Crime News September 10, 2026 NDLEA arrests fugitive drug kingpin over 49.7kg heroin seizure

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has successfully secured the arrest and repatriation of Festus Ibewuike, alias Chidibest Ibewuike, a fugitive drug kingpin who had evaded arrest for over two years following the interception of the single largest heroin consignment ever recorded at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.

A statement issued by Femi Babafemi, NDLEA Director, Media and  Advocacy, on Wednesday in Abuja said Ibewuike, who relocated to Mozambique where he ran a hotel business as a front, was one of three suspects declared wanted and charged in absentia after operatives of the Agency’s MMIA Strategic Command, in a coordinated 12-day operation in February 2024, intercepted 49.70kg of heroin concealed in cartons of metal-cutting machines at the Import Shed of the airport’s cargo terminal.

‘’The operation, which led to the arrest of key members of the syndicate, including his wife, Confidence Ndidiamaka Ibewuike, who routinely received drug-laden parcels marked with the code “ND” on his behalf, also resulted in the freezing of 107 bank accounts and the forfeiture of properties linked to the cartel,’’ the statement said.

Those arrested were subsequently charged before Hon. Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, in charge no. FHC/L/205C/2024. Three of the suspects who have so far been convicted and sentenced by the court, include: Adinnu Felix Chinedu;

Osita Emmanuel Obinna; and ⁠Uzochukwu Frankline. Three other suspects still standing trial before the court are: Chidiebere Reginald Peter; Ibewuike Ndidiamaka Confidence; and ⁠Igbokwuputa Onyinye Ireene, while three others who were charged in absentia include: Ibewuike Festus, a.k.a. Ibewuike Chidibest; Osita Chidozie Cyril; and one Arinze.

For over two years, Ibewuike remained a fugitive, shuttling between Mozambique and Nigeria through the neighbouring Benin Republic in a calculated bid to evade Nigerian law enforcement. That evasion came to an end following actionable intelligence, which led to his arrest at the airport in Cotonou, Benin Republic, on Wednesday, 2nd September 2026, while the Agency worked with INTERPOL both in Nigeria and Benin Republic to facilitate his handover to a team of NDLEA operatives deployed to Cotonou on Friday, 4th September. He was thereafter conveyed to Nigeria to answer for his role in the trafficking syndicate.

During preliminary interviews, Ibewuike, 52, confirmed his identity and disclosed that he had changed his name from Chidibest Ibewuike to Festus Ibewuike. On Saturday 5 September 2026, he was taken to the Agency’s Central Exhibit Store in Ikoyi, Lagos, where he formally identified the parcels of heroin, bearing the “ND” code, established to be linked to him.

Further investigation also revealed that Ibewuike Festus had previously been associated with another drug-related case before the Federal High Court, Lagos, presided over by Hon. Justice Hadiza Rabiu Shagari in charge no. FHC/L/203C/2013, regarding the seizure of 40.255kg of methamphetamine. The case involved one Chidi Ihedioha, who was subsequently convicted by the court in 2023.

Reacting to the development, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the arrest as a major breakthrough in the Agency’s relentless pursuit of fleeing drug kingpins. “This arrest is a major breakthrough in our resolve to track down and bring to justice every drug baron who thinks that fleeing Nigeria’s shores puts them beyond the reach of the law,” Marwa said.

“As I have always vowed, the long arm of the NDLEA will catch up with anyone involved in this illicit trade, no matter how long it takes or how far they run. Festus Ibewuike ran for over two years, hiding under a change of name and a new life abroad, but today he is back in Nigeria to answer for the 49.70kg heroin seizure linked to his network. This should serve as a fresh warning to fleeing suspects still at large: the Agency will not relent until every one of you is brought to book.”

The NDLEA Chairman commended the excellent multinational cooperation that made the breakthrough possible, particularly the Nigerian and Beninese INTERPOL National Central Bureaus for their role in ensuring a smooth transfer of custody.

News September 10, 2026 FG pays tools allowance to university, polytechnic lecturers

The Federal Government has announced the full payment of the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance to academic staff in federal universities, polytechnics and colleges of education for the period January to August 2026.

The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, disclosed this on Wednesday shortly after inaugurating the Ministerial Committee on Accreditation.

CATA is a financial allowance provided to academic staff to support the purchase of essential tools and materials required for teaching, research and other academic activities.

Alausa said the payment was in accordance with the provisions of the 2025 Federal Government–Academic Staff Union of Universities agreement and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to its implementation.

He said, “The Office of the Minister of Education is happy to announce that the full CATA payment has now been released by the Federal Government from January to August 2026 to all universities, all polytechnics and colleges of education.

“All these institutions should have received notification to start paying CATA to all academic staff.”

The minister added that payment to non-academic staff was also being processed.

