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Author: Our Correspondent

Gov Eno’s late wife’s Foundation empowers 53,000 in A’ibom
By Ogenyi Ogenyi,Uyo
At least persons in Akwa Ibom has benefitted from various empowerment programmes of the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA) in the last two years,.
GIFA was founded by the late wife of Governor Umo Eno, Mrs Patience Eno who passed on two years ago.
Mrs Helen Obareki, Chairman, Board of Trustees, made this known in an address marking the second anniversary celebration of GIFA in Uyo last weekend.
Obareki, who is also the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom said that GIFA would sustain the legacy of her mother, late Patience Eno, founder of the initiative.
“I bear this responsibility with resolve and determination, because I am inspired by the grace of God and the tenacity not to let down my parents and the good people of Akwa Ibom State.
“To put it briefly, a total of 53,987 lives have been touched and impacted by GIFA across Akwa Ibom State in the last two years.
“The breakdown is as follows; Maternal and Child Healthcare – 9,776 mothers and children reached.
“Enhancing Literacy and Learning, 19,587 adults and pupils of public schools impacted.
“Improving Environmental Health, 13 Water of Life borehole projects completed in 13 LGAs;
Women Empowerment – 5,064 women empowered.
“Fight Against Diseases – 4,900 rural women and children benefited from our Wheels of Hope Medical Outreach.
“Prevention and Response – 1,020 survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) were reached and rehabilitated by GIFA during the period under review,” Obareki said.
According to her, the impact of GIFA across the state has been tremendous but added that in spite of the achievements, she was aware that there was still much work to be done to help the vulnerable.
In his remarks, Gov Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom said though he would continue to mourn her late wife, thanked God for her life, though short.
Eno said he took solace on the lives the late wife touched through her pet project, GIFA.
He expressed appreciation to the coordinator, office of the first lady for the remarkable achievements recorded in two years.
February 21, 2026
Excitement as Warri/Effurun Roads, Flyovers near completion
. Julius Berger works speedily ahead rainy season
There is growing excitement in Warri and Effurun as Julius Berger Nigeria PLC presses ahead with the Warri/Effurun Roads and Flyovers, with projects nearing completion ahead of the upcoming rainy season.
The engineering contractor, Julius Berger last week, reported rapid progress on the Delta State government funded initiatives, including three flyovers and related road works that are transforming traffic flow and commercial activity in the Metropolis.
In Enerhen, Effurun, the flyover is approximately 97% complete. Local business owners and commuters say the project is reshaping the neighbourhood’s outlook and unlocking new commercial and residential opportunities.
According to a commercial taxi driver resident in Enerhen, Joseph Eseoghene, today we are already breathing the fresh air of better development. Each day I wake up and see this magic in the air Julius Berger has delivered here, pointing at the flyover, my heart jumps for joy.
A passenger in his Toyota Sienna bus who simply gave his name as Atuyota, added that, when the road under construction was temporarily opened in December, we experienced what better life from Julius Berger’s good job means. The smooth road made us journey with little or no hinderance. The beauty and quality of the road and this flyover form a masterpiece we would enjoy for a very long time.
For the DSC Flyover, Roads and Underpass, the story was the same with lots of commuters hailing the contractor for a job well done.
An accountant with an oil services company, Jonathan Ojarikre, in his reaction to a question said, we will celebrate not just the government for giving this to us; above all we will celebrate Julius Berger for giving us just what we wanted and deserve. I live in this community. For decades we have had to cope with bad roads which limited our communal interactions and businesses. And now, we only await the commissioning by the Governor. We are already seeing and feeling the progress the project is bringing to this community and the state.
Speaking last Friday, the Project Manager, Engr. Thomas Haug disclosed that, the three flyovers being constructed would be completed by the end of March. He however added that, some road works would be completed at later dates. He would not speak of any possible date for commissioning saying that the Delta state government could disclose that.
On the Osubi road project, Haug said, work is ongoing. We are on it; we are still in the contractual period. We have a good progress, if you drive along, you can see when you are driving from the airport…the work is going fast. Especially, we are working fast on all our projects because of the oncoming rains. You know, it is usually heavy here and the entire Delta State.
An architect, Samuel Edebiri who said he hailed from Osubi axis of the town, said, Julius Berger is very fast on this project; this Osubi Road that had been dilapidated for long. I saw the progress when I came just last month. I saw what was going on. This time I came, everything has improved. It’s commendable.
