- FG orders mandatory disclosure of key institutional data by all federal tertiary institutions following Athena Centre report
The Federal Government, following a transparency survey report by the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership, Abuja; has introduced a new policy to improve transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions. All federal universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education are now required to publish key data on their websites by May 31, 2025. This includes details of their budgets, research grants, TETFund allocations, endowment funds, and total student numbers. The data must be clear, easy to find, and regularly updated. The Ministry of Education will monitor compliance, aiming to build public trust, support better funding decisions, and raise the global standard of Nigeria’s higher education. Read more
ATHENA COMMENTARY
In comparison to leading countries, Nigeria’s initiative to enhance transparency in tertiary institutions through mandated data publication represents a positive step towards accountability. Countries like the UK and Canada have long implemented similar policies, ensuring institutions regularly disclose financial information, research grants, and student statistics. These efforts not only foster public trust but also facilitate informed funding decisions and elevate global academic standards. However, achieving comparable effectiveness will depend on Nigeria’s enforcement mechanisms and the accessibility of the published data, crucial for ensuring transparency leads to tangible improvements in educational quality and governance.
- We didn’t approve Imo acting Chief Judge – NJC
The National Judicial Council (NJC) has disowned the appointment of Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu as the Acting Chief Judge of Imo State, stating it didn’t approve his appointment. Nzeukwu ranks fourth in the state’s judicial hierarchy, and the NJC received a letter from Governor Hope Uzodimma requesting approval for the appointment, which is yet to be considered. The NJC clarified it’s not a party to the purported appointment and urged the public to note this. Read more
ATHENA COMMENTARY
Respect for judicial independence is key to a fair legal system, as seen in South Africa where due process guides every judicial appointment. In contrast, the Imo State case—where a judge was named Acting Chief Judge without NJC approval—undermines this principle. Ignoring the judicial hierarchy and bypassing proper procedures opens the door to political influence. The NJC’s firm stance shows the importance of protecting institutional integrity. For justice to truly serve the people, Nigeria must strengthen its systems and ensure that appointments follow the law, not political convenience.
- Ogun community accuses IBEDC of diverting power to private companies
The Mogede community in Ogun State is up in arms against the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) for allegedly diverting power meant for their community to nearby companies. This has left residents in darkness for months, despite paying high bills. The community is crying foul, claiming IBEDC prioritizes power supply to private companies while neglecting residential consumers. IBEDC denies the allegations, citing a rotational energy management system due to inadequate energy supply. The community is demanding intervention from the state government and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission. Read more
ATHENA COMMENTARY
In countries like Rwanda, electricity distribution is more transparent and fair. Power supply is managed with clear schedules, and consumers are only billed for what they use. Unlike in Mogede, utility companies are closely monitored by regulators who ensure that residential areas are not sidelined for commercial gain. When issues arise, there are swift investigations and penalties. The alleged diversion of electricity in Mogede shows the need for stronger regulation and accountability in Nigeria’s power sector. To protect citizens, the government and NERC must ensure fair access, transparent billing, and equal treatment for both households and businesses.
- Shun corruption, BPP DG warns procurement officers
At a workshop in Lagos, the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, urged procurement officers to reject corruption, calling it a major threat to development. He emphasized the need for integrity, transparency, and proper contract planning to prevent fraud. Other speakers, including Lagos State Procurement DG Fatai Onafowote, stressed that fraud in procurement often involves insiders and called for officers to uphold ethical standards. The event, focused on tackling fraud and corruption in public procurement, highlighted the importance of training, accountability, and vigilance in safeguarding public resources and promoting national growth. Read more
ATHENA COMMENTARY
In countries like Ukraine, initiatives such as Prozorro have successfully reduced corruption by implementing fully accessible and searchable public-contracts databases. In contrast, Nigeria still faces significant challenges, with corruption perceived as a major threat to development. Strengthening institutions and upholding ethical standards are crucial steps toward promoting national growth and safeguarding public resources.
- Nigeria receives one million meningitis vaccine doses
Nigeria has received over 1 million doses of the pentavalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine (Men5CV) to combat a meningitis outbreak in 23 states, mostly in the north. The vaccine targets individuals aged 1-29 years, who are most vulnerable to infection. As of March 26, 2025, Nigeria reported 807 suspected cases and 74 deaths, with a 9.2% case fatality rate. The vaccination campaign will initially launch in Kebbi and Sokoto states, with plans to expand to Yobe State. This effort is supported by Gavi, WHO, and UNICEF, aiming to eliminate meningitis by 2030. Read more
ATHENA COMMENTARY
In countries like Ghana, strong vaccination systems help respond quickly to disease outbreaks, reducing deaths and controlling spread. Nigeria’s receipt of over one million meningitis vaccines is a good step, but challenges like slow rollout and weak health infrastructure often delay impact. With a high fatality rate and rising cases, urgency and coordination are key. Unlike better-performing nations where health campaigns reach rural areas fast, Nigeria must improve delivery, tracking, and awareness. International support from Gavi, WHO, and UNICEF is vital, but long-term success depends on building a stronger local health system to meet the 2030 elimination goal.
Compiled by:
Chinaza Igwe
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