“And also, the payment to non-academic staff, we’re hoping that these funds will be made available, hopefully, in the next few weeks,” he said.

According to Alausa, the payment was another indication of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to improving the welfare of academic and non-academic staff in the nation’s tertiary institutions.

“This is another indication of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to our academic and non-academic staff. President Bola Tinubu made a commitment to ensuring that the quality and welfare of our staff are prioritised. He has prioritised the welfare of our staff,” he said.

Alausa said the administration’s education reforms extended beyond staff welfare, noting that significant investments were also being made in infrastructure across tertiary institutions, as well as in basic and postgraduate education.

“Beyond prioritising the welfare of our staff, he has also significantly invested in infrastructure at all our tertiary institutions and also basic and postgraduate education,” the minister said.

He added that the administration was committed to ensuring that Nigerian children receive quality education that could compete with standards anywhere in the world.

“This is a President who believes so much in education. He has delivered beyond his promises to ensure that every single child in this country gets the highest quality of education comparable to anywhere in the world,” Alausa said.

He commended President Tinubu for what he described as a transformative initiative in the education sector.

Business News September 09, 2026 Baye Homes Expands Abuja Operations, Aims to Transform Nigeria’s Real Estate Market

Baye Homes Properties has expanded its operations to Abuja with the opening of a new office in the nation’s capital, signalling the company’s determination to deepen its footprint and contribute to the transformation of Nigeria’s premium real estate market.

The new office, situated at House 13, 78 Ladoakintola Boulevard, Garki District, Abuja Municipal Area Council, will serve as the administrative base of the company’s Abuja operations.

The expansion is part of the company’s  growth strategy aimed at taking its innovative and value-driven real estate offerings to more investors and homeowners across Nigeria.

Speaking at the opening, the Chief Executive Officer of Baye Homes, Mrs Zubeidah N. Coker, described the Abuja office as an important milestone in the company’s growth, noting that the city’s expanding luxury and high-value property market made it a strategic location for the company’s expansion.

“We have always envisioned Baye Homes as a brand that caters to the evolving needs of real estate investors and homeowners, not just in Abuja but across Nigeria and beyond,” Coker said.

She added that Abuja remained an important frontier for the company because of its status as the nation’s administrative centre and its growing reputation as a destination for premium real estate investment.

“Abuja represents an important frontier, one that aligns perfectly with our long-term growth objectives. The city is not only the administrative heartbeat of Nigeria but also a burgeoning hub for luxury and high-value real estate.

“We are here to make a mark, offering the same excellence that has distinguished us from others,” she said.

Also speaking, Mr. Jimmy Coker, a developer and husband of the Baye Homes CEO, said the company was determined to play a leading role in shaping the future of Abuja’s luxury and high-value property market.

He said Baye Homes would focus on developments that combine modern design, strategic locations, comfort and investment value.

“Our goal is simple: to redefine Abuja’s luxury and high-value property market by introducing cutting-edge, investor-friendly developments.

“We understand the unique demands of this market and are committed to providing real estate solutions that meet international standards. Abuja is ready for the next phase of premium living, and Baye Homes will be at the forefront of that transformation,” he said.

The company is already preparing to unveil an exclusive real estate development project in Abuja as part of its expansion plans.

The project, which is expected to be strategically located within the capital, is projected to offer prospective homeowners and investors a blend of elegance, comfort, modern infrastructure and strategic investment value.

The planned development is also expected to further demonstrate the company’s approach to delivering properties designed to meet the changing expectations of Nigeria’s growing middle and high-income property market.

With the establishment of its Abuja office and preparations for new developments, Baye Homes Properties is positioning itself for a stronger presence in one of Nigeria’s most competitive real estate markets.

The company describes itself as a fast-growing real estate development firm focused on delivering innovative, value-driven and world-class properties in prime locations, particularly across Abuja.

Beyond property development, Baye Homes says it places strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, with the objective of creating exceptional living spaces while delivering lasting value to homeowners and investors.

News Sports September 08, 2026 Eguavoen appointed interim Super Falcons coach ahead of Olympic qualifiers

Former Super Eagles head coach Augustine “Cerezo” Eguavoen has been appointed to lead Nigeria’s Super Falcons on a temporary basis as the search for a permanent manager continues.

His immediate assignment is to navigate the 2028 Olympic Games second-round qualifying tie against Comoros this October.

Eguavoen brings top-tier experience to the role, having previously guided the Super Eagles to a bronze medal at the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.

The former Super Eagles head coach will lead the Falcons for their 2028 Olympic Games double-legged qualifier against Comoros in October.

Eguavoen will be assisted by Christopher Danjuma, head coach of Nasarawa Amazons, alongside a supporting cast that includes Ayisat Yusuf, a former Super Falcons defender; Olatunji Baruwa, former Super Eagles goalkeeper trainer.

