The British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship is a fully funded program that covers travel expenses, £2,500 stipend per month, library access, lunch, and visits to the British Council office.

In this post, we will tell you more about the fellowship, what it requires, and how interested and qualified candidates can successfully apply for the program.

British Council Felllowship Summary

• Host Country: United Kingdom
• Category: Fellowships
• Eligible Countries: Developing Countries
• Reward: Full Sponsorship | £2500 Stipend per month | Travel Expenses | Library Access | Weekly Lunch
• No IELTS Required 
• Deadline: July 31, 2026
  British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship Details:

Applications are now open for the British Council UK 90th Anniversary Fellowship 2027 at the University of Edinburgh.

The British Council is delighted to announce a research fellowship partnership with the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH) at the University of Edinburgh in celebration of its 90th Anniversary.

These Fellowships are intended to support research that is aligned with the overarching vision of the British Council (“a more peaceful and prosperous world built on trust”) and the purpose outlined in their strategy.

Eligibility Requirements for British Council Fellowship 2027

To be considered for the British Council Fellowship, you must:

• Be from an ODA-recipient country. See the full list of eligible countries.
• Have been awarded a doctorate at the time of application.
• Hold a PhD or equivalent research experience
• Demonstrate a strong academic background
• Propose an independent research project
• Be able to spend the fellowship period in Edinburgh

Benefits of British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship 2027

Duration

• Fellows will spend the first ten months of their Fellowships at IASH, followed by up to two months based in their home countries focused on knowledge exchange and dissemination in collaboration with the British Council.

Reward

• The Fellowship provides a bursary of £2,500 per month and travel expenses as well as desk space, library access and academic mentoring as part of the vibrant scholarly community of visiting fellows at IASH.
• Fellows will also be expected to engage closely with the British Council throughout their Fellowships (including visits to UK offices), with the option to spend time in a British Council office in their home country as part of the knowledge exchange component of the Fellowship.

Required Documents for British Council Fellowship 2026

To apply, candidates must be ready to submit the following documents;

• Application form
• CV
• Research proposal
• Cover letter
• Confidential references (minimum two, maximum three)

How to Apply for British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship 2027 (Step by Step)

To apply for the British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship, interested and qualified candidates should;

• Click the green button below to go to the scholarship webpage.
• Apply online through the official IASH fellowship portal.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Deadline: July 31, 2026

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ordered a full investigation into a building collapse in Abuja, which claimed five lives and left several others injured over the weekend.

Wike also directed that the affected site be immediately sealed off.

A three-storey building under construction collapsed on Saturday morning in the Durumi 3 area, near Gudu Market, within the Abuja Municipal Area Council.

Wike, who visited the scene on Monday, described the incident as deeply unfortunate and confirmed that enforcement actions had already begun, including arrests linked to the project.

He said preliminary reports indicated multiple fatalities, while a number of occupants were rescued from the rubble.

Authorities, he added, would move swiftly to establish how the structure failed and whether regulatory procedures were ignored.

“From the report I got, we lost five people and some lives were saved. It’s very pathetic. Nobody is happy when you lose somebody,” the minister said during the visit.

According to him, the Department of Development Control had already taken steps to seal off the property, while further enforcement measures were underway.

He also confirmed that legal action had begun against those connected to the construction.

The minister noted, “The Department of Development Control has sealed off the premises. We are going to set up a panel to really look at what happened

One of the engineers has been arrested already. From there, we will get to the developer, and he or she will be arrested.”

Wike said the Federal Capital Territory Administration had taken charge of the investigation, with a panel expected to carry out a detailed review of the circumstances surrounding the collapse, alongside preliminary work by development control officials.

He also used the opportunity to caution developers against resisting or undermining regulatory oversight by federal authorities responsible for monitoring construction activities in the capital.

He warned that attempts to obstruct officials often led to misinformation and public misunderstanding of enforcement actions.

The minister stressed that strict adherence to building regulations, including proper soil testing and the use of approved materials, was essential to preventing avoidable disasters.

He questioned whether developers consistently followed technical requirements before embarking on construction, noting that such lapses often contribute to structural failures.

“In the construction of buildings, we must know the quality. What materials are they using? Are they doing the soil test? What is the result of the soil test? Can it allow for two floors or three floors? All these are very key,” he said.

Wike added that the primary responsibility of government remained the protection of lives and property, lamenting that the victims of the collapse could not be replaced.

“How can you buy back these lives? They are gone. That is the responsibility of government: to protect life and property,” he said.

The attack reportedly occurred on Saturday evening as the soldiers were returning from a military offensive against a suspected Lakurawa hideout near the border community.

Local sources said the troops had earlier carried out a successful raid on the terrorists’ camp using three military vehicles, inflicting heavy casualties on the armed group before the ambush occurred.

A source familiar with the operation said one of the military vehicles developed a mechanical fault while the troops were heading back to their base in Illela, forcing some soldiers to stop and attempt repairs.

The terrorists apparently regrouped after the attack on their camp and trailed the soldiers to retaliate,” the source said.

According to him, the attackers arrived on about 30 motorcycles, each carrying heavily armed fighters, and opened fire on the troops.

“They met the soldiers where the faulty vehicle was being repaired, and a fierce exchange of gunfire followed,” he added.

Another source, however, gave a different account, claiming the soldiers had abandoned the faulty vehicle and were trekking back to base with the assistance of a civilian familiar with the terrain when they ran into the ambush.

“The troops were moving back toward Illela with the help of a local guide when the terrorists attacked them. Seven soldiers and the civilian assisting them were killed,” the source said.

Residents of the area said six bodies were initially recovered at the scene, while the corpse of another soldier was discovered in a nearby bush the following day.

“We counted seven corpses altogether after the missing soldier’s body was later found,” a resident, who requested anonymity for security reasons, told our correspondent

Security sources confirmed that the bodies of the slain soldiers had been evacuated to Sokoto, while reinforcement teams had been deployed to the troubled area.

A government official in the locality also disclosed that one of the casualties was a senior military officer believed to be a lieutenant in the Nigerian Army.

Further details emerged on Monday as another military source revealed that the troops were responding to a distress call when the ambush occurred.

The troops of Operation Fasan Yamma had just concluded a successful operation when they received a distress call and turned back,” the source said.

“They used one of the soldiers as bait, and on their way back, the troops were ambushed. Two officers, both lieutenants, were killed during the encounter,” he added.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the Sokoto State Police Command, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, declined to comment on the incident. The Special Adviser to the Sokoto State Governor on Security Matters, Col Ahmed Usman (retd.), also did not comment.

However, a senior military officer confirmed that soldiers were killed during the operation, although he disputed the casualty figures being circulated.

“Yes, we recorded regrettable casualties over the weekend around Illela. Immediate tactical reinforcements have since been deployed, while intelligence-led operations are ongoing to track and neutralise the terrorists responsible,” the officer said.

“In line with military tradition, we cannot disclose the identities of our fallen heroes until their next of kin are duly notified.

“We urge the media to avoid unverified casualty figures and instead focus on the sacrifices and commitment of our troops,” he added.

The Lakurawa group has, in recent months, intensified attacks on communities across parts of Sokoto and Kebbi states, raising fresh concerns over worsening insecurity in the North-West region

The Lagos State Government has uncovered dangerous levels of toxic chemicals in industrial waste discharged within the Ikeja industrial corridor, with official geochemical investigations detecting nitrate, ammonium, copper and zinc concentrations exceeding World Health Organisation safety limits.

The findings, contained in the 2026 ministerial briefing of the Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, presented on Monday, reveal that the state has begun mapping contamination hotspots and using the data to sanction industrial operators linked to the pollution.

According to the report, the ministry carried out extensive soil, sediment and water sampling across Ikeja, one of Lagos’ oldest and largest manufacturing districts, to trace industrial contaminants and assess environmental degradation caused by decades of industrial activity.

The ministry said the investigation produced geospatial distribution maps identifying concentrations of contaminants associated with industrial discharge, chemical processing, metal fabrication and manufacturing operations.

Among the substances detected was nitrate, a contaminant linked to severe health complications, including methemoglobinemia, commonly known as “blue baby syndrome,” which affects infants through contaminated drinking water.