Haug did not mince words in describing the progress on the Ughelli and Agbor Flyover projects as aggressive progress, saying that while Julius Berger is already constructing the Flyover at Otovwodo, Ughelli, piling works are ongoing in the Uromi Junction, Agbor Flyover project.
He attributed the landmark progress being made on the various projects in the state to excellent relationships with the respective operating communities and absence of any funding issues from their client, Delta State Government.
In his own reaction, the company’s Regional Manager, Region South and East, Engr. Friedrich Wiesa buttressed all Haug said, adding that, we love the pace of work our team is applying to the jobs. And we will continue to do same to all our jobs because as partners with the government and people of the state, we are transforming challenges into tangible opportunities.
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February 17, 2026
A”ibom confident of April target for Int’l flights.as VAIA recieves Boarding Bridges
By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
Akwa Ibom government has expressed confidence that the Victor Attah International Airport would commence international flights operations with the arrival of two Passenger Boarding Bridges (PBBs), at the new smart terminal building.
Two extra long bridges moving at a snail speed of 25km/hr arrived the airport by midday on Monday, three days after leaving the Onne Port in River State.
Lighter components of the two Bridges which left Friday evening had earlier arrived on Saturday as the Akwa Ibom State Government’s aviation development plan gained momentum.
Officials, including the State Commissioner for Finance and Special Duties, Emem Bob, the Chairman of VKS Construction Ltd, Engr. Oliver Ebong, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso, were on ground to witness the arrival of the equipment.
The State Commissioner for Finance and supervisory Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr Emem Bob, said the Governor is committed to delivering an efficient, world-class airport and is working to ensure the facility becomes fully operational by the first week of April.
He commended Governor Eno for his sustained efforts to finalize the operations at the airport and position Akwa Ibom State as a regional and international aviation hub.
“Our Governor is renowned as the Governor with the finisher’s anointing, and he is showing that in the completion of this airport.
“The project is totally funded by the state government and the Governor has not borrowed any money in projects he is executing across the State.”
On his part, Engr. Oliver Ebong who was excited with the safe arrival of the components said he was excited to be considered by the Akwa Ibom State Government for such an ambitious project.
He stated that VKS Construction Ltd is confident the terminal will be fully ready for use by the end of March, ahead of the April deadline.
Conducting journalists around the terminal building, Chief Ebong said the terminal facility was the first of its kind in the country with the most sophisticated ICT, electricity supply, and security technology.
“Some of these equipment have never been brought into the country hence it was difficult to appropriately label them during transit. But we are happy that they have safely arrived”, Engr. Ebong said.
February 17, 2026
CHEC Implements Swift Environmental Measures as Abuja–Makurdi Expansion Reaches Milestone
By Wilfred Francis
The rehabilitation and expansion of the Makurdi–Enugu highway corridor have gained renewed public confidence following swift contractor compliance, with multiple stakeholders commending both the supervising authorities and the executing firm, China Harbour for measurable progress.

Recall that recently, the Federal Ministry of Works issued a directive addressing dust emissions along sections of the project corridor. The directive followed community concerns about environmental and public health implications arising from ongoing construction activities.
In a prompt response, China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), the project contractor, implemented comprehensive dust suppression measures across the affected stretches. These measures reportedly included intensified water spraying, improved haulage management, and enhanced environmental monitoring systems.
Road users and local community representatives have described the response as “timely and responsible,” noting that the dust concerns have now been effectively mitigated. A community leaders in one of the affected areas, Emmanuel Kyeto who spoke with our correspondent said the development reflects a stronger culture of regulatory adherence in large-scale infrastructure delivery. According to him “When contractors respond swifty to community concerns of this nature it inspires confidence and mutual respect between local communities and construction companies. We thank China Harbour and believe they would do more in terms of corporate social responsibility for communities along the road corridor” he said
Abuja–Makurdi Section Completed
Project milestones have also reinforced public optimism. The Abuja–Makurdi segment has been completed and widened, significantly upgrading one of Nigeria’s most strategic transport arteries. Transport unions operating along the corridor have reported noticeable improvements in ride quality, traffic flow, and overall safety conditions.
