LIST OF REASONS

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a stern warning that 2025 could see a prolonged confrontation with the Federal Government of Nigeria because pending issues and expectations are not addressed. According to ASUU, the government's efforts in the previous year were merely superficial and did not result in any substantial improvements in the university education sector. The union criticized the Federal Government for its continued neglect of the university system and its failure to resolve longstanding issues satisfactorily in 2024. ASUU's Ibadan chapter chairman, Professor Ayo Akinwole, emphasized in a statement that the uninterrupted academic calendar in 2024 was solely due to the sacrifices made by the union, rather than any meaningful resolution of issues by the government. He highlighted several unresolved issues, including the lack of funding for the revitalization of public universities based on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of 2012, 2013, a...

In a significant diplomatic move, the Benin Republic recently summoned a Nigerien diplomat following serious allegations by Niger’s junta leader, Abdourahamane Tchiani. Tchiani accused Benin of backing terrorist activities in West Africa, a claim that has caused considerable tension between the two neighboring countries. Benin's response marks a formal protest against these allegations, which they have described as baseless and inflammatory.   Benin’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through a statement issued by Foreign Minister Olushegun Bakari via the social media platform X, confirmed that the Nigerien chargé d’affaires was summoned to provide clarification on these serious accusations. The statement emphasized that the accusations made against Benin were unfounded and reiterated the country's commitment to peace and collaboration with its neighbors. The Ministry’s statement read, “Due to the unfounded accusations made against our country, the chargee d’affaires of Niger has be...

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has made a resolute call for the withdrawal of the Tax Reform Bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu and submitted to the National Assembly. The NLC President, Joe Ajaero stated that the demand is because of the need to involving key national stakeholders in the tax reform process to ensure the resulting legislation is comprehensive and equitable.   The NLC's stance stems from widespread criticism of the bills, particularly from northern regions of the country, where they have been perceived as detrimental to economic growth. In a New Year message to Nigerians, Ajaero reiterated the union's commitment to advocating for the welfare and well-being of the nation's citizens in 2025. He stressed that the government's primary responsibility is to improve the lives of its people, a goal that should be reflected in all policy decisions.   The NLC's message, titled "In 2025, hope is in our collective resolve," underscores the unio...