Ammonium, another pollutant identified in the study, was described as highly toxic to aquatic ecosystems and an indicator of untreated sewage or industrial discharge entering water systems.

The report also identified elevated copper levels, which can cause liver damage when present in groundwater consumed by humans, alongside zinc contamination capable of disrupting soil quality and aquatic life.

Although the ministry confirmed that contaminant levels exceeded WHO safety thresholds, the report did not disclose the exact concentration levels, the duration of the contamination or the specific companies responsible.

Officials, however, said the contamination maps are being used as evidence to impose non-compliance charges on operators connected to the polluted discharge

The ministry did not reveal the names of affected companies, the value of penalties issued or whether any payments have been made.

The investigation forms part of a wider environmental monitoring programme aimed at building what officials described as a state-wide georeferenced environmental protection database capable of tracking pollution sources across Lagos.

Beyond Ikeja, the ministry disclosed that groundwater contamination monitoring has also been intensified around landfill sites in communities including Ogudu, Alapere, Oworonsoki, Ikorodu and Ojo, where dedicated boreholes have been installed to continuously monitor water quality and WHO compliance levels.

The government also said it is expanding geological and environmental mapping operations across the Lagos Continental Shelf District to support future infrastructure planning and environmental mitigation.

In addition, enforcement operations targeting illegal dredging, sand overloading and unauthorised land reclamation activities are being conducted jointly with the Lagos Waste Management Authority along the Ajah-Ibeju Lekki-Epe corridor.

As part of broader regulatory reforms, the ministry said it is developing policies that would require mandatory geological investigations before major construction projects, including roads, pipelines and buildings, can commence in the state.

Despite the scale of the contamination findings, several key details remain undisclosed, including which residential communities may be directly affected by polluted water channels and whether any enforcement action beyond financial penalties has been initiated against offending operators.

The report also does not indicate whether public health assessments have been carried out in areas surrounding the identified contamination zones.

Still, the findings provide one of the clearest official acknowledgements yet of long-term industrial pollution risks within Lagos’ manufacturing belt and signal a shift toward more data-driven environmental enforcement by the state government.

The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested a 70-year-old man for allegedly defiling a 10-year-old minor in Magama Gumau, Local Government Area of the state.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by the command’s Police Public Relations Officer Nafiu Habib, “The incident was reported on 15th May 2026 by the 40-year-old father of the victim, a resident of Magama Gumau. He reported alongside his 10-year-old biological daughter that earlier the same day, one Hamza Yahaya, 70 years old, of the same address, lured the minor to his hideout within the area and had unlawful sexual intercourse with her.

“Upon receipt of the complaint, detectives attached to the Toro Division immediately mobilised to the scene and arrested the suspect. During interrogation, the suspect denied the recent allegation but voluntarily confessed to having sexually assaulted the victim on three previous occasions at the same location.

“Both the victim and the suspect were taken to the General Hospital, Toro, for medical examination and treatment. The suspect has since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Bauchi, for further investigations and prosecution.”

Meanwhile, the PPRO stressed that the Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has assured the public that the case would be pursued diligently to ensure justice is served.

He urged parents, guardians, and community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may compromise the safety and welfare of their children.

In another development, the command arrested a suspected motorcycle thief and recovered a stolen Haojue motorcycle in the Gwallameji area.

In this incident, Habib revealed that “ While acting on routine patrol directives, operatives of E Division, Yelwa, intercepted one Bashir Usman, a 19-year-old male resident of Fada, on 16th May 2026.

The suspect was found in possession of an unregistered red Haojue motorcycle.”

He maintained  that upon preliminary interrogation, Usman confessed to have stolen the motorcycle from a student lodge within Gwallameji.

“Consequently, the Command has launched a detailed investigation to identify and trace the rightful owner. Once verified, the recovered motorcycle will be released to the owner on bond in accordance with due process,” the PPRO assured.

“Meanwhile, the suspect remains in custody and will be charged in court upon the conclusion of preliminary investigations,” Habib further disclosed.

However, the statement noted that the Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to sustain visibility policing and ensure that criminal elements are brought to justice.

He further urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly to the nearest police station.

The Student Wing of the Northern Youth Frontiers on Monday raised concerns over worsening insecurity around tertiary institutions in the North, warning that persistent attacks by bandits and kidnappers are undermining access to education and threatening the future of thousands of students in the region.

The group said that despite the gains recorded under the Federal Government’s student loan initiative through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, insecurity around campuses continued to discourage learning and expose students to danger.

The concerns were contained in a communiqué issued after an emergency joint congress of student leaders, campus delegates and youth stakeholders from the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, held in Abuja.

The communiqué was jointly signed by the National Coordinator of the NYF Student Wing, Ibrahim Bello, and the Secretary-General, Hauwa Abdulaziz.

According to the students, many tertiary institutions and off-campus student communities in the North remained vulnerable to attacks, forcing students to live in fear while pursuing their education.

“We urgently appeal to President Bola Tinubu to intensify security efforts across Northern campuses, which remain vulnerable to threats from bandits and kidnappers,” the communiqué stated.

The congress called for increased investment in the Safe Schools Initiative and demanded a stronger security presence around universities, polytechnics and colleges of education across the region.

Specifically, we call for the aggressive funding of the Safe Schools Initiative, alongside the deployment of specialised, round-the-clock military and police patrols around tertiary institutions, off-campus student residential zones and critical transit routes to guarantee that students can utilise their loans in safety and peace,” the students said.

The group warned that insecurity has continued to disrupt academic activities, heighten anxiety among parents and students, and worsen educational challenges in the North.

The students, however, commended the Federal Government for the implementation of the student loan scheme under NELFUND, describing it as a critical intervention that has restored hope to indigent students struggling with tuition and living expenses.

According to the communiqué, over N72.03bn has been disbursed directly into students’ accounts as monthly N20,000 upkeep support, helping beneficiaries cope with feeding, accommodation and academic costs.

“By stepping in where poverty would have forced brilliant minds out of school, NELFUND has restored dignity to the less privileged and brought immense psychological and financial relief to countless struggling families,” the communiqué added.

The congress also noted that more than 1.3 million Nigerian students had reportedly registered and applied through the NELFUND portal, while over N161.97bn had been disbursed under the scheme in 2026.

The students passed a vote of confidence in President Tinubu and the Managing Director of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, describing the education loan programme as one of the administration’s most impactful interventions in the education sector.

They urged the Federal Government not to allow insecurity to erode the benefits of the programme, stressing that access to education can only improve in an environment where students feel safe.

In recent years, several schools and tertiary institutions across northern Nigeria have faced security threats ranging from abductions to attacks on school communities, leading to temporary closures, disruption of academic calendars and heightened fear among students and lecturers.

The insecurity crisis has also contributed to declining school enrolment in some affected communities, with many parents reluctant to send their children far from home due to fears of kidnapping and violence.

Education stakeholders have repeatedly warned that the situation could deepen the out-of-school children crisis already confronting Northern Nigeria, which accounts for a significant percentage of the country’s out-of-school population.

Controversy and protests trailed Monday’s All Progressives Congress senatorial primaries in Kogi State, even as former Governor Yahaya Bello and other aspirants won in their respective districts.

Tension flared in Kogi East Senatorial District where incumbent Senator Jibrin Isah, popularly known as Echocho, rejected the conduct of the primary election.

In a viral video, the visibly agitated senator alleged that election materials and officials were absent in several wards, including his own, insisting that no proper election took place.

Echocho accused party officials of bias, claiming that results were “prepared at the Government House before the commencement of the exercise.”

That result is a nullity, and cannot even be announced,” he said.

The senator also threatened to challenge Governor Ahmed Ododo in the 2027 governorship election if the outcome of the senatorial primary did not favour him.

“I am going to contest against you. I have the right. The battle line has been drawn,” Echocho declared

He maintained that his constituency projects and empowerment programmes were designed to strengthen the APC ahead of future elections for President Bola Tinubu and Ododo, while accusing the governor of turning against him despite his loyalty to both Ododo and former governor Yahaya Bello.

In Kogi West Senatorial District, another aspirant, Ustaz Abubakar Ola, also raised concerns before voting commenced

He alleged plans to intimidate his supporters and claimed that voting was disrupted by thugs in centres where he enjoyed strong support.

