Atlas News NG

Atlas News is a digital media platform committed to delivering accurate, timely, and credible news that informs, educates, and empowers the public.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

Police Arrest Woman Over Alleged Child Pornography, Rescue Four Children in Onitsha

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 36-year-old woman, Anulika Onyeanusia, over an alleged case of child pornography in Onitsha.

Police said the arrest followed intelligence gathered from a viral video showing the suspect allegedly using sex toys on a minor. During the operation, officers rescued four children aged two, three, six and nine years and recovered items believed to be connected to the case.

According to the police, the suspect is currently in custody while investigations continue to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident and whether other individuals were involved. Her husband is also being questioned as part of the ongoing investigation.

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State described the alleged act as disturbing and unacceptable, stressing the need for a thorough investigation. The command said its priority remains the safety, welfare and protection of the rescued children and that relevant child protection agencies will be involved to provide care and support.

Police also commended local vigilantes, residents and other sources of information whose assistance aided the investigation and led to the arrest of the suspect.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

FG to Provide Free Data for University, Secondary School Students from October 1

The Federal Government has announced that Nigerian students will begin receiving 100 megabytes of free internet data daily from October 1 as part of efforts to improve access to digital education across the country.

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed this during the launch of the Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content Initiative in Abuja, stating that the programme is designed to remove the cost of internet access as a barrier to learning.

Under the initiative, students in public senior secondary schools and tertiary institutions will receive 100MB of data daily to access approved educational websites and digital learning platforms at no cost. The scheme will initially benefit about five million learners nationwide, with plans to expand coverage to other categories of students in the future.

The programme is being implemented by the Nigerian Communications Commission in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Education and telecommunications operators. Approved platforms are expected to include digital libraries, learning management systems, educational repositories and vocational training platforms.

Government officials said the initiative is aimed at promoting digital inclusion, expanding educational opportunities and ensuring that students are not denied access to quality learning resources because of financial constraints.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

Nigeria Seeks Stronger Bilateral Ties at BRICS Summit in India

Nigeria is set to deepen bilateral relations with key international partners, expand economic cooperation and advance its strategic interests as world leaders gather in New Delhi, India, for the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit.

Vice President Kashim Shettima will represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the summit scheduled to hold this weekend at Bharat Mandapam. The engagement is expected to provide Nigeria with an opportunity to strengthen partnerships in trade, investment, energy, agriculture, solid minerals, technology and innovation, while promoting greater cooperation among countries of the Global South.

The summit, hosted under India’s 2026 BRICS Chairship theme, “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” will focus on political and security cooperation, economic and financial partnerships, as well as cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

During the event, Shettima will participate in plenary and high-level sessions alongside leaders of BRICS member and partner countries, where discussions will centre on global economic growth, multilateral cooperation and shared development priorities.

The Vice President is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with leaders and senior officials of participating countries to explore opportunities for deeper economic and diplomatic cooperation with Nigeria.

Nigeria, which became a BRICS partner country in January 2025, is expected to use the summit to strengthen South-South cooperation and engage emerging economies on trade, investment, development finance and reforms of global governance institutions.

The country’s participation aligns with the Tinubu administration’s efforts to expand international economic partnerships, attract investment and open new markets for Nigerian products, particularly in agriculture, energy, minerals and other non-oil sectors.

The summit comes as BRICS marks two decades since its establishment and continues efforts to enhance cooperation among its growing network of member and partner countries. Vice President Shettima is expected to return to Nigeria after the conclusion of the event.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

FG Plans to Regulate Internet Access for Children Below 16

The Federal Government has announced plans to introduce regulations governing internet access for children under the age of 16 as part of efforts to strengthen online safety and protect minors from cyber threats and harmful digital exposure.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during the launch of the Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content initiative in Abuja.

According to the minister, the proposed policy is aimed at safeguarding the wellbeing and dignity of Nigerian children as digital learning expands across the country. He disclosed that relevant security agencies would provide details of the new guidelines in the coming days and weeks.

Alausa stressed that while increased internet access creates opportunities for learning and innovation, it also exposes children to cyberattacks, harmful content and other online risks that require stronger protective measures.

The announcement coincided with the Federal Government’s rollout of a programme that will provide free access to approved educational platforms for millions of students, a move aimed at improving digital learning and expanding educational opportunities nationwide.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

President Tinubu Fully Redeems D’Tigress Reward Package, Pays $100,000 Each to Players

The Federal Government has completed the reward package promised to members of Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, following their historic triumph at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship.

