Archives August 2025

RYNI News | Blessing Isiuwa
29 August 2025

In the corridors of power in Equatorial Guinea, where wealth is often hidden behind oil riches and political connections, a startling scandal has reverberated across the nation’s highest echelons—and the world beyond.

Baltasar Ebang Engonga, a once-respected figure heading the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF), has now been stripped of credibility after a verdict from a Bioko provincial court sentenced him to a total of 18 years in prison for corruption-related charges—including embezzlement, unlawful enrichment, and abuse of power   .

The court’s breakdown:8 years for embezzling public funds,4 years, 5 months for illegal enrichment and 6 years and 1 day for abusing his power.

In addition to the prison sentence, Engonga has been fined over 910 million CFA francs—roughly US$1.5 million—and barred from holding any public office during his sentence  .

But corruption wasn’t the only sin the court cited. The scandal’s true audacity lies in its lurid side: during an investigation, authorities discovered more than 400 explicit videos in Engonga’s private files—filmed with high-profile women, including wives and relatives of top government officials—content that quickly spread like wildfire online    .

Described by insiders as a calculated abuse of his office, Engonga’s double life—from anti-corruption enforcer to featured actor in a sextape scandal—underscores a troubling hypocrisy. The footage was reportedly consensual, according to some accounts, but the optics were damning, with tapes featuring intimate scenes recorded in his office and leaked while he was in custody   .

As details unfolded, the government scrambled to contain damage, deploying what it called a “zero-tolerance” policy. Vice President Teodoro ‘Teodorín’ Nguema Obiang Mangue, the President’s son, condemned the behavior; he pledged to install surveillance cameras in all government offices and warned that any future misconduct within office premises would result in summary dismissal   .

The implications extend beyond the prison cell. The dramatic fallout has spotlighted not just a failing of one man, but systemic rot within a regime where political families and oil wealth forge generations of unchecked privilege. Observers suggest that the scandal may also have doubled as a calculated purge of a political contender—a glimpse into the silent power struggles within the ruling elite .

The Ministry of Justice, however, hailed the ruling as a statement of principle. “This verdict demonstrates the government’s commitment to fighting corruption,” a spokesperson declared. “No official, regardless of position, stands above the law.”

As Engonga begins serving his sentence at Black Beach Prison, the public reaction remains one of outrage and intrigue. Beyond the titillating headlines, this saga lays bare the consequences when the guardians of integrity fall prey to their darkest impulses—and the state they are sworn to protect retaliates to preserve its facade.

Stay updated with the latest news across Nigeria and beyond — visit RYNI News

For Event Coverage, Advert Placements, Article Publications.
Email: rynimedia@gmail.com
Contact Us on WhatsApp

RYNI News | Omotayo Stephen . O
27 August 2025

A Kaduna-bound passenger train veered off its tracks on Tuesday morning, unleashing scenes of panic and confusion as terrified commuters scrambled to safety. The incident, which occurred at about 11:09 a.m. between Kubwa and Asham stations, has once again thrown Nigeria’s troubled rail corridor into the spotlight.

Eyewitnesses described the moment as “chaotic and unforgettable,” with passengers shouting, praying, and clutching their children as the coaches screeched to a halt before tumbling off the tracks. “I was thrown to the floor; people were screaming. Some children even lifted chairs to shield themselves,” recalled Emmanuel Akpor, one of the survivors.

According to officials, at least 14 passengers sustained injuries and were rushed to health facilities in Idah, Kagarko Local Government Area, where they received first aid before being transferred to Kaduna for further care. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported.

The ill-fated train, which had departed Abuja’s Kubwa station after a delayed start, was carrying 10 coaches. By the time the dust settled, nearly all the coaches had been derailed except the executive coach—ironically the only one left standing. Two coaches sustained heavy structural damage.

Officials suggested that the derailment may have occurred at the interchange point near Asham, where trains are required to either slow down or halt briefly. “It is not yet clear if the driver followed the procedure,” one source disclosed, adding that excessive speed or track-switching failure could have played a role.

