with enough financial resources can easily win an election.

He explained that Nigeria’s political system allows wealthy politicians to influence institutions like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the police, and the military, thus ensuring their victory in elections.

Udenwa shared these views during his appearance on Edmund Obilo’s *State Affairs* podcast.

He remarked that Nigerians no longer examine the character, history, or qualifications of politicians seeking their votes.

Read Also: PANDEF Seeks Review Of Supreme Court Ruling On Rivers FAAC Allocation

“Sadly, in our society today, when someone asks for your vote, people don’t inquire: ‘What can you offer? What are your qualifications? What kind of character do you have?’ These questions are no longer asked. And even if I don’t vote for you, if you have enough money, you can still win,” Udenwa explained.

When asked if politicians could influence INEC, the police, the military, and voters, he answered, “You can buy everyone.”

He stressed that elections in Nigeria are largely driven by money, emphasizing the need to curb this practice for the right leaders to emerge.

Regarding the ongoing crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Udenwa, a member of the party’s Board of Trustees, blamed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the party’s troubles.

Although he acknowledged the PDP’s internal struggles, he also suggested that external forces were contributing to the crisis.

“There are external forces attempting to destroy the PDP through internal divisions. We are still working on resolving this, and I believe the PDP will survive,” Udenwa said.

He added that the PDP is aware of the APC’s role in the crisis but refrained from naming the individuals involved in destabilizing the opposition party.

On Saturday, President Donald Trump declared English the official language of the United States, arguing that it would help foster unity in a nation shaped by immigration from around the globe.

The White House released an executive order from Trump stating that it is “long past time” for English to be recognized as the nation’s official language.

“A nationally designated language is at the core of a unified and cohesive society, and the United States is strengthened by a citizenry that can freely exchange ideas in one shared language,” the order reads.

The new executive order revokes a mandate from the 1990s under President Bill Clinton, which required federal agencies and those receiving federal funding to offer assistance to non-English speakers.

Under the new directive, agencies still have the discretion to decide how much support to provide in languages other than English.

“Nothing in this order… requires or directs any change in the services provided by any agency,” the document notes.

It further states that agency heads are authorized to determine what is necessary to “fulfill their respective agencies’ mission and efficiently provide Government services to the American people.”

Since taking office, Trump has issued numerous executive orders aimed at solidifying his right-wing agenda, though many of these orders are facing legal challenges, especially those attempting to eliminate federal funding authorized by Congress.

While the White House acknowledges that over 350 languages are spoken in the U.S., the order asserts that English has been the nation’s language “since the founding of our Republic,” and highlights that key historical documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, were written in English.

According to 2019 U.S. government statistics, nearly 68 million people speak a language other than English at home.

Despite English being the dominant language, more than 40 million people in the U.S. are estimated to speak Spanish at home.

Additionally, alongside immigrant languages such as Chinese and Vietnamese, the U.S. also has a diverse linguistic landscape, including many Native American languages.

Planning to travel from Nigeria to Canada and want to bring along some of your favorite local foods? While packing your beloved delicacies might seem like a great idea, not all food items are allowed at international borders.

Canada enforces strict import regulations that prohibit certain foods due to health, safety, and environmental concerns. Failing to declare restricted foods could result in confiscation, hefty fines, or even criminal charges.

Before you travel, it’s crucial to check the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) website, as regulations can change frequently.

If you’re getting ready for your trip, here are eight common food items that Nigerians cannot bring to Canada:

Homemade or Unlabelled Foods

Homemade meals, unlabelled snacks, and repackaged food items are not permitted. Only factory-sealed, clearly labelled products from recognized brands can pass through customs.

Honey and Bee Products

Raw honey, bee pollen, and royal jelly are restricted due to the potential for carrying bacteria and diseases harmful to local bee populations. Processed honey from approved sources may be allowed in small quantities.