The Falcons will kick off their Olympic qualifying campaign in the second round against Comoros, with both legs taking place at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo on October 9 and 13.

Nigeria had received a bye into the second round as one of the top-ranked teams, while Comoros qualified after a 30-0 aggregate victory over Sudan.

Falcons must navigate four rounds of two-legged knockout ties to secure one of Africa’s two slots for the women’s football event at the Olympics. A win over Comoros will advance the team to the third round in early 2027 to face either DR Congo or Morocco.

Eguavoen will be handling the women’s football team for the first time in his managerial career.

His appointment comes a few weeks after Justine Madugu was sacked as Falcons’ head coach alongside his technical crew.

The dismal run follows the Falcons failure to qualify for the 2027 women’s World Cup.

The first time the team will miss the World Cup since its inception in 1991.

News September 08, 2026 Kano task force secures nine-year jail terms for suppliers of intoxicants to children

The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has secured the conviction and imprisonment of two men for supplying rubber solution and other intoxicating substances to underage children in Kano, sending a strong and unmistakable warning that those who exploit children and expose them to harmful substances will face the full weight of the law.

The two convicts, Kabiru Isa (Mada) and Usman Hamisu (Mani), were sentenced by Magistrate Muhammad Alhaji Sani of Magistrate Court Number 44, Gwammaja, Kano, after being found guilty of criminal conspiracy, membership of an unlawful society and administering intoxicating substances, contrary to Sections 97, 97A and 249 of the Penal Code.

A statement issued by a member of the Media and Publicity Committee, Kano State Multi Agencies Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Lamara Garba, on Tuesday said the court sentenced each of the convicts to a cumulative jail term of nine years without an option of fine, with the sentences to run consecutively.

The court further ordered that each year of the sentence be served as a full 12 calendar months, without the exclusion of weekends, thereby requiring the convicts to serve the full terms imposed by the court.

SolaceBase reports that the conviction followed an intensive investigation by the Kano State Multi Agencies Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking under the leadership of its Chairman, Muhuyi Magaji, Esq., into circumstances surrounding the exposure of vulnerable children on the streets of Race Course, Kano, to intoxicating substances.

The case emerged following the rescue of 43 children, most of them underage, from the Race Course area. While some of the children are indigenes of Kano State, others had arrived in Kano from different parts of the country and had become trapped in the harsh realities of street life.

Investigations by the Task Force uncovered a disturbing pattern in which children engaged in street-based scavenging were supplied with rubber solution and other harmful substances instead of receiving proper payment for their services. This practice exposed the children to intoxicants and further deepened their vulnerability.

The arrest, prosecution and eventual conviction of the two men represent a decisive enforcement action by the Task Force and reinforce its resolve to dismantle networks and activities that exploit vulnerable children and expose young people to substance abuse.

The Task Force has made it clear that enforcement remains a central pillar of its mandate. Individuals or groups involved in supplying intoxicating substances to children, exploiting vulnerable young people or encouraging drug abuse will be identified, investigated, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

However, the intervention of the Task Force goes beyond arrest and prosecution.

The rescue of the 43 children is part of a broader ambition to take 10,000 vulnerable youths off the streets, particularly those exposed to substance abuse and other harmful influences, and provide them with a structured pathway towards recovery and a productive future.

Under the initiative, vulnerable youths will be removed from harmful street environments and subjected to appropriate medical and psychosocial assessment. Those requiring treatment will receive necessary interventions, while others will be supported through rehabilitation, skills acquisition and eventual reintegration into society.

The objective is not merely to remove young people from the streets, but to give them a genuine opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity, acquire useful skills and become productive members of their communities.

Speaking on the conviction and the broader intervention, the Chairman of the Task Force, Muhuyi Magaji, Esq., said the Task Force would continue to pursue its mandate with firmness while combining enforcement with prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and reintegration.

He stressed that children and young people who have become vulnerable to substance abuse must not simply be viewed through the lens of enforcement but should also be protected and given the opportunity to recover and rebuild their lives.

At the same time, he warned that those who deliberately exploit the vulnerability of children and young people for personal gain would not escape accountability.

The Task Force therefore calls on parents, community leaders, traditional institutions and relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts towards protecting children and young people from the dangers of substance abuse.

The Task Force maintains that the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking cannot be won by government agencies alone. It requires the vigilance, cooperation and collective commitment of parents, communities, institutions and all members of society.

The message from this conviction is clear and unmistakable: the streets must not become breeding grounds for the exploitation of children, and those who supply intoxicating substances to vulnerable young people will be pursued, arrested, prosecuted and held accountable under the law.

While offenders will face the consequences of their actions, vulnerable children and young people will continue to be offered protection, treatment, rehabilitation, skills and a renewed opportunity to build productive lives and contribute positively to society.