A Freight operators and logistics operator, Emmanuel David who spoke with our correspondent noted that the expanded carriageway has already reduced transit bottlenecks and improved travel predictability, a critical factor for supply chain efficiency between central and southern Nigeria. “This road is a major boost to businesses; it has significantly reduced travel time saving a lot of cost including down time and vehicle maintenance cost. The contractor handling this project must be commended for the quality and timely delivery of this project.
A Road safety officer who was on a patrol team along the route also noted that the improved alignment has increased lane capacity, and that the upgraded pavement quality would lower accident risks while enhancing long-distance driving comfort, “ As road safety officers we know that the quality of the road has significant impact on drivers experience and road safety, the improved alignment would go a long way in curbing accident and carnage on this road, i must commend the prioritization of this project, the contractor has done a great job and as you can see from the quality of work done it makes road safety measures and enforcement much easier road crashes would be reduced to the barest minimum and lives would be saved which is what we want to see”
Makurdi–Enugu Expansion Advancing
Construction on the Makurdi–Enugu axis is also progressing steadily, with visible structural works and earthworks milestones achieved in line with the project timeline. One of the site engineers monitoring the development describe the pace as “consistent and performance-driven,” highlighting coordinated site management and resource deployment.
As a major economic route linking the middle belt of Nigeria to the South East of the country, stakeholders believe that the corridor’s strategic importance extends beyond transportation. Linking Abuja to the oil-producing and industrial zones of the South-East and South-South regions, the highway functions as a critical economic spine for trade, mobility, and regional integration.
Arguably the strengthening of this major road artery will deepen interregional commerce, facilitate agricultural and industrial distribution, and enhance national cohesion through improved connectivity.
Not surprising industry stakeholders and civil society observers, credit sustained oversight and hands-on supervision by the ministry for maintaining project momentum, and the contractors for quality delivery of the project. Analysts say the contractor’s responsiveness to environmental concerns demonstrates a balanced approach—prioritizing both rapid infrastructure development and community welfare.
Stakeholders who spoke with our correspondent point to the dust-control episode as an example of constructive regulatory engagement: prompt intervention by supervising authorities followed by immediate contractor compliance as a big win for all parties concern as it demonstrates mutual respect and understanding.
As work continues along the Makurdi–Enugu stretch, stakeholders maintain that the project represents more than road expansion—it signals a broader commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s transport backbone while ensuring environmental responsibility and public accountability.
With measurable milestones already achieved and regulatory standards visibly enforced, the corridor’s transformation is increasingly viewed as a model of coordinated infrastructure delivery aligned with national economic objectives.
February 16, 2026
El-rufai must return every Kobo he allegedly looted in Kaduna- Sen. Shehu Sani
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Senator representing Kaduna Central in 8th National Assembly, Senator Shehu Sani has said that any money allegedly taken illegally from the Kaduna State coffers by the immediate past Governor Nasir elrufai would be returned.
The Human Rights Activist who made the declaration weekend while briefing newsmen in Kaduna said “I can fully assure you that we will do everything possible to see that as far as we are concerned every kobo that has been looted from Kaduna State is returned”.
He lamented that the $350m loan allegedly collected by the immediate past Governor of Kaduna State, was looted, with just few projects executed in Kaduna North Local Government Area, while making Kaduna the second most indebted State in Nigeria.
He recalled that El-Rufai’s years as Governor of the state, was a nightmare for most citizens, as it was characterized by tyranny, blatant abuse of the rule of law.
“And we will also make sure that whoever’s right has been violated in the name of governance and abuse of power in the state, this right will be restored and fought for,” he assured.
Sjehu Sani was optimistic of a smooth sail for Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu come 2027 general elections.
“For those of us in Kaduna State, we are sending a clear message that we will work tirelessly to see to the re-election of Uba Sani as the Governor of Kaduna State.
“And we will also work tirelessly to see to the re-election of Bola Tinubu as the President of Nigeria in 2027. But we didn’t stop anyone from electing any other persons.
“But we have also not seen any credible alternative. I will also then send this personal message that the 2027 election should be left for the people in Southern Nigeria to decide.
“The opposition party should respect the principle of zoning and allow the emergence of a Southern Nigerian candidate.
“The ruling party should respect the principle of rotation of power and allow a Southern Nigerian candidate. Buhari was in power for eight years. It is fair and just in the interest of this country,” he said.