Despite the disputes, turnout was described as massive across the state’s three senatorial districts.

In Agassa, the hometown of former governor and Kogi Central aspirant, Bello, supporters turned out in large numbers to participate in the exercise.

Bello commended delegates for what he described as a peaceful process and praised party officials for adhering to electoral guidelines, saying the exercise reflected the APC’s capacity to conduct transparent elections.

Also contesting the Kogi Central ticket are APC Diaspora Secretary and businessman, Momoh Obaro, and Ibrahim Yakubu Adoke.

Meanwhile, Ododo participated in the primary at his Upogoro/Odenku Ward polling unit in Okene Local Government Area.

The exercise was conducted under tight security with a large turnout of party members.

Speaking with journalists after voting, Ododo described the process as “peaceful, transparent, and orderly,” noting that it reflected the democratic ideals being strengthened within the ruling party.

A shooting on Monday at a mosque complex in southern California killed three people, with two suspected teenage gunmen later found dead in a car from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds, police said.

Police said emergency response teams found the victims outside the sprawling Islamic Centre of San Diego, before later finding the shooters, aged 18 and 17, also dead.

TV footage from a helicopter showed armed response teams gathered outside a building, with one unidentified person lying in a pool of blood.

“We are actively investigating this as a hate crime,” San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl told reporters. “There was definitely hate rhetoric that was involved.”

The Islamic centre describes itself on its website as the largest mosque in San Diego County, which lies in southern California.

After a short period of lockdown when authorities advised area residents to stay inside, San Diego police announced that the threat at the centre had been “neutralised.”

“We received a call of an active shooter at the Islamic Centre. Within four minutes, officers arrived on scene and observed immediately three deceased victims out in front,” Wahl said.

We immediately began to deploy with an active shooter response into the mosque and adjacent school,” he said, adding that police had received calls about more gunfire nearby, where a landscaper had been shot at but not hit.

Place of worship targeted

A few blocks from the centre, police found a vehicle in the middle of the street with the shooters dead inside.

“The suspects at this point appear to have died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds. There were no officers involved in firing their weapons,” Wahl said.

He said a security guard at the Islamic centre was among the three victims killed, and his response had helped prevent a deadlier attack.

“His actions were heroic, and he undoubtedly saved lives today,” Wahl said.

The identities of the other two victims were not immediately clear.

Wahl said that the mother of one of the suspects had contacted police two hours before the attack and reported that her son was “suicidal” and that several weapons and her vehicle were missing

Initially, police deployed to an area around a high school with which the suspect was associated, until they received a call of an active shooter at the Islamic Centre.

The imam at the mosque, Taha Hassane, said that all the staff, teachers and children at the mosque’s school were safe.

“We have never experienced tragedy like this before. And at this moment, all that I can say is, sending our prayers and standing in solidarity with all the families in our community here,” he said.

“It is extremely outrageous to target a place of worship,” the imam added.

President Donald Trump said the shooting was a “terrible situation,” while New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, the first Muslim mayor of a major American city, described the attack as “an apparent act of anti-Muslim violence.”

“Islamophobia endangers Muslim communities across this country,” he posted on X, adding that New York police are boosting deployments to mosques “out of an abundance of caution.”

Wahl, the police chief, said that given the location of the attack, investigators were “considering this a hate crime until it’s not.”

State Governor Gavin Newsom expressed horror at the attack, saying: “Worshippers anywhere should not have to fear for their lives.”

“Hate has no place in California, and we will not tolerate acts of terror or intimidation against communities of faith,” he said on X, adding, “To the San Diego Muslim community: California stands with you.”

AFP

The Director-General of the National Boundary Commission, Nigeria, Adamu Adaji, has reiterated the importance of enhanced border demarcation in promoting cross-border cooperation, strengthening regional security, and improving the livelihoods of border communities across West Africa.

A statement from the commission on Monday stated that Adaji disclosed this through the Head of Cross Border Cooperation, Dr Farouk Tarfa, who represented him at a two-day Cross Border Cooperation Programme along the Nigeria-Benin and Benin-Togo borders on May 14 and 15, 2026.

The programme was hosted and coordinated by the Director-General of the National Boundary Commission of the Republic of Benin, Dr Yousouf Adams.

According to Adaji, “Clearly defined and properly demarcated borders remain critical to enhancing cross-border cooperation, community resilience, peace, and security across the African continent.”

He noted that most African borders inherited from the colonial era were largely ambiguous at independence, adding that African leaders nevertheless resolved to respect the inherited treaties while working amicably towards resolving areas of dispute and strengthening regional integration.

Adaji further commended the efforts of the two National Boundary Commissions in promoting good border governance and peaceful coexistence among border communities.

“We seek the continued support and intervention of the German International Cooperation towards the completion of the demarcation of the Nigeria–Benin International Boundary. The successful completion of the demarcation process will pave the way for improved cross-border cooperation, enhanced livelihood opportunities for borderland communities, and strengthened border security,” he stated.

The programme was attended by the Director-General of the National Boundary Commission of the Benin Republic, Dr Yousouf Adams; the Director of German International Cooperation at the African Union, Dr Tobias Thiel; the Head of GIZ Programme Support to the African Union for Promoting Peace, Security and Governance in Africa, Mr Max Middeke; and the Head of GIZ-African Union Border Programme, Dr Bakary Sanou.

Speaking during the programme, Dr Yousouf Adams stated that, “Border governance in West Africa is currently undergoing significant transformation driven by collective commitments towards security, cooperation, and regional integration.”

He explained that the African Union Border Programme serves as a continental framework aimed at encouraging member states to properly define their borders and transform border areas into spaces of cooperation and development.

As part of the activities, the delegation visited border pillars and inspected several cross-border socio-economic projects. The delegation also paid a courtesy visit to the Oba of Iwoye-Ketou, His Royal Majesty Sir Isaac, where they solicited continued support for sustained cross-border cooperation aimed at strengthening peaceful coexistence and good neighbourliness among border communities.

The monarch commended the efforts of the National Boundary Commissions of Nigeria and Benin, as well as the German International Cooperation, in promoting peaceful relations and improving the livelihoods of border dwellers.

“Engaging border communities gives them a sense of belonging, reduces irregular migration and further enhances security within the border areas,” the traditional ruler stated.

In his remarks, the Director of German International Cooperation at the African Union, Dr Tobias Thiel, appreciated the warm reception accorded to him and reaffirmed the commitment of the GIZ-African Union Border Programme towards improving border governance across Africa.

Borders are dynamic and multi-dimensional and should therefore be accorded utmost priority in order to promote peace, cooperation, and sustainable development across the continent,” he said.

Within the framework of the West African Cross Border Cooperation initiative, the representative of the Director-General of NBC Nigeria, Dr Farouk Tarfa, also undertook a solidarity visit to the Benin-Togo border, where Local Cross Border Cooperation Platforms were inaugurated.

The operationalisation of the platforms is expected to serve as a practical step towards moving from an “ECOWAS of States” to an “ECOWAS of People,” while also promoting sustainable development, peaceful coexistence, and enhanced cross-border security across the sub-region.

Recall that local governments and communes from Nigeria and Benin had earlier signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Local Cross-Border Cooperation and are expected to fully operationalise the platforms to improve the livelihoods of borderland communities, strengthen security, and deepen the West African integration process

Kasi Cloud has commissioned the first phase of its planned 100-megawatt AI-ready hyperscale data centre campus in Lekki, Lagos, marking one of Nigeria’s most ambitious investments yet in digital infrastructure and local compute capacity.

The company said the facility is designed to support artificial intelligence workloads, cloud computing, enterprise storage and high-density digital services at a time when global demand for AI infrastructure is accelerating rapidly.

The project, estimated to cost about $250m, broke ground in April 2022, while major construction work began in the second quarter of 2023. The commissioning marks the first operational deployment within the broader campus, which Kasi Cloud plans to scale over time into a 100MW data infrastructure ecosystem.