Rescue operations quickly swung into action as a multi-agency team led by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), backed by military personnel, police, immigration officers, and civil defence operatives, secured the scene. NEMA’s Director-General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, confirmed that injured passengers were stabilized at the site before being evacuated.

In Abuja, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, announced the immediate suspension of Abuja–Kaduna train services, pending investigations. He assured passengers of refunds and dismissed claims of poor maintenance, insisting that NRC adheres to international safety standards. “Our technical staff, together with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), are already conducting a full probe,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the NSIB confirmed that its investigators had been dispatched to the site. Director-General Captain Alex Badeh Jr. vowed that findings would be made public: “We are committed to uncovering the root cause and making safety recommendations to prevent future tragedies.”

The derailment rekindles memories of previous mishaps on the same corridor. In May 2024, another derailment occurred near Jere Station, while in September 2023, a similar accident was recorded at Kukere. More haunting, however, is the March 2022 terrorist attack on the Abuja–Kaduna train that left nine people dead and dozens abducted—a tragedy still fresh in the minds of many Nigerians.

From São Paulo, Brazil, where he is on an official visit, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed sadness over the incident. In a statement posted on his official X handle, he assured Nigerians that corrective measures would be taken: “I have been fully briefed and my prayers are with the injured and their families. Steps will be taken to ensure this does not happen again.”

For the hundreds of stranded passengers, however, the experience will not be forgotten soon. As one female commuter, identified simply as Hajiya, put it: “I woke up to chaos. A box fell on my head, people were shouting, and we were told the train had crashed. It was terrifying.”

As investigations continue, Tuesday’s derailment serves as yet another reminder of the fragile state of Nigeria’s railway lifeline—an artery of hope that too often flirts with disaster.

Stay updated with the latest news across Nigeria and beyond — visit RYNI News

For Event Coverage, Advert Placements, Article Publications.
Email: rynimedia@gmail.com
Contact Us on WhatsApp

RYNI News | Omotayo Stephen . O
24 August 2025

The battle against youth unemployment leapt from statistics to action on Friday, August 22, 2025, as the Resourceful Youth Network Initiative (RYNI) collaborated with the Students’ Union Government of the Petroleum Training Institute (SUG-PTI) to host the August edition of National Youth Empowerment Summit.

Held virtually under the theme “The Unemployment Dilemma: Government or Citizens to Blame? Navigating the Job Crisis and the Future of Nigerian Youths”, the summit brought together distinguished speakers from Nigeria, the UK, the USA, and Canada, along side students , graduates and young professionals across the nation, all committed to confronting the roots of Nigeria’s job crisis and charting pathways forward to secure a future where skills—not certificates alone—drive opportunity.

A Rallying Call at the Opening

Opening the session, Comr. Stephen Omotayo introduced the panel and acknowledged both the Chief Host and moderator, Dr. Lawson Obazenu, CEO of RYNI (UK) and Co-host , Comr. Temisa Collins Oghenevwede , president, SUG- PTI.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Obazenu cut straight to the heart of the matter. “This is not about politics or statistics,” he said. “It is about finding real solutions. Nigeria’s greatest resource is its youth—not as job seekers, but as job creators. Innovation and creativity are the lifelines we must seize.”

Echoing this sentiment, Comr. Godgift Oghenegavwraye, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee and SUG-PTI representative, declared that the program belonged to the Nigerian youth. “This is our fight, our future. Today’s conversation is for every student and every graduate caught in the web of joblessness,” he affirmed.

Debating the Causes—and the Way Forward

The panel tackled questions that peeled back the layers of Nigeria’s unemployment dilemma, revealing a mix of governance failures, systemic neglect, and personal responsibility.

