Augustine, who spoke during a television interview on the state of housing in Nigeria, argued that affordable housing should not be misconstrued as the construction of cheap buildings but rather the provision of decent, quality homes that are accessible to ordinary Nigerians.

“Housing is one of the basic needs of man. After food and clothing, everyone deserves a decent place to live. Affordable housing is not about building cheap houses; it is about ensuring that every Nigerian has access to comfortable and sustainable shelter,” he said.

He identified limited access to land, rising construction costs, inconsistent government policies and weak trust within the real estate sector as some of the major factors responsible for the country’s growing housing deficit.

According to him, land remains the foundation of every housing project, making transparent and efficient land administration critical to reducing the cost of housing.

“We don’t build houses in the sky. The first challenge is access to land. Government policies determine how easily developers can acquire land and how affordable building materials become. If these issues are addressed, the cost of housing will naturally reduce,” Augustine stated.

The real estate expert also urged governments to simplify land allocation processes, stressing that Nigerians who meet the necessary requirements should not have to wait years before obtaining land titles.

He noted that private developers incur substantial costs beyond land acquisition, including compensation to host communities, provision of roads, electricity, drainage systems and other infrastructure needed to make estates habitable.

“Developers are almost like local governments because we provide roads, electricity, transformers and other infrastructure before people can comfortably live in these estates,” he said.

Augustine maintained that government should focus on providing enabling infrastructure and creating policies that encourage credible developers to invest in mass housing, while developers should embrace innovation and place greater emphasis on social impact rather than excessive profit margins.

He also advocated reforms to Nigeria’s mortgage financing system, describing existing requirements as unrealistic for many civil servants and low-income earners.

“Civil servants are expected to make equity contributions of about 25 per cent before accessing mortgage facilities. Where will the average worker raise such money? The system should be restructured to make home ownership easier, with lower equity contributions and better financing arrangements,” he said.

The developer further recommended tax incentives for private firms that invest in affordable housing projects, arguing that such measures would encourage more developers to build homes targeted at low- and middle-income families.

Drawing lessons from countries such as Singapore, Augustine said Nigeria must adopt long-term urban planning strategies that integrate housing with schools, hospitals, markets, transportation networks and other public facilities to create functional communities rather than isolated housing estates.

He lamented that many neighbouring states surrounding the Federal Capital Territory had failed to maximise their proximity to Abuja through coordinated urban development and mass housing initiatives.

According to him, proper town planning, equitable infrastructure distribution and strategic collaboration between governments and developers would not only reduce pressure on major cities but also make decent housing more accessible to millions of Nigerians.

He added that expanding access to affordable housing and basic infrastructure could also contribute to reducing social inequality and improving national security by enhancing citizens’ quality of life.

He called on policymakers, financial institutions and private developers to work together to implement practical solutions capable of narrowing Nigeria’s housing deficit and making home ownership achievable for more Nigerians.

The post Nigeria’s Mortgage System Isn’t Working for Those Who Need It Most – Fanda appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

The victims were kidnapped after heavily armed gunmen reportedly stormed the community, abducting 46 pupils, teachers, and the principal of a secondary school, an incident that drew widespread concern across the country.

The abduction took a tragic turn when one of the kidnapped teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly beheaded by the abductors several days after the attack.

Daily Dates Nigeria reports that the remaining victims have now been successfully rescued. However, authorities have not yet released details of the rescue operation or confirmed whether any suspects have been arrested.

This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available.

The post Breaking: All Kidnapped Oyo School Children, Teachers Rescued appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

The President’s light-hearted remark drew laughter and applause from guests, including senior government officials, media executives and members of the State House Press Corps.

The nickname follows the widespread public debate generated by the First Lady’s recent remarks encouraging Nigerians to consider small-scale businesses such as selling akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli as viable means of livelihood that require relatively little start-up capital.

Speaking after the second-quarter meeting of the Renewed Hope Initiative with the wives of state governors at the Presidential Villa, Senator Tinubu explained that her office provides grants—not loans—to support petty traders and entrepreneurs as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“We’re trying to give hope, and to start akara business doesn’t take a lot of money. To start roasting corn, or somebody even said kuli-kuli doesn’t take much. We didn’t give them a loan; we gave it to them as a grant,” the First Lady had said.

Her comments sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some Nigerians criticising the remarks amid prevailing economic challenges, while others argued that she was highlighting entrepreneurship and the importance of supporting the informal sector through grants.