Nigeria currently has about 17 operational data centres, according to industry estimates, with most facilities operating below 25MW capacity. Kasi Cloud said the Lekki campus is intended to significantly expand the country’s compute footprint and reduce dependence on foreign-hosted infrastructure.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer Johnson Agogbua said the project is intended to help reverse Africa’s dependence on foreign digital infrastructure by creating local capacity capable of supporting the next generation of AI-driven applications.

“What we’re most proud of is the role that our people and our team have played,” Agogbua said during a media briefing at the facility in Lagos on Saturday. “Almost every other data centre built here was designed by others for us. Kasi is Nigeria proper. Africa proper.”

The company said the first deployment includes a 5.5-megawatt data hall and a 7.5-megawatt ecosystem floor designed to accommodate local and international businesses requiring colocation, cloud hosting, storage and networking services.

According to Agogbua, the ecosystem floor is intended to allow customers to lease infrastructure ranging from a single server node to an entire aisle of racks, depending on operational requirements.

“It’s an opportunity for our international partners, local partners and local businesses to take up anything between a single node and a rack to a full aisle of IT workloads,” he said.

Global Director, Marketing and Sales Operations at Kasi Cloud, Ngozika Agogbua, said the project sits at the intersection of technology, economics and geopolitics at a time Africa is increasingly seeking greater control over its digital future.

“Africa has become one of the fastest-growing digital markets in the world,” she said during a press conference in Lagos on Saturday. Yet when it comes to artificial intelligence, the continent still operates with less than one per cent of global compute capacity, relying almost entirely on infrastructure located outside its borders.”

According to her, the dependence on overseas infrastructure means African businesses continue exporting critical data and economic value whenever they run AI workloads.

“Every time an African business runs an AI workload, the data travels to a server in Europe or America,” she said. “The economic and strategic cost of that dependency is enormous and largely invisible.”

Agogbua described the Lagos campus as part of what could become a structural shift in Africa’s digital economy, comparing the moment to the expansion of subsea cable systems and mobile telecommunications networks that transformed connectivity across the continent over the past two decades.

We believe this is less a company launch and more a structural turning point,” she said.

The company argued that large-scale local compute infrastructure is becoming increasingly important as governments, financial institutions, startups and enterprises across Africa accelerate adoption of AI-enabled systems and cloud-based services.

The company said the facility is also being designed to support certain GPU-intensive workloads required for AI computing while providing a carrier-neutral interconnection hub linking telecommunications operators and international submarine cable providers.

Agogbua said the upper floors of the campus are specifically designed for wholesale and hyperscale cloud providers such as Amazon Web Services, Google and Microsoft seeking expansion capacity in West Africa.

“Players like AWS, Google and Microsoft find it difficult to enter new markets and build at scale,” he said. “We have both the power and the space they need to expand.”

The company disclosed that the campus has a dedicated 132-kilovolt substation capable of scaling deployments to approximately 100 megawatts of IT load, positioning it among the largest planned AI-ready compute facilities in the region.

Agogbua repeatedly emphasised the distinction between total power infrastructure and “critical load”, the electricity directly delivered to computing systems, storage infrastructure and networking equipment.

When we say critical load, we mean the things that go to computers, routers and storage devices,” he said.

According to him, each floor of the facility is capable of supporting approximately eight megawatts of critical load, while a single building on the campus could ultimately scale to more than 30 megawatts.

That’s bigger than power delivered to some small cities in Nigeria,” he said.

He argued that Nigeria’s ability to compete in the digital economy will increasingly depend on whether the country can develop infrastructure capable of supporting AI systems locally.

“If we’re going to really embrace digital and employ AI-related systems to leapfrog into modernity, we need facilities of this scale,” he said.

Agogbua said Nigeria missed earlier phases of industrialisation but could still leapfrog economically through rapid adoption of modern digital infrastructure and AI technologies.

“We can digitise early, apply modern tech and leapfrog into it,” he said. “It requires facilities of this scale. It requires deployment of this scale.”

He also urged policymakers to create conditions that encourage international technology companies to establish local operations while ensuring Nigerian talent participates directly in the ecosystem.

“Make it easy for them to enter,” he said. “But require them to have us working on it. That’s how we get training.”

A major theme throughout the briefing was data sovereignty and concerns that Africa risks remaining dependent on foreign-owned AI systems if local compute infrastructure is not developed.

Agogbua argued that African languages, culture, commerce and historical records may become under-represented in future AI models if the continent does not build domestic infrastructure and local AI ecosystems.

“Will the brain that will run the future be on our soil?” he asked. “Or are we going to be renting it?”

He said AI systems shaping future digital experiences should increasingly be developed and operated within African cities rather than entirely from technology hubs in North America, Europe or Asia.

“If those coding the model reside in San Francisco, Munich or Shanghai and documenting our language and culture, we’ll be lost,” he said. “They should be in Yaba, Abuja, Enugu, Kano, and all of our cities.”

The company also emphasised local engineering participation in the project, describing Kasi as an African-led infrastructure initiative rather than a foreign-built deployment.

Agogbua said the company established an internal training initiative known as Kasi Academy to develop local engineering talent capable of supporting advanced digital infrastructure projects.

“When people asked how we would replicate world-class execution, we said we would grow them,” he said.

According to him, many of the engineers working on the project were trained internally through the academy, with Nigerian teams directly involved in designing and deploying key systems across the facility.

“The final design, the final rendering, is done here,” he said.

While acknowledging that some equipment and specialised manufacturing capabilities still need to be sourced internationally, he maintained that Africa already possesses the technical talent needed to build sophisticated infrastructure locally.

Beyond enterprise cloud infrastructure, Agogbua linked AI deployment to broader economic transformation across Nigeria’s informal economy, including retail markets, healthcare delivery, logistics and inventory management.

Go to the market and watch what’s going on,” he said. “Their ledger is on worn-out paper. Their inventory is in their brain. All those are opportunities.”

According to him, AI-enabled systems supported by local infrastructure could help small businesses automate inventory management, improve forecasting and strengthen supply chains.

“That’s the opportunity for our boys and girls,” he said. “But infrastructure for it must be accessible to them.”

The All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primaries held across the three senatorial districts of Ogun State on Monday were conducted peacefully, orderly and without any reported incident, contrary to earlier insinuations by one of the aspirants over alleged planned violence.

As early as 8:00 a.m., party members trooped out in large numbers to the designated collation centres across the 236 wards in the state to cast their votes for candidates of their choice in an atmosphere described by observers as calm and well-coordinated.

In Ogun East Senatorial District, Governor Dapo Abiodun emerged victorious as the sole contestant after his rival, Senator Gbenga Daniel, stepped down from the race a few hours before the exercise, citing perceived hostility — a claim many party members and voters dismissed as unfounded.

At several wards visited across the district, party faithful were seen openly queueing behind Governor Abiodun in affirmation of his candidacy, while electoral officials conducted the exercise peacefully.

A similar atmosphere played out in Ogun Central Senatorial District, where Senator Shuaib Salisu emerged as the consensus candidate. APC members were seen queueing in front of his posters across various voting centres monitored during the exercise.

In Ogun West, the same orderly process was witnessed as Hon. Jimoh Olusola Odugbele coasted to victory amid massive support from party members.

The election also went peacefully in Remo North Local Government Area, with party leaders and members applauding the orderly conduct of the exercise across the council area.

Across the LGA, voters turned out massively for the primary elections held at the various ward secretariats. Reports gathered from the field indicated that Governor Abiodun maintained a commanding lead with overwhelming margins, while Senator Daniel trailed distantly.

Declaring the result in Ward 9, Ode Remo, the Presiding Officer, Mr. Opeyemi Odunsi, announced that Governor Abiodun polled 1,116 votes, while Senator Daniel recorded zero vote.

Similarly, in Ward 10, Governor Abiodun secured 714 votes as against Senator Daniel’s zero vote. The result was announced by Oladipupo Ogunsanya.

In Ward 2, Isara, Governor Abiodun polled 532 votes, while Senator Daniel again recorded zero vote. The result was declared by the Presiding Officer, Yusuf Asenuga.

Speaking after participating in the primary election at Ward 3, Iperu, in Ikenne Local Government Area, Governor Abiodun dismissed insinuations of planned attacks or violence during the exercise.

The governor, who secured 810 votes out of the 812 accredited party members in his ward, said the exercise across the state had remained peaceful, transparent and credible.