• Engr. Gloria Evbaru-Okhuaihesuyi, lecturer at the University of Benin and founder of a thriving agro-processing enterprise, described unemployment as a dual crisis. “Corruption chokes economic growth. Our graduates leave with certificates but not with skills. Government must finance small businesses and reform education, while youths must pursue skill acquisition with urgency.”
• Engr. Donald Umunna, UK-based energy transition consultant with a portfolio spanning green technology and oil sector reforms, argued that Nigeria’s problem is not policy absence but execution paralysis. “Policies exist, but execution fails. Nigeria thrives informally because formal systems break down. Collaboration is the secret—no tree makes a forest.”
• Dr. Ndudi Francis Ejimofor, Director at SERVICOM and entrepreneurship development expert, lamented the gulf between academia and industry. “Our universities manufacture certified graduates, not skilled ones. We need economic policies that engineer jobs, not just paper qualifications.”
• Mr. John Amagbor, entrepreneur and CEO of Oshionela Global Ltd, challenged the narrative of entrepreneurship as a triumph. “Youth entrepreneurship in Nigeria is not a win-win, but survival. Without capital, policies, and infrastructure, businesses struggle to live beyond start-up dreams.”
• Engr. Ochuko Adogbeji, Canada-based cybersecurity expert and youth mentor, compared Nigeria’s neglect with global models. “Nigerians excel abroad because systems abroad support them. A Canadian student gets grants worth tens of thousands of dollars. At home, our youths wrestle with policies that ignore them.”
• Osi Avwunudiogba Diji, US-based IT consultant with decades of corporate experience, spotlighted the digital economy. “Exchange programs, virtual jobs, and coding from childhood are game changers. In Nigeria, we must learn to PUSH—Persist Until Something Happens.”

Audience Engagement

Participants fired off pressing questions: how to identify legitimate remote job platforms, where to access funding for startups, and how universities could bridge the gap between learning and labour. The speakers underscored skill acquisition, digital leverage, and systemic reform as urgent priorities.The panelists agreed on one point: skills are the new currency. Degrees may open doors, but skills keep them open.

Dr. Uyilawal Okhuaihesuyi, a physician and youth advocate based in USA, stressed the need to cut bureaucratic red tape that blocks employment pathways. “Youth potential is not lacking; it is policy that strangles opportunity,” he remarked.

Mr. Emmanuel Onwuka , a UK- based IT systems specialist, added a pragmatic note, urging Nigeria to build a national database. “We cannot solve what we do not measure. Data must guide policies if we are serious about jobs,” he insisted.

A Call to Action

In their closing remarks, Dr. Obazenu challenged participants: “The future is not given—it is taken. We must stop waiting. We must start building.”

Comr. Oghenegavwraye ended with a rallying cry: We have lit a torch today. PTI students and Nigerian youths must carry it into every home, every street, every boardroom.

Beyond the Summit

What began as a virtual dialogue has become a movement. Nigeria’s unemployment crisis is far from over, but the summit left participants with a powerful realization: they hold the hammer to reshape their own destinies.

With RYNI and SUG-PTI leading the charge, Nigerian youths are no longer waiting for opportunities. They are creating them—transforming despair into innovation, defiance into leadership, and unemployment into opportunity.

Stay updated with the latest news across Nigeria and beyond — visit RYNI News

For Event Coverage, Advert Placements, Article Publications.
Email: rynimedia@gmail.com
Contact Us on WhatsApp

RYNI News | Blessing Isiuwa
23 August 2025

Nigeria’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has fired back at critics who accuse him of monopolising critical sectors of the economy, insisting that his rise is anchored not on undue privilege but on vision, grit, and strategic timing.

The billionaire industrialist, whose $20 billion refinery has transformed Nigeria into a net exporter of petroleum products for the first time in three decades, dismissed claims that his business practices are designed to suffocate competition. Instead, he argued, his achievements are rooted in first-mover advantage, an entrepreneurial edge he believes is crucial for Africa’s industrial future.

“If you are going to call first movers monopolists, then you will never build a manufacturing base, or even a country,” Dangote said, countering reports, including a recent Bloomberg feature, that portray his dominance as the product of political connections and import restrictions.

For years, detractors have argued that Dangote Industries flourishes in sectors where imports are restricted—cement, sugar, and now oil. A leaked U.S. diplomatic cable from 2007 went further, branding Dangote a “predator” who leveraged Nigeria’s political economy to tilt the field in his favour. Dangote, however, insists the narrative is misleading. “Those items were not banned when we invested,” he said, maintaining that he seized opportunities where others hesitated.