News September 08, 2026 Rotary Club Abuja Renaissance Marks International Literacy Day with Reading Workshop, Fetes Pupils with Gifts

The Rotary Club of Abuja Renaissance, has brought joy to students and pupils in the Federal Capital Territory as part of activities marking the International Literacy Day, celebrated annually on September 8. The event, held at the Kid’s Playground of Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja, attracted students, parents, and other stakeholders from Abuja and its environs.

Sponsored by Zenith Bank Plc and Transcorp Hilton Hotels, Abuja, the club provided guidance to children on how everyday reading routines at home can help build literacy skills, reading confidence, and a stronger connection with books.

Speaking at the event, Rotarian (Mrs) Patience Ofik, Charter President of the Club, emphasized that literacy extends beyond the ability to read and write, but is a pathway to building self-confidence and achieving academic transformation.

She further underscored the importance of consistent reading habits:

"Reading plays a crucial role in shaping the minds of students, offering them not just academic knowledge but also an avenue for personal growth. At the Rotary Club, we believe that cultivating a habit of reading in young minds is essential for their intellectual and emotional development” 

Also speaking, the District-Governor elect of Rotary International District 9127, Dr. Chijioke Ekechukwu encouraged the children to ensure they always add value in everything they do, harping his discussion on the theme, “Read Today, Lead Tomorrow.”

In his remarks, the General Manager of Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, Mr. Martin Zarybnicky, urged the children to embrace reading as a way of life. He charged them to never give up on their dreams, which can only be achieved through maintaining good reading habits.

The Branch Manager of Zenith Bank Plc, Transcorp Hilton, Deborah Amapakabo reiterated Zenith Bank’s commitment to literacy and advancing the cause of knowledge, especially in the youths, encouraging the participants to start now to lay foundations for a brighter future. 

The event featured some young authors, including Ashezi Akwashiki, 12 years, Ziora Adighibe, 10 years, and Akum Adighibe, 8 years, who read their books to the delight of the participating students. 

One of the partners to the project, The Kids Nook Library spoke to the students on the importance of a healthy reading culture, encouraging them to always keep their minds productively engaged. 

The event featured reading workshops, storytelling sessions, question-and-answer segments, and the distribution of school bags to all the students. 

More than 120 pupils from a total of 15 primary schools took part in the event, including:

· Care and Cuddle Schools, Abuja. 

· STEM Cuddle International School

· Mienebi International School

· Olumawu School, Abuja 

· Betharbel Free Inclusive Academy

· LEA Primary Schools in Katampe, Saburi and Mabushi. 

· The Berkeley International School

· Barvij International School

. The Posh Oak Academy 

All participating schools are located within Abuja, the nation's capital.

News September 08, 2026 Appeal court affirms 490-year jail term for ex-NEXIM MD over N2.4bn fraud

The Court of Appeal in Abuja on Tuesday affirmed the conviction and 490-year prison sentence handed down to former Managing Director of the Nigeria Export-Import Bank, Robert Orya, over a N2.4bn fraud.

A three-member panel of the appellate court, led by Justice Muhammed Danjuma, unanimously dismissed Orya’s appeal challenging the judgment of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja.

The other members of the panel were Justices Ntong Festus Ntong and Ele Ejo Enenche.

A statement by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC)’s spokesman, Dele Oyewale, said Justice Danjuma, while delivering the judgment, held that the appeal lacked merit and affirmed the judgment of the trial court delivered by Justice F.E. Messiri on February 5, 2026.

“I have considered all briefs filed by counsel and have gone through the record of the trial court and adopted it, and the issues as formulated by this appellate court in resolving this appeal.

“I looked at each and every issue, and in my final analysis, all the issues formulated for the determination of this appeal are resolved in favour of the respondent and against the appellant.

“This appeal is devoid of any merit and is hereby dismissed. The judgment of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory delivered on February 5, 2026, in charge number FSC/SC/CS/487/2021 is hereby affirmed,” he was quoted as saying.

Orya was prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission after being arraigned in 2021 on a 49-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretences, forgery and advance fee fraud involving N2.4bn.

The trial court had found him guilty on all 49 counts after holding that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Justice Messiri consequently sentenced him to 10 years’ imprisonment on each of the 49 counts, totalling 490 years.

The sentences are, however, to run concurrently.

Dissatisfied with the judgment, Orya approached the Court of Appeal seeking to overturn his conviction and sentence.

The appellate court, however, rejected his appeal and upheld the findings of the trial court.

Orya served as Managing Director of NEXIM Bank between 2009 and 2016.

He was appointed to head the bank on August 14, 2009, by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua and was reappointed by former President Goodluck Jonathan on August 18, 2014.