“I want to debunk the perception some people are trying to create. Someone claimed that he withdrew from the race because of perceived or planned violence.

“We had an election here on Saturday. Even though it started a bit late, I monitored the exercise across the 236 wards in the state and the 103 wards in Ogun East.

“I did not hear that anybody stepped on anyone’s toes. The process was free, fair, and transparent. It was an election, not an affirmation. In an affirmation, people simply say yes or no, but here, people voted, results were collated, and winners were announced,” he said.

Abiodun maintained that there was nothing unusual about aspirants stepping down from contests, describing such decisions as noble and voluntary.

“This morning, I received text messages from aspirants in Ogun West saying they were no longer contesting. Last night, I also received multiple messages from aspirants in Ogun Central stepping down for another aspirant, and none of them claimed it was because of perceived or planned violence.

“So, if an aspirant in Ogun East steps down, we will clap for him, applaud him, and consider it a noble gesture.

“But for him to begin to mischaracterise the situation by claiming he stepped down because of planned violence is very disturbing,” he added.

The governor further stated that the prevailing peace across the state during the primaries reflected the stability his administration has sustained over the years.

“Normally, around this period in Ogun State, there would have been a total breakdown of law and order. The centre would not hold anymore, and people would be harassed left, right, and centre, perhaps because they were not towing the line of one person or another.

“Today, everybody in Ogun State is going about their normal activities peacefully,” he stated.

Recalling his political experience, the governor noted that he contested and won the 2019 governorship primary through the direct primary system despite the turbulence that characterised the process at the time.

“Today, seven years into my tenure as governor, I am once again presenting myself to serve my people in the Red Chamber,” he added.

He also appreciated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, the media and party members for ensuring a peaceful and successful exercise across the state.

Speaking while announcing the result at Ward 3, APC representative, Prince Waheed Adedotun, disclosed that out of the 837 registered party members in the ward, 812 were accredited, while Governor Abiodun polled 810 votes.

He added that no other candidate was represented at the exercise as all voters queued behind the governor.

A fire outbreak on Monday disrupted activities at the oncology department of National Hospital Abuja, forcing the emergency evacuation of patients and medical personnel from the affected unit.

Vanguard learnt that the incident, which was reportedly triggered by an electrical fault, was quickly contained before it could spread to other sections of the hospital.

Patients receiving treatment at the oncology unit, including those undergoing chemotherapy and emergency care, were moved to safer areas within the facility as a precautionary measure.

A witness at the hospital told journalists the incident began after repeated electrical fluctuations in the unit, adding that the power supply had been unstable before it eventually went out completely.

The source further explained that a strong burning smell, believed to be from electrical wiring, was noticed before smoke began to spread through the department.

The witness also noted that patients and medical staff were immediately instructed to evacuate the building, while those receiving treatment were relocated to other units within the hospital for continued care.

Although no casualties were recorded, smoke was said to have lingered around the affected area hours after the incident, prompting hospital authorities to temporarily suspend operations in the oncology unit.

While investigations have commenced to determine the exact cause of the outbreak, hospital officials confirmed that no injuries or deaths occurred as a result of the fire.

President Bola Tinubu has condemned the killing of one of the abducted teachers from Esiele community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, while assuring that ongoing security operations will secure the release of all remaining victims.

According to a State House press release signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), the President described the incident as “barbaric” and expressed sympathy to affected families and the state government.

The Monday statement was issued from the State House, Abuja, and signed by Bayo Onanuga on May 18, 2026.

The statement said: “President Bola Tinubu has condemned as barbaric the reported killing of one of the abducted teachers from the Esiele community in Oyo State, while the rescue operation is underway.”

It added that armed men had invaded schools in the community.

“Bandits invaded the Esiele community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State last Friday.

“They abducted staff, students, and pupils of Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School and L.A. Primary School,” it read.

The Presidency confirmed that security agencies have been deployed to track the perpetrators and rescue the victims.

It added, “Security operatives are working around the clock to rescue the victims and apprehend the bandits and their collaborators within the community.”

Tinubu also expressed sympathy to the state leadership and families affected.

He emphasized federal-state coordination in the rescue effort.

“I sympathise with Governor Seyi Makinde and commend the steps he has taken on the matter. I sympathise with the families of the kidnapped victims.”

“The Federal Government is working with the Oyo State government to rescue all the victims. I commend the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioners of Police in Oyo and Kwara States for their quick intervention and the deployment of a tactical and the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) team to rescue the victims,” Tinubu stated.

The President further stated that he is closely monitoring the operation.

He assured, “The IGP, following my instructions, is personally leading the tech-driven operation. We expect a breakthrough soon. The bandits and all their local collaborators will be fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law.”

He also linked the incident to broader security reforms, calling for legislative action.

“Cases of kidnapping further make imperative the establishment of state police to man some of our underserved areas.

“The National Assembly should accelerate the enactment of the law creating state police,” Tinubu concluded.

The Anambra State Government has introduced strict new legislation regulating funeral rites, effectively outlawing midweek burials and banning the presentation of items such as cows, goats and other expensive gifts during condolence visits.

The law, enacted by the Anambra State House of Assembly, is aimed at regulating burial and funeral ceremony activities in the state.

According to the law obtained by our correspondent on Monday, the state described the move as a major step towards curbing extravagant funeral practices that have long placed heavy financial burdens on bereaved families.

The regulations are also aimed at boosting economic productivity, reducing extravagant spending and stopping prolonged, lavish funeral activities from disrupting working days.

Under the legislation, “No person shall give to the deceased person’s family, as a condolence gift, any item exceeding money, one jar of palm wine, one carton of beer and one crate of soft drinks.

“All burial and funeral ceremonies are now restricted to Saturdays only. Midweek (Monday to Friday) burials are prohibited. All burial ceremonies must be completed within one day.”

The burial law also contains far-reaching provisions aimed at reducing ostentatious funeral ceremonies across the state, stating that offenders are liable to a fine of ₦100,000, or six months’ imprisonment, or both.

By the law, the common practice of presenting cows, goats, bags of rice and other expensive items at funerals and condolence visits is banned.

The law is intended to remove financial burden and pressure on bereaved families and to curb oppressive practices during burials.

It states, “All burial ceremonies must be completed within one day, while wake-keep ceremonies have been abolished entirely.

“Vigil masses, services of songs and related religious activities must end by 9pm, and no food, drinks, live bands or cultural entertainment may be provided during such events.

“The law also prohibits the erection of billboards, banners and posters of deceased persons anywhere in the state.

Only directional signs leading to burial venues are permitted, and they cannot be displayed earlier than seven days before the burial date.

“Public display of caskets for advertisement or sale is barred, and dancing with caskets is prohibited.

Undertakers are limited to six persons during funeral activities.

“Corpses are not to remain in mortuaries beyond two months from the date of death.

“Any corpse kept longer risks being classified as a ‘rejected corpse’ and may be buried in government-designated burial grounds to be established in every community.”

The legislation also seeks to limit excessive spending by making food and drinks optional for guests and banning the sharing of souvenirs during funerals.

“Second funeral rites are prohibited except in legacy-related cases.

“The wearing of uniform attire, popularly known as ‘aso ebi’, is restricted to immediate family members, church groups, ‘umunna’, ‘umuada’ and ‘iyom di’, where applicable.

“To enforce compliance, the state will establish monitoring and implementation committees in various communities to oversee the registration of deaths, approve burial ceremonies and monitor adherence to the law.

Traditional youth practices deemed disruptive have also been outlawed, including public display of photographs of the deceased, destruction of crops or household property, and unauthorised use of firearms during burials,” it added.

The government’s latest move is aimed at restoring order to burial ceremonies and easing the financial burden on families.

The law also warns against the blocking of roads and streets during burial ceremonies.

An All Progressive Congress aspirant, Ajibola Adetula Oludasa has rejected the outcome of the Owo/Ose Federal Constituency primary, alleging that no voting took place in any ward and that results were fabricated.

In a letter to the APC National Chairman, Oludasa said party members were mobilized and ready to vote, but instead of allowing voting, the committee announced concocted results in public.

