Category: News

The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) has suspended its ongoing strike action and directed its members to resume work tomorrow, Wednesday, 4 June.

The suspension of the industrial action, which began on Monday, 2 June, across all its federal chapters, was contained in a communique issued after a series of meetings held with representatives of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, and other stakeholders.

According to the communique, “After long deliberation upon issues that led to the declaration of industrial action by JUSUN on 2 June 2025, the following agreement was reached:

“That JUSUN oblige the noble intention of the Honourable Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Matunmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, GCON, the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, Alhaji Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, NLC, and other stakeholders.

“To give the Honourable Chief Justice of Nigeria and the relevant stakeholders time to engage the Federal Government of Nigeria to ensure the release of funds to the Judiciary within a period of one month.

“That upon the release of the funds to the Judiciary, JUSUN’s demands—including the implementation of the new N70,000 minimum wage and its arrears, a 25/35% salary increase, and five months’ wage award and their arrears—shall be implemented immediately.

“Consequent upon the commitment of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, JUSUN and its organs, after due consideration, have agreed to suspend the ongoing industrial strike action.

“With this development, members of staff are hereby directed to resume work tomorrow, Wednesday, 4 June 2025.”

The national headquarters of the union had, in a circular dated 30 May, directed all its federal branches to embark on industrial action effective from Monday, 2 June, until further notice.

However, on Sunday, the Supreme Court and National Judicial Commission branches of the union withdrew from the strike action, citing the efforts being made by the CJN to ensure the settlement of the contentious issues.

The Federal High Court in Abuja is under lock and key due to the strike embarked upon by Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) on Monday.

The Federal High Court (FHC) Chapter of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), on Monday, locked out judges, lawyers, staff and litigants from accessing the court following the indefinite strike declared by its national body.

A check by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the FHC headquarters located along Shehu Shagari Way in Abuja revealed that all the entrance gates into the high-rise building were under lock.

Judges, staff, lawyers, litigants and members of the public were denied access as business activities in and around the court were paralysed.

NAN reports that JUSUN national body had, on May 30, in a circular by its acting national secretary, M.J. Akwashiki, asked all its chapters’ chairmen to, effective from midnight Sunday, June 1, direct all their members to stay at home.

It said that, “This directive follows unfruitful meetings in the instance of the Minister of Labour and Employment, who was conciliating on our matter.

“We believe that, as directed by the organs of the union, National Working Committee (NWC) and National Executive Council (NEC) of our great union, the action will continue until further notice.

“Our demands are for the government to pay us 5 months wage awards, implement the 70.000% National Minimum Wage, and provide the 25/35 per cent salary increase. Solidarity forever.”

Efforts to have a chat with some of the executive members of the union were unsuccessful, as they were said to be in a meeting.

Although there were reports that some chapters of the union had backed out from the industrial action, as of 9:48am, the Federal High Court gates were still under lock and key.

(NAN)

The city of Jos came alive in a burst of color, joy, and heartfelt celebration as dignitaries, family, and friends from across Nigeria and abroad gathered at the elegant Fox Hotel to honor Chief Innocent and Lolo Mercy Uwakwe on the occasion of their 60th wedding anniversary, Chief Uwakwe’s 90th birthday, and Lolo Uwakwe’s 85th birthday.

The event, fondly described by the family as a “Trinity Celebration,” was more than just a family gathering, it was a powerful testament to love, endurance, faith, and community. The atmosphere at Fox Hotel was vibrant, adorned with exquisite decorations and marked by emotional speeches, music, and an overwhelming spirit of thanksgiving.

Chief Innocent Uwakwe and his beloved wife, Lolo Mercy, have spent over six decades together, building not just a family, but a legacy admired by many. Their union, which began in 1965, has weathered many storms, including the loss of three of their six children. Yet, through it all, they have remained united, strong, and deeply committed to their Christian faith and to each other.

The celebration brought together a cross-section of society, including top government officials, religious leaders, academics, professionals, and members of the Jos community. Many shared glowing tributes, not only about the couple’s commitment to each other but also about their contributions to the development and social fabric of Plateau State.

