Governor Dauda Lawal has authorized the recruitment of 2,000 teachers across Zamfara State as part of his administration's commitment to revitalize the education sector.

The announcement was made during an Executive Council meeting held at the Government House in Gusau. A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, highlighted that this initiative aligns with promises made during the governor’s campaign.

Education, a top priority for the Lawal administration, has already seen significant improvements. In November 2023, Governor Lawal declared a state of emergency in the education sector, which has led to remarkable strides:

• Renovation and construction of over 400 schools across the state’s 14 local government areas.
• Provision of over 12,000 two-seater desks for pupils and students.
• Equipping schools with more than 700 tables and 1,000 chairs for teachers.

Speaking at the council meeting, Governor Lawal emphasized the phased approach to recruitment, ensuring only qualified candidates are hired. The first phase, set for the first quarter of 2025, will focus on hiring 500 teachers specializing in critical subjects such as English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, ICT, and Entrepreneurship Studies.

The recruitment process is part of the AGILE Program, designed to overhaul the education system and improve both teaching standards and student outcomes across the state.

“This is a strategic step to address the pressing needs in our schools, ensuring quality education and providing opportunities for our children to thrive,” Governor Lawal stated.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has filed a five-count charge against Jimi Lawal, a former senior adviser to ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, for alleged unlawful diversion of public funds and money laundering.

Lawal, along with Umar Waziri, Yusuf Inuwa, and Solar Life Nigeria Limited, faces accusations of financial misappropriation. The case, numbered FCH/KD/16c/2025, was filed on January 15, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Kaduna by ICPC’s Assistant Chief Legal Officer, Osuobeni Akponimisingha.

The ICPC alleges that in 2018, Lawal unlawfully diverted N10 million from the Kaduna State Accountant General Operational Account via Guaranty Trust Bank Automated Payment System (GAPS) into the account of Solar Life Nigeria Limited, where he was the sole signatory. According to the commission, Lawal should have known the funds were proceeds of corruption, thus violating provisions of the Money Laundering Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022.

In a separate allegation, Lawal is accused of misappropriating N47.84 million from the Kaduna State Ministry of Finance in July 2018, transferring the funds through a GTB account linked to Solar Life Nigeria Limited.

The ICPC also claims that in September 2018, while serving as a public officer, Lawal took control of N7.32 million from the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service, transferring the amount to the same Solar Life Nigeria Limited account.

Additionally, Lawal is accused of providing false information to investigators, claiming that the total sum of N64.8 million, received in three tranches, was paid as estacode to individuals named Bariatu Yusuf Mohammed and Aisha Dikko. The ICPC maintains that the statement was false and constitutes an offense under the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

The charges highlight serious allegations of corruption and financial misconduct, with proceedings set to continue in the Federal High Court.

The Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Adewunmi Onanuga, has passed away. Born on December 2, 1965, Onanuga died on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at the age of 59 after a brief illness.

Until her death, Onanuga represented the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency of Ogun State and was a distinguished member of the House of Representatives. The Green Chamber expressed deep sorrow at the loss of what it described as a “passionate advocate” who made significant contributions to Nigeria's political landscape.

Reps’ spokesman Akin Rotimi highlighted her dedication to creating a better society and her tireless commitment to public service. Known affectionately as “Ijaya,” Onanuga was admired for her intellect, humility, and drive for excellence, earning her widespread respect among her colleagues and constituents.

The House extended condolences to her family, friends, associates, and the people of Ogun State, particularly those in her constituency. They emphasized that her legacy of service and dedication to improving the lives of Nigerians would continue to inspire future generations. Details of her funeral arrangements will be announced by her family.

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun expressed his sympathy to the family and described her death as a devastating loss. The governor praised Onanuga as a fearless leader, a loyal party member, and a staunch advocate for women's advancement and the welfare of her constituents.

Onanuga was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2019 under the All-Progressives Congress (APC). During her first term, she chaired the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, championing policies that empowered women and promoted social welfare. Reelected in 2023, she was appointed Deputy Chief Whip of the 10th Assembly, where she continued her impactful service until her passing.

Her contributions to national development and the advancement of her constituency will be remembered as a legacy of excellence and dedication.