February 16, 2026
Nigeria Police invites World Boxing Champion, Bash Ali, over petition, fraud allegations
By Gabriel Achadu
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Nigeria police has invited Nigerian World Cruiserweight Boxing Champion, Bushiru Ali popularly known as Bash Ali over a petition purportedly written against him by the former Minister of Sports Mr. Sunday Akin Dare.

Mr. Bashiru Ali is being invited for a chat by the Cyber Crime Department of Nigeria Police to appear before it on the 26 February 2016, according to Police invitation letter dated 11th February 2026, and video obtained by our correspondent.
The invitation which has stir- up wide spread skepticism and anger in the media space, is alleged to be at “the instance of the petition by Bash Ali”s arch enemy and former Nigerian Sports Minister, Sunday Dare”, according to Harry Agina, in his February 12, 2026, publication.
“No Bullshitting, according to a Socio-Political Affairs and Sports, Afro-Scope Contents Menu Blog, by one Harry Agina publication.
“I am Harry Agina. It was 1996 when Nigerian World Cruiserweight Boxing Champion, Bash Ali, started his quest to go on Guinness World Record as the oldest boxer to enter the ring to defend his title.
“Ever since, it has been an endless agony for the champion in the hands of evil and corrupt rulers in the corridors of power in Nigeria. From one corrupt government to another and another, the story of his ordeal can make endless volumes of books.
“Search the name Bash on this sight, and over thirty stories will pop up for ya. Some of them are about his ordeal, and others are about his social life while in the struggle for his Guinness World Record fight. This is the latest in his confrontation with one of his arch enemies in government.
“As the above title says, the Cyber Crime Department of Nigeria Police invited the World Cruiserweight Boxing Champion Of the Nigeria for a chat.
“That was on February 11, 2026, and it was at the instance of a petition by his arch enemy, a former Nigerian Sports Minister called Sunday Dare.
“I call it a ridiculous petition, and you’re most likely to agree with me when you see my argument. And to see my argument, you must check out the following video commentary”, it stated.
Nigeria police Force national cybercrime centre National Cybererime Center (NPE-NCCE) Panti, Yaba, Lagos State”, the letter added.
February 16, 2026
A’Ibom tasks sports officials on capacity building
By Ogenyi Emeka
Paul Bassey, Commissioner for Sports in Akwa Ibom has urged public servants to sports as a tool for youth empowerment, economic growth, social cohesion, and international recognition.
Bassey said this in his opening remarks at the ongoing 3-Day human capacity building workshop organised for staff of the Ministry of Sports at the Godswill Akpabio International stadium in Uyo on Wednesday.
He said that the capacity building workshop was organised to equip staff of the ministry of the requisite knowledge on modern techniques in sports development.
The commissioner urged staff and participants at the workshop to take the training seriously, as it would help them develop their skills.
“This workshop has therefore been designed to equip our staff with modern skills, practical knowledge, and the right mindset required to meet the evolving demands of administration and development.
“Sports, today, is no longer just about competition and recreation. It is a powerful tool for youth empowerment, economic growth, social cohesion, and international recognition.
“As a Ministry, we are entrusted with the responsibility of harnessing this potential for the benefit of our people.
“To do this effectively, we must embrace innovation, best practices, accountability, and teamwork, values that this training seeks to reinforce,” Bassey said.
Bassey commended Gov. Umo Eno for creating the ministry of sports separately to enhance the development of sports in the State.
In her remarks while declaring the workshop open, the Head of the Civil Service, Mrs Elsie Peters, said the human capacity building workshop was a sacrifice from government to staff of the ministry.
Peters charged the participants to take training workshop very serious, as they would learn new things to improve in their service delivery.
“There are things you are going to learn in this workshop that will stand you out, and make you shine anywhere you go,” Peters said.
In his goodwill message, Mfon Patrick, Media Officer, Akwa United Football Club sports industries around the world had so lucrative for investment.
Patrick said the capacity training workshop was to equip staff, athletes to tap from the potentials in the industry.
He said that training was necessary for better performance to improve on the staff service delivery.
February 12, 2026
Celebrating the 55th Anniversary of China-Nigeria Diplomatic Relations and Forging a New Chapter of a Shared Future
By H.E. YU Dunhai, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria
On February 10, 1971, the People’s Republic of China and the Federal Republic of Nigeria formally established diplomatic relations.