The National Sports Commission (NSC) confirmed that each player received the naira equivalent of $100,000, while team officials received $50,000 each. Beneficiaries have reportedly confirmed receipt of the payments.

The cash rewards represent the final component of the package approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu after D’Tigress secured a record fifth consecutive AfroBasket title and seventh overall championship.

In addition to the cash rewards, members of the team had earlier been awarded three-bedroom apartments in Abuja and conferred with the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), completing the presidential reward package.

President Tinubu said the fulfilment of the rewards reflects his administration’s commitment to honouring promises made to Nigerians and recognising athletes who bring pride and distinction to the country through their achievements.

The National Sports Commission commended the President for his support for Nigerian sports, describing the gesture as a significant boost to athlete welfare and a motivation for future sporting success.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

I Regret Sharing False Shutdown Notice Against OPay – Social Media User

A social media user, Hafsat Abubakar, has expressed regret for sharing a false notice claiming that fintech company OPay was shutting down its operations in Nigeria.

Abubakar, who was arrested by the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC), admitted that she reposted the information without verifying its authenticity. She said she later deleted the post and issued a public apology after OPay dismissed the claim as false.

According to her, she became aware of the misinformation after OPay drew her attention to the post through its official social media channels. She maintained that she did not know the information was false at the time of sharing it and would not have posted it had she known otherwise.

The police said OPay filed a petition over the circulation of the fake notice, prompting a digital forensic investigation that traced the publication to her social media account. She was subsequently arrested, while investigators reportedly recovered mobile devices during the operation.

The viral message had falsely claimed that OPay would suspend its operations and advised customers to withdraw their funds, causing concern among users before the company refuted the report.

Expressing remorse, Abubakar apologised to Nigerians and urged social media users to verify information before posting or sharing it online. She also stated that she had no ill intentions towards OPay and regretted any inconvenience caused by the false report.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

Nigeria Begins Local Production of Next-Generation Mosquito Nets

Nigeria has started local production of next-generation dual-active ingredient insecticide-treated mosquito nets, marking a major step in the fight against malaria and the expansion of local healthcare manufacturing.

The nets are being produced by Health Textiles Nigeria FZE, a Vestergaard-owned facility and the first in the country to manufacture dual-active ingredient mosquito nets. The plant will produce PermaNet® Dual, a WHO-prequalified net designed to tackle insecticide resistance.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, said the project supports the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen local production and unlock opportunities within the healthcare value chain.

At full capacity, the facility is expected to produce about 10 million nets annually and create more than 600 jobs. Around 80 employees have already been recruited and are undergoing training.

The project stems from a 2024 agreement between Vestergaard and the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain to boost local production of essential health products.

Vestergaard CEO Amar Ali said the company was pleased to begin production in Nigeria, while officials described the development as a boost to local manufacturing, skills development and malaria prevention efforts.

The facility is expected to begin fulfilling commercial orders in the coming months as Nigeria expands its capacity to produce critical health commodities locally.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

Katsina Launches $1 Million Programme to Protect Food Security Against Floods, Drought

The Katsina State Government has launched a special $1 million programme aimed at strengthening agricultural communities and safeguarding food production against the recurring impacts of floods and drought.

The initiative, titled Protecting Food Security Against Recurring Floods and Drought, was developed by the Katsina State Development Management Board (KTDMB) and the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning in partnership with Mercy Corps Nigeria. The programme will initially be implemented in Bindawa, Bakori and Kafur Local Government Areas.

Speaking at the launch, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described climate change as a reality that requires collective action to protect the environment, water resources and agricultural activities.

He noted that agriculture remains the primary source of livelihood for a large proportion of the state’s population, stressing that efforts aimed at increasing crop yields, reducing post-harvest losses and strengthening food security are critical to the state’s development.

The governor directed relevant agencies to ensure effective collaboration and monitoring of the project’s implementation while exploring the possibility of expanding similar interventions to other local government areas across the state.

A representative of Mercy Corps Nigeria said the programme would focus on improving water infrastructure, restoring degraded farmlands, rehabilitating storage facilities, training farmers on climate-resilient agricultural practices and supporting women with sustainable livelihood opportunities.

