Enugu CKC Old Boys celebrated the Feast of Christ the King and reaffirmed support for the N1.5bn CKC Endowment, honouring the historic legacy of a school that has produced eminent national and global leaders.

Enugu | Tuesday, December 9, 2025

The CKC Endowment has emerged as the central rallying point for Christ the King College (CKC) Onitsha Old Boys Association Worldwide as they celebrated the Feast of Christ the King across their global chapters. The recently launched N1.5 billion endowment fund stands as a bold, long-term commitment to strengthening CKC’s infrastructure, academic excellence, and student welfare. It reflects not only the gratitude of the Old Boys but also their belief in preserving the legacy of one of Nigeria’s most impactful educational institutions.

Founded in 1933 by Archbishop Charles Heerey, an Irish missionary driven by vision and discipline, Christ the King College quickly grew into a powerhouse of character formation and academic brilliance. Over the decades, CKC has produced eminent figures who contributed profoundly to Nigeria’s legal, political, religious, and intellectual development. These include Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, Justice Ambrose Akagoa, Justice Anthony Aniagolu, Mr. Peter Obi, Prof. Pat Utomi, Dominic Cardinal Ekandem, and Cardinal Francis Arinze. Their achievements underscore why the CKC Endowment is more than a financial drive-it is a pledge to maintain an institution that has shaped national history and global leadership.

The N1.5bn CKC Endowment is built around four strategic pillars: continuous improvement of infrastructural facilities; enhancement of teaching, learning, and sporting facilities; scholarship assistance to brilliant but indigent students; and incentives for academic and sporting excellence. With 12 robust chapters under the global body, every arm of the association is expected to contribute to the fund, ensuring that the CKC legacy not only endures but expands.

 Members of the Enugu Chapter of the CKC Old Boys and some of their wives at Filbon Enugu, Sunday. 

In Enugu, the spirit of the CKC Endowment was strongly felt as the Enugu Chapter celebrated the Feast of Christ the King in a joyful, nostalgic atmosphere. The day began with a reverent Sung Mass at Holy Ghost Cathedral, marked by solemn hymns, symbolic liturgy, and reflections on gratitude, brotherhood, and service. The Mass reaffirmed why CKC men-across generations-return annually to celebrate faith and fellowship.

From the cathedral, celebrations moved to Filbon Hotel, New Haven-one of Enugu’s vibrant social venues. The shift from sacred worship to lively camaraderie was seamless as Old Boys reconnected, shared memories of their CKC days, and reignited the bonds that time has only deepened.

Engr. Greg Nnaji, President of the Enugu Chapter, presided over proceedings with clarity, warmth, and a firm sense of purpose. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of unity within the Old Boys community and emphasized that supporting the CKC Endowment was both a duty and a privilege. He reminded attendees that CKC’s essence lies in its ability to raise disciplined, confident, and value-driven men-a tradition that must be protected through deliberate investment.

The fundraising segment was anchored by Engr. Okwy Emejulu, Chairman and CEO of Akiota Works Nigeria Ltd, who served as Chairman of the ceremony. He delivered inspiring remarks on gratitude, personal responsibility, and the need for successful alumni to sow back into fertile ground. He then demonstrated exemplary leadership by donating a significant amount to the CKC Endowment, drawing resounding applause and motivating others to support the initiative.

Also present were Sir Patrick Ekemezie, 2nd National Vice President of the Association, and Dr. Cyrillic Okpala, Secretary of the Enugu Chapter. Their participation underscored the cohesion between national and chapter leadership in driving the endowment vision. Yet the event’s tone ensured that every Old Boy in attendance-whether named or not-felt like an indispensable part of the CKC family.

 A cross-section of the CKC Old Boys Enugu chapter during the Mass at Holy Ghost Cathedral Enugu, Sunday 

The gathering attracted an impressive array of personalities whose careers reflect the calibre of CKC alumni. Among them were Sir M. J. Ilona, the oldest CKC Old Boy; Jerry Okolo (SAN); and Justice Patrick Amaizu, retired Justice of the Federal High Court. Adding further prestige was the presence of invited guest Dr. Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, the Enugu State Commissioner for Trade, Commerce, and Industry Investment.

However, beyond the array of distinguished faces, the heartbeat of the event was the camaraderie. Set after set, decade after decade, the hall echoed with laughter, recollections, and the unmistakable warmth of brotherhood. Treasured memories were revisited, new bonds were formed, and the collective resolve to uplift their alma mater was renewed.

This sense of unity seamlessly connects to the broader mission of the CKC Endowment. The alumni understand that sustaining CKC means giving future generations access to the same excellence that shaped icons like Justice Oputa, Peter Obi, Prof. Utomi, and Cardinals Arinze and Ekandem. It is a commitment to strengthen a national institution whose impact continues to echo across Nigeria and far beyond.