Following the controversy, the First Lady clarified that the empowerment programme extends beyond akara sellers to include traders dealing in tomatoes, peppers, vegetables, roasted plantain (bole) and other small-scale businesses, stressing that the intervention is designed to strengthen livelihoods across the informal economy.

President Tinubu’s jocular reference to his wife as “Iya Alakara” appeared to acknowledge the public conversation surrounding the remarks while injecting humour into the evening’s proceedings at the maiden Presidential Press Corps Dinner.

The post Tinubu Playfully Calls First Lady ‘Iya Alakara’ at Press Corps Dinner appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

Delivering his ruling in Suit No. FHC/LKJ/CS/49/2025, Daily Dates Nigeria reports that Justice Isah Dashen held that all relevant parties must be heard before any substantive decision can be made in the matter.

The court upheld the application filed by the Peace Movement Party (PMP), ruling that the party is a necessary party to the suit.

Justice Dashen noted that counsel to the PMP successfully demonstrated the party’s legal interest, which warranted its inclusion in the proceedings.

According to the judge, the earlier judgment was constitutionally defective as it was delivered without hearing from all interested parties.

He declared that such an omission rendered the entire process null and void.

Justice Dashen further ruled that the status quo be restored to what it was before the December 2025 judgment, pending the determination of the substantive suit.

He also observed that certain material facts were suppressed in the earlier proceedings, which justified the decision to set aside the judgment.

Consequently, the court ordered that the substantive suit commence afresh, with INEC, the Peace Movement Party (PMP), and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as parties to the case.

Counsel to the applicant, C.S. Ekeocha, told journalists that the Peace Movement Party approached the court after discovering that the NDC’s registration was based on a logo it had previously submitted to INEC before the commencement of the suit.

According to Ekeocha, the court agreed that the applicant’s rights had been affected and consequently vacated the earlier judgment.

“The court has ordered all parties to return to the position they occupied before the judgment of December 10, 2025, and directed the claimants to join all necessary parties to ensure the issues in dispute are effectually and completely determined,” he said.

He explained that the implication of the ruling is that every action taken by INEC in compliance with the now-vacated judgment stands reversed.

“The recognition of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, the issuance of its certificate of registration, its inclusion in INEC’s records, and any appearance on ballot papers arising from that judgment must be withdrawn pending the final determination of the substantive suit,” Ekeocha stated.

He, however, clarified that the substantive case remains before the court and has not been decided.

“The matter has not been concluded. The court merely set aside its previous judgment and directed that the party whose interests were affected be joined so that all sides can be heard before a fresh decision is reached.”

Ekeocha also dismissed suggestions that the court merely ordered parties to maintain the status quo, insisting that the ruling specifically directed a restoration of the position that existed before the December 10, 2025 judgment.

The ruling effectively returns the dispute over the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress to the Federal High Court for a fresh hearing, with all relevant parties expected to participate before a new determination is made.

The post Court overturns judgment recognising NDC as political party appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

According to recruitment information released through the FRSC recruitment portal (www.recruitment.frsc.gov.ng), applications are expected to open on July 3, 2026, and close on August 24, 2026. Interested candidates are advised to complete their applications before the deadline and ensure they meet all eligibility requirements.

The recruitment exercise covers four major cadres, including positions for university graduates, Higher National Diploma (HND) holders, National Diploma (ND) and Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) holders, as well as Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) holders.

Under the officer cadre, applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of Second Class Lower division and provide evidence of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) completion or exemption. HND holders are eligible for the Assistant Corps Commander cadre, while ND and NCE holders may apply for the Assistant Corps Inspector cadre. SSCE holders can apply for Road Marshal Assistant positions, which form a significant part of the Corps’ operational workforce.

The FRSC stated that applicants must be Nigerian citizens between the ages of 18 and 35, possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN), and meet prescribed physical and medical fitness standards. Male applicants are required to have a minimum height of 1.69 metres, while female applicants must be at least 1.65 metres tall.

Prospective candidates are also expected to have a clean criminal record and be willing to serve in any part of the country if selected. The agency emphasized that multiple applications will lead to automatic disqualification.

Applicants are required to prepare relevant documents, including educational certificates, birth certificates, means of identification, passport photographs, and proof of state of origin before commencing the online registration process.

The recruitment process will involve four stages: online application, shortlisting, computer-based testing and physical verification, followed by training for successful candidates. Those who complete the training programme will be deployed to various FRSC commands across the country.

