The Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday ordered the final forfeiture of 48 properties linked to former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, over allegations of money laundering.
Delivering judgment, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ruled that the properties, said to have been acquired with proceeds of crime, should be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.
The court held that Malami, who served as Justice Minister between November 11, 2015, and May 29, 2023, under former President Muhammadu Buhari, failed to disprove the reasonable suspicion that the assets were unlawfully acquired.
It also dismissed claims that some of the affected properties belonged to the extended Malami family in Kebbi State.
According to the judge, the key legal question was not ownership of the properties but whether the funds used to acquire them were legitimately obtained.
Justice Abdulmalik further ruled that Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act empowers the court to order the permanent forfeiture of assets traced to illicit activities.
The judgment followed an application filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Although the EFCC sought the forfeiture of 57 properties allegedly linked to the former minister, the court found sufficient evidence confirming the legitimate ownership of nine of the assets.
Both the EFCC and Malami adopted their final written addresses on May 26.
The anti-graft agency had earlier secured an interim forfeiture order covering the assets, valued at more than N212 billion.
According to the EFCC, the properties, located across Kebbi, Kano, Kaduna and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, were believed to have been purchased with proceeds of crime.
In its ex parte application, the commission argued that the interim order was necessary before seeking a final forfeiture.
Malami is currently standing trial on a 16-count charge bordering on money laundering.
He was arraigned alongside his son, Abdulaziz, and one of his wives, Hajia Bashir Asabe.
The defendants are accused of laundering public funds amounting to about N9 billion.
The EFCC alleged that the former Justice Minister concealed the proceeds of crime by acquiring high-value properties across different states.
After granting the interim forfeiture order, the court directed the commission to publish a notice within 14 days inviting interested parties to show cause why the properties should not be forfeited.
Opposing the application, Malami’s legal team urged the court to set aside the order, insisting the assets were lawfully acquired.
He maintained that the properties were duly declared in asset declaration forms submitted to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), arguing that the EFCC failed to establish a prima facie case linking them to criminal proceeds.
Malami further accused the commission of suppressing material facts, insisting the properties were legally acquired after his appointment and declared to the CCB in 2019 and 2023 in compliance with constitutional requirements.
He also argued that the interim forfeiture order was obtained through exaggerated valuations and misleading facts intended to influence the court.
Counsel to the EFCC, Jibrin Okutepa (SAN), urged the court to grant the final forfeiture order, relying on a 47-paragraph affidavit and 46 exhibits, arguing that Malami failed to satisfactorily explain the legitimate sources of the assets.
In response, Malami’s lawyer, Adedayo Adedeji (SAN), asked the court to dismiss the application, contending that the EFCC’s case was based on suspicion rather than credible evidence.
Among the properties listed by the EFCC were luxury homes, hotels, commercial buildings, shopping plazas, warehouses, farmlands and residential estates located in Abuja, Kano, Kaduna and Kebbi, including assets allegedly acquired through the Khadimiyya for Justice & Development Initiative and several housing projects.
The Kedrick Scribner Foundation (KSF) has empowered 94 widows and orphans of fallen Nigerian police officers through vocational training and business startup support during the seventh edition of its annual Widows Mite Programme held in Lagos.
The event, themed “Vocational Skills Empowerment for Widows and Orphans of the Fallen Heroes of the Nigerian Police Force,” took place on June 28, 2026, at the United Church of Christ in Nigeria (HEKAN Church), Mounted Troops Police Barracks, Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Ikeja, bringing together government officials, security personnel, religious leaders, development partners, media representatives, and community stakeholders.
Widows Mite 7.0 reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to reducing poverty among families of deceased police officers by equipping beneficiaries with vocational skills, entrepreneurship training, and practical resources to achieve financial independence.
A major highlight of the programme was the graduation of 94 beneficiaries who successfully completed between six and twelve months of vocational training at the KSF Vocational Centre.