The businessman admitted that building the world’s largest single-train refinery was fraught with hardship. With unreliable public services, his team had to provide their own infrastructure from scratch—roads, power, water, and even port facilities. “If I knew what I was going to go through, I wouldn’t have tried it,” Dangote confessed.

Yet the gamble appears to be paying off. According to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, his net worth has surged by $1 billion in just three months, bringing it to $28 billion, buoyed by the refinery’s ramp-up. The facility, his executives say, is already “changing the face of business” in Nigeria, exporting refined products rather than raw crude.

Still, controversy lingers. In September 2024, Dangote Industries filed a court injunction seeking to halt petroleum imports, arguing that the refinery could meet national demand. Regulators pushed back, warning such a move could entrench a monopoly. The case was later withdrawn, with Dangote’s deputy, Devakumar Edwin, stressing that dialogue with the government had improved following President Bola Tinubu’s visit to the facility.

Edwin defended the company’s stance, drawing comparisons with the United States and China. “These countries protect their industries. All we are saying is, do the same. Otherwise, we will continue exporting raw materials and creating jobs abroad, while importing finished products that add to someone else’s GDP.”

For Dangote, who began in the 1970s with a $3,000 loan from his uncle, trading in grains before moving into cement and other ventures, the story is one of relentless reinvention. From his first Mercedes bought for ₦5,100 to the behemoth refinery now standing as a symbol of Nigeria’s industrial aspirations, he presents himself less as a monopolist and more as a pioneer.

“We are not part of corruption,” he declared. “We are part of the problem-solving.”

Stay updated with the latest news across Nigeria and beyond — visit RYNI News

For Event Coverage, Advert Placements, Article Publications.
Email: rynimedia@gmail.com
Contact Us on WhatsApp

RYNI News | Omotayo Stephen . O
23 August 2025

The passing of former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, fondly known as Dodo Mayana, has once again ignited a stormy debate on Nigeria’s treatment of its sporting icons. At the Service of Songs held in Lagos for the late shot-stopper, Taribo West—the flamboyant defender who once patrolled the backlines of Inter Milan and AC Milan—delivered a heartfelt yet scathing rebuke of the nation’s football authorities.

Visibly shaken and at times emotional, West did not mince words. He accused both the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the government of neglecting Rufai’s family, leaving them to shoulder the heavy responsibility of burial arrangements. Though reports suggest the NFF made financial contributions, West dismissed such gestures as inadequate and symptomatic of a deeper problem: Nigeria’s chronic disregard for those who gave their lives and careers to national glory.

“For me, it is disheartening,” West lamented, his voice thick with grief. “You have Lagos State, you have the football authorities, and yet they left the family to carry this burden. It makes you wonder—what is the value of sacrifice in this country?”

West’s sorrow ran deeper than the moment. He recalled how he seldom wept even at the deaths of his parents, yet Rufai’s passing reduced him to tears. “I had goose pimples. I shed tears. What kind of nation is this?” he asked, his words slicing through the hushed crowd.

The former international extended his criticism beyond Rufai’s case. He cited the neglect that trailed the deaths of other Nigerian football giants—Stephen Keshi, Rashidi Yekini, and Thompson Oliha—all men who carried the national flag with pride but were, in his view, denied the dignity befitting heroes.

In a declaration that stunned many, West said he would never encourage his own son to don the green-and-white jersey. “I will never advise my son to play for this country,” he declared. “Do we even have a football federation worthy of the name? That a hero like Rufai must be treated this way?”

Born in 1974, Taribo West carved a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most formidable defenders. Known as much for his uncompromising tackles as for his trademark braided hair, he represented Nigeria in 42 international matches between 1994 and 2005, featuring in two World Cups and two African Cup of Nations tournaments. His club career spanned Auxerre, Inter Milan, AC Milan, and several others, earning him global recognition. Yet today, West is a preacher, using both the pulpit and occasions such as this to speak against what he sees as the systemic failings of Nigerian football.

As mourners remembered Rufai—a goalkeeper who once stood tall against the world’s finest strikers—West’s words lingered as both a warning and a lament. His verdict was clear: until Nigeria learns to honour its legends in life and in death, its claim to football greatness remains a hollow boast.

