By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has shared personal insights into the challenges he faced as a student at the University of Calabar (UNICAL), highlighting the difficulties he endured during his academic journey.

Speaking during a courtesy visit from UNICAL’s management and alumni, who invited him to the institution’s upcoming 50th anniversary celebration, Akpabio recounted his experience of living off-campus in Malabo, an area known for its harsh conditions and mosquito infestations. He contrasted this with the relative comfort of students residing on the main campus, where stable electricity and better amenities were available.

Recalling His Days as a Student Leader
During his remarks, Akpabio reflected on his time as Speaker of the Student Parliament at UNICAL, emphasizing his dedication to advocating for students’ welfare. He noted that despite the difficulties of living in Malabo, he remained committed to student activism and leadership.

“As Speaker of the Student Parliament, I fought tirelessly for the interests of my fellow students. Unlike those who had the privilege of staying on the main campus with constant electricity, I lived in Malabo, facing the challenges of mosquitoes and inadequate infrastructure,” he recalled.

A Commitment to UNICAL’s Growth
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to witness the institution reach its 50-year milestone, Akpabio described the anniversary as a significant achievement. He pledged his support for the university and assured the management and alumni of his willingness to contribute to its continued development.

It’s a joy to be alive to see the University of Calabar celebrate 50 years. Being part of this historic moment is an honour, and I assure you that this visit will mark the beginning of an uncommon transformation for the university beyond its golden jubilee,” he stated.

As UNICAL gears up for its anniversary celebrations, Akpabio’s remarks underscore the importance of alumni contributions and government support in enhancing the institution’s growth and development. His reflections serve as an inspiration to current students, reminding them that perseverance and resilience can pave the way for future success

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has released its guidelines and timetable for the 2025 Anambra State governorship election, setting the cost of nomination and expression of interest forms at ₦50 million for aspirants seeking to contest under the party’s platform.

The election, scheduled for November 8, 2025, is expected to be keenly contested, with APC laying out a structured process leading up to the polls.

Fee Structure and Discounts for Special Categories
According to the National Organising Secretary, Suleiman Argungu, female aspirants and persons with disabilities will enjoy a waiver on the nomination form, requiring them to pay only ₦10 million for the expression of interest form.

Meanwhile, young politicians between the ages of 25 and 40 will receive a 50% discount on the nomination form fee but must still cover the cost of the expression of interest form.

Prospective aspirants must obtain their forms at the APC National Headquarters in Wuse II, Abuja, from February 10 to 25, 2025. The deadline for submitting completed forms is February 26, 2025.

Key Dates in the APC Primary Election Timetable
The party has outlined an extensive timetable for its internal selection process, ensuring compliance with the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act, as stipulated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

February 10–25: Sale of nomination, expression of interest, and delegate forms
February 26: Submission deadline for forms
March 7–8: Screening of aspirants
March 10: Publication of screening results
April 2: Delegates Congress
April 5: APC Primary Election
April 6: Ratification of primary election results
April 8: Submission of the final list of candidates to the National Working Committee
June 11: Official commencement of APC governorship campaign

discussions within the party, with some stakeholders arguing that the high cost could discourage grassroots politicians and limit participation to wealthier aspirants. However, party officials defend the pricing, citing the need for a robust selection process and funding for electoral logistics.

With multiple aspirants already signaling their interest, the APC primary election is expected to be highly competitive. As the countdown to November 8, 2025, begins, the party is gearing up for what promises to be an intense election season in Anambra State

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Gen. Abubakar Aliyu has made history by being the second General in the Nigerian Army to Jump from a moving plane at the Nigerian Air Force Base, Kaduna.

Journalists were told that General Sadiq Aliyu made the history on Wednesday, as Second General in the Nigerian Army to Jump from a Moving Plane.

The General has in a remarkable display of leadership and bravery, achieved a historic airborne feat, matching the accomplishment of former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General KTJ Minimah.”

” As the Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Lt Gen Minimah had been the most senior Nigerian Army officer to execute a parachute jump.”

“Brig Gen Aliyu’s jump was more than just a personal achievement; it demonstrated his commitment to the future of the Nigerian Army. He was not alone in this feat, as cadets from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) joined him, marking their first parachute jump and the beginning of their careers as officers in the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”

“By leading from the front, Brig Gen Aliyu reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s enduring ethos: “No guts, no glory.” This moment was not just an airborne jump, but a lesson in leadership. For the cadets who jumped alongside him, this experience will be unforgettable, instilling confidence, courage, and a deep understanding of true leadership.”

“Brig Gen Aliyu’s action embodies the spirit of the Nigerian Army, where leaders do not just issue orders, but share in the challenges and triumphs of those they lead. As the Nigerian Army continues to shape its future leaders, Brig Gen AS Aliyu’s historic jump will serve as a lasting inspiration, reminding them that leadership is about stepping forward, into the unknown, with those who will one day take up the mantle.”