Oludasa said that “There were irregularities in the conduct of the primaries. Voting materials were not seen in the constituency during the purported conduct of the primary election.

“I don’t know how the committee came to the result declared in my constituency.

“It is surprising that results were announced in political wards where elections were not conducted.

“This casts doubt in the minds of the people on the legitimacy of the results declared.”

Oludasa warned that allowing the result to stand could harm President Bola Tinubu’s reelection chances, saying party members were already disenchanted.

These actions undermine internal democracy, violate the principles of fairness and transparency, and disenfranchise bona fide party members.

Accepting such a result would damage the credibility of the party and weaken our chances in the general election,” he said.

He called for the nullification of the result and the conduct of a fresh, free, fair, and transparent primary in line with party guidelines and the Electoral Act 2022.

The aspirant also blamed the state party leadership under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for the conduct of the exercise.

He cautioned that the APC risked repeating the mistakes of the PDP, which lost power after controlling 30 states and believing it was unbeatable.

“If the leadership does not allow democracy to thrive in the country, the people may be forced to join the coalition against the APC,” he said.

The Nigeria Revenue Service, in collaboration with the Joint Revenue Board (JRB), has announced the implementation of a new Taxpayer Identification (Tax ID) system for all taxable persons in the country.

The agency made the announcement in a public notice issued on its X handle on Monday, stating that the reform is backed by Sections 6, 7, and 8 of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025, which requires every taxable person to obtain a Tax ID.

According to the NRS, the new system is designed to strengthen tax administration, improve transparency, and streamline service delivery across federal and sub-national tax structures.

The agency explained that the Tax ID would serve as a unified identity for all taxpayers nationwide.

The Tax ID will serve as a single, unified identity for all taxpayers, enabling seamless interaction with tax authorities at both federal and sub-national levels,” the NRS said.

“It is designed to consolidate taxpayer records, eliminate duplication, and ensure more efficient management of tax-related information,” it added.

The revenue authority noted that the new system would simplify tax processes such as registration, filing, and payment.

It said, “The initiative will simplify tax compliance processes, including registration, tax filing, and payment procedures.”

The NRS further stated that the reform would improve transparency and accountability in tax collection by enhancing visibility of taxpayer data and reducing revenue leakages.

It added that the Tax ID framework would harmonise taxpayer information across all levels of government.

“The system will improve transparency by enabling better visibility and tracking of taxpayer records while reducing leakages and improving accountability in tax collection,” the agency said.

“The framework will also harmonise taxpayer information across all levels of government.”

The agency also disclosed that the new Tax ID system will replace the existing Tax Identification Number (TIN) Validation API currently used by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), financial institutions, and other organisations.

It directed all organisations requiring integration or validation services for individuals, enterprises, and business names to contact the Standardisation and Modernisation Department of the JRB for access to the new API and integration guidelines.

Similarly, organisations handling corporate entity validation have been advised to contact the Tax Automation Department of the NRS.

The reform is part of broader efforts by the revenue authorities to modernise Nigeria’s tax ecosystem and enhance compliance through digital systems.

Four people were killed and another eight wounded when a gunman opened fire near the southern Turkish city of Mersin on Monday, the DHA and IHA news agencies reported.

At least two people were killed when the assailant opened fire inside a restaurant, with the two others killed elsewhere, and the assailant fleeing in a car, DHA said.

The shooting struck north of Tarsus, about 40 kilometres (25 miles) northeast of Mersin, prompting a widespread police manhunt to locate the shooter that also involved helicopters, it said.

DHA said the shooter was a 17-year-old armed with a shotgun.

The violence came a month after two shooting attacks by teenagers rocked Turkey.

In the first incident, 16 people were injured, while the second attack claimed 10 lives, most of them young school children.

AFP

The Federal Road Safety Corps on Monday launched a strategic intervention patrol, code-named ‘Operation Guduma’, to check the use of fake diplomatic number plates as well as overloading on roads.

The Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, disclosed this in Awka during the inauguration of the operation.

Mohammed, represented by the corps’ head of Transport Union Coordination Unit, Oko Etuali, said the corps discovered that many individuals were using fake ambassadorial and diplomatic number plates to ply the roads.

He said the development had become a source of concern in view of the prevailing insecurity in the country.

“We discovered that most people are faking ambassadorial or diplomatic number plates and using them to ply the roads.

“Considering the insecurity in the country, the corps launched this strategic intervention patrol to ensure that all those using fake ambassadorial number plates and other illegal government number plates are brought to book,” he said.

He explained that one of the statutory functions of the FRSC was to design and produce number plates, while state governments were responsible for issuing them to government officials, including lawmakers.

According to him, the FRSC only advises state governments on the withdrawal of number plates issued to lawmakers after the expiration of their tenure.

Most of the time, during handover processes or change of government, many former officials fail to return the number plates issued to them.

“The number plates issued to government officials carry expiry dates, making them easy to identify,” he said.

Mohammed said the operation had already commenced in some states, adding that the exercise in Anambra and Enugu states would run from May 18 until May 22.

On overloading, he said the newly created Transport Union Coordination Unit had commenced sensitisation campaigns at motor parks to educate motorists on the dangers associated with the practice.

“The mentality of many drivers is that the more passengers or goods they load, the more money they make, without considering the safety of other road users,” he said

He consequently noted that after the enlightenment campaign, the FRSC will begin enforcement, adding that any driver found complicit will be sanctioned to serve as a deterrence to others.

(NAN)

Marwa made the remarks at the opening session of a two-day National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP) Consultative Forum organised by the agency on Monday in Abuja.

He said UNODC projections suggest a 40 per cent spike in drug use across Africa by 2030, while recent reports from the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime (GI-TOC) indicate that West Africa remains a high-pressure corridor for cocaine flows between Latin America and Europe.

He added that Nigeria’s drug landscape was becoming increasingly complex due to the surge in synthetic substances, prescription drug abuse, poly-drug use, and New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), as well as the digitalisation of the drug trade through encrypted platforms and dark-web operations.

As Africa’s most populous nation and largest economy, Nigeria cannot afford to be a passive observer. The risks to our youth, our workforce, and our national security are too high.

“This forum is therefore our battle room for the next five years. Our primary objective is to finalise the Zero Draft of the NDCMP 2026–2030, a roadmap built on the rigorous summative evaluation of our previous cycle.

“The new plan introduces two critical pillars to our strategy, that is: the Alternative Development and Sustainable Livelihoods that addresses the socio-economic drivers of the drug trade.

This is also as well as disrupting the illicit drug economy, using financial intelligence to choke the lifeblood of trafficking networks,” he said.

Marwa acknowledged the support of local and international partners, especially the UNODC and ECOWAS, in the development of the 2026–2030 NDCMP draft.

He urged participants to recognise that the drug problem is not an abstract concept but a daily reality in homes, schools, and communities.

“We are here not just as policy-makers and experts, but as parents, citizens, and guardians of the next generation. Despite our different backgrounds, our goal is singular and that is a drug-free Nigeria.

“I urge you to use the next two days to think boldly. Challenge the status quo, propose innovations. Your inputs will determine the trajectory of our nation’s safety for the next half-decade.

“I look forward to a final NDCMP 2026–2030 that stands as a roadmap of hope and promise for a safer, healthier Nigeria,” Marwa added.

In his goodwill message, Mr Cheikh Toure, Country Representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), called for stronger community-based participation in Nigeria’s drug control efforts.

Toure said effective responses to drug abuse and trafficking cannot be achieved from the centre alone.

He commended the NDLEA for leading the consultative process, noting that Nigeria’s drug challenge is becoming increasingly complex and expanding in scope.

He said drug control in a country with 36 states, the FCT and 774 local government areas must be driven at community level to be effective.

“State and local governments must take ownership of the response by providing funding, integrating drug control priorities into development plans, and ensuring services reach grassroots communities,” he said.

Toure described the NDCMP as an opportunity to align responsibilities across all levels of government and strengthen coordination for real impact.

He stressed that without such commitment, even the strongest national strategy may not deliver the desired results.

He also called for greater inclusion of young people in drug control policies, describing them as both a vulnerable group and key partners in prevention and response efforts.

He further emphasised gender inclusion, noting that women and girls face unique vulnerabilities but remain central to prevention, treatment, and community resilience.