Stay updated with the latest news across Nigeria and beyond — visit RYNI News

For Event Coverage, Advert Placements, Article Publications.
Email: rynimedia@gmail.com
Contact Us on WhatsApp

RYNI News | Blessing Isiuwa
23 August 2025

In a historic move blending diplomacy, migration, and economic vision, Japan has designated the coastal city of Kisarazu as the official hometown for Nigerians who wish to live and work in the country. The announcement, made Thursday during the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), marks a bold step in Japan’s quest to build bridges with Africa while addressing its own demographic challenges.

Under the initiative, a special visa programme will be rolled out for young, skilled, and innovative Nigerians, offering pathways to employment and long-term settlement in Kisarazu. The scheme is not limited to professionals alone—artisans and blue-collar workers keen to upgrade their skills will also be welcomed under this migration framework.

At the official ceremony, Nigeria’s Chargé d’Affaires and Acting Ambassador to Japan, Florence Adeseke, alongside Mayor Yoshikuni Watanabe of Kisarazu, received the certificate confirming the city’s new status. The development places Nigeria alongside three other African nations whose “hometowns” were also announced: Nagai (Tanzania), Sanjo (Ghana), and Imabari (Mozambique).

For Japan, the policy goes beyond symbolism. With a rapidly ageing population and shrinking workforce, the nation is actively exploring avenues to revitalise its regions through international cooperation. Local authorities in Kisarazu see this as an opportunity to reverse population decline, inject cultural vibrancy, and sustain economic activity.

The city itself is no stranger to Nigeria. During the COVID-19-delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Kisarazu played host to Nigeria’s athletes, providing pre-game training facilities and hospitality. That shared history, officials say, made Kisarazu a natural choice for this deeper partnership.

Speaking at TICAD9, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba outlined Japan’s Africa strategy, pledging $5.5 billion in new investments across the continent. He emphasised three focal points—private sector-led sustainable growth, empowerment of youth and women, and stronger regional integration. Crucially, he framed Japan’s outreach as a “co-creation,” stressing that Africa and Japan must design solutions together.

“Japan is providing cooperation and support, but first we must know Africa more intimately,” Ishiba remarked. “As we face the realities of an ageing society and shrinking farmland, partnerships such as these are vital—not only for Africa’s development but for Japan’s future too.”

Observers say the move underscores a mutual dependence: Nigeria, with its youthful population and entrepreneurial energy, gains a new pathway for its citizens abroad, while Japan secures fresh talent to power its industries and communities.

For many Nigerians, Kisarazu is poised to become more than a destination—it could soon be a second home.

Stay updated with the latest news across Nigeria and beyond — visit RYNI News

For Event Coverage, Advert Placements, Article Publications.
Email: rynimedia@gmail.com
Contact Us on WhatsApp

RYNI News | Blessing Isiuwa
20 August 2025

In a bold move to attract global capital and accelerate economic transformation, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has unveiled Investopedia, a groundbreaking platform aimed at connecting investors with viable projects across all 36 states of the Federation. The launch, which took place in Abuja on Tuesday, positions the initiative as a central hub for investment opportunities, with the goal of driving job creation, infrastructure development, and inclusive growth.

Speaking at the event, NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, stressed the urgent need for Nigeria to tap into both global and African financial markets. Represented by Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, AbdulRazaq noted that foreign direct investment into Nigeria has averaged a mere $2 billion annually over the last decade—less than 0.5 percent of GDP—primarily concentrated in oil, telecommunications, real estate, and agriculture.

“Despite these inflows, Nigeria faces an infrastructure financing gap estimated at $100 billion each year, a burden largely shouldered by states,” AbdulRazaq said. “Public sector projects alone cannot bridge this gap. Investopedia is designed to unlock global and African capital flows, generate employment, modernize infrastructure, and promote sustainable, inclusive growth.”

Investopedia, produced in both print and digital formats, will be showcased at major global events, including the Intra-African Trade Fair, UN General Assembly, and Africa Investment Forum. The biennial publication highlights bankable projects, provides market insights, and details incentives across sectors, creating a transparent and curated pipeline for potential investors.