The FRSC reiterated that the recruitment exercise is entirely free and warned applicants against paying money to individuals or groups claiming to offer recruitment assistance. Candidates were advised to use only the official recruitment portal for registration and information.

The Federal Road Safety Corps, established in 1988, is responsible for traffic law enforcement, road crash response, road safety education, vehicle inspection, highway patrol operations, and transportation safety research across Nigeria.

The post FRSC Opens 2026 Recruitment Portal Today, July 3: Here’s How to Apply appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

In a statement signed by its Project Coordinator, Hon. Muttaka Ahmed Ibrahim, the group said the successful conduct of the Ekiti State Governorship Election and the National Assembly and State Assembly by-elections held on June 20, 2026, reflected the administration’s dedication to credible elections and democratic consolidation.

The elections were conducted in the Ekiti State governorship poll, Nasarawa North Senatorial District in Nasarawa State, Ondo South Senatorial District in Ondo State, Enugu North Senatorial District in Enugu State, Rivers South East Senatorial District in Rivers State, Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency in Kano State, and Zuru State Constituency in Kebbi State.

According to the group, the elections demonstrated the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring the independence of democratic institutions under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Arewa Revival Project also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for organizing what it described as peaceful, transparent, credible, and professionally conducted elections across the affected states and constituencies.

It noted that the conduct of the polls had further strengthened public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process and reaffirmed the capacity of democratic institutions to deliver outcomes that reflect the will of the people.

The group specifically highlighted the peaceful conduct and broad acceptance of the Ekiti and Benue by-elections, describing them as a practical response to critics who had questioned the commission’s ability to conduct credible elections.

“Rather than responding to allegations with words, INEC has demonstrated through its actions that professionalism, transparency, and strict adherence to the Electoral Act remain the foundation of its operations,” the statement said.

The organization also applauded Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio for his leadership of the National Assembly, citing his role in promoting legislative oversight, institutional stability, and democratic governance.

It said Akpabio’s support for reforms aimed at strengthening democratic institutions had contributed significantly to Nigeria’s democratic development.

The group further commended electoral officials, security agencies, election observers, political parties, civil society organizations, and members of the media for their roles in ensuring the credibility and peaceful conduct of the elections.

While expressing satisfaction with the conduct of the polls, the Arewa Revival Project urged INEC to sustain the momentum by strengthening transparency, embracing technological innovations, expanding voter education, and ensuring future elections meet both national and international best practices.

Reaffirming its support for the Tinubu administration, the group also lauded the collaboration between the Executive and the National Assembly under the leadership of Senate President Akpabio, saying their commitment to institutional reforms and national development continues to inspire confidence in Nigeria’s democratic future.

The organization concluded that the successful conduct of the elections represents another milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey and demonstrates that credible elections are achievable when institutions are allowed to perform their constitutional responsibilities with independence, integrity, accountability, and patriotism.

The post Arewa Revival Project Hails Tinubu, INEC, Akpabio Over Credible Elections appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

The verdict, delivered after more than 46 hours of jury deliberations at Southwark Crown Court, found Alison-Madueke not guilty of five counts of accepting bribes and one count of conspiracy to commit bribery. The charges stemmed from allegations that she received cash, luxury goods, private jet flights and other benefits from oil industry figures in exchange for facilitating lucrative oil and gas contracts while serving as Nigeria’s Minister of Petroleum Resources between 2010 and 2015.

Throughout the trial, Alison-Madueke denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that she neither solicited nor accepted bribes and had no direct authority over the award of oil contracts. Her defence argued that many of the expenses cited by prosecutors were either reimbursed or paid from her personal resources.

Two co-defendants, Nigerian oil executive Olatimbo Ayinde and Alison-Madueke’s brother, Doye Agama, were also acquitted of related bribery charges.

The case, prosecuted by the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA), was regarded as one of the most significant international corruption trials involving a former Nigerian public official. British authorities had investigated Alison-Madueke since her arrest in London in 2015 before formally charging her in 2023.

Following the verdict, Alison-Madueke’s legal team welcomed the jury’s decision, describing it as a complete vindication of her position and saying she looked forward to rebuilding her public and private life after years of legal proceedings.

The post Former Minister Diezani Cleared of Bribery Charges by London Jury appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

The appointment marks a significant transition for Jimoh, who built a reputation in Nigerian journalism through years of reporting on governance, religion, public affairs and national issues.

Before his appointment, Abbas Jimoh served with Daily Trust, where he contributed extensively to news coverage and developed experience in public communication and media engagement.