The graduates were trained in three key disciplines, including Information and Communication Technology (ICT), tailoring, and bead making. Of the total graduates, 44 completed ICT training, 28 graduated from tailoring, while 22 specialized in bead making.
To ensure that the training translates into sustainable livelihoods, the Foundation also distributed business startup equipment to 25 outstanding graduates.
The beneficiaries received 13 HP laptops for ICT graduates, nine sewing machines for tailoring graduates, and three bead-making starter kits for graduates in the bead-making department.
According to the Foundation, the equipment is intended to enable recipients to immediately establish businesses, generate income, and become financially self-reliant while reducing dependence on external support.
Speaking during the programme, Executive Director of the Kedrick Scribner Foundation, Dr. Kedrick Scribner, described the event as a celebration of hope, resilience, and God’s faithfulness.
Joined by his wife, Mrs. Victoria Scribner, and members of the Foundation’s vocational training team, Dr. Scribner thanked God for the success of the initiative, emphasizing that the Foundation exists to serve humanity through compassion and practical empowerment.
“I am only a servant of God, privileged to be used as an instrument to bless humanity,” he said.
He reiterated that the Foundation’s mission is anchored on its guiding principle, “Serving People Is What We Do, Because We Love,” adding that genuine service to humanity remains one of the greatest expressions of faith.
Beyond the graduation ceremony, attendees were inspired by a sermon delivered by Dr. Scribner titled “The Blessing of Saying Thank You,” based on the biblical account of the ten lepers in Luke 17:11-19.
The message highlighted the importance of gratitude, with three key lessons focusing on how thanksgiving invites divine intervention, identifies believers as true worshippers, and brings complete restoration beyond physical healing.
The sermon resonated strongly with participants and became one of the emotional highlights of the event.
Several dignitaries attended the programme to demonstrate support for the Foundation’s humanitarian efforts.
Among them were Resident Pastor of HEKAN Church, Rev. Yakubu Solomon; Rev. Oluwabukola Fajinmi of DIOS International Missionary Church Incorporated; Assistant Commissioner of Police, Force Animal Branch, ACP Flang Bulus Musa; Assistant Comptroller of Immigration, Patrick Okorie; representatives of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), Mrs. Steve Sanni Jennifer and Mrs. Olajumoye; Corporate and Intellectual Property Lawyer, Barrister Moyo Maku; alongside media partners Den Africa and News Central.
The programme featured opening prayers, welcome remarks, inspirational speeches on entrepreneurship and resilience, certificate presentations to all graduates, distribution of business equipment, recognition of partners and sponsors, media interviews, networking sessions, and group photographs.
According to the Foundation, the impact of Widows Mite 7.0 extends beyond vocational training.
The initiative has enhanced digital literacy among participants, promoted entrepreneurship, improved household income prospects, restored dignity to widows and orphans, and strengthened the economic resilience of families whose loved ones died in the line of duty.
The Foundation expressed appreciation to its donors, volunteers, government agencies, faith-based organizations, development partners, media organizations, and supporters whose contributions made the programme successful.
Looking ahead, the Kedrick Scribner Foundation announced that Widows Mite 8.0 Theme: Medical Outreach / Health Renewal & Enrollment / Seminars: “Widow’s Story to Glory” 📅 Saturday, September 19, 2026 ⛪ Thanksgiving Service: Sunday, September 20, 2026 📍 HEKAN Church, Mounted Troops Police Barracks, Ikeja, Lagos
“Widow’s Story to Glory” will be a moving and powerful seminar experience where widows share personal accounts of their journey after losing their husbands, the struggles, the fears, and ultimately the triumph, made possible through the compassionate support of the Kedrick Scribner Foundation Inc.
“Orphans Rejoice” will be a joyful celebration dedicated entirely to the orphans of the Fallen Heroes of the Nigerian Police Force, a special day filled with fun, games, music, and the powerful opportunity to hear their stories.
