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Tinubu urges leaders to embrace unity at ECOWAS 50th anniversary
Tinubu urges leaders to embrace unity at ECOWAS 50th anniversary
President Bola Tinubu has called on West African leaders to uphold the legacy and vision of the founding fathers of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as the regional bloc celebrated its 50th anniversary on Wednesday.
Delivering a keynote address at the anniversary event held at Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, President Tinubu—who currently serves as Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government—emphasized the need for unity and deeper regional integration. He urged leaders to rise above the artificial borders created during colonial times and see themselves as one united family.
“The founding fathers of ECOWAS envisioned a more united, harmonious, and purpose-driven region,” Tinubu stated in a message delivered by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga. “It is our duty to not only uphold that vision but also pass it on stronger and more enduring to future generations.”
The landmark event brought together several West African heads of state and dignitaries to reflect on the progress and challenges of the past five decades.
“Today, we celebrate not only five decades of history but the enduring spirit of unity, resilience, and shared destiny that defines our Community. In 1975, our founding leaders envisioned a West Africa where borders unite rather than divide — a region of free movement, thriving trade, and peaceful coexistence. That vision is still alive.”
President Tinubu paid tribute to all who have nurtured the idea of ECOWAS, especially General Dr. Yakubu Gowon, GCFR — former Nigeria’s Head of State and the only surviving founding father.
“I salute past and present Heads of State and Governments within the Community for upholding the values of integration, cooperation, and solidarity. I commend our former Executive Secretaries and Commission Presidents, whose leadership helped build ECOWAS into a formidable force for peace and progress. I also recognise the tireless work of the ECOWAS Commission staff and institutions,” he added.
The President said the regional bloc has lived up to the founders’ expectations in many respects, including peacekeeping, trade liberalisation, free movement of citizens, and working together to tackle security issues and global pandemics.
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“ECOWAS is a beacon of African unity. In overcoming colonial legacies, we brought together Anglophone, Francophone, and Lusophone nations under one vision —an achievement of global significance.
“Our region has pioneered free movement, expanded intra-regional trade, and deepened integration through instruments like the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme and Joint Border Posts. These measures have facilitated business, cultural exchange, and mobility across West Africa.
“On peace and security, ECOWAS has acted decisively to restore constitutional order and counter instability. Our regional cooperation on counterterrorism and financial crime, including through GIABA, reflects our shared commitment to peace and safety.
“In governance, ECOWAS has upheld democratic norms through election observation, mediation, and institutions such as the ECOWAS Parliament and Court of Justice — cementing accountability, rule of law, and people-centred governance,” the President stated.
President Tinubu pointed to progress in agriculture, infrastructure, and digital innovation, singling out the ECOWAS Infrastructure Master Plan (2020–2045) and new platforms advancing regional growth and gender equality.
However, he emphasised the need for more vigorous policy implementation and urged member states to ensure citizens feel the tangible benefits of integration.
“Our young people and women—who form the majority—must be at the heart of ECOWAS development. We must invest deliberately in their education, entrepreneurship, healthcare, and leadership. Their success is the key to our future stability and prosperity.
“For nearly 40 years, Nigeria has supported regional capacity building through the Technical Aid Corps. We remain committed to deploying skilled professionals to ECOWAS countries and will continue to honour every eligible request,” the President added.
President Tinubu urged leaders to close their ranks and work together to ensure the success of the economic bloc.
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“As we look to the next fifty years, let us renew our compact with one another—with courage, clarity, and conviction. The work of integration is never done. Each generation must carry the flame forward, lighting the path of unity and shared progress for those who come after.
“Let us imagine a West Africa where no child is denied the opportunity because of where they are born; where our borders are zones of cooperation, not conflict; where our economies thrive through joint effort; and where our people, diverse yet bound by destiny, walk together toward peace, prosperity, and justice.
“This Golden Jubilee is not merely a celebration of the past but a summons to shape the future. Let us draw strength from our history, courage from our struggles, and hope from our shared potential. In our unity lies our power—in our solidarity, our success.
