LIST OF REASONS

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) explained that they approved the disconnection of USSD codes belonging to several banks that still owed mobile network operators (MNOs) because failure to comply with the CBN-NCC Joint Circular issued on December 20, 2024 means these banks are unable to meet the Good Standing requirements necessary for the renewal of their USSD Codes.  The decision was made to protect the interests of telecommunications companies and ensure compliance with financial regulations. According to the NCC, the move was necessary after extensive efforts to resolve the issue proved ineffective, leaving no option but to take action in line with regulatory guidelines.   The disconnection order, which affects nine banks, is set to take effect from January 27, 2025, unless the financial institutions pay their outstanding invoices. In a statement signed by Reuben Muoka, the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, the commission revealed that the banks in...

The National Assembly (NASS) explained that it has withdrawn its previous accusation of financial impropriety against the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) because of new documentation that clarified the Board's spending practices. The retraction came after a detailed review of financial reports submitted by JAMB, which demonstrated responsible management of resources under the leadership of its Registrar, Professor Is-haq Oloyede. The lawmakers concluded that their earlier claims were unfounded, prompting a public statement to correct the misunderstanding.   Earlier this week, during a budget defense session with Professor Oloyede, the Joint Finance Committee of the House of Representatives and the Senate raised concerns over alleged excessive expenditures by JAMB. Specifically, they questioned the spending of N1.1 billion on meals and N850 million on fumigation, along with other budgetary items that appeared disproportionate. The committee demand...

Media reports explain that President Joe Biden lauded the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal because it will halt the fighting in Gaza and deliver urgently needed humanitarian aid to Palestinians. His praise stemmed from the deal’s expected impact in easing the humanitarian catastrophe and securing the return of Israeli hostages held in Gaza since October 2023. The ceasefire, brokered through intensive diplomatic efforts involving Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, marks a significant pause in a war that has resulted in devastating human and material losses on both sides. The agreement promises to temporarily end hostilities, initiate a phased prisoner exchange, and allow displaced Palestinians to return home, despite the immense destruction that has left many without shelter. The conflict between Israel and Hamas escalated dramatically in October 2023 when Hamas launched a large-scale surprise attack on southern Israel, leading to a fierce and prolonged military response. The...

Media reports explain that the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal was achieved through indirect negotiations primarily due to the deep-seated distrust between the two sides, which made direct talks impossible. The long-standing hostility between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, compounded by the violent conflict that escalated in October 2023, created significant barriers to direct communication. Mediation by third-party countries, particularly Qatar and the United States, played a critical role in facilitating dialogue and bridging the gap between the opposing parties to reach an agreement that promises a temporary halt to hostilities and the exchange of prisoners and hostages. The ceasefire, once finalized, aims to end the intense conflict in Gaza that began when Hamas launched a large-scale attack on southern Israel. On October 7, 2023, hundreds of armed militants infiltrated Israel, targeting communities, police stations, and military bases. The assault led t...

The Osun State Police Command has urged traders to verify sales transactions using their bank apps, and explained that it is in order to prevent falling victim to fraudulent bank alerts . This advice comes as cases of scammers using fake bank transfer notifications to obtain goods continue to rise, causing significant financial losses for unsuspecting business owners. The command emphasized that direct confirmation of payments with bank apps offers immediate and reliable proof of transaction, reducing the chances of deception by criminals using falsified alerts. Speaking to newsmen at the Oshogbo Police Headquarters, the command’s spokesperson, CSP Yemisi Opalola, revealed the arrest of multiple suspects linked to these fraudulent practices. In one incident on January 6, police officers, acting on a tip from the Local Hunters Group in Osogbo, intercepted individuals using fake alerts to acquire large quantities of food items, including rice and vegetable oil. The suspects ...

The Economic Situation Room explained that the Federal Government of Nigeria should prioritize the release of funds for completed contracts in the 2025 budget in order to avert widespread economic decline. According to the coalition of 48 civil society organizations, this action is necessary to mitigate the devastating impact that the failure to release funds under the 2024 capital budget has had on businesses, livelihoods, and overall economic activity. The group emphasized that honoring contractual obligations is essential to restore confidence, foster economic stability, and prevent the collapse of numerous enterprises dependent on government payments. In a statement signed by its national coordinator, Dr. Abraham Attah, the Situation Room highlighted the economic damage resulting from the government’s inaction. Many businesses that successfully executed government projects have been left in financial ruin due to the non-payment of funds owed to them. The delay in dis...

WAEC explained that fairness to students with disabilities is critical because it promotes inclusivity and provides equal opportunities for academic success. This principle was emphasized by Avong Mathias, the Officer in Charge of the West African Examination Council (WAEC) Ikorodu Office, during a recent WAEC briefing held at Apostolic Grammar School, Ketu, Lagos. Mathias called on school principals and directors of private schools to adhere to WAEC’s policies that advocate special consideration for students with disabilities, including granting them extra time during examinations when necessary. His appeal highlights the importance of accommodating these students’ unique needs to ensure they are not disadvantaged in their academic pursuits. Mathias' remarks came amid growing concerns over the treatment of students with disabilities in secondary schools. He stressed that inclusivity is vital for fostering a more equitable education system and urged school authorities to follow the...