NGF Director General, Abdulateef Shittu, described the initiative as a “new dawn in Nigeria’s investment readiness at the subnational level.” He explained that fragmented entry points and financing constraints have historically hindered large-scale investment. “Investopedia solves this problem by offering a one-stop shop for investors to engage with credible opportunities across all states, backed by strong governance, institutional oversight, and global visibility,” he said.

The platform is complemented by the NGF Fund, a pooled investment vehicle designed to channel catalytic capital into subnational projects, ensuring that highlighted opportunities translate into real-world development. Sectors such as agro-processing, renewable energy, ICT infrastructure, and finance are prioritized, promising benefits that extend beyond financial returns to improved livelihoods and sustainable development.

AbdulRazaq concluded with a direct appeal to global investors: “Nigeria’s states are open, credible, and investment-ready. With Investopedia and the NGF Fund, we are sending a clear signal: the opportunities are vast, the commitment is firm, and the time to invest is now.”

Stay updated with the latest news across Nigeria and beyond — visit RYNI News

For Event Coverage, Advert Placements, Article Publications.
Email: rynimedia@gmail.com
Contact Us on WhatsApp

RYNI News | Omotayo Stephen . O
20 August 2025

In a move that has stirred debate among travelers and digital citizens alike, the United States Government has tightened its visa application requirements, now demanding that Nigerians disclose a full five-year history of their social media activity.

The directive, issued by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, targets all prospective visa applicants, who must now include every username or handle used across platforms such as X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and any other online forum they have engaged with over the past half-decade. Failure to provide this information, officials warn, could jeopardize not only immediate travel plans but also eligibility for future visas.

Announcing the update via its official X handle, the U.S. Mission stressed the importance of accuracy, emphasizing that applicants must certify the truthfulness of their submissions before signing the DS-160 visa form. “Omitting social media information could lead to visa denial and ineligibility for future visas,” the statement read, leaving little room for oversight.

The requirement represents a significant expansion of background checks, reflecting growing global concerns about security and online behavior. Analysts suggest that the policy could impact thousands of Nigerians seeking study, work, or travel opportunities in the United States, while also raising questions about privacy and the digital footprint of citizens.

For applicants, the new measure means a meticulous review of their online presence is now mandatory. Experts recommend compiling a comprehensive list of usernames, handles, and accounts—even dormant ones—to avoid unintentional omissions. “The DS-160 form has always required honesty, but this is the first time social media activity is explicitly part of the evaluation,” said a Nigerian immigration consultant, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The policy has sparked conversations across social media itself, with some users decrying it as intrusive, while others acknowledge it as a necessary step for national security. Whatever the perspective, one thing is clear: traveling to the United States from Nigeria now comes with a closer look at your digital life than ever before.

As visa season continues, applicants are urged to ensure transparency and accuracy in every aspect of their submissions—because in the age of social media scrutiny, what you post online may now influence your ability to step foot in the United States.

Stay updated with the latest news across Nigeria and beyond — visit RYNI News

For Event Coverage, Advert Placements, Article Publications.
Email: rynimedia@gmail.com
Contact Us on WhatsApp

RYNI News | Blessing Isiuwa
19 August 2025

ABUJA – A political storm is brewing as the Federal Government considers raising the salaries of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, lawmakers, ministers, and other high-ranking office holders. The proposal, tabled by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), has ignited sharp criticism from organised labour and civil society groups.

Announcing the plan at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, RMAFC Chairman, Mohammed Shehu, described the current remuneration for Nigeria’s political leadership as “outdated, unrealistic, and incapable of reflecting their enormous responsibilities.” He noted that the last review was carried out in 2008, despite mounting inflation and economic pressures over the past decade and a half.

Currently, the President earns about ₦1.5 million monthly, while ministers pocket less than ₦1 million. Shehu lamented that these figures are dwarfed by the pay packages of certain parastatal heads and the Central Bank governor.

“You cannot pay the President of Nigeria ₦1.5m monthly and expect global credibility,” Shehu argued. “Some agency chiefs earn ten times more than the Commander-in-Chief. That distortion must be corrected.”

