News

Alake announced that over the course of eight months, Mining Marshals have apprehended 300 illegal miners.

Published

6 months ago

November 15, 2024

In a significant development for Nigeria’s mining industry, the government has arrested nearly 300 illegal miners over the past eight months, following the establishment of the Mining Marshals. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, made this announcement during a recent briefing with the House Committee on Solid Minerals, where he underscored the ongoing efforts to combat unauthorized mining activities rampant across the nation.

The Mining Marshals, inaugurated in March 2024, represent a strategic initiative aimed at securing Nigeria’s mining sites. This specialized security force, under the leadership of Abubakar Audi, Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), was formed to address the alarming prevalence of illegal mining and its associated challenges.

Minister Alake emphasized that the deployment of over 2,000 trained marshals has resulted in a marked decrease in unauthorized mining activities. The apprehension of nearly 300 illegal miners, including foreign nationals, highlights the effectiveness of this initiative in restoring order to a sector that has long been characterized by chaos and exploitation.

“This renewed security architecture is already having a profound impact on our mining landscape,” stated Alake. “Our commitment to safeguarding our mining sites not only enhances national stability but also serves as an invitation to investors seeking reliable partnerships.”

Furthermore, Alake noted that a stronger focus on in-country mineral processing and value addition will enable Nigeria to retain more wealth from its natural resources, marking a shift away from a heavy reliance on raw exports. This proactive approach is also part of a broader vision for the African continent, exemplified by the formation of the African Mineral Strategy Group, which aims to bolster the mining sector across Africa.

In conclusion, the steps taken by the Nigerian government in establishing the Mining Marshals are indicative of a robust effort to enhance security, curb illegal activities, and foster an environment conducive to sustainable investment in the mining industry.

Foreign

Princess Opeyemi Bright Inaugurated as Youngest UK Mayor.

Published

14 hours ago

May 17, 2025

Emmanuel Ikechukwu

On Friday, May 16, 2025, Princess Opeyemi Bright was sworn in as the youngest Mayor in the United Kingdom, assuming the prestigious title of First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham at the age of 29.

Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, Princess Bright’s election has been widely lauded as a testament to diversity, youth empowerment, and the increasing global impact of the Nigerian diaspora. Having served as a councillor since the age of 22, her ascent to mayoralty follows a legacy of public service, with her mother, Dr. Councillor Afolasade Bright, previously serving as Civic Mayor of Hackney.

Princess Bright’s success exemplifies a broader trend of Nigerians achieving prominent positions in international governance, joining the ranks of figures like Kemi Badenoch and Chi Onwurah in the UK, and others globally. Her inauguration serves as an encouragement for youth engagement in politics and underscores the vital role young people and women play in shaping public life. This historic achievement offers valuable insights for Nigerian policymakers in diaspora engagement and leadership development initiatives.

Entertainment

Nollywood Actress Questions JAMB’s Relevance in University Admissions.

Published

1 day ago

May 17, 2025

Emmanuel Ikechukwu

Nollywood actress Mary Njoku has recently ignited a debate regarding the necessity of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination for university admissions in Nigeria. In a statement posted on her Instagram story, Njoku questioned the need for JAMB and post-UTME, arguing that the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) should be sufficient proof of a candidate’s completion of secondary education.

Her statement comes amidst recent controversy surrounding JAMB, particularly following widespread reports of mass failures in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME). While JAMB has admitted to errors and announced retakes for affected candidates, Njoku’s questioning highlights a deeper concern regarding the redundancy and potential inefficiencies within the current university admission process. The actress’s comments add fuel to an existing debate about the effectiveness and fairness of the JAMB examination in evaluating a student’s readiness for tertiary education.

Entertainment

Tyla to Host 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards.

Published

1 day ago

May 17, 2025

Emmanuel Ikechukwu

South African sensation Tyla is poised to make history as the first African personality to host the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards. Organizers announced the Grammy-winning artist as the host of the 2025 edition, scheduled to air live on June 21st from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.

Beyond hosting duties, Tyla has also secured two nominations: Favourite Global Music Star and Favourite Music Collaboration for “Show Me Love” with WizTheMc, and “bees & honey.”

The nominations list is topped by Kendrick Lamar, Ariana Grande, and Lady Gaga, each receiving four nods. Selena Gomez, Dwayne Johnson, Jelly Roll, and Jack Black follow closely behind with three nominations apiece.

Expressing her excitement on X, Tyla simply stated, “I’m really about to host the kids choice awards.” This landmark achievement further solidifies Tyla’s rising star on the global stage.