“To the people of West Africa: this is your Community. Your hands have built it. Your resilience sustains it. And your dreams will define what it becomes. Stand tall. The future belongs to us all,” he said.
President Tinubu also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to sustaining ECOWAS for the benefit of posterity.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, highlighted ECOWAS’s achievements in peacekeeping, election monitoring, strengthening democratic institutions, trade liberalisation, gas pipeline construction, and security.
The only surviving founding father of ECOWAS, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, said he was happy that the regional body had survived for fifty years and has impacted the continent.
Gowon said Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso’s departures were not healthy for regional progress and development.
“Our sister nations that decided to leave will, in time, realise the bonds of culture. And with goodwill and sincere intention, they will find their way back.
“I am very encouraged to see the effort of government, ministers, Chief of Defense Staff, and the President. The President has constantly been working with the groups, and I hope they will convince them to return.
“Continue to be open, and don’t push them away. They will come back as individuals or as a group,” he said.
The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Alieu Touray, noted that ECOWAS has become a shining example as Africa’s oldest and most active regional bloc.
The Golden Jubilee celebration, which began with a re-enactment of the ECOWAS declaration at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), was attended by the Presidents of Liberia, Joseph Boakai, Togo, Faure Gnassingbé, and Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea Bissau, as well as the foreign ministers of Ghana, Senegal, Benin, and representatives of other member countries.
Tinubu urges leaders to embrace unity at ECOWAS 50th anniversary
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ICYMI: How to Apply for 2026 FRSC Recruitment Successfully
ICYMI: How to Apply for 2026 FRSC Recruitment Successfully
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has officially commenced its 2026 recruitment exercise, opening applications for qualified Nigerians seeking employment in the Corps across the Officer, Marshal Inspectorate (MI) and Road Marshal Assistant (RMA) cadres.
The recruitment portal opened on Friday, July 3, 2026, and applications will remain open for four weeks through the official FRSC recruitment portal.
The Corps has emphasised that the recruitment exercise is completely free, warning applicants against paying money to individuals or organisations claiming to offer employment or recruitment assistance.
Prospective applicants are advised to carefully read the eligibility criteria and prepare all required documents before beginning the online registration process.
Who is eligible for the 2026 FRSC recruitment?
To qualify for the 2026 FRSC recruitment, applicants must satisfy the Corps’ general entry requirements.
Applicants must:
- Be Nigerian citizens by birth.
- Be medically, physically and psychologically fit.
- Be of good character and free from any criminal conviction.
- Not belong to any secret cult or fraternity.
- Possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN).
- Meet the minimum height requirement of 1.65 metres for males and 1.58 metres for females.
- Possess the minimum academic qualification required for the cadre they intend to apply for.
Applicants who fail to meet these requirements may be disqualified during screening.
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- Ibadan: Police Arrest Masquerade Over Alleged Killing of 24-Year-Old Resident
- Bauchi: Suspected Political Thugs Kill Islamiyya Teacher Over Poster Dispute
Cadres available in the 2026 FRSC recruitment
The Corps has opened recruitment into three major categories.
Officer Cadre
This category is designed for graduates and professionals with qualifications such as B.Sc., BA, HND, MBBS, LLB, B.Pharm, B.Eng. and other recognised degrees.
Applicants must possess a valid NYSC discharge or exemption certificate and be between 18 and 35 years of age.
Marshal Inspectorate (MI) Cadre
Candidates with ND, NCE, Registered Nurse (RN), Registered Midwife (RM), Community Health Extension Worker (CHEW) and other recognised health-related qualifications are eligible.
Applicants must be 18 to 30 years old.
Road Marshal Assistant (RMA) Cadre
The Road Marshal Assistant category is open to applicants with WAEC, NECO or NABTEB qualifications.
Candidates are expected to possess between three and five O’Level credits, depending on the position, including English Language and Mathematics where required.
Drivers, riders and artisans—including mechanics, electricians, welders, plumbers, tailors and other skilled workers—may also apply provided they possess the relevant trade certificates and valid driver’s licence where applicable.