The Foundation also disclosed plans to host its annual Back-to-School Empowerment Programme in Parkville, Maryland, United States, where children will receive free school supplies, branded backpacks, and complimentary haircuts in preparation for the new academic session.
Through the Widows Mite initiative, the Kedrick Scribner Foundation continues to provide vulnerable widows and orphans with opportunities to rebuild their lives, achieve economic independence, and preserve the legacy of Nigeria’s fallen police heroes through sustainable empowerment.
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Three newly graduated Nigerian Army personnel have reportedly been abducted by suspected bandits in Zamfara State while travelling to Kebbi State after completing their military training in Kaduna.
The soldiers were said to have finished their passing-out exercise at the 26 Nigerian Army formation in Kaduna on July 2, 2026, and were expected to be transported to Zuru, Kebbi State. However, according to a report by SaharaReporters, they were allegedly dropped off in Gusau, Zamfara State, and instructed to continue the remaining part of their journey on their own the following day.
Sources familiar with the incident said the soldiers boarded a commercial vehicle from a motor park in Gusau alongside other passengers heading to Kebbi. While passing through the Anka axis of Zamfara State, the vehicle was reportedly ambushed by heavily armed bandits, who abducted the occupants, including the three soldiers and the driver.
The kidnappers were initially said to have demanded a ransom of N50 million before later reducing the demand to N5 million for each captive.
Families of the abducted soldiers alleged that they promptly informed the Nigerian Army about the incident but claimed that more than 13 days after the abduction, no rescue operation or official response had been communicated to them.
A security analyst also confirmed the incident in a video shared on social media, saying he had spoken directly with the victims’ families. According to him, six soldiers were travelling after the passing-out parade, but three managed to escape during the attack. However, only one of the escapees has reportedly been accounted for, while the whereabouts of the other two remain unknown.
The analyst described the incident as disturbing, noting that the soldiers had only recently completed their training and were travelling home before reporting for active duty. He also said the families were financially incapable of raising the ransom demanded by the kidnappers.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army had not publicly commented on the incident or the allegations made by the families.
Trainees Showcase Skills in Painting, Decoration and Finishes, Welding and Fabrication, and Electrical Installation and Maintenance
Morene Ventures Limited has successfully concluded its IDEAS-TVET closing ceremony and graduation programme, celebrating the achievements of 100 skilled artisans trained in Painting, Decoration and Finishes, Welding and Fabrication, and Electrical Installation and Maintenance.
The ceremony, which marked the completion of a six-month intensive skills development programme, also featured the presentation of participation certificates while successful trainees await the issuance of their National Skills Qualification (NSQ) Level 2 Certificates.
The event brought together government representatives, industry experts, training facilitators, assessors, community stakeholders, and families to celebrate the transformation of participants into skilled professionals ready to contribute to economic growth and national development.
A major highlight of the graduation ceremony was the exhibition and practical demonstration sessions, where trainees displayed the knowledge and skills they acquired throughout the six-month training period.
Participants showcased their expertise through completed projects and live demonstrations in Painting, Decoration and Finishes, Welding and Fabrication, and Electrical Installation and Maintenance. The exhibitions provided guests with an opportunity to witness firsthand the creativity, technical competence, and confidence developed by the trainees during the programme.
The practical sessions reinforced the importance of technical education, demonstrating that skills acquisition goes beyond classroom learning and must be applied through real-world practice.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of gifts and awards to outstanding performing trainees who distinguished themselves through exceptional practical competence, commitment, and dedication during the training programme.
The recipients of the Best Artisan Trainee Awards were:
Best Artisan Trainee in Electrical Installation and Maintenance: Mr. Kolade Ojo Oluwafemi
Best Artisan Trainee in Welding and Fabrication: Miss Aishatu Abubakar Atiku
Best Artisan Trainee in Painting, Decoration and Finishes: Mr. Suleiman Shittu
The award presentation recognised excellence across the three trade areas and celebrated trainees who consistently demonstrated outstanding technical ability, discipline, and professionalism throughout the programme. The presentation of gifts was one of the memorable moments of the ceremony, drawing applause from fellow trainees, facilitators, invited guests, and family members.
