NEWS

JAMB Increases CBT Centers to 1,000 for the UTME in 2026

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Students sit at desktop computers during a computer-based examination in a modern testing centre.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has expanded its Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers to over 1,000 nationwide for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), up from about 800 in 2025.

This increase aims to reduce congestion, minimize travel burdens for candidates, and ensure a smoother registration and examination process.

Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede announced the development during a training program for test developers at the University of Ibadan, emphasizing the board’s commitment to efficiency and credibility.

Registration for the 2026 UTME began on January 26, 2026, and will close on February 28, 2026, with no extensions planned.

Over 1 million candidates have already registered, surpassing expectations and reflecting the board’s improved infrastructure.

JAMB has completed the automation of its question-setting process, marking the final phase of a 10-year digitization effort to enhance examination integrity.

The board has also barred CBT centers without remote monitoring capabilities from participating under the “No Vision, No Registration, No UTME” policy to curb infractions.

The expansion addresses longstanding issues, such as students traveling across states for exams, which often leads to missed opportunities due to distance, cost, or timing.

The Borno State Government is contributing by constructing a N1 billion administrative and CBT center in Maiduguri, further boosting capacity.

Officials urge candidates to register early and verify accredited centers to avoid fraudulent practices.

This initiative is part of JAMB’s push for landmark examinations, with more than 1.5 million candidates projected.

Stakeholders commend the move, though some call for fee reductions from N3,500. As the registration deadline approaches, candidates are advised to secure ePINs promptly to avoid last-minute stress.

FG Announces Free Ebonyi Cancer Screening

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Healthcare workers conduct routine cancer screening for adults during a public health initiative in a modern medical center.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a nationwide free cancer screening program in Ebonyi State, targeting early detection of breast, cervical, and prostate cancers for 1,000 residents.

The initiative, flagged off by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, at the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH) in Uburu on February 25, 2026, aims to address the alarming rise in cancer cases across the country.

According to Prof. Robinson Onoh, Chief Medical Director of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AE-FUTHA), Nigeria recorded 127,000 cancer cases and 79,000 deaths between 2022 and 2025.

The screening focuses on vulnerable groups, including women, men, children, the elderly, indigents, and pregnant women, as part of broader efforts to improve healthcare access and reduce mortality through prevention and early intervention.

The program is part of a collaborative effort between the Federal Ministry of Health and hospitals like DUFUTH, which have already provided free medical treatment to over 8,000 individuals in its first phase of outreach.

Kachollom commissioned new facilities at DUFUTH, including electric stretcher trolleys and a physiotherapy center, during the event.

The screening will continue across zones until the end of February 2026, emphasizing the importance of regular check-ups to combat the disease’s high fatality rate.

Health experts highlight that early detection significantly improves survival rates, urging Nigerians to participate in such initiatives. The government has committed to expanding the program, with similar screenings planned in other states to foster national health equity.

This development underscores Nigeria’s push for proactive healthcare measures amid rising non-communicable diseases.

“The screening focuses on vulnerable groups amid broader health challenges like Lassa fever outbreaks in Edo and Plateau.”

As reported by Punch Newspapers here, the ministry’s efforts are geared toward sustainable cancer care.

Court Adjourns El-Rufai’s Arraignment to April 23 Amid DSS Charges

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Federal courtroom in Abuja with a judge’s gavel and legal documents during a high-profile legal proceeding.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the arraignment of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai to April 23, 2026, following the Department of State Services’ (DSS) failure to produce him in court.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik made the ruling after the prosecution informed the court that El-Rufai remains in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for an ongoing investigation into alleged misappropriation of funds during his tenure.

The DSS had filed a three-count charge against El-Rufai for alleged unlawful interception of communications, stemming from comments he made during a television interview.

The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026, was assigned by Chief Judge John Tsoho and initially scheduled for February 25, 2026, but could not proceed due to the defendant’s absence.

Defense counsel applied for bail, but Justice Abdulmalik rejected the plea as premature, stating that bail could only be considered after arraignment.

The judge emphasized that it was the prosecution’s responsibility to ensure the defendant’s presence. This development adds to El-Rufai’s ongoing legal battles, including a N1 billion suit against the ICPC for alleged unlawful invasion of his residence.