Salamatu Femi Gbajabiamila, wife of the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, spoke fondly of growing up as neighbors to the Uwakwes. “There was literally a stream between our houses. We’ve known each other all our lives. We are more than friends, we are family. Today’s celebration reminds us of the value of deep-rooted relationships and enduring love,” she noted.

Samuel Jatau, Secretary to the Government of Plateau State, reminisced about seeing Chief Uwakwe impeccably dressed and walking to work, an image that inspired admiration and respect. “Even as a boy, I knew this was a man of excellence. His life and marriage are proof that values and dignity are timeless,” Jatau said.

Julie Sanda, Director General of the Plateau Peace Building Agency, who has known the Uwakwe family since 1974, described the couple as a symbol of social cohesion and community integration. “They are a story of love, of inclusion, of living in harmony. Their journey reflects what Jos stands for peace and diversity,” she said.

Okechukwu Uwakwe, the only surviving son of the celebrants, expressed heartfelt emotions during his speech. “This day means everything to me. My parents have set an example for us all. They’ve been through so much and yet remained joyful, faithful, and loving. I pray that their strength and grace are in our genes.”

Dr. Chika Okoye, their daughter who traveled from the United States, described the occasion as a long-awaited celebration not just of her parents but of the Jos community, particularly St. Pirans Anglican Church, where the family has worshipped since 1975. “Through the joys and sorrows, the church and the community have stood with us. This event honors them as much as it honors our parents,” she said.

Dr. Okoye also introduced her family, her husband, Dr. Fredrick Okoye, an infectious disease specialist; her son, a urologist in training; and her twin daughters, both working at Princeton University, symbolizing the strong legacy her parents have built across generations.

Guests were treated to an electrifying music, dance, and cuisine. The hall was colorful, laughter, and moments of reflection. The celebration underscored the importance of family, faith, and friendship in today’s world.

The celebration concluded with prayers, songs of praise, and renewed commitments from all present to cherish and uphold the values that Chief and Lolo Uwakwe have lived by for 60 remarkable years.

Abuja, Nigeria – May 30, 2025

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially sworn in six new Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) to fill existing vacancies across the country. The ceremony, held at INEC’s headquarters in Abuja, was described by Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu as a “critical step toward strengthening Nigeria’s electoral process.”

The swearing-in was attended by National Commissioners, the Hon. Secretary to the Commission, Directors, and family members of the appointees.

Prof. Yakubu emphasized the significance of the RECs’ new roles, describing election management as a “sacred duty” and urging the appointees to uphold professionalism, transparency, and legality in their operations. “Your appointment is a full-time and not part-time responsibility. You must provide leadership and exercise effective supervision,” he stated.

The six RECs include two reappointed commissioners—Dr. Johnson Alalibo Sinikiem and Mukhtar Umar Gajiram—who are beginning their second terms, and four new appointees:
• Dr. Sa’ad Umar Idris and Mrs. Feyijimi Saseyi Ibiyemi, both former INEC staff
• Chukwuemeka Christopher Ibeziako, a legal practitioner
• Umar Yusuf Garba, an experienced private sector administrator

To promote neutrality and reduce conflicts of interest, the new RECs have been deployed to states outside their geopolitical origins, in line with INEC policy. The new postings are as follows:
• Dr. Sa’ad Umar – Gombe State
• Dr. Johnson Alalibo Sinikiem – Cross River State
• Mrs. Feyijimi Ibiyemi – Ogun State
• Mukhtar Umar Gajiram – Taraba State
• Chukwuemeka C. Ibeziako – Abia State
• Umar Yusuf Garba – Sokoto State

In a related development, Prof. Yakubu also announced the timetable for the 2026 off-cycle governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States. The Ekiti election will hold on June 20, 2026, with party primaries scheduled between October 20 and November 10, 2025. The Osun election is slated for August 8, 2026, with primaries taking place from November 24 to December 15, 2025.