Fish and Seafood

Dried catfish, crayfish, and herring are allowed, but fresh or frozen seafood without the proper certification is banned. This restriction helps prevent contamination from bacteria and marine toxins.

Meat and Meat Products

Canada strictly prohibits most meat products, including fresh, dried, smoked, or cured meats such as kilishi, ponmo, sausages, and bacon. Meat-based seasonings and broths are also not allowed, to help prevent the spread of diseases.

Dairy Products

Powdered milk, fresh milk, cheese, butter, and yogurt are not allowed without special permits. These restrictions are in place to protect against disease transmission. However, commercially packaged hard cheeses from approved countries may be allowed in small quantities.

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh fruits like apples, oranges, and agbalumo, along with leafy greens and herbs, are banned because they can carry pests and plant diseases. Some dried vegetables, however, are allowed.

Eggs and Egg Products

Raw eggs and egg-based products like custards and mayonnaise are not allowed due to the risk of salmonella and bird flu. Commercially processed egg products, though, may be permitted.

Nuts and Seeds

Unroasted nuts, such as raw peanuts, cashews, and sunflower seeds, are prohibited to prevent pest infestations. Roasted, salted, or processed nuts are generally allowed.

On Saturday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, for his development efforts in the state and for honoring Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, who represents Abia South Senatorial Zone.

He also suggested that a grand celebration could be in store for Otti if he decides to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Akpabio made these remarks during the 70th birthday celebration organized by the Abia State Government in honor of Abaribe, a former Deputy Governor of Abia State.

He described Otti as a generous leader whose actions are positively affecting the welfare of the people of Abia.

Read Also: PANDEF Seeks Review Of Supreme Court Ruling On Rivers FAAC Allocation

“Otti’s decision to honor Abaribe, despite political differences, shows his political wisdom and has earned him the affection of the people of Abia,” Akpabio said. “Governor Alex Otti is like me. He will be generous to the people of Abia because he has a kind heart.”

He went on to praise Otti’s political strategy, noting: “By honoring Abaribe, you’re not just celebrating him; you’re making a smart political move. Through Abaribe, you’ve won the hearts of Abia South. When you seek re-election, you will see that this was a wise investment. If you understand how highly Abaribe is regarded in Nigeria, you’ll see that you’ve honored a man you will never regret celebrating. Congratulations, my governor.”

Akpabio further added, “I have seen the good work you are doing, but I can’t openly commend you because you’re in the Labour Party— you’re still ‘labouring.’ The day you join the APC, you’ll hear my full praise and see how I will celebrate you.”

Akpabio also lauded Abaribe’s integrity and commitment to his people, recalling Abaribe’s decision to stand as surety for Nnamdi Kanu.

“Abaribe is a man of sacrifice, a true son of Ndi Igbo. When you signed the bail bond for Nnamdi Kanu, people were stunned. They wondered why a senator would take such a risk. When I asked you, you said you believed in his cause so strongly that even if he fled, you were willing to go to prison on his behalf. Today, we celebrate a man of remarkable integrity and grace. God’s grace has brought him this far,” Akpabio remarked.

“This is why I am here—not just for Abaribe. I’ve celebrated him in the Senate. I’ve come to join you, Otti, in thanking God for the life of a man who is worth emulating, a role model for Ndi Igbo and Nigerian youths, a man of great integrity.”

Governor Alex Otti also spoke at the event, congratulating Abaribe on his significant birthday and describing him as a fearless and courageous leader deserving of celebration.

“This celebration is not politically motivated. I am committed to honoring Abians who deserve recognition,” Otti said.

“We’re here to celebrate a man of courage, selflessness, and truth. This is not a political gathering. Politicians think about the next election, but leaders think about the next generation. If you came here thinking about votes, keep them. I’m not interested. By the way, have I told you I am running in 2027? I can return to where I came from. Some people say I went to London for meetings—we’ve been holding meetings right here. They’ve just run out of ideas,” Otti added.