Time has flown by, and today, on February 10, 2026, we celebrate a truly significant moment in our history: the 55th anniversary of our diplomatic ties. Over more than half a century, China-Nigeria relations have braved the shifting tides of the international landscape. Our two countries have stood together through thick and thin, advanced hand in hand, and forged a profound friendship rooted in mutual understanding and affinity. This enduring partnership has fostered a fine tradition of mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit, exchange and mutual learning, as well as win-win cooperation, setting an exemplary model for South-South cooperation.
55 Years of Standing Together: China and Nigeria as Trusted Friends Sharing Weal and Woe. From the formal establishment of diplomatic relations in 1971, to the establishment of a strategic partnership in 2005, and further to its elevation to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2024, every leap forward in China-Nigeria relations has been grounded in our original aspiration of mutual respect and equal treatment. China has always firmly supported Nigeria’s efforts to safeguard its national unity, peace, and social stability, and actively backed Nigeria in playing a constructive role in the peace processes in West Africa and the Sahel region.
Meanwhile, Nigeria has firmly adhered to the One-China principle and consistently offered unwavering support to China on issues involving China’s core interests and major concerns, such as the Taiwan question. On regional and global stages, the two sides have also maintained close collaboration, jointly safeguarding the common interests of developing countries and emerging as leading forces for solidarity and cooperation within the Global South.
55 Years of Shared Progress: China and Nigeria as Development Partners for Win-Win Cooperation. Our two countries have continuously strengthened the alignment of our development strategies, and our cooperation in trade, investment, finance, industry, infrastructure, mining, personnel training, and peace and security has delivered fruitful outcomes. A series of landmark projects built by Chinese enterprises across Nigeria have injected strong momentum into the country’s economic growth and social development, delivering tangible benefits to its people. Notable examples include the China-Nigeria Friendship Hospital, the National ICT Infrastructure Backbone Project, the Lekki Deep Sea Port, the Zungeru Hydropower Station, the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano Gas Pipeline, the Nigerian Railway Modernization Project, the Abuja Water Supply Project, and several modern airport terminals, among many others. Today, Nigeria stands as China’s largest project contracting market and second-largest export market in Africa; it is also a key destination for Chinese investment and the second-largest trading partner for China on the continent. In 2025 alone, China-Nigeria bilateral trade reached 28 billion US dollars, an increase of more than 28 percent year-on-year. China’s direct investment in Nigeria reached 690 million US dollars, rising by 103 percent. These striking figures vividly demonstrate the strong resilience and vigorous vitality of China-Nigeria cooperation.
55 Years of Deepening Mutual Understanding and Affinity: China and Nigeria as Brothers and Sisters at Heart. The flourishing people-to-people and cultural exchanges between our two countries, through deepened interactions in education, culture, arts, sports, youth engagement and other fields, have continuously brought our peoples closer, further uniting our hearts, minds, and strengths. Fine traditional Chinese arts such as Chinese medicine and martial arts have gained wide popularity in Nigeria, while Nigerian films, music, literature and other distinctive cultural expressions have also found their way into ordinary Chinese households. A wave of Chinese language learning is sweeping across Nigeria, building a more solid bridge for exchanges between our two civilizations. By respecting differences and engaging in equal dialogue, our civilizations have learned from and integrated with each other. This dynamic interplay not only injects enduring momentum into the growth of bilateral relations, but also reinforces the broad popular foundation that sustains the steady and long-term development of the China-Nigeria comprehensive strategic partnership.
After 55 years of growth, China and Nigeria have forged a profound friendship that transcends geographical distances and have jointly written a wonderful chapter of shared development. In September 2024, President Xi Jinping met with President Bola Tinubu, and the two leaders jointly announced the elevation of China-Nigeria relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, marking that bilateral relations have entered a fast track of high-level development. In October 2025, the Recommendations of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China for Formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development, adopted at the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, clearly put forward the goal of “expanding high-standard opening-up and creating a new prospect for win-win cooperation,” pointing out the direction for China and Nigeria to share development opportunities and promote common prosperity. Now, standing at a new historical starting point, China-Nigeria relations and our practical cooperation are embracing truly broad and unprecedented prospects.