In his opening remarks, Bldr. Gyok Mathew Gyang (MNIOB, QAA, RPL), Director of Morene Ventures Limited, reflected on the transformation that skills training brings to individuals and communities.
He noted that many people who started their careers were once identified simply as labourers, but programmes such as IDEAS-TVET are changing that narrative by equipping individuals with professional skills and recognised qualifications.
He encouraged the graduates to embrace their new identity as skilled professionals and make meaningful use of the knowledge they have acquired.
Delivering a goodwill message, Bldr. Imil Iliya Asuka, Deputy Director, Directorate of Physical Facilities, University of Jos, and Director of Works, College of Education, Gindiri, encouraged the graduands to remain committed to their chosen careers.
He advised them to maintain discipline, consistency, and determination, whether they choose employment, entrepreneurship, or partnerships with others.
He reminded them that skills must be developed through continuous practice and encouraged them to always strive for excellence in whatever they do.
Mr. Rwang Yohanna Dame, Principal of Government Technical College Bukuru (BUTECHS), congratulated the graduands and described the certificates as symbols of commitment, learning, and achievement.
He emphasised that the true value of certification lies in the knowledge, practical skills, and character developed throughout the training.
He encouraged the graduates to continue learning and practising their skills, noting that employers today seek individuals who combine qualifications with competence and professionalism.
“Your certificate represents what you have learned, but your ability to apply that knowledge is what will create opportunities for you,” he advised.
Representing Bldr. Lawrence Manggei (FNIOB, EQA), Managing Director of Potter7 Skill Training Center, Abuja, Engr. Rwang Moses urged the graduands to continue practising their skills and remain committed to improvement.
He described practice as the foundation of excellence and encouraged them not to allow their training to go unused.
He challenged the graduates to pursue opportunities, overcome challenges, and continue developing themselves as they begin their professional journeys.
Speaking on behalf of the team of assessors, Bldr. Azi Emmanuel congratulated the graduands and appreciated everyone who contributed to the success of the programme.
He praised the dedication of the organisers, facilitators, and assessors who worked together to develop skilled manpower through the initiative.
He encouraged the graduates to apply their skills with integrity and professionalism while contributing positively to their communities.
Bldr. Adedeji Adeleye Paul (FNIOB, EQA) reminded the graduands that graduation marks the beginning of continuous learning rather than the end of their development.
He encouraged them not to wait passively for opportunities but to invest in themselves, seek knowledge, and continue improving their abilities.
He stressed the importance of networking, mentorship, and collaboration, advising the graduates to maintain relationships developed during the training.
According to him, certificates are valuable, but competence remains the most important factor in building successful careers.
“Employers are interested in what you can do, not only what you possess on paper,” he stated.
Representing the Federal Ministry of Education, Mr. Kyari Haruna, Assistant Director, highlighted the importance of technical and vocational education in national development.
He explained that technical education provides young people with practical skills for employment, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance.
He encouraged more Nigerians to embrace skills training, noting that skilled professionals are increasingly valuable in today’s economy.
He also encouraged young women to confidently pursue technical careers, emphasising that excellence in skilled professions is achievable regardless of gender.
Representing the Permanent Secretary, Plateau State Ministry of Education, Hajiya Sadiya Ibrahim, Bldr. Ruth Ashen, Lecturer at Plateau State University, Bokkos, urged the graduands to remain humble and committed to lifelong learning.
She encouraged them to recognise areas where they need improvement and seek guidance from mentors, colleagues, and professionals.
She reminded them that professional growth comes through collaboration, discipline, and continuous development.
Speaking on behalf of the female participants, Miss Nissi Makama, a trainee in Painting and Decoration, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, Morene Ventures Limited, facilitators, assessors, and all partners who made the programme possible.