The charges relate to violations of the Cybercrimes Act, specifically involving the alleged phone-tapping of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. El-Rufai has denied the allegations, describing them as politically motivated amid his criticism of the current administration.

The adjournment provides time for coordination between agencies, but it raises questions about inter-agency cooperation and the handling of high-profile cases.

In the body or conclusion: “This development adds to El-Rufai’s ongoing legal battles, including his N1bn suit against ICPC for residence invasion and Atiku’s demand for transparency on his detention.”

This case highlights tensions in Nigeria’s political landscape, with calls for transparency in investigations involving former officials.

Atiku raises health concerns and demands transparency on El-Rufai’s detention.

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El-Rufai and Atiku Abubakar in discussion during a meeting in Nigeria

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for immediate transparency from the Federal Government regarding the detention of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, highlighting serious health concerns and restricted access to family, lawyers, and medical care.

In a statement posted on his verified Facebook page on February 24, 2026, Atiku described the situation as “deeply troubling” and unacceptable in a democracy, emphasizing that El-Rufai’s health and welfare are a matter of grave concern to his family, friends, and associates.

Atiku noted reports that El-Rufai suffered a nosebleed in custody, while family members were allegedly denied access, raising questions about the conditions of his detention.

He urged the government to clarify which agency is holding El-Rufai whether the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), the Department of State Services (DSS), or another security establishment.

“Secrecy in matters of detention only fuels suspicion,” Atiku stated, adding that Nigerians deserve clarity.

The former vice president warned that the government would be held accountable if anything happens to El-Rufai, stressing that whichever agency is responsible has a constitutional duty to guarantee his safety, dignity, access to medical care, and contact with family and legal representatives.

If the authorities cannot ensure these rights, Atiku suggested granting El-Rufai bail without delay as the lawful and humane course of action.

This intervention comes amid escalating political tensions, with El-Rufai facing investigations into his governance from 2015 to 2023, which he claims are politically motivated.

“The call for transparency continues amid court adjourning El-Rufai’s arraignment to April 23.“

The government has not responded to Atiku’s demands, but the call underscores broader concerns over executive overreach and respect for the rule of law in Nigeria.

El-Rufai Files N1bn Suit Against ICPC Over Unlawful Invasion of Residence

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Nasir El-Rufai speaks at a formal public event while addressing an audience.

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has filed a N1 billion fundamental rights enforcement suit against the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for the alleged unlawful invasion of his Abuja residence.

The suit, dated and filed on February 20, 2026, at the Federal High Court in Abuja, names the ICPC, the Chief Magistrate of the Magistrate’s Court of the FCT, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Attorney-General of the Federation as respondents.

El-Rufai alleges that ICPC officers invaded his home at No. 12 Mambilla Street, Aso Drive, Abuja, on February 19, 2026, around 2 p.m., using an invalid search warrant.

He described the warrant as “null and void” due to lack of particularity, material drafting errors, ambiguity in execution parameters, overbreadth, and absence of probable cause.

In the originating motion, El-Rufai seeks seven reliefs, including a declaration that the invasion violated his right to privacy, a permanent injunction against further searches, and N1 billion in damages for the distress and humiliation caused.

The former governor, through his lawyer, argued that the actions constitute executive overreach and a deliberate disregard for the rule of law.

This legal action follows El-Rufai’s recent political activities, including his defection and criticism of the current administration.

The ICPC has not publicly responded to the suit, but the case is expected to draw attention to issues of agency conduct and constitutional rights.

“This legal action follows El-Rufai’s recent political activities, including his anticipation of arrest upon return to Nigeria.”

This development highlights tensions between former officials and investigative bodies, raising questions about accountability and legal protections in Nigeria.

28 Students Are Expelled from University of Abuja for Drug and Cultism Offenses

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A disciplinary notice is displayed at the University of Abuja as students walk calmly across campus.

The University of Abuja has expelled 28 students for various disciplinary offenses, including cult-related activities, drug possession, examination malpractice, and result forgery.


The decision was approved by the university’s Senate at its 191st Regular Meeting on January 28, 2026, following recommendations from the Student Disciplinary Committee.

