News
Nigerian College of Aviation Technology has no training helicopter after selling 2 choppers to private individuals
The Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, NCAT, Zaria, has no single helicopter for training, the Acting Rector of the institution, Shaka Imalighwe, has disclosed.
He made the disclosure during an investigative hearing organised by the House of Representatives to probe the sale of two helicopters belonging to the College.
Imalighwe told the House of Representatives Committee on Public Assets hat he took over the management of the College in an acting capacity in January 2024.
He said that he was not part of the team/committee that facilitated the sales, even though he was the Deputy Rector of the College at the time the helicopters were sold.
Ademorin Kuye, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee, expressed concern over the sale of the two helicopters to private individuals, when the College was left with no helicopter for training.
The committee also questioned the process leading to the sale of the helicopters to private individuals even when security agencies, including the Nigerian Air Force, the Navy and the Police, indicated interest in purchasing them.
The three security agencies, according to various submissions, did not only indicate interest to purchase the helicopters through writing, but also visited the College.
However, the management of the College denied them the opportunity to purchase the helicopters.
Following the hearing, the committee directed the immediate past and current minister of Aviation to appear before during the next investigative sitting.
Others summoned to appear before the committee are representatives of the Ministry of Works, Ministry of Finance Incorporated, MOFI, and the immediate past and present rectors of the College, among others. [Premium Times]
Bolaji Adedotun Olanrewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji, a Nigerian gospel singer, is died.
His family confirmed the unfortunate news in an official statement on Saturday.
Reports indicated that Big Bolaji slumped and died at the age of 50 at an event last night during a concert.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bolaji Olarewaju, affectionately known as ‘Big B,’ a cherished father, husband, brother, and an esteemed figure in both the church community, an ordained Pastor in the RCCG and a giant in the music industry and our community. Bolaji left us on Easter Saturday, 19th April 2025, after a brief illness,” the statement read.
“His departure leaves a void in our hearts that can not be filled.
“Bolaji’s life was a testament to his passion for music, his unwavering faith, and his dedication to uplifting those around him. His legacy is not only in the melodies he created but in the lives he touched and the unquantifiable joy he spread.”
They added, “We take solace in knowing that his absence with us is his presence with the Lord, and the indelible mark he left on all who had the privilege of knowing him will not be erased.
“As we navigate through this time of loss, we kindly request privacy to mourn as a family. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received and ask that you continue to keep us in your prayers.”
The family also noted that funeral arrangements would be communicated at a later date.
“Details regarding the obsequies will be shared in due course as we come together to celebrate Bolaji’s remarkable life and legacy.
“Thank you for respecting our wishes during this incredibly difficult time.
“With gratitude,
“The Family of Bolaji Olarewaju,” the statement added.
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s 2023 Vice Presidential candidate, has urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider seeking re-election in 2027, claiming it would be politically unwise.
Speaking on News program, Baba-Ahmed said Tinubu should “throw in the towel” if he is truly the savvy politician many believe him to be. He argued that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has lost credibility, predicting their defeat in the next election.
Mocking Tinubu’s political maneuvers, Baba-Ahmed recounted how he backed various presidential candidates since 2007—culminating, in his words, in an “electoral heist” in 2023.
“If he’s that smart, it’s clear he’s going to lose in 2027,” he said, while suggesting that at least two candidates could defeat the president in the next poll.
He added that Tinubu, like former President Buhari, would fail to deliver on campaign promises. “Buhari didn’t develop Nigeria, didn’t provide security, didn’t fight corruption. Neither will Tinubu,” he asserted.
Baba-Ahmed expressed confidence that Nigerians will rise to reject bad leadership in 2027, uniting to bring genuine democracy to the country.
-
News16 hours agoN300m gift: NBA under heavy hammer as FCT minister, Wike alleges body is compromised
-
News5 hours agoSAD! Popular Gospel singer, Big Bolaji is dead
-
News13 hours agoCriminals in military uniform kill 12 at cockfight
-
News16 hours agoStop hunting in southern states, lawmaker begs Northerners
-
News12 hours agoINSECURITY: Armed herders attack reportedy leaves family of eight dead, nine others
-
News16 hours agoUK launches updated English tests for visa, citizenship applicants
-
News8 hours agoEASTER:Let’s use this period to pray for compassionate leaders -Obi
-
News12 hours agoCBEX: Ponzi scheme promoters face 10 years jail term, N20m fine