By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Federal Government has issued a critical security advisory urging all Nigerian citizens residing in the Islamic Republic of Iran and neighboring Gulf countries to exercise extreme caution. This directive comes in response to rapidly escalating military tensions and retaliatory actions currently unfolding across the region.

In an official press statement released on Saturday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed it is closely monitoring the volatile security situation. According to the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the government is tracking reports of military action undertaken by Israel and the United States against targets in Iran, as well as subsequent retaliatory strikes by Iran on locations within several Gulf nations.

In light of the heightened risk, the Ministry has outlined specific safety protocols for affected citizens:

The Ministry stated that Nigerians are advised to remain highly alert and constantly aware of their surroundings. Individuals must avoid areas housing strategic, military, or government installations, as these locations are considered potential flashpoints for further escalation.

Also, citizens are strongly urged to restrict all non-essential movement and travel within these countries until the security situation stabilizes. The public is also advised to avoid large gatherings and public demonstrations, which may be targeted or become volatile.

In line with standard safety procedures, all Nigerians are instructed to strictly comply with security directives and safety protocols issued by local law enforcement and governing bodies in their respective host countries.

The Ministry emphasized that cooperation with local authorities remains paramount for personal safety.

Nigerians requiring assistance or further information are encouraged to contact the nearest Nigerian Embassy or Mission for guidance.

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

Saudi Arabia issued a fiery condemnation of Iran on Saturday, accusing Tehran of committing “blatant aggression” and violating the sovereignty of multiple Arab nations.

In a strongly worded statement, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed “unwavering support” for the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan. Riyadh described the alleged actions as flagrant breaches of international law that threaten the peace and stability of the region.

The Kingdom declared its readiness to place “all its capabilities” at the disposal of the affected countries to support any defensive measures. It warned of “grave consequences” if the violations persist and called on the international community to take firm action against what it termed Iran’s destabilizing conduct.

While the statement did not specify the incidents that prompted the rebuke, the direct naming of five nations signals a concerted effort by Riyadh to project regional unity and strengthen collective deterrence against perceived Iranian assertiveness.

The Colleges of Education Old Students Association of Nigeria (COEOSAN) has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to consider appointing an individual with verifiable College of Education background and experience as the next Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE).

This appeal was made by the President General of the Association, Dr. Shehu Salisu Rogo (Dallatun Rogo), during a press conference held in Kano.

Dr. Rogo emphasized that Colleges of Education remain the backbone of teacher preparation in Nigeria and therefore deserve leadership at the regulatory level that clearly understands their structure, challenges, and operational realities. According to him, appointing someone with direct experience in the College of Education system will strengthen policy implementation, improve institutional standards, and reposition the sector for greater efficiency and global competitiveness.
He noted that individuals who have passed through or worked extensively within the Colleges of Education system possess first-hand knowledge of curriculum development, teacher training dynamics, accreditation processes, and institutional administration. Such experience, he stated, is critical for effective leadership of the NCCE.
He urged the Federal Government to prioritize competence, experience, and deep sectoral understanding in making the appointment.

He thanked the Honourable Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa for the ongoing reforms and initiatives introduced by the Minister, this reflects a clear vision to address longstanding challenges while laying a solid foundation for future growth and global competitiveness.

COEOSAN therefore applauds the Honourable Minister for his dedication, foresight, and proactive leadership. The Association reaffirms its support for policies and programmes that will further strengthen Colleges of Education and enhance the training of professional teachers in Nigeria.

The Association further stressed that this recommendation is in the best interest of Nigeria’s education sector and aligns with ongoing efforts to reform and strengthen teacher education across the country.

Dr. Rogo reaffirmed COEOSAN’s commitment to supporting policies and initiatives that promote quality teacher education and national development.