As the Enugu Chapter’s celebration drew to a close, one message stood firm: CKC may have produced generations of great men, but now it is the turn of those men-through the CKC Endowment-to secure CKC’s future. And judging by the energy, unity, and generosity on display in Enugu, the future of Christ the King College Onitsha remains incredibly bright.

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DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders: Analysts Warn Against Selective Justice as Security Trials Intensify

“DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders in Abuja over alleged terrorism financing and operational roles. Analysts and civil society groups stress the need for balanced justice, referencing government negotiations with bandits and terrorist networks elsewhere. The DSS statement, signed by Favour Dozie, highlights multiple ongoing terrorism trials, emphasizing fairness and adherence to the law.”

Abuja, Nigeria | Friday, November 21, 2925

The DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders in a high-profile development that has captured national attention. The Department of State Services, in a statement signed by Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, confirmed the filing of terrorism charges against seven individuals allegedly linked to Simon Ekpa. The charges were filed before the Federal High Court in Abuja under three separate suits: FHC/ABJ/CR/632/2025, FHC/ABJ/CR/633/2025, and FHC/ABJ/CR/634/2025 on 19 November 2025.

The suspects identified as key commanders, arms couriers, and financial facilitators for the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), were arraigned for allegedly receiving funds and other material support from Ekpa and foreign-based members of IPOB. Among the accused in DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders is Ibrahim Ali Larabo, described as an illegal immigrant from the Republic of Niger operating an unlicensed Bureau de Change. He is said to have facilitated the transfer of large sums of money for IPOB operations in the Southeast.

According to the DSS, the other suspects were involved as Eastern Security Network fighters and foot soldiers, coordinated and funded under directives from Simon Ekpa, who is currently serving a six-year sentence for terror-related offences in Finland.

The arraignment proceedings highlighted the seriousness of the charges, with the court confirming that all defendants were to be treated in accordance with Nigerian law. Legal observers noted that the DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders is significant not only for security enforcement but also as a test case for maintaining fairness, transparency, and national cohesion in sensitive trials.

The DSS statement referenced recent prosecutions in other terrorism cases. Ismaila, also known as Mai Tangaran, who coordinated the 2012 attacks on the Kano Police Headquarters and other critical facilities, was convicted under the Terrorism Prevention Amendment Act 2013.

Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced him to 15 years for count one and 20 years for counts two, three, and four, to run concurrently. Trials of other internationally wanted suspects, including Mahmud Muhammad Usman (Mamuda) and Abubakar Abba (Abu Baara), will resume on 15 January 2026.

Additionally, the prosecution of Khalid Al-Barnawi, alleged mastermind of the 26 August 2011 UN complex bombing, continues alongside four others. Five other individuals are arraigned on a nine-count charge over their alleged involvement in the 5 June 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State.

Ten additional suspects are facing prosecution in connection with attacks in Benue and Plateau States, following directives from President Bola Tinubu. The DSS also announced the imminent arraignment of Abdulazeez Obadaki, also known as Bomboy, and Musa Abubakar, a key arms and ammunition supplier arrested in Plateau State.

Security analysts and civil society groups, while acknowledging the necessity of the DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders, have urged caution to ensure actions are not interpreted as targeting a specific region.

Observers noted that this development comes shortly after the life sentence handed to Nnamdi Kanu, whose previous advocacy has been widely associated with the grievances of the Southeast region. Experts stress that security operations and judicial proceedings must be applied evenly, without bias or regional selectivity, to reinforce public trust in the justice system.

Analysts also drew attention to past instances where the government engaged in negotiations with bandits and terrorist networks, which has raised questions about consistency in enforcing the law.

Negotiations were held with the perpetrators of the Abuja–Kaduna train attack, while amnesty deals and peace talks have been documented with bandit factions in Zamfara. Engagements also occurred after mass school abductions in various Northern states, including Kankara, Tegina, and Bethel Baptist School, and diplomatic overtures have at times been extended to figures like Bello Turji, despite serious allegations of orchestrating violence.

Experts argue that these examples highlight the importance of treating all violent actors consistently under the law and ensuring that prosecution and negotiation strategies are clearly defined and non-discriminatory.

DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders – legal scholars emphasize that a balanced approach strengthens institutional credibility and national unity. They note that every person accused of violent or terrorist activities, whether associated with IPOB, ISWAP, or bandit networks, must face judicial scrutiny and be prosecuted based on evidence and due process. Civil society organizations have repeatedly warned that perceived selective justice risks undermining public confidence in security agencies and can exacerbate regional tensions.