Heavy-duty truck drivers may be considered up to 40 years of age.
Documents required for FRSC recruitment
Before beginning the application, applicants should have the following documents ready:
- National Identification Number (NIN)
- Birth Certificate or Declaration of Age
- Local Government Certificate of Origin
- Primary and secondary school certificates
- Tertiary institution certificates (where applicable)
- NYSC discharge or exemption certificate
- Professional licences (where applicable)
- Trade Test Certificate (for artisans)
- Valid driver’s licence (for drivers)
- Recent passport photograph
- Valid email address
- Active mobile phone number
Step-by-step guide to apply for 2026 FRSC recruitment
Step 1: Visit the official recruitment portal
Go to the official FRSC recruitment portal at:
https://recruitment.frsc.gov.ng
Applicants are advised to avoid unofficial websites and recruitment agents.
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Step 2: Create an account
Register using your:
- Email address
- Phone number
- National Identification Number (NIN)
Create a secure password for your account.
Step 3: Verify your email
After registration, check your email inbox and click the activation link sent by the FRSC to verify your account.
Step 4: Complete the online application form
Log into the portal and provide accurate information, including:
- Personal details
- Educational qualifications
- Employment history (where applicable)
- Contact information
- Next-of-kin details
- Referee information
Applicants are advised to ensure all details correspond with their official documents.
Step 5: Upload required documents
Upload scanned copies of all requested credentials and a recent passport photograph.
Ensure the documents are clear, readable and meet the portal’s upload specifications.
Step 6: Review and submit your application
Carefully review every section of the application before submission.
Once satisfied, click the Submit button.
Step 7: Print your acknowledgement slip
Immediately print your completed application form and acknowledgement slip after submission.
The documents will be required during the Computer-Based Test (CBT), physical screening and credential verification for shortlisted candidates.
FRSC warns against recruitment fraud
The Federal Road Safety Corps has reiterated that the recruitment exercise is entirely free of charge.
Applicants have been advised not to pay money to anyone claiming to facilitate employment into the Corps.
The FRSC also urged candidates to use only their personal email addresses and telephone numbers throughout the recruitment process, as all official notifications—including CBT invitations, screening schedules and shortlisting updates—will be communicated through the contact details provided during registration.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to complete their applications before the portal closes and regularly monitor the official recruitment portal for updates.
ICYMI: How to Apply for 2026 FRSC Recruitment Successfully
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Falana Slams Police Over Arrest of Alleged PFIPC Boss’ Father, Calls Action Illegal
Falana Slams Police Over Arrest of Alleged PFIPC Boss’ Father, Calls Action Illegal
The controversy surrounding the alleged fake Presidential Fiscal and Infrastructure Projects Council (PFIPC) has taken a new turn after operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) reportedly arrested the father of Prince Adeyemi Adeniyi, the man facing criminal charges over his alleged role as the council’s Director-General.
Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, described the arrest as unlawful, insisting that Nigerian law does not permit the arrest of relatives in place of criminal suspects.
Falana disclosed on Monday that police officers stormed the Adeniyi family residence at Plot 3, Adeniyi Dynasty, behind Technical College, Road Safety Area, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, where they arrested Adeniyi’s father during a raid.
According to him, a family friend who had visited the residence on Monday morning was also taken into custody.
Speaking in a telephone interview, Falana questioned the legal basis for the operation, maintaining that the suspect had already undertaken to appear before the court.
“Police have now stormed the house of the parents of Prince Adeyemi Adeniyi, Plot 3, Adeniyi Dynasty, behind Technical College, Road Safety Area, Ogbomoso.
“The father has been arrested. There is no legal basis for substituted arrests. The young man has promised to show up in court, so why arrest his father?” Falana said.
Eyewitnesses in the area reportedly said the officers arrived in multiple vehicles before taking the elderly man away. Residents also claimed the operation caused panic within the neighbourhood, while Adeniyi’s elderly mother was left distressed by the incident.
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As of the time of filing this report, the Nigeria Police Force had not issued any official statement explaining the arrests.