The Rivers State Government has announced the launch of a 10-day project, set to begin on Monday, March 3, 2025.

This comes just a day after the Supreme Court ruled to prevent the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from releasing federal allocations to the Rivers State Government and also annulled the recent local government elections in the state.

Despite the political tensions following the court’s decision, the Siminalayi Fubara-led administration has affirmed its commitment to continuing its development agenda.

The 10-day initiative will feature the unveiling of key infrastructure projects throughout Rivers State and beyond.

These projects span various sectors, including housing, fire services, security, healthcare, education, and judiciary welfare. The projects will take place in significant locations such as Port Harcourt City, Obio/Akpor, Khana, and Okrika Local Government Areas, and will also extend to Bayelsa State.

In a statement on Saturday, the Commissioner for Information, Joe Johnson, emphasized that these inaugurations reflect the Fubara administration’s commitment to sustainable development.

He explained that the projects are in line with the government’s focus on improving infrastructure, security, education, and public service delivery.

The commissioning events will involve participation from key government officials, community leaders, and stakeholders from various sectors. The public is encouraged to join in celebrating these milestones as the government works towards enhancing the quality of life and promoting sustainable development in Rivers State.

The project commissioning schedule is as follows:

March 3 – Government House Staff Quarters, PHALGA
March 4 – State Fire Service Headquarters & Firefighting Vehicles, PHALGA
March 5 – Handover of Helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force, Obio/Akpor
March 6 – Borokiri Fire Service Station & Firefighting Vehicles, PHALGA
March 7 – Rumuodonmaya Fire Service Station & Firefighting Vehicles, Obio/Akpor
March 10 – Akpor Monarch’s Palace & Residence, Obio/Akpor
March 11 – Judges’ Quarters, PHALGA
March 12 – Bori General Hospital, Khana LGA
March 13 – Okrika Grammar School Upgrades, Okrika LGA
March 14 – Furnishing & Electrification of Nigerian Law School, Yenagoa Campus, Bayelsa State

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has called for a reassessment of the Supreme Court’s recent decision that blocked the release of Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) funds to Rivers State, expressing serious concern about its potential negative effects on the state’s progress and the well-being of its citizens.

In a statement signed by PANDEF National Publicity Secretary, Obiuwevbi Ominimini, the group stated that the court’s ruling is a significant setback for Rivers State, unjustly impacting its residents who depend on these funds for economic, social, and infrastructural development.

The statement further stressed that the people of Rivers State, who rely on these funds for their livelihood, are the primary victims of this ruling.

It also highlighted that Rivers, as a major contributor to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, should not face financial hardship due to a political dispute.

“Denying the state its legitimate allocations imposes undue hardship on a population that has continually supported the nation’s economy,” PANDEF stated, urging the Supreme Court to reconsider its decision in the interest of national unity, economic stability, and social justice.

The statement also warned that the ruling could undermine ongoing peace and reconciliation efforts in the region, particularly the work of PANDEF’s Peace and Reconciliation Committee, led by Obong Victor Attah.

PANDEF called on judicial and political authorities to show fairness and insight when addressing issues that significantly impact the Niger Delta.

The statement also referenced a similar situation during Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tenure as Governor of Lagos State, when the Federal Government withheld local government funds under President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.

“The withholding of local government funds from Lagos State was widely condemned, and it raises concerns that a similar, even more damaging situation is happening now with potentially serious consequences for peace and security in the Niger Delta,” the statement noted.

PANDEF reiterated its commitment to justice, dialogue, and sustainable development, urging all parties—including the Federal Government, political leaders, and the judiciary—to ensure that Rivers State is not unfairly penalized due to political issues.

In its ruling on Friday, the Supreme Court ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other agencies to halt the disbursement of funds to Rivers State until it resolves the court’s accusations of non-compliance with its orders.

The court also annulled the state’s recent local government elections, declaring them invalid for breaching the Electoral Act.