China and Nigeria are natural members of the Global South, major developing countries, and important representatives of emerging economies. The two countries share similar visions and compatible needs in national governance, economic construction, and other fields, while also maintaining extensive consensus and shared aspirations in safeguarding the common interests of the Global South and promoting the reform and improvement of the global governance system. China attaches great importance to China-Nigeria relations and stands ready to work with Nigeria to take the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges as opportunities to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, jointly advance modernization, build a China-Nigeria community with a shared future, enhance the well-being of the two peoples, and contribute to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.
China will continue to deepen strategic mutual trust with Nigeria. Guided by high-level exchanges, the Chinese side will give full play to the strategic leadership of head-of-state diplomacy and leverage the mechanism of the China-Nigeria Intergovernmental Committee to advance practical exchanges and cooperation across all levels and fields. At the same time, we will continue to strengthen strategic communication and policy coordination, firmly support each other on issues concerning our core interests and major concerns, respect each other’s choice of development path, and deepen coordination in national governance, economic development, national security, regional stability and other areas, thereby solidifying the foundation of the China-Nigeria comprehensive strategic partnership.
China will continue to share development opportunities with Nigeria. Guided by the principles of openness, inclusiveness, and win-win cooperation, China is committed to aligning high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, the Ten Partnership Actions, and the zero-tariff policy with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Eight Priority Areas. We stand ready to accelerate the early implementation of the zero-tariff policy in Nigeria, expand multidimensional cooperation, and ensure that the outcomes of our cooperation deliver broader and more substantial benefits to both peoples. Furthermore, China will implement the Initiative on Cooperation Supporting Modernization in Africa, launched jointly with South Africa during the G20 Summit, and provide full support to Nigeria in advancing its industrialization and modernization, thereby strengthening its capacity for independent development.
China will continue to uphold multilateralism with Nigeria. We stand ready to work with Nigeria in firmly safeguarding the international system with the United Nations as its core and the international order based on international law, and in promoting the reform and improvement of the global governance system. Together, we will also uphold fairness and justice, oppose unilateralism and bullying, and effectively respond to global challenges. China also stands ready to strengthen collaboration with Nigeria within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations and BRICS, firmly upholding the common interests and development rights of developing countries. Furthermore, China is committed to actively advancing the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative, and the Global Governance Initiative. We will help build an equal and orderly multipolar world, foster inclusive economic globalization, and together with Nigeria, contribute to global peace, stability, development, and prosperity.
China will continue to deepen civilizational mutual learning with Nigeria. Seizing the opportunity of the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, China is ready to further diversify non-governmental exchanges and establish multi-faceted platforms for communication with Nigeria. We will strengthen interactions between media outlets, think tanks, and academic institutions of both countries to deepen mutual understanding and appreciation of each other’s history, culture, policies, and development paths.Through events such as the China-Africa Youth Festival and the China-Africa Cultural Silk Road Exchange Month, we will broaden public support for the growth of China-Nigeria relations and ensure that the friendship between our two peoples is passed down through generations, remaining vibrant and enduring.
As we reflect on the journey behind us, China-Nigeria cooperation has achieved fruitful outcomes. As we look to the future, our bilateral relations hold even brighter prospects. Over more than half a century, our friendship has grown stronger and more vibrant. Now, entering a new era, our two countries will surely join hands to write a more remarkable chapter of cooperation and reinforce a friendship that is both lasting and flourishing.
H.E. YU Dunhai, is the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria
February 10, 2026
Police exhume corpse of missing motorcyclist, arrest suspect, 23 drug peddlers in A’ibom
By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The Police in Akwa Ibom has identified and exhumed the corpse of a commercial motorcyclist who was declared missing in Etim Ekpo Local Council of the State last year.
It has also arrested one Emmanuel Silas in Connection with the crime and arrested 23 other drug suspects at a fishing port in Mbo Local Council of the state.
A police statement endorsed by the State Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John and made available to newsmen in Uyo yesterday reallws that he Command recalls that on or about 11th of November 2025, at about 11:00 a.m., the Command received an information that an unidentified commercial motorcyclist was cornered at Ikot Esop Village, robbed of his motorcycle, and subsequently went missing.