She acknowledged that the journey required dedication and hard work but noted that participants emerged with confidence and practical skills ready to be applied.
She expressed hope that the training would enable participants to create opportunities, support their communities, and contribute positively to society.
Also speaking on behalf of the male participants, Mr. Felix Ribetnan reflected on the journey that began on 12th January, noting that the programme provided participants with practical skills that will empower their future. He praised the resilience of trainees who remained committed throughout the programme and appreciated the efforts of the Federal Ministry of Education, the IDEAS-TVET team, Morene Ventures Limited, the Quality Assurance team, facilitators, and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the initiative.
In his closing remarks, Bldr. Gyok Matthew Gyang, Director of Morene Ventures Limited, encouraged the graduates to maximise the opportunity provided through the programme.
He reminded them that the purpose of the training was not only to obtain certificates but to gain practical skills that promote self-reliance, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment.
He also clarified that while participation certificates were presented during the ceremony, the NSQ certification process follows established procedures, and successful candidates will receive their official NSQ Level 2 certificates upon completion of the required processes.
He appreciated the Federal Government for supporting technical and vocational education and contributing to the development of a skilled workforce.
As the 100 graduates leave the training centre, they do so with more than certificates they carry practical skills, confidence, and the responsibility to use their knowledge to create opportunities and contribute to the growth of their communities and the nation.
The IDEAS-TVET graduation ceremony stands as a reminder that investing in skills development is investing in the future.
The Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (PSIRS) has announced the availability of more than 5,000 unclaimed driver’s licences received from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), urging residents to collect their documents without delay.
In a public announcement, the agency said the backlog consists of outstanding driver’s licences belonging to Plateau residents who have been waiting for their licences.
PSIRS directed all affected residents to visit its headquarters located at No. 6 Bank Road, Jos, to collect their licences during official working hours from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Mondays through Fridays.
The agency advised applicants to come along with valid means of identification and any other relevant documents to ensure a smooth verification and collection process.
The announcement was signed by Wulashik Lucius Dafaan, Head of the Corporate Communications Department, Plateau State Internal Revenue Service.
Music lovers have a new reason to celebrate as legendary Jos and Plateau State artiste, Adu Deme, releases his latest single, Sarauniyata.
The Afrobeats-inspired track is a heartfelt celebration of love, commitment and togetherness, delivered through his signature soulful vocals and rich cultural sound.
Perfect for weddings, anniversaries and other special occasions, Sarauniyata showcases Adu Deme’s enduring artistry and passion for meaningful music.
Fans and new listeners alike are encouraged to stream, download and share the song with family and friends.
Experience the powerful message of love and unity that makes Sarauniyata a must-have on every playlist.
The Federal Government has suspended the proposed increase in registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), pending wider consultations with key stakeholders.
The Federal Ministry of Education announced the decision on Monday, stating that it had withdrawn its June 18, 2026, circular conveying the proposed fee adjustment to allow for a comprehensive review before any final decision is made.
According to the ministry, the suspension followed concerns and constructive feedback from members of the public, underscoring the government’s commitment to inclusive, transparent and evidence-based policymaking.
The ministry explained that the proposed fee review was initially prompted by prevailing economic realities and the increasing cost of conducting credible national examinations across the country.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, directed that the proposal be placed on hold to ensure that any policy affecting millions of Nigerian students and their families is carefully considered and reflects the collective interest of the nation.
As part of the review process, the ministry said it would engage extensively with examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors and administrators, parents’ associations, organised labour, education stakeholders and other critical partners.
The consultations are expected to ensure that any future decision on examination registration fees is fair, transparent, sustainable and responsive to current economic conditions while protecting access to education.
The ministry clarified that the proposed increase will not take effect until the consultation process is completed and a final decision is reached.
Reaffirming its commitment to the education sector, the ministry stated that the welfare of students, equitable access to quality education and responsible policymaking remain central to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
It also appreciated Nigerians for their understanding, patience and continued support, assuring the public that updates would be provided throughout the consultation process.
