The Federal Government has launched a nationwide mapping project to identify Nigerians who are either out of school or non-literate.
Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, announced the initiative yesterday in Abuja. She explained that the exercise is aimed at gathering reliable data that will help the government design targeted interventions to address literacy challenges across the country.
According to her, once completed, the mapping will provide a foundation for scaling up literacy programmes that are inclusive, relevant, and capable of equipping citizens with vital skills for national development.
PENGASSAN Threatens Strike Over Wage Stagnation
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has warned that it may embark on industrial action following years of wage stagnation in the oil and gas industry.
The union disclosed that since the introduction of the Consolidated House Allowance in 2019, there has been no adjustment in workers’ salaries despite rising inflation and cost of living pressures.
PENGASSAN has therefore demanded immediate negotiations with employers in the sector, stressing that failure to address the issue could lead to a nationwide strike that may disrupt petroleum production and distribution.
FG, State Govts, Stakeholders Push for Oil Pipeline Surveillance Framework
Federal and state governments, along with stakeholders in the oil and gas industry, are considering the creation of a comprehensive framework to strengthen the surveillance and protection of Nigeria’s oil pipelines.
This move comes in response to persistent oil theft and pipeline vandalism, which have continued to undermine production capacity and national revenue.
Stakeholders say the framework will involve collaboration with security agencies, local communities, and private security firms to ensure that oil installations are safeguarded and production targets are met.
El-Rufai Submits Petition Against Judge to NJC
Former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has filed a petition before the National Judicial Council (NJC) against Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja.
El-Rufai accused Justice Ekwo of bias and misconduct in a case involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He alleged that the judge has consistently acted in ways that compromise the principles of fairness and justice.
The petition has sparked debate within legal circles, with some lawyers calling for a thorough review of El-Rufai’s claims to protect the integrity of the judiciary.
Resident Doctors Threaten Fresh Strike
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government over unresolved welfare and working condition issues.
The doctors are demanding immediate implementation of the 2023 Medical Residency Training Fund, payment of arrears, improved hazard allowances, and the recruitment of more medical personnel to address manpower shortages.
NARD warned that failure to meet their demands will leave them with no option but to embark on a nationwide strike, which could further strain the country’s healthcare system.