The project is expected to run for 12 months and is designed to reduce the impact of floods and drought while strengthening the resilience of communities most vulnerable to climate-related challenges.

The Executive Secretary of the Katsina State Development Management Board, Dr Mustapha Shehu, disclosed that the programme is funded with a grant of up to $1 million and will be implemented over one year in Bindawa, Bakori and Kafur local government areas.

Also speaking, Chairman of Katsina Local Government Area and representative of the state’s local government chairmen, Hon. Isah Miqdad Sa’ude, expressed appreciation to the Katsina State Government, KTDMB and Mercy Corps Nigeria for selecting the benefiting councils. He pledged the full cooperation of local authorities to ensure the successful implementation of the programme.

The initiative is expected to enhance food security, improve agricultural productivity and help communities adapt to the growing challenges posed by climate change.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

Customs Seizes 3,396 Packets of Tramadol, Arrests Suspects

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 3,396 packets of Tramadol in a major anti-smuggling operation aimed at curbing the illegal trafficking of narcotics and other prohibited substances across the country.

The seizure was made during intelligence-led operations conducted by Customs officers at strategic border routes and checkpoints. The operation also led to the arrest of suspects allegedly linked to the illicit consignment.

Officials said the intercepted drugs formed part of a larger cache of prohibited items uncovered during recent enforcement activities. The agency noted that the successful operation underscored its commitment to safeguarding public health, strengthening national security and preventing the circulation of dangerous substances within the country.

Speaking on the development, Customs authorities reaffirmed that the service would continue to intensify surveillance and collaborate with relevant security and regulatory agencies to dismantle smuggling networks and bring offenders to justice.

The seized Tramadol and other confiscated items have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution of those involved. The Customs Service urged members of the public to support ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking by providing timely and credible information to security agencies.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

Dangote Refinery Approves 32 Channels for Landmark Share Offer

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has approved 32 channels to enable Nigerians and investors across Africa participate in its upcoming Initial Public Offering (IPO), a move aimed at broadening public participation in what is expected to be one of the largest share sales in Africa.

The approved channels include banks, fintech platforms, stockbroking firms and digital investment services, providing multiple options for investors to subscribe to the offer. The initiative is designed to make the share purchase process more accessible to both experienced investors and first-time participants in the capital market.

The refinery’s IPO is scheduled to open on September 14, 2026, with 4.1 billion ordinary shares being offered at ₦525 per share. The public offer is expected to raise about ₦2.15 trillion and places the refinery’s valuation at approximately $47 billion.

Investors will be able to purchase shares through the approved channels using their Bank Verification Number (BVN) and bank account details. New investors without a Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) account will also be able to create one during the subscription process.

President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, said the public offer is intended to give ordinary Nigerians the opportunity to become shareholders in one of Africa’s most significant industrial projects and participate directly in its growth.

Proceeds from the IPO are expected to support the refinery’s expansion plans, including increasing its processing capacity from about 700,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million barrels per day in the coming years.

Market analysts say the offer is expected to attract strong interest from both retail and institutional investors, marking a major milestone for Nigeria’s capital market and expanding investment opportunities in the country’s industrial sector.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

Kwankwaso Demands Probe into Killing of Political Commentator Dan Shagamu

Former Governor of Kano State and Vice Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has called for a thorough investigation into the killing of renowned social media political commentator, Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu.

Kwankwaso expressed shock and sadness over the incident, describing the late commentator as a prominent voice in political discourse whose contributions to public debate were widely followed across social media platforms.

He urged security agencies to launch a comprehensive investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the killing and ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice.

The former governor also extended his condolences to the family, friends and associates of the deceased, praying for strength and comfort for those affected by the loss.

Kwankwaso stressed the need to protect citizens’ rights to express their views without fear, noting that justice must be served to maintain public confidence in the country’s security and judicial institutions.

The killing of Dan Shagamu has generated widespread reactions, with many Nigerians calling for a transparent investigation and accountability for those behind the incident.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

Remi Tinubu Urges South-East Voters to Re-Elect President Tinubu in 2027

First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has called on voters in the South-East to support the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election, expressing confidence that the administration’s policies and programmes will continue to deliver positive outcomes for Nigerians.

Speaking during a women’s empowerment programme in Imo State, the First Lady said she wanted to enjoy the benefits of a better Nigeria in her old age, stressing that the current administration is working to build a more prosperous and secure future for the country.