The statement was signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. Folasade Boriowo.
Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers ambushed a funeral convoy along the Ochadamu-Ejule Road in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State, abducting nine mourners, including two officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), while transporting the remains of a senior FRSC officer for burial.
The incident occurred around 6 p.m. on Thursday as the convoy was conveying the body of the late Deputy Corps Commander of the FRSC, Augustine Ikwue, from Osun State to his hometown of Otukpo in Benue State for burial.
According to reports, the deceased officer had died in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, after a brief illness.
The kidnappers were initially reported to have taken the corpse along with the mourners. However, the body was later found abandoned near Ejule community and recovered by security personnel before being released to the family for burial.
Confirming the incident, the Kogi State Sector Commander of the FRSC, Lawal Fagge, said nine people were abducted during the attack, including two FRSC personnel.
Fagge disclosed that the kidnappers later contacted the deceased officer’s wife using his mobile phone and demanded a ransom of N450 million for the release of those still in captivity.
“We recovered the corpse of the officer in Ejule community on Friday after frantic searching and handed it over to the family. He was buried on Saturday in his hometown of Otukpo in Benue State.
“The abductors used the cellphone of the deceased officer to call his wife, demanding a huge sum of money for those in their captivity to regain their freedom,” he said.
Security operatives, including personnel of the Nigerian Army, the police, local hunters and vigilante groups, have since launched coordinated operations in the area to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the growing insecurity on the nation’s highways and describing the attack on a funeral procession as a disturbing indication of the worsening security situation.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has denied reports alleging that the Minister of Education was responsible for delaying the resumption of newly recruited staff, insisting that no approval has been granted for fresh recruitment into the agency.
In a press statement issued by Femi Akinfala, the agency described the allegations as false and misleading, stating that NELFUND is currently overstaffed, with many employees lacking office space and clearly defined responsibilities.
According to the statement, the Chairman of NELFUND, Mr. Jim Ovia, had earlier directed a halt to all recruitment processes during a board meeting in Lagos because no formal approval had been granted for new appointments.
The statement further alleged that despite objections raised by three executive directors, the Managing Director proceeded with recruitment outside the board’s approval process.
It added that the Chairman instructed that individuals recruited without authorization should not be placed on the agency’s payroll and also ordered a comprehensive review of staff ranks.
Akinfala also claimed that about 80 percent of NELFUND’s current workforce is considered redundant, a situation he said management unanimously acknowledged requires urgent attention.
He noted that the Board Secretary and the Executive Director of Operations could verify the directives issued during the Lagos meeting regarding the recruitment freeze.
The statement concluded that the intervention of the Minister of Education had helped prevent what it described as a further breakdown in the agency’s organizational structure.
The Northern Governors’ Forum (NGF), in collaboration with the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council, has launched the Northern Nigeria Security Trust Fund (NNSTF) to strengthen the fight against insecurity across the 19 northern states, with each state committing ₦1 billion monthly to finance the initiative.
The decision was reached during a joint meeting at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House in Kaduna, where a 21-member Board of Trustees was inaugurated to oversee the Fund aimed at improving intelligence gathering, enhancing security coordination, and mobilising sustainable resources to combat banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, and other security threats.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, joined his counterparts at the meeting, reaffirming Plateau’s commitment to regional peacebuilding and collaborative security efforts. Former Plateau South Senator, Napoleon Bali, was appointed as a member of the Board of Trustees, further positioning the state as a key contributor to regional security initiatives.
Speaking during the inauguration, NGF Chairman and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, described the Trust Fund as a major milestone in addressing Northern Nigeria’s security challenges through coordinated regional action and sustainable financing.
The governors also reiterated their support for the establishment of state police and pledged to address the root causes of insecurity through investments in education, agriculture, youth empowerment, and economic development, while calling for stronger collaboration with traditional institutions, security agencies, and community leaders to restore lasting peace across the region.