But labour unions were quick to counter. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) branded the proposal as “tone-deaf” and “insensitive” at a time when ordinary Nigerians are groaning under soaring food prices, fuel costs, and widespread poverty.

An NLC official, speaking on condition of anonymity, dismissed the government’s figures as misleading. “The published salaries are just a fraction of what politicians actually take home. With allowances and perks, a President’s package can balloon above ₦100m annually. Why not publish the allowances too?” he asked.

The income gulf between political elites and workers has become a rallying point. While lawmakers are reported to take home as much as ₦30m monthly, the new minimum wage stands at ₦70,000, with university professors earning under ₦400,000. Labour leaders warn that such disparity is not only unjust but dangerous.

“When leadership appears more preoccupied with its own welfare than the people’s hardship, it deepens inequality and fuels unrest,” the NLC source cautioned. “This country cannot withstand endless provocation of the masses.”

RMAFC, however, insists it is simply fulfilling its constitutional duty to review pay for political, judicial, and legislative office holders—not civil servants. Alongside the salary review, the commission is also revisiting Nigeria’s decades-old revenue allocation formula, last adjusted in 1992. The current structure grants the Federal Government 52.68%, states 26.72%, and local governments 20.60%, with 4.18% reserved for special funds.

Shehu promised that the new formula would be “inclusive, evidence-based, and equitable,” while acknowledging that previous attempts under former presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari faltered.

For now, the salary debate underscores the widening chasm between Nigeria’s rulers and the ruled—and whether the government will risk political capital to push it through remains to be seen.

Stay updated with the latest news across Nigeria and beyond — visit RYNI News

For Event Coverage, Advert Placements, Article Publications.
Email: rynimedia@gmail.com
Contact Us on WhatsApp

RYNI News | Omotayo Stephen . O
17 August 2025

In a world where excellence is often spoken of but rarely witnessed in its purest form, Miss Doose Naswem is turning heads with a trailblazing academic journey that is nothing short of extraordinary. Miss Naswem, a name now synonymous with academic excellence, is steadily transforming herself from a promising student into a national phenomenon.

Her journey, marked by dazzling victories across science, mathematics, and the arts, reads like the blueprint of a prodigy determined to leave an indelible mark. It began in 2024 when she stormed the National Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN) competition, seizing first place in a contest that attracts the brightest secondary school minds across the country. Before that, she had already dominated the STAN State Finals, securing the top spot with commanding ease.

But her genius is not confined to science alone. Mathematics—often the stumbling block for many—has become her playground. At the 2024 Mathematical Association of Nigeria (MAN) Olympiad State Finals, she clinched 2nd position before advancing to secure 3rd place at the fiercely contested MAN National Olympiad Quiz. Few Nigerian students ever reach such a level; fewer still do so while excelling in other disciplines.

Her versatility is perhaps best captured in her foray into the humanities. Competing at the BENSEFAC Essay Writing Contest in 2024, Miss Naswem stunned audiences by claiming the 2nd position, demonstrating that her eloquence with words matches her dexterity with equations.

Yet, it was her performance in the November 2024/2025 GCE that left no room for doubt. Eight flawless A1s. A record that placed her in the rarefied company of Nigeria’s academic elite and confirmed that her brilliance is not confined to competitions but grounded in consistent excellence.

On the continental stage, she reached an even loftier height by winning a Gold Medal at the African Mathematics Olympiad—an achievement reserved for only the most gifted minds on the continent. Her ascent continued into 2025 when she ranked among Nigeria’s Top 10 scorers in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), while simultaneously being crowned Best UTME Candidate in Benue State.

For many, these achievements would mark the pinnacle of a lifetime. For Miss Naswem, they appear to be only the opening chapter of a remarkable story. She embodies the audacity of vision, the resilience of spirit, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that Nigeria’s next generation so desperately needs.

In every essay written, equation solved, and medal earned, Miss Naswem has shattered the myth of limitation. She is not just raising the bar—she is redefining it entirely.

Stay updated with the latest news across Nigeria and beyond — visit RYNI News

For Event Coverage, Advert Placements, Article Publications.
Email: rynimedia@gmail.com
Contact Us on WhatsApp