She urged citizens to remain supportive of the government’s efforts, noting that sustained backing for the administration would help consolidate ongoing reforms and development initiatives.

Oluremi Tinubu also highlighted the importance of empowering women and strengthening economic opportunities, stating that the empowerment programme would benefit thousands of women and contribute to improving livelihoods across communities.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

Tinubu Begins Payment of Ex-Aviation Workers’ Benefits After 23 Years, ASRTI Hails Keyamo

The Federal Government has commenced the payment of outstanding severance benefits owed to former workers of the defunct Nigeria Airways, ending more than two decades of uncertainty for thousands of affected employees. The payments followed the approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and efforts by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

The Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative (ASRTI) commended the Tinubu administration for addressing the long-standing issue, describing the development as a significant step toward justice for former workers who have waited over 23 years for their entitlements.

ASRTI President, Air Commodore Ademola Onitiju (Rtd), praised both President Tinubu and Keyamo for their roles in facilitating the payment process. He, however, urged the government to ensure that all outstanding entitlements are fully settled, including payments due to the families of deceased beneficiaries.

Also reacting, the National President of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), John Ogbe, confirmed that some former workers had already begun receiving payments. He expressed confidence that the disbursement process would be completed soon and commended the Federal Government and relevant agencies for their intervention.

The settlement resolves one of the aviation sector’s longest-running labour disputes, following years of appeals by former Nigeria Airways employees who lost their jobs after the liquidation of the national carrier in 2003.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

Police Arrest Woman Over Fake OPay Shutdown Notice

The Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) has arrested a woman, Hafsat Abubakar, for allegedly circulating a false notice claiming that OPay Digital Services Limited had ceased operations in Nigeria.

According to the police, the fake notice, which bore OPay’s logo and corporate branding, quickly gained widespread attention online, attracting approximately 572,000 views within minutes of being shared.

The NPF-NCCC said digital forensic analysis and online investigations led to the identification and arrest of the suspect on September 4, 2026. During the operation, officers recovered three Apple mobile phones believed to be connected to the case.

Police authorities disclosed that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals who may have played a role in the dissemination of the false information.

The force also advised members of the public to verify financial and corporate information through official channels before reacting to or sharing viral online reports, warning that misinformation can cause panic and disrupt public confidence in financial institutions.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

46 Arrested Over Blockade of Obi’s Convoy in Benue

The Benue State Police Command has arrested 46 suspects in connection with the blockade of the convoy of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during his recent visit to the state.

According to the police, the arrests followed investigations into the incident, which occurred along the Makurdi–Gboko road and disrupted the movement of Obi’s convoy. Security operatives reportedly intervened to prevent the situation from escalating into violence.

Benue State Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, said the command had made adequate security arrangements for the visit after receiving prior notification. He explained that officers acted professionally to maintain order and ensure the safety of all parties involved.

The police stated that Obi was safely escorted from the scene and later departed the state without further incident. Authorities added that investigations are ongoing and that efforts are being intensified to identify and apprehend other individuals connected to the blockade.

The command reaffirmed that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to freedom of movement and political participation, warning that acts capable of undermining public peace and democratic processes would not be tolerated.

The incident has continued to attract reactions from political stakeholders and civil society groups, many of whom have called for a thorough investigation and appropriate legal action against anyone found culpable. Meanwhile, the Benue State Government has denied any involvement in the incident.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

States Abuzz as APC, ADC, PDP, SDP Open Campaigns for 2027 Elections

Political activities have intensified across Nigeria as major political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Social Democratic Party (SDP), formally commence campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections. The development follows the opening of the campaign window by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in line with the electoral timetable.

Across several states, parties have begun mobilising supporters, strengthening grassroots structures, and unveiling campaign strategies aimed at securing victory in the presidential, National Assembly, governorship, and state assembly elections. Campaign offices, political rallies, consultations, and voter engagement activities have become increasingly visible as contenders seek to expand their support base.

The APC says it has already commenced campaign activities nationwide and is focusing on promoting the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s administration while consolidating support for a second term. Party officials maintain that campaigns can proceed even before the formal inauguration of campaign councils.

The ADC has continued consultations and grassroots mobilisation efforts while working to finalise its campaign structures. Party leaders say preparations are underway to roll out a nationwide campaign aimed at challenging the ruling party in the 2027 polls.