Acting Director of Information and University Relations, Dr. Habib Yakoob, stated that the expelled students were found culpable of serious misconduct, such as threat to life, assault, conspiracy, burglary, theft, possession and use of hard drugs, and falsification of O-Level results for admission.

Additionally, the Senate withdrew certificates from 15 graduates for similar infractions, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to upholding academic integrity and campus safety.

Nine students were exonerated after investigations, while 33 others received warnings for lesser violations like conspiracy, hostel racketeering, and fighting.

The university’s actions aim to maintain a conducive environment free from disruptive behaviors.

This development comes amid broader concerns about cultism and drug abuse in Nigerian universities, where such issues often lead to violence and academic disruptions.

The university’s actions aim to maintain a conducive environment, similar to recent bans on Neolife and Faith Heroic Group in Nigerian universities.”

UniAbuja’s firm stance reflects ongoing efforts to enforce codes of conduct and protect the student body. Students are advised to adhere to regulations, with the institution vowing to continue monitoring and disciplining offenders.

APC Candidate Wins FCT AMAC Chairmanship Election

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APC logo with hand holding broom on Nigeria flag colors for All Progressives Congress party

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Christopher Maikalangu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) chairmanship election in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The election, held on February 21, 2026, saw Maikalangu, the incumbent chairman, secure 40,295 votes out of 62,861 valid votes cast, defeating his closest rival from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) who garnered 12,109 votes.

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate received 3,398 votes, while other parties trailed behind.

Collation Officer Andrew Abue announced the results early Sunday, stating that Maikalangu satisfied the legal requirements and was returned elected.

Voter turnout was low in some areas, but the process was described as free and fair in key polling units, including Maikalangu’s own unit where he won by a landslide with 229 votes against ADC’s 15.

The APC also secured victories in other FCT area councils, including Bwari, Kwali, and Abaji, while the PDP won at least one.

This result consolidates APC’s hold in the FCT, with Maikalangu’s re-election attributed to strong support in urban areas.

Elderly voters and observers called for improved governance, emphasizing the need for better services in AMAC.

AMAC Chairmanship Election Results

PartyCandidateVotes
APCChristopher Maikalangu40,295
ADCPaul Moses/Ogidi12,109
PDP–3,398
SDP–2,185
APGAOnyebuchi Chukwu1 (in one unit)

Data compiled from INEC announcements.

“The APC also secured victories in other FCT area councils, reflecting the party’s dominance amid recent Senate passage of the Electoral Act 2026

The outcome reflects ongoing political dynamics in the FCT, with implications for local administration and service delivery.

ECOWAS Eco Currency: Plans for Naira Replacement by 2027 Spark Debate

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Editorial illustration representing debate over a proposed West African single currency replacing the naira.

A viral video by influencer Flora the Digital Banker has ignited discussions about the potential replacement of the Nigerian Naira with the Eco currency starting in 2027.

The video claims that Nigeria and 11 other West African countries will adopt the Eco as a single currency, modeled after the Euro, to promote economic integration and stability.

While the claim has spread widely on social media, experts clarify that 2027 is a target date, not a guaranteed launch, amid ongoing preparations and challenges.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has long pursued the Eco as a common currency for its 15 member states, aiming to facilitate trade, reduce transaction costs, and foster price stability.

At the December 2025 summit in Abuja, leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the 2027 rollout, but the process has faced multiple delays since the initial 2020 target.

Central bank governors, including Nigeria’s, met in Monrovia in February 2026 to finalize technical and institutional frameworks, focusing on fiscal and monetary convergence criteria like inflation control and deficit limits.

Nigeria, as ECOWAS’s largest economy, plays a pivotal role but has raised concerns about external influence, particularly from France, which backs the CFA franc used by eight WAEMU countries.

Reports indicate the Eco could launch in phases, potentially excluding WAEMU nations initially, with Nigeria and Ghana leading the first wave.

This phased approach addresses sovereignty issues, as Nigeria opposes any foreign control over the currency’s management or printing.

Proponents argue the Eco would enhance cross-border transactions and shield against dollar dominance, but critics highlight risks like loss of monetary policy independence and economic disparities among members.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) emphasizes the need for robust preparations to avoid instability.

