The Federal Government has released N50 billion to settle unpaid earned allowances owed to academic and non-academic staff of federal universities.

This was revealed by the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Alausa, in a statement shared by the ministry’s spokesperson, Folasade Boriowo, on Wednesday.

According to him, the disbursement fulfils a promise made by President Bola Tinubu to the university unions.

Also, the statement stated that the payment reflects the president’s dedication to revamping Nigeria’s education system and shifting the country’s focus from depending on resources to building a knowledge-driven economy. This, it said, would be achieved through meaningful investments in education, infrastructure, and people.

Dr Alausa emphasized that the move is more than just settling debts. He described it as a show of faith in young Nigerians and a recognition of the vital role played by university staff in shaping the next generation. He also assured that efforts are ongoing to ensure that strikes in the university system become a thing of the past.

For years, academic unions in federal universities have clashed with various administrations over delays in payments and unfulfilled agreements. In the 2025 budget, the government earmarked N3.52 trillion for the education sector—7.3 percent of the total N54.99 trillion national budget.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused China on Tuesday of being indirectly involved in Russia’s drone production efforts. He claimed that Chinese citizens were working at a drone factory in Russia and suggested that Moscow might have stolen drone technology from China, although he implied Beijing may not have been aware of it.

This is the latest in a series of accusations from Kyiv, which also included Zelenskyy’s previous comments about China supplying Russia with weapons and gunpowder. These remarks marked the first time Zelenskyy openly accused Beijing of directly aiding Moscow’s military efforts, although China has firmly denied these claims.

In response, Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry summoned Chinese Ambassador Ma Shengkun to express serious concerns about China’s involvement in the war. Zelenskyy appeared to soften his tone, stating that Russia might have secretly obtained drone technology from Chinese nationals working in Russia without Beijing’s official approval.

Zelenskyy’s comments come at a delicate time for Ukraine, with ongoing diplomatic efforts led by the U.S. to end the war. Earlier this month, Zelenskyy accused Russia of recruiting Chinese nationals to join its forces, adding that Beijing was likely aware of the recruitment, though it hasn’t been confirmed if they were receiving instructions from Chinese officials.

Despite these tensions, China has reiterated its support for peace efforts and cautioned against irresponsible remarks regarding the involvement of Chinese nationals in the conflict. Zelenskyy stated that Ukrainian officials have been directed to communicate their findings directly with the Chinese government through official channels, as they continue to investigate the extent of China’s possible role in Russia’s military operations.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that he and his wife Melania will be attending the funeral of Pope Francis in Rome.

Sharing the news via his Truth Social account on Monday night, Trump wrote, “Melania and I will be going to the funeral of Pope Francis, in Rome. We look forward to being there!”

As part of honoring the late pontiff, Trump also ordered all American flags—including federal and state—to be flown at half-mast. He confirmed that he had signed an executive order to make it official.

Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88 in his Rome residence, a loss that has touched many around the world. Also, Trump described the late pope as a kind-hearted man who gave his all in service to humanity. “Rest in Peace, Pope Francis! May God bless him and all who loved him,” he added.