Observers within the legal and security communities welcomed the detailed briefing from the DSS and the inclusion of Favour Dozie’s statement as a step toward transparency. Analysts insist that as the DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders, courts and security agencies must maintain a strict separation between operational enforcement and political negotiation.

Experts agree that ensuring fairness, maintaining adherence to the law, and avoiding the appearance of bias are essential to national stability and public trust.

Community leaders in the Southeast also appealed for calm, stressing that grievances should be addressed through legal and constitutional means. They encouraged citizens to respect judicial processes and to distinguish between individuals accused of violent acts and civilians uninvolved in criminal activity.

As the court proceedings continue, the DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders remains a central focus for security analysts, legal observers, and civil society advocates. The next stages of the trial are expected to further test the ability of the justice system to combine firmness, fairness, and diplomacy in prosecuting complex terrorism-related cases.

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President Tinubu Highlights Economic Reforms to Empower Nigerian Youths, Welcomes Duke of Edinburgh

President Bola Tinubu has affirmed that ongoing economic reforms are designed to empower Nigerian youths and equip them with globally competitive skills, noting that youth ownership of these reforms is central to national prosperity. The President made this statement while receiving the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, at the State House in Abuja on Monday.

Speaking on the significance of youth-centered policies, President Tinubu highlighted that Nigeria’s young population is pivotal to driving economic growth and institutional reform. “The reforms are about growth and prosperity for the nation. It takes into full consideration demography and skills development. We are emulating best practices in exploring opportunities in several areas of skills development,” the President said, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to creating opportunities for all Nigerian youths.

President Tinubu further noted the establishment of a special education loan fund, which ensures that students admitted to universities can complete their education without financial hindrance. “Our goal is to use education to drive down poverty,” he added, stressing that the government’s vision spans multiple sectors of the economy to ensure long-term synergy and inclusive growth.

The President also highlighted infrastructural projects, including the laying of fibre optics and other technology-driven initiatives, aimed at improving connectivity and fostering greater youth participation in national development. He stressed that addressing security and crime challenges remains a priority, and thanked humanitarian agencies for assisting victims of terrorism in affected regions.

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Sir Richard Montgomery; Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward; President Bola Tinubu and Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, in the State House, Abuja. Monday, November 17, 2025

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, underlined that Nigeria’s median age of 17 years makes youth-centered reforms particularly urgent. According to him, these reforms are deliberately structured to create broad opportunities for skill development, entrepreneurship, and participation in national growth.

“President Bola Tinubu met with the Duke of Edinburgh in Abuja to discuss youth empowerment through ongoing economic reforms. The President emphasized that these reforms aim to equip Nigerian youths with global skills, improve access to education, and foster economic inclusion. Highlighting infrastructure projects, digital connectivity, and security improvements, Tinubu stressed youth ownership of reforms as critical to national prosperity. Prince Edward commended the government for its policies, while Bayo Onanuga confirmed that the meeting reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to cultivating the next generation of globally competitive leaders and innovators.”

Prince Edward, as Chairman of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, commended the President on the reforms and their positive reception globally. The Duke outlined that the award ceremony in Lagos would recognize 320 Nigerian youths for their talent, resilience, and contributions to nation-building. He praised Minister Edun for his pivotal role in ensuring youth engagement throughout the program and highlighted the importance of global collaboration in youth development.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Information & Strategy, remarked, “The meeting with the Duke of Edinburgh underscores Nigeria’s commitment to youth empowerment and highlights the administration’s dedication to providing practical opportunities for young people to thrive, both nationally and globally.”

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global framework for non-formal education, enabling young people to develop skills, resilience, and a spirit of service. Delivered through schools, youth organizations, and community groups worldwide, the award aligns perfectly with the Nigerian government’s ongoing economic reforms to equip the next generation for future challenges. More details on the program are available at the official Duke of Edinburgh website.

President Tinubu emphasized that these reforms are not limited to education alone. Strategic projects targeting infrastructure, technology, and digital inclusion will ensure that Nigerian youths are fully integrated into the global economy. He stressed that youth ownership of reforms and active engagement in nation-building are essential to achieving sustainable economic growth.

Concluding the meeting, President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for Nigerian youths. He said, “By fostering skills development, expanding educational access, and creating economic opportunities, we are investing in Nigeria’s future. Our youths are at the centre of our plans, and their success is integral to national prosperity.”

The meeting highlighted the alignment between Nigeria’s domestic economic policies and global youth empowerment initiatives. Through partnerships with international organizations like the Duke of Edinburgh Award Foundation, Nigeria is positioned to nurture a generation of young leaders, innovators, and skilled professionals capable of competing on the global stage.

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