Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu assumes office as Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu officially took office as Nigeria鈥檚 Minister of Foreign Affairs on Friday, following her elevation by President Bola Tinubu. She previously served as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and was promoted after the resignation of former minister Yusuf Tuggar, who stepped down on March 30 to pursue his governorship ambition in Bauchi State for the 2027 elections. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, stated that Odumegwu-Ojukwu was welcomed by senior directors, led by Permanent Secretary Dunoma Ahmed, and heads of agencies including the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission and the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs. Ahmed described her appointment as a reflection of her dedication and professionalism, expressing confidence in her ability to strengthen Nigeria鈥檚 diplomatic engagements and international partnerships. He also assured her of the ministry鈥檚 support in advancing foreign policy priorities, such as protecting Nigerians abroad, promoting peace and security, and attracting foreign investment. Odumegwu-Ojukwu thanked the staff and pledged to consolidate the ministry's achievements under the Tinubu administration, emphasizing professionalism, institutional efficiency, innovation, and unity in addressing global challenges and advancing Nigeria鈥檚 international interests.
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President Bola Tinubu has appointed Professor Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, as the new Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Universities Commission. The appointment, announced by the President鈥檚 Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, aims to enhance quality, access, and integrity in the education sector. Professor Ogundipe succeeds Emeritus Professor Olufemi Aina, who resigned less than a year after his appointment. In his new role, Professor Ogundipe will focus on funding, global competitiveness, and academic stability within Nigeria's university system, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda. Professor Ogundipe, a professor of Botany with a PhD from Obafemi Awolowo University and an MBA from the University of Lagos, served as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos from 2017 to 2022. He is currently the Pro-Chancellor of Redeemer鈥檚 University and a fellow of several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Academy of Science.
Must ReadThe Arewa Consultative Forum ACF and the Northern Elders Forum NEF have cautioned that Nigeria risks descending into anarchy if the Federal Government does not address the actions of Yoruba Nation agitator Sunday Adeyemo, also known as Sunday Igboho. This warning follows Igboho's reported ultimatum to Fulani leaders in Oyo State after the abduction of a pregnant woman and her relatives. Both groups, along with several Fulani associations, accused Igboho of ethnic profiling, stating that blaming an entire ethnic group for the actions of suspected criminals could escalate tensions, provoke retaliation, and undermine national unity. Igboho, however, defended his actions, asserting that his advocacy for improved security in the South-West targets criminal elements responsible for abductions, killings, and banditry, not any specific ethnic group. He emphasized that his focus is on protecting innocent lives and preserving peace, security, and justice, and that criminals should be prosecuted regardless of their ethnicity. The Oyo State police command and the Oorelope Local Government chairman dismissed reports that the abducted woman, Mrs. Kuburat Omowumi, and her relatives had been freed, confirming they remain in captivity and rescue efforts are ongoing. The controversy stems from a viral video where Igboho allegedly gave a two-hour ultimatum to Fulani leaders in the Igboho community, accusing unnamed Fulani men of kidnappings. The National Publicity Secretary of the ACF, Professo
Must ReadThe Nigerian Communications Commission has initiated consultations on a proposal to provide free internet access to approved educational platforms for millions of Nigerian students. This initiative, known as the Zero-Rated Data Access Project, aims to address digital exclusion by removing the affordability barrier for internet access in learning. The consultation, running from June 19 to July 9, 2026, seeks public input on a framework for this project, following President Bola Tinubu's call for unhindered connectivity to educational institutions. The committee is considering two main implementation options: a single mobile-friendly portal for one-click access to approved resources, or telecommunications operators whitelisting approved educational websites. Eligibility for the program is also under discussion, with options ranging from restricting access to senior secondary and tertiary students, to extending it to all students and teachers in both public and private schools, or a phased approach. The committee emphasizes the need for sustainability and is seeking financing options from stakeholders. Content eligible for free access would include structured digital materials supporting teaching, learning, skills development, and academic assessment, while excluding social media and entertainment platforms. Funding options include the Universal Service Provision Fund, government subsidies, development partners, public-private partnerships, and cost-sharing. The program might in