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Labour Unions in FCT Threaten Strike Over Minimum Wage Non-Implementation.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Labour unions in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have issued a strong warning of impending industrial action due to the failure to implement the ₦70,000 minimum wage. This move aligns with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) directive for a nationwide strike set to commence on December 1, 2024.

Despite President Bola Tinubu’s signing of the minimum wage bill into law on May 29, 2024, the FCT, along with seven other states—Zamfara, Sokoto, Osun, Cross River, Imo, Plateau, and Taraba—has yet to approve the new wage, which was expected to take effect in October.

In a statement to Punch, Stephen Knabayi, Chairman of the FCT Council of the NLC, expressed frustration over the administration’s inaction, stating that attempts to engage with the FCT government have been unsuccessful. He characterized the current treatment of workers as “unfair and unsustainable,” emphasizing that the ₦70,000 minimum wage falls short of meeting the rising cost of living.

Knabayi remarked, “FCT has not implemented the minimum wage. We have tried to meet with the FCT administration, but that has not been possible. We are going to follow the directive of the NLC and shut down everywhere by November 30. Even the ₦70,000 minimum wage is not enough, and it is unfair.”

Audu Akogwu, chairman of the FCT chapter of the Trade Union Congress, echoed these sentiments, alleging that the administration under Minister Nyesom Wike has not engaged with labour unions since his inauguration in August 2023. He highlighted that while the federal government has made wage payments, the FCT has not initiated any formal negotiations regarding the minimum wage.

The ongoing situation raises significant concerns about the welfare of workers in the FCT and underscores the urgent need for dialogue between labour representatives and the government to resolve these pressing issues.

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Senate Confirms Sani Muhammad Ndanusa as Ambassador.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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The Nigerian Senate has confirmed the appointment of Engineer Sani Muhammad Ndanusa as a non-career ambassador and high commissioner.

The confirmation followed the consideration and adoption of the report submitted by the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, chaired by Senator Sani Abubakar, representing Niger North. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had nominated Ndanusa for the diplomatic position, after which he appeared before the committee for screening.

Presenting the committee’s recommendations during plenary on Tuesday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced Ndanusa’s confirmation after lawmakers unanimously endorsed the nomination through a voice vote.

Akpabio congratulated the nominee and expressed confidence that Ndanusa would draw on his professional experience to advance Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives and strengthen the nation’s relations with other countries.

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Ogun Police Rescue 11 Ghanaian Nationals in Sagamu Visa Scam.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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The Ogun State Police Command has rescued 11 Ghanaian nationals allegedly held hostage in Sagamu after being lured to Nigeria with promises of Canadian and Spanish visas.

The victims—seven males and four females—were rescued during an intelligence-led operation conducted by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit. According to a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the operation followed intelligence received on October 19, 2026, concerning a suspected hideout.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the victims were allegedly deceived by a fellow Ghanaian national who promised to facilitate their travel abroad. Each victim reportedly paid GH₵40,000 before being brought to Nigeria and detained against their will.

The victims are currently receiving care and support, while detectives work to identify and arrest other members of the alleged criminal network.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for its prompt response and professionalism. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and combating transnational crime, stating that Ogun State would not become a safe haven for criminals.

The police urged members of the public to verify overseas travel and visa arrangements before making payments and to report suspicious activities to the authorities.

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Federal Government Confirms Ebola Case in the FCT.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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The Federal Government has confirmed one laboratory-diagnosed case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The case was confirmed on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, after a woman who recently arrived in Nigeria on an international flight from Uganda was admitted to a private hospital in the FCT. She had received treatment at the facility for several days before being isolated. She is currently receiving medical care.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, stated that contact tracing had commenced. So far, 44 close contacts have been identified, including healthcare workers, patients, caregivers and travel contacts.

The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and FCT health authorities, is taking measures to contain the infection and prevent further transmission.

Authorities have urged Nigerians to remain calm and vigilant, practise regular hand hygiene, and report suspected exposure or symptoms to public health officials. The NCDC toll-free call centre is available 24 hours a day on 6232 for information and suspected case reporting.

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