The appointments and updated electoral calendar underscore INEC’s ongoing efforts to ensure credible, inclusive, and transparent elections across Nigeria.

Jos, Plateau State — May 29, 2025

As Plateau State marks the second anniversary of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s administration, the Executive Governor has delivered a comprehensive state broadcast celebrating achievements across key sectors while acknowledging challenges that remain.

Governor Mutfwang, who took office on May 29, 2023, described the last two years as a journey of “hope, restoration, and progress” and expressed gratitude to citizens for their resilience and support. Accompanied by his Deputy, Ngo Josephine Piyo, he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to peace, development, and inclusive governance.

Tackling Insecurity and Rebuilding Confidence

Mutfwang highlighted substantial efforts in improving security, including revitalizing Operation Rainbow, launching a toll-free Emergency Communications Centre, and deploying surveillance technology through the newly established Plateau State Activity Centre. These steps, he said, aim to restore peace to communities long plagued by violence and instability.

Civil Service Reforms and Economic Interventions

The Governor recounted reforms in the state’s civil service, including the clearance of salary arrears, regular payment of gratuities and pensions, and reactivation of office infrastructure. “Plateau workers are regaining their pride,” he said.

On the economic front, Mutfwang cited the launch of the Tin City Metro transport system which now serves over 9,000 daily commuters. The initiative, he noted, has reduced transportation costs while creating jobs. An expansion of the bus fleet and the introduction of interstate transport services are part of ongoing efforts to improve mobility.

Air and rail connectivity have also received attention, with partnerships forged for new flight routes and the revival of rail services in partnership with the Nigerian Railway Corporation, set for commissioning in the coming days.

Agricultural Revolution Underway

In agriculture, over 900 hectares of land were recovered for displaced persons, and ₦16 billion worth of fertilizers and farming inputs distributed. Youths are being trained in agribusiness through collaborations with institutes like IITA, Ibadan, while 20 tractors have been procured to drive mechanization.

A new Ministry of Livestock Development has been established to reduce conflicts between farmers and herders, with plans to revive the Wase Grazing Reserve as a model livestock hub for both local and export markets.

Roads, Water, and Housing

Governor Mutfwang announced the rehabilitation of 111 km of urban roads, construction of 66.4 km more by the Ministry of Housing, and the continuation of 3,000 km of road projects initiated under past administrations. Rural connectivity is also being enhanced through the construction of 380 km of access roads.

In housing and water infrastructure, a ₦30 billion contract for the Langtang North Water Project was awarded, and solar-powered boreholes are being deployed across all 17 LGAs.

Education, Health, and Environment

Plateau students now benefit from a 50% tuition reduction, with increased scholarship funding. Infrastructure upgrades include the construction and renovation of 148 classroom blocks and the expansion of tertiary education facilities.

Healthcare has seen renewed focus, with over ₦2 billion in equipment installed at the Plateau Specialist Hospital. Enrollment in the state’s health insurance program more than doubled, reaching over 208,000 enrollees as of March 2025. Renovation of primary health centres and medical supplies have also been scaled up.

Efforts to restore environmental cleanliness have yielded visible results. A state of emergency on sanitation was declared, with revived monthly clean-ups and increased stipends for street sweepers. “Our cities are cleaner, and our streets safer,” Mutfwang said.

Justice Reforms and Inclusive Governance

The Governor emphasized the enactment of new laws to improve access to justice, promote mediation, and protect vulnerable groups. He reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance, noting that local governments now manage their own funds, facilitating grassroots development.

Looking Ahead

Governor Mutfwang outlined priorities for the coming year, including rebuilding the Jos Main Market, constructing agro-logistics centres, and launching a modern abattoir. He assured displaced communities of ongoing efforts for resettlement and rehabilitation in collaboration with the Federal Government and partners.

He concluded by calling for unity and continued progress: “We may not have reached the mountain top yet, but we are no longer in the valley… Plateau is rising again — and by the grace of God, we shall all rise with it.”