“Following the report, an investigative machinery was immediately activated to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“After months of sustained intelligence gathering and investigation, the Command on Friday , 6th February 2026, at about 12:00 noon, arrested one Emmanuel Silas, male, in connection to the crime.
“Upon arrest, the suspect made useful statements to investigators, which led Police operatives to the scene of the crime. There, the victim was discovered to have been murdered and buried in a shallow grave, as indicated by the suspect. The remains were subsequently exhumed, photographed, and preserved for forensic examination and possible autopsy.
“Investigation is ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the crime, recover the stolen motorcycle, and track down other suspected accomplices who are currently at large.” The statement said..
It assured the public that all individuals involved in the heinous act will be brought to justice and called on
members of the public to continue to support the Police with credible information, as such cooperation remained critical to crime detection and prevention.
The arrest of the other 23 suspects another statement said followed a coordinated raid of identified criminal black spots within Ibaka Fishing Port where large quantities of suspected illicit drugs and other criminal exhibits were seized.
“Between 9:40 p.m. on Wednesday, 5th February 2025, and 12:15 a.m. of Thursday, 6th February 2025, operatives of the Command, acting on credible information, carried out a strategic night operation targeting criminal hideouts within the Ibaka axis.
“During the raid, operatives searched several identified black spots at the Ibaka Fishing Port, leading to the arrest of one Sampson Newstyle ‘M’, one Godgift Benabinte ‘M’, one Michael Asukwo ‘M’, one Prince Ene ‘M’, One Goodnews Asukwo ‘M’, one Golden Edu ‘M’ abd 17 other suspect.
“Investigation is ongoing to determine the extent of the suspects’ involvement in criminal activities and to identify other individuals connected to the drug network operating within the area.” It stated.
February 9, 2026
CCECC to Renovate and Construct Namibian High Commission and Home-Based Staff Building in Abuja
By Othuke Evroh
Xiangdong Wang, President, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), has stated that the Renovation and Construction of the Namibian High Commission Main Chancery and Staff Building is much more than just a construction site of brick and mortar.
Xiangdong Wang made this declaration while delivering his Welcome Address and Project Commitment at the Groundbreaking event held on the 6th of February, at the project site, Asokoro, Abuja.
According to him the Main Chancery will serve as a modern gateway for Namibia’s diplomatic mission in Nigeria, reflecting the stature and vision of the “Land of the Brave”, he stated.
Xiangdong Wang noted that CCECC recognized the significance of the facility to the mission’s operations, particularly as it relates to the enduring friendship between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Namibia.
”As a leading international contractor with presences in over 110 countries and regions, CCECC understands that a diplomatic mission requires the highest standards of precision and aesthetics. We hereby make the following firm commitments for this project”.
”We are committed to efficient project management to ensure completion within the stipulated time frame. We will deploy our most experienced engineers and utilize high-quality materials to ensure that every detail of the Chancery and residential building meets international standards.Today’s ceremony marks the beginning of a new chapter in the physical presence of Namibia in Abuja. It is also a testament to the enduring friendship between our nations and organizations. We are not just building offices; we are building a bridge for further cooperation and mutual success”, he said.
In his remarks, Zhou Hongyou, Charge’ d’Affaires of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria highlighted the importance of China-Namibia cooperation. “This ocasion marks not only the start of this significant project, but also the enduring friendship and close cooperation between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Namibia”, he said.
“China and Namibia share a relationship built on future trust, shared history and a common aspiration for development. The renovation and construction of the High Commission’s Facilities represent an important milestone in strengthening Namibia’s diplomatic presence in Nigeria and improving the working and living conditions of its diplomatic missions. Through this collaboration, we aim to contribute to the success of Namibia’s mission here in Nigeria, just as CCECC’s decision to execute this project reflects the high level political and mutual trust between our two nations as well as our shared commitment to advancing practical cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation. We are confident that CCECC will execute this project with professionalism, high standard and strong sense of responsibility”, he declared.
In his address, H.E.Walde Natangwe Ndevashiya, High Commissioner of the Republic of Namibia to Nigeria, officially declared the commencement of the project, expressing optimism about the impact it will have on the embassy’s operations, staff welfare, the bilateral relations between both nations and Namibia’s diplomatic footprint in West Africa.
The commencement of this landmark project was witnessed by key figures from the diplomatic, construction and government sectors of both nations.
February 7, 2026