In her remarks, Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, commended the NDLEA for its sustained commitment, professionalism, and proactive approach in tackling drug abuse and illicit trafficking in Nigeria.

She said the agency’s efforts in advocacy, enforcement, rehabilitation, and stakeholder collaboration continue to make a meaningful impact in protecting communities and restoring hope to affected individuals and families.

“As we work collectively to develop a robust and responsive National Drug Control Master Plan, it is important that we adopt a holistic and multi-sectoral approach that integrates education, healthcare, law enforcement, community engagement, and social support systems.

“Such collaboration is essential to addressing both the root causes and consequences of substance abuse in our society.

“I therefore urge participants at this forum to engage constructively, share valuable insights, and develop practical recommendations that will strengthen Nigeria’s drug control framework and ensure a sustainable outcome for future generations,” she said.

The Speaker, Katsina State House of Assembly, Nasir Daura, has been declared the winner of the ruling All Progressives Congress Senate primary election in Katsina State.

He defeated his closest rival, Ahmed Kabir, in Monday’s APC senatorial primary election for the Daura zone

Daura zone comprises 12 Local Government Areas: Baure, Bindawa, Daura, Dutsi, Ingawa, Kankia, Kusada, Mai’Adua, Mani, Mashi, Sandamu, and Zango.

Details soon…

The Ballon d’Or winner was substituted after half an hour during Sunday’s 2-1 Ligue 1 defeat against Paris FC “as a precaution after experiencing some discomfort in his right calf,” PSG said in a statement.

“Dembele will be having treatment over the next few days,” the club added.

The 29-year-old did not appear to be struggling when he left the field and boarded the team bus after the match without limping.

“I think it is just due to fatigue,” coach Luis Enrique told the press on Sunday.

“It has been a tricky end to the season but now we have two weeks to prepare for the biggest match in our history.”

The former Barcelona player has suffered numerous physical setbacks this season, particularly thigh and calf issues.

Meanwhile, Achraf Hakimi resumed individual training on Saturday after a thigh problem, as did Willian Pacho, Nuno Mendes, and Lucas Chevalier.

All three were unavailable for Sunday’s match against Paris FC.

PSG clinched a fifth straight French title, and a record-extending 14th overall, with a 2-0 win over nearest challengers Lens last Wednesday.

Luis Enrique’s side face Arsenal in Budapest on May 30, when they will attempt to retain the European crown they won for the first time in the club’s history last season.

AFP

Controversial Lagos socialite and nightlife entrepreneur, Mike Nwogu, popularly known as Pretty Mike, has disclosed that he spent over N100 million renovating his nightclub, Proxy Lagos, 

following months of closure after a raid by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.

Speaking with journalists at the club, Pretty Mike said the renovation project became necessary to reposition the business and improve the overall experience for customers after the shutdown period.

According to him, the nightclub remained closed for about nine months, a situation he described as financially and emotionally challenging for both him and members of his team.

“I spent over N100 million renovating the club. After everything that happened, I felt there was a need to rebuild and create something even better for people who support my business,” he said.

The nightlife entrepreneur explained that despite the prolonged closure, he was able to stay afloat through multiple income streams and support from family members and business associates.

“The brand, Pretty Mike, is always making money. That is what has kept me afloat regardless,” he stated.

Pretty Mike revealed that beyond nightlife, he is actively involved in construction and real estate businesses, where he builds and sells properties.

“I have a construction firm. I’m also slightly into real estate where I build and sell properties. Then, of course, there’s family support. People feel safe investing with me because they know I’m not the type to disappear,” he added.

He further noted that the credibility he has built over the years has encouraged many people to invest in his projects and businesses.

Speaking on his controversial public image, the socialite admitted that controversy has become attached to his brand over time, although he does not deliberately seek scandals.

My brand is already a controversial brand. It doesn’t necessarily mean I like controversy, but I found out that in this business, it is part of it,” he said.

Despite his flamboyant public appearances, Pretty Mike described himself as a private person who naturally prefers a quiet lifestyle.

“I actually hate parties and loud music. I like staying indoors by myself, but because nightlife is my business and source of income, I have to push myself out there,” he explained.

On marriage, Pretty Mike said he still hopes to settle down in the future, describing marriage as an important life achievement.

“Am I looking forward to marriage? Yes. I believe marriage is a major achievement. There’s nothing more beautiful than building a family and raising children together,” he said.

He, however, noted that the increasing rate of failed marriages has made many single people more cautious about settling down.

The socialite also stressed that character and attitude matter more to him than physical appearance when choosing a life partner.

“For me, it’s about behaviour, attitude and personality. Physical appearance is not enough to sustain a marriage,” he added.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder has been named the NBA Most Valuable Player for the second consecutive year, becoming only the 14th player in history to win back-to-back MVP awards.

The reigning NBA champion comfortably led voting, receiving 83 of a possible 100 first-place votes. Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokić finished third in the race, while San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama placed third overall in voting.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s latest achievement continues a historic run for international players, marking the eighth straight year that a non-American has won the prestigious award.

Speaking at a celebration at the Thunder practice facility, where he was joined by teammates dressed in matching Burberry trench coats gifted to him, the Canadian star reflected on the team’s role in his success.

Basketball’s obviously a team sport,” he said.

“All the numbers, all the accolades, everything that I do on the court, if we won 10 games, I wouldn’t be in this conversation. So, thank you guys so much. I love you guys,” he added.

He dominated the voting with 83 first-place selections, while Jokić received 10 and Wembanyama got five. Luka Dončić of the Los Angeles Lakers finished fourth, with Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons in fifth place.

Cunningham’s two first-place votes marked the first time since 2021 that a U.S.-born player received such recognition in MVP voting.

Further down the rankings, Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics placed sixth, while Kawhi Leonard of the Los Angeles Clippers and Donovan Mitchell of the Cleveland Cavaliers tied for seventh.

Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault praised his star player’s consistency and growth

Who he is has never changed,” Daigneault said. “I think he’s touched up the edges on his game and on his leadership and on his perspective, just like anybody else that’s coming of age.”

The MVP win further cements Gilgeous-Alexander’s status as one of the NBA’s elite stars and underlines Oklahoma City’s dominance in the current era.

The Academy of Medical Sciences, Nigeria, on Monday raised concerns over the recent outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, warning of the risk of cross-border transmission into Nigeria.

In a statement signed by the Chairman of its Rapid Response Committee and the Academy President, Prof. Obinna Onwujekwe and Emeritus Prof. Osato Giwa-Osagie, the Academy called for intensified national surveillance and preparedness.

The statement noted that as of May 16, 2026, the outbreak had recorded eight laboratory-confirmed cases, 246 suspected cases, and 80 suspected deaths in the DRC, as well as two confirmed cases, including one death, in Uganda.

Describing Ebola as a severe and often fatal viral haemorrhagic disease, the Academy said past outbreaks had recorded case fatality rates ranging from 25 to 90 per cent, depending on the strain and response capacity.

The recurrence of Ebola outbreaks within the African continent underscores the continued vulnerability of all nations to transboundary infectious diseases,” the statement read.

It added that Ebola is transmitted through direct contact with blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected persons, contaminated materials, infected animals, and the bodies of deceased victims during burial rites.

The Academy stressed that Nigeria’s successful containment of the 2014 Ebola outbreak demonstrated the effectiveness of a coordinated public health response, but warned against complacency.

It urged the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Health, Port Health Services, and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, to strengthen border surveillance, particularly at international airports, seaports, and land crossings.

Among its recommendations were enhanced screening of travellers from affected countries, risk-based movement control measures, and improved diagnostic capacity for early detection and confirmation of suspected cases.

The Academy also called for the activation of emergency preparedness systems, including isolation facilities, rapid response teams, and adequate stockpiling of personal protective equipment.

On healthcare readiness, it advised hospitals and clinics to enforce strict infection prevention and control measures, establish Ebola-specific clinical pathways, and ensure prompt isolation of suspected cases.

It further emphasised the need for robust public risk communication to prevent misinformation, panic, and stigmatisation, urging authorities to disseminate accurate information in major Nigerian languages.