His new role at NSCIA places him at the forefront of the organisation’s public communication efforts, with responsibilities expected to include media relations, dissemination of official positions, and strengthening public engagement on issues relating to the council’s activities.

Observers note that the appointment reflects NSCIA’s continued interest in leveraging experienced media professionals to enhance institutional communication and public outreach.

The council is one of Nigeria’s leading Islamic bodies and plays an active role in religious advocacy, interfaith engagement and national discourse.

The appointment has attracted congratulations from colleagues and stakeholders within the media and religious communities, who described it as recognition of professional competence and years of service in journalism.

The post Former Daily Trust Journalist Appointed NSCIA Spokesperson appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

Speaking on Thursday at a public lecture held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, to commemorate the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, Senator Akume urged Nigerians to play active roles in strengthening democratic institutions and safeguarding the country’s hard-earned civil rule.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey since the return to civilian governance in 1999, the SGF described the past 27 years as a period marked by resilience, determination and significant progress.

According to him, the country has successfully conducted eight consecutive general elections and witnessed peaceful transfers of power across political parties and regions, including a historic transition from a ruling party to the opposition.

While acknowledging the gains of democratic governance, Akume said Nigeria must confront lingering challenges threatening the credibility of its democratic process.

He identified electoral integrity as a major concern, stressing that allegations of corruption within the electoral system continue to undermine public confidence. “Democracy is not merely the act of voting; it is the guarantee that every vote counts equally,” he stated.

The SGF highlighted achievements recorded under democratic rule, including economic expansion, improved financial inclusion and investments in critical infrastructure such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway.

He also pointed to reforms in the power sector and expanded access to education and healthcare through initiatives such as the Universal Basic Education programme, the National Health Insurance Scheme and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

Akume, however, cautioned against allowing ethnic, religious and regional divisions to weaken the country’s democratic foundations, even as he called for a sincere assessment of Nigeria’s democratic experience, urging citizens and institutions to interrogate their performance in meeting the aspirations of the people.

Describing the theme of the lecture, “27 Years of Democratic Governance: Achievements, Challenges and the Road Ahead,” as an opportunity for national reflection, the SGF challenged Nigerians to envision the kind of democracy they desire over the next 27 years.

“Nigeria is worth all our sacrifices and our democracy is worth defending,” Akume said.

“The present and upcoming generations are standing on the shoulders of those who struggled for civil rule, and they have both the responsibility and the opportunity to build the nation our founding fathers envisioned and which our children deserve to inherit”, Akume noted.

The post June 12: Democracy Worth Defending, Akume Declares appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

The victims, identified as Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, were reportedly kidnapped on Wednesday morning in the Challenge area of Ibadan South-West Local Government Area.

According to a statement issued by Adelabu’s media aide, Femi Awogboro, the incident occurred at approximately 7:30 a.m. while Mrs. John-Paul was taking her children to school.

Awogboro disclosed that armed gunmen intercepted Mrs. John-Paul’s vehicle and forcefully took her and the two children away.

“Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, aged 43, was reportedly abducted by armed gunmen at about 7:30 a.m. while on her way to drop her children at school in Ibadan. The abductors also forcefully took away her 12-year-old twin sons, who were with her at the time of the incident,” the statement said.

The statement further revealed that Mrs. John-Paul is the youngest of the five children of Mrs. Olufunmilayo Aduke Adegoke Adelabu. Before her retirement last year, she served at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and First Bank Pension Custodian.

Following her retirement, she relocated to Ibadan with her children and was preparing to join her husband, who had earlier moved to the United States.

The family confirmed that security and law enforcement agencies were immediately notified after the abduction.

According to the statement, security operatives have commenced investigations and are working to ensure the safe rescue of the victims while pursuing those responsible for the crime.

“Adebayo Adelabu and the entire family are deeply distressed by this tragic development but remain hopeful and confident in the capacity of the security agencies to secure the safe release of Mrs. John-Paul and her children,” the statement added.

The Adelabu family urged members of the public to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and support ongoing rescue efforts through prayers and credible information sharing.

They also appealed to anyone with useful information that could aid investigations to report it promptly through appropriate security channels.

The incident has heightened concerns over insecurity in Oyo State. It comes weeks after more than 40 teachers and students were reportedly kidnapped during a coordinated attack on communities in Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area, on May 15, 2026.

Authorities have yet to provide further details on the latest abduction as investigations continue.

The post Gunmen Kidnap Former Minister Bayo Adelabu’s Sister and Twin Sons in Ibadan appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.