The PDP and SDP have also expressed readiness for the election season, with party officials indicating that their campaigns will focus on issues affecting Nigerians, including the economy, security, governance, and social welfare. Both parties are expected to unveil additional campaign programmes and structures in the coming weeks.

Political observers say the commencement of campaigns signals the beginning of an intense contest for power, with parties expected to intensify voter outreach, policy advocacy, and coalition-building efforts as the country moves closer to the 2027 general elections.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

Shettima: NELFUND Removing Poverty Barrier to Higher Education

Vice President Kashim Shettima has described the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as a game-changing intervention that is breaking down financial barriers to higher education and expanding opportunities for young Nigerians.

Speaking on the impact of the student loan scheme, Shettima said the initiative is ensuring that no qualified student is denied access to tertiary education because of poverty. He noted that the programme is helping to promote social inclusion, educational access, and human capital development across the country.

The Vice President commended the implementation of the scheme, stating that it aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to empowering Nigerian youths through education and skills acquisition. According to him, NELFUND is providing hope and opportunities to thousands of students who previously struggled to finance their studies.

NELFUND was established to provide financial support to eligible students in tertiary institutions, helping to ease the burden of educational expenses and improve access to quality higher education nationwide.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

Oso Di Eme 1: Oluremi Tinubu Honoured in Imo for Supporting National Development

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, has been conferred with the traditional title of “Oso Di Eme 1 of Imo State,” a title which translates to “She Who Supports Her Husband.”

The honour recognises Senator Tinubu’s steadfast support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and her contributions to national development through various humanitarian and empowerment initiatives. As First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, she has continued to champion programmes focused on women’s economic empowerment, education, healthcare, youth development and support for vulnerable groups across the country.

Widely regarded as a worthy partner to the President, Senator Tinubu has played a complementary role in advancing the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda through advocacy and community-based interventions that have impacted thousands of Nigerians.

The title reflects the belief that while President Tinubu continues to steer the affairs of the nation, the First Lady remains actively engaged in initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of citizens and promoting inclusive development.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu, a former three-term Senator representing Lagos Central Senatorial District, has served as Nigeria’s First Lady since May 2023 and is recognised for her long record of public service.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

2027: Wike’s PDP Faction in Bauchi Denies Defection to APM

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faction in Bauchi State aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has denied reports claiming it has defected to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).

The group described the reports as false and misleading, insisting that it remains a part of the PDP and has not taken any decision to leave the party. Leaders of the faction said individuals claiming to have moved the group into the APM were acting without authority and did not represent its position.

The faction also warned against the spread of misinformation and stated that appropriate steps would be taken against anyone falsely speaking on its behalf.

The clarification comes amid growing political realignments and speculation ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Wike-aligned group maintained that it remains committed to pursuing its political activities within the PDP and urged supporters to disregard reports suggesting otherwise.

[Atlas News NG @Atlasnewsn]

Radda Proposes ₦828.64bn 2027 Budget, Prioritises Infrastructure and Human Capital Development

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has presented a proposed ₦828.64 billion budget for the 2027 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly, with nearly 77 per cent of the spending plan dedicated to capital projects.

Tagged “Building Your Future IV,” the budget allocates ₦637.91 billion, representing 76.98 per cent, to capital expenditure, while ₦190.73 billion, or 23.02 per cent, is earmarked for recurrent expenditure. The proposal is ₦69.23 billion lower than the approved 2026 budget, reflecting what the governor described as a realistic assessment of the state’s revenue and expenditure outlook.

Presenting the appropriation bill before lawmakers, Radda said the government adopted a pragmatic, disciplined and realistic approach in preparing the fiscal plan, with ministries, departments and agencies required to justify spending proposals in line with available resources and the administration’s development agenda.

The governor said the 2027 budget was largely shaped by citizens’ priorities gathered through consultations conducted across the state’s 361 wards. Five key sectors will receive a combined ₦325.45 billion from the capital budget, including education, works and housing, agriculture and livestock, health, and rural development.

According to him, the allocations are aimed at strengthening educational infrastructure, improving healthcare delivery, boosting agricultural productivity, expanding road and housing projects, and enhancing development in rural communities.

Responding to the presentation, Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, Nasir Yahaya Daura, commended the administration’s achievements in infrastructure, security, education, healthcare and agriculture. He assured the governor that the Assembly would give the budget proposal speedy consideration and passage.