General News
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Stronger Diplomatic Ties With Iran
Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to sustaining and strengthening its diplomatic relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran, a partnership that dates back to 1973.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this known on Tuesday in Abuja during a meeting with Iran’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mahdavi Raja.
Discussions between both officials focused on assessing the current state of bilateral relations and identifying practical pathways to deepen cooperation across strategic sectors.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu underscored the importance of maintaining full diplomatic representation in both Abuja and Tehran, expressing confidence that Nigeria’s ambassador to Iran would soon be deployed.
She emphasized Nigeria’s readiness to move beyond diplomatic goodwill and translate existing political understanding into measurable outcomes through institutional frameworks such as the Nigeria-Iran Joint Commission.
According to the minister, Nigeria remains committed to constructive dialogue, enhanced South-South cooperation, and sustained collaboration within multilateral platforms.
In his remarks, Ambassador Raja conveyed greetings from Iran’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and reiterated Tehran’s determination to further consolidate relations with Nigeria.
He described Nigeria as a key pillar in Iran’s Africa strategy, particularly within the West African sub-region, and stressed the necessity of restoring full diplomatic presence in both capitals to accelerate shared objectives.
The envoy also called for the convening of the 7th Session of the Nigeria-Iran Joint Commission in Abuja and advocated for the activation of political consultationion mechanism to institutionalize regular high-level engagements between the two nations.
Both sides signalled a renewed willingness to expand cooperation and reinforce diplomatic channels in pursuit of mutual interests.
Operatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission on Thursday conducted a search at the residence of former Nasir El-Rufai as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged financial improprieties linked to his time in office.
The development was confirmed in a statement issued by his media adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, who acknowledged that anti-graft officials carried out the operation earlier in the day.
Reacting to the action, one of the former governor’s lawyers, Ubong Akpan, criticised the search, describing it as unlawful and a violation of due process as well as his client’s fundamental rights.
Sources indicate the probe is connected to alleged financial misconduct during El-Rufai’s tenure as governor of Kaduna State. Reports further suggest that he has been in ICPC custody since Wednesday night after previously securing administrative bail from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in a related matter.
The anti-corruption agencies have not publicly disclosed full details of the allegations, and no formal charges had been announced as of press time.
Transcorp Hilton Abuja has carried out its first-quarter unannounced fire drill simulation as part of efforts to strengthen emergency preparedness and reinforce safety standards within the facility.
The exercise, conducted on Wednesday in Abuja was organised in partnership with the Federal Fire Service.
According to the hotel’s management, the drill forms part of a structured safety programme designed to ensure a high level of emergency readiness and seamless coordination with relevant authorities.
Management stated that the initiative highlights the hotel’s continued commitment to the safety and well-being of both guests and staff.
“We successfully carried out our Q1 unannounced fire drill simulation with the support of the Nigeria Fire Service. This exercise is part of our structured safety programme, aimed at ensuring effective emergency response and coordination,” the management said.
The safety exercise comes shortly after the hotel concluded its Valentine’s Day weekend promotion, which featured special offers across its rooms and restaurants and attracted significant guest participation.
As the Holy Month of Ramadan approaches, management assures guests of a secure, serene, and memorable experience, reaffirming its dedication to maintaining high safety standards.
The hotel also expressed appreciation for guests’ understanding and apologised for any inconvenience the drill may have caused
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his assent to the amended Electoral Act, describing the move as a setback for Nigeria’s democratic process.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party alleged that the amendment was rushed despite objections from members of the public.
It argued that the speed of legislative passage and presidential approval raises concerns about transparency and could erode confidence in future elections, particularly the 2027 general polls.
The ADC further contended that certain provisions in the revised law introduce ambiguity and grant excessive discretion in the collation and transmission of election results.
According to the party, this comes at a time when many Nigerians are calling for greater accountability and full modernization of the electoral system, insisting that the changes do not strengthen trust in the electoral process.
It also questioned why an administration that controls a majority of state governments and wields significant influence in the National Assembly would fast-track amendments to the electoral framework, suggesting the urgency may reflect fears of facing a fully transparent and competitive electoral environment.
While warning of potential tensions in future elections, the party reaffirmed its commitment to lawful and constitutional means in defending democratic principles.
It added that it would mobilise citizens toward vigilance, unity, and active participation to safeguard their constitutional rights.
The ADC concluded that the will of Nigerians must prevail and maintained that no legislative amendment should undermine the country’s democratic aspirations.