While the influencer’s call for public engagement is timely, fact-checks confirm no immediate Naira scrapping in 2027; it’s an aspirational goal subject to consensus. Stakeholders urge vigilance as ECOWAS advances the plan.

Watch the viral video from influencer Flora the Digital Banker below, where she discusses the alleged ECOWAS Eco currency plans:

According to the DMO Report, Nigeria’s public debt increased to N153.29 trillion in Q3 2025.

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Financial documents and charts illustrating Nigeria’s rising public debt in an official reporting setting.

Nigeria’s total public debt climbed to N153.29 trillion as of September 30, 2025, marking a N900 billion increase, or 0.59 percent, from the N152.39 trillion recorded in June 2025.

The Debt Management Office (DMO) attributes this growth to sustained borrowing, primarily in the domestic market, amid widening budget deficits and reliance on local securities.

The debt stock, equivalent to $103.94 billion, comprises domestic debt of N81.81 trillion ($55.47 billion) and external debt of N71.47 trillion ($48.46 billion).

The federal government’s domestic debt rose to N77.81 trillion from N76.58 trillion in Q2, while states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) saw a marginal increase to N4 trillion from N3.96 trillion.

This reflects the government’s preference for local borrowing to fund deficits, with bonds dominating about 80 percent of the domestic portfolio.

The rise occurs against a backdrop of economic pressures, including high inflation, currency devaluation, and subsidy removals, which have increased servicing costs.

External debt remains a concern due to naira volatility, though multilateral loans provide some relief. The DMO has delayed the Q3 data release, prompting questions on transparency, but the figures confirm steady growth under the current administration.

Analysts warn that unchecked borrowing could strain fiscal sustainability, with the debt-to-GDP ratio approaching thresholds that trigger international scrutiny.

The government maintains that borrowings fund infrastructure and social programs, but critics call for prudent management to avoid a debt crisis.

Nigeria’s Public Debt Breakdown (Q3 2025)

CategoryAmount (Naira)Amount (USD)
Total DebtN153.29trn$103.94bn
Domestic DebtN81.81trn$55.47bn
External DebtN71.47trn$48.46bn
FGN DomesticN77.81trn–
States & FCT DomesticN4trn–

Data from DMO reports.

This update emphasizes the need for fiscal reforms to balance growth and debt obligations in Nigeria.

“The rise occurs against a backdrop of economic pressures, including Naira fluctuations to N1,490/USD in the parallel market and petrol prices hitting N1,000/liter.”

Rising debt highlights the need for stronger financial controls, as seen in the CBN’s new account opening rules with liveness verification.”

The amended Electoral Act 2026 is signed into law by President Tinubu.

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President Tinubu signing amended Electoral Act bill in Nigeria
President Bola Tinubu signs the Electoral Act 2026 into law at the Presidential Villa

President Bola Tinubu has signed the amended Electoral Act 2026 into law, establishing the framework for the 2027 general elections and reigniting discussions on electronic transmission of results.

The signing ceremony occurred on February 18, 2026, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, attended by principal officers of the National Assembly.

This development follows the National Assembly’s passage of the bill on Tuesday, after months of debates and amendments.

The amended act introduces key changes, including provisions for electronic transmission of election results to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) Result Viewing Portal (IReV), while allowing manual records as a fallback in case of technical failures.

It also reschedules the 2027 elections to avoid overlapping with Ramadan, promoting inclusivity for Muslim voters. The legislation replaces the 2022 version, incorporating lessons from the 2023 elections to enhance transparency and efficiency.

The bill’s passage in the Senate was marked by a division vote, with opposition members advocating for stricter electronic mandates, but the majority prevailed.

“The signing ceremony occurred on February 18, 2026, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, following the Senate’s passage of the Electoral Act 2026.”

Critics argue the manual fallback could enable manipulation, while supporters highlight infrastructure challenges in remote areas.

The act is expected to strengthen INEC’s operations, with the commission already releasing the 2027 election timetable.

This reform aims to boost voter confidence and reduce disputes, setting the stage for a more credible electoral process in Nigeria.