The latest development adds another layer to the controversy surrounding the Presidential Fiscal and Infrastructure Projects Council (PFIPC), an organisation the Presidency has maintained is not a legally recognised government agency.
Prince Adeniyi is currently facing criminal charges, including forgery, impersonation, obtaining by false pretence, and other related offences.
Federal authorities allege that he falsely presented himself as the Director-General of the council using forged appointment letters and official documents to project the PFIPC as a legitimate federal institution.
However, Adeniyi has denied the allegations, insisting that his appointment was genuine and that he will defend himself before the court.
Falana has consistently argued that allegations against Adeniyi should be determined strictly through the judicial process. The senior lawyer recently maintained that the Presidency lacks constitutional powers to declare anyone guilty or innocent of criminal allegations, stressing that such decisions remain the exclusive responsibility of the courts.
He also warned against actions capable of intimidating parties connected to the case while proceedings remain before the court.
Beyond the criminal trial, the controversy has triggered broader questions about how the alleged council reportedly operated for months.
Falana has called for an independent investigation into claims that the organisation maintained offices within the Federal Secretariat, allegedly operated bank accounts, interacted with public institutions and even appeared in the 2026 Federal Budget, despite government officials insisting that the council never legally existed.
The senior lawyer has also urged authorities to identify any public officials who may have facilitated the activities of the alleged organisation.
On its part, the Presidency has distanced itself from the PFIPC, describing the organisation as fictitious while directing security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the police, to investigate everyone connected with the alleged scheme.
The criminal case against Adeniyi remains before the court, with no judicial determination yet made on the allegations.
The reported arrest of his father has, however, introduced a fresh legal and human rights dimension to a case that continues to generate national attention.
Falana Slams Police Over Arrest of Alleged PFIPC Boss’ Father, Calls Action Illegal
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Ibadan: Police Arrest Masquerade Over Alleged Killing of 24-Year-Old Resident
Ibadan: Police Arrest Masquerade Over Alleged Killing of 24-Year-Old Resident
The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a masquerade identified as Asoleke in connection with the alleged killing of a 24-year-old man, Sefiu Kehinde, during a traditional procession in the Labiran area of Ibadan on Sunday, July 5, 2026.
The Command has launched a full-scale investigation into the incident, while four other suspects believed to have participated in the attack remain at large. According to a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the case was reported at the Mapo Divisional Police Headquarters on Sunday by a woman identified as Mrs Aderemi. She reported that at about 4:00 p.m., she received a distress call from her elder sister informing her that the Asoleke masquerade and its followers had attacked her younger brother while parading through the neighbourhood.
The police statement revealed that the masquerader and its followers allegedly attacked Mr Kehinde with axes and cutlasses, inflicting severe injuries on various parts of his body. Police operatives from the Mapo Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer, swiftly responded to the report and evacuated the victim to a hospital for urgent medical attention. However, he was unfortunately confirmed dead on arrival by the medical doctor on duty. The command added that investigators processed the crime scene, documented relevant evidence, and took photographs as part of their investigation. The deceased’s family subsequently requested and obtained the release of the corpse for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.
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The Oyo State Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, has directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a thorough and comprehensive investigation. The police have assured residents that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and have appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist the investigation. According to Daily Post, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, had earlier warned masquerades and their followers against involvement in any form of violence, stating that the festival is neither an avenue to settle old scores, engage in supremacy contests, nor carry out retaliatory attacks.
This incident has renewed concerns over violence sometimes associated with traditional masquerade processions in parts of Nigeria, where clashes and attacks during festivals have occasionally resulted in deaths and injuries. Traditional masquerade festivals remain an important aspect of Yoruba cultural heritage, but several celebrations have been marred by violent confrontations involving masqueraders, rival groups, residents, and passers-by. Rights advocates have continued to call for stricter enforcement of public safety regulations during traditional celebrations, insisting that cultural practices should not endanger lives or infringe on the rights of residents. The Oyo State Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and vowed to ensure that all those found culpable are brought to justice.
Ibadan: Police Arrest Masquerade Over Alleged Killing of 24-Year-Old Resident
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