“The Academy stands ready to support the Government of Nigeria, healthcare institutions, and the Nigerian public through scientific guidance, expert consultation, public education, and collaborative response initiatives,” the statement added.

It also encouraged regional collaboration with neighbouring countries and international partners to monitor and contain the outbreak.

The Academy advised Nigerians to remain calm but vigilant, maintain proper hygiene, avoid contact with bodily fluids, refrain from unsafe burial practices, and promptly report suspected symptoms to health authorities.

“Together, through vigilance, coordinated action, and adherence to public health measures, Nigeria can effectively prevent and contain any potential spread of Ebola within its borders,” the statement concluded

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday granted bail to former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, in the sum of N100m over charges bordering on alleged breach of national security.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, while ruling on the bail application, imposed stringent conditions for the former governor’s release.

The court held that the surety must reside in either the Maitama or Asokoro districts of Abuja and must deposit the original Certificate of Occupancy of a landed property with the court registry.

The judge further ruled that the surety must be a federal civil servant not below Grade Level 17 and must provide evidence of salary payments for at least three months, authenticated by a bank manager within the court’s jurisdiction.

Justice Abdulmalik also directed the surety to depose to an affidavit of means, enter into a bail bond and submit a recent passport photograph to the court registry.

As part of the conditions, El-Rufai was ordered to deposit all valid international passports with the court.

The court also directed the submission of a verification letter from the surety’s department, along with a tax clearance certificate covering the last six months

In addition, the judge ordered the former governor to report to the Department of State Services headquarters on the last Friday of each month by 10 am to sign the attendance register, pending the determination of the case.

The court warned that any breach of the conditions would result in the bail being automatically revoked.

Justice Abdulmalik further ordered El-Rufai to submit a letter of attestation from the Chairman of the Kaduna Traditional Council.

The bail ruling followed the arraignment of the former governor by the Department of State Services on an amended five-count charge bordering on alleged breach of national security.

The DSS had, on April 23, arraigned El-Rufai before the same court, where he pleaded not guilty to all counts.

At the proceedings, counsel for the DSS, Oluwole Aladedoye (SAN), informed the court that the prosecution had filed a further amended five-count charge on April 13 and sought to substitute the earlier three-count charge.

Count four of the amended charges marked marked FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026, reads “That you, Mallam Nasir El Rufai, adult, male, intentionally and without authorization, intercepted the communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, as admitted by you on 13″ February, 2026, while appearing as a guest on Arise TV Station’s Prime Time Programme in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Amendment Act, 2024.”

Counsel to the defendant, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), confirmed receipt of the amended charge and did not oppose the application.

The court subsequently struck out the earlier three-count charge and read the amended counts to El-Rufai, who again pleaded not guilty.

The defence had drawn the court’s attention to a pending bail application filed on February 17, noting that a further affidavit initially missing from the court file was later located during proceedings.

The DSS, however, told the court that it was not opposing the bail request.

The defence also filed an application seeking to quash the amended charge, which the prosecution urged the court to dismiss for lacking merit.

After hearing arguments from both parties, Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the matter for hearing before delivering the bail ruling on Monday.

The House of Representatives member representing Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II, Biodun Omoleye, on Monday rejected the result of the All Progressives Congress primary election for the constituency.

Omoleye, who alleged “widespread irregularities, voter suppression, and intimidation during the exercise”, which he said subverted constituents’ wishes, promised that he would challenge the results to regain his mandate in a constitutional manner.

The lawmaker, in a statement in Ado Ekiti on Monday by his Media Director, Gloria Femi-Ige, called on the party leadership at all levels “to urgently intervene and probe the alleged irregularities surrounding the conduct of the primary election.

“The credibility of the party’s internal democratic process could be damaged if the outcome of the election is allowed to stand without proper investigation,” he said.

Omoleye described the primary election in his constituency on Saturday as “deeply flawed and compromised. The process fell short of democratic standards expected within the party.

“Several wards witnessed harassment and intimidation of my supporters. Genuine party members were denied the opportunity to vote while electoral materials and figures were manipulated in favour of a predetermined outcome,” he stated.

Omoleye alleged that many of his supporters who turned out to participate in the exercise were either threatened or forcibly dispersed from polling areas.

He stated, “This is not the democracy we advocate for. The will of the people was clearly subverted, and what we witnessed on Saturday was a coordinated effort to silence the voice of genuine party faithful.”

Omoleye, who urged his supporters across Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II to remain peaceful and law-abiding while seeking redress, vowed to challenge the outcome through lawful and constitutional means, describing the exercise as a “stolen mandate.”

He said, “Our struggle is not just about an election; it is about protecting democracy, ensuring fairness and upholding the voice of the people. We will not relent until justice is served.”

Recall that the Chairman of the APC Primary Election Committee in Ekiti State, Banjo Adedoyin, announced the result of the election for the constituency in Ado Ekiti on Sunday.

Adedoyin had stated that a commissioner in the state, Oladapo Karounwi, polled 6573 votes; Omoleye scored 1412 votes; Victor Kolade 2096 votes, Samuel Olusola 705; and Olatunde Oyetola 1202 votes.

The Federal Commissioner representing Ogun State at the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Akeem Amosun, has intensified efforts to rally support for the All Progressives Congress senatorial primary in Ogun Central, calling on party members to back Senator Salisu Afolabi ahead of the exercise scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026.

Amosun made the appeal during a political gathering held at his residence on Monday in Abeokuta, where he hosted party faithfuls, youth groups, women leaders, and political associates.

Addressing the crowd, he urged APC members across wards in Ogun Central Senatorial District to turn out peacefully at their polling units and ensure overwhelming support for Afolabi in the primary election. He stressed that unity and discipline within the party remained crucial to securing victory.

He noted that the same level of commitment demonstrated during previous internal party alignments, including the support for Hon. Afolabi Afuape, should be replicated in backing Afolabi’s senatorial ambition.

According to him, “Just as our members stood firmly behind Afolabi Afuape, the same spirit, dedication, and loyalty are required for the success of Senator Salisu Afolabi in the senatorial primary election. We must remain united and committed to the progress of our great party.”

Amosun described Afolabi as a loyal party member with the experience and capacity to represent Ogun Central effectively at the Senate, adding that the APC must continue to prioritize internal cohesion as it prepares for the primary.

He also appealed for peaceful conduct during the election process, urging party members to avoid any actions that could disrupt the exercise, and emphasizing that politics should be guided by decorum and mutual respect.

The gathering reportedly drew enthusiastic supporters who expressed confidence in Afolabi’s candidacy and pledged to mobilize votes across the senatorial district. Many attendees described Amosun’s intervention as a strong signal of unity within the party ahead of the contest.

One of the kidnapped teachers of Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, Michael Oyedokun, has been killed.

Oyedokun was beheaded in a new video allegedly released by bandits on Sunday.

The video obtained by our correspondent on Telegram on Monday showed that the teacher was gruesomely killed after being tied and forced to speak.

The viral inhumane video has raised fresh concerns over the safety of the remaining victims.

This latest development has thrown the community into mourning as residents, families of the victims and native continue to call on security agencies and the Oyo State Government to intensify rescue operations to secure the release of those still in captivity before being killed.

Confirming the killing of the teacher, Dr Suleimon Olanrewaju, the Special Adviser on Media to Governor Seyi Makinde, in a statement on Monday, said the governor extended his condolences to the victim’s family and assured his government would explore both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to rescue others in the kidnappers’ den.

He also added that about six suspects related to the kidnapping incident have been arrested.

He equally sympathised with the family members of the tactical team of soldiers, Amotekun Corps and local vigilantes, who lost their lives in the rescue operation.

According to him, the operatives lost their lives when they ran into Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), planted by the abductors.

He stated that the wounded security personnel were responding positively to treatment and that the government would spare no cost in taking care of them.

He appealed to the victims’ relatives, religious bodies and other interested parties to exercise patience, promising that the government will rescue and reunite the victims with their families.

“So, please, there may not be quick fixes, but we will continue to endeavour to push ourselves to the limit to resolve this quickly.

“What we know right now is that seven teachers in all were abducted. And, unfortunately, we got a video this morning that one of the teachers, I understand, the mathematics teacher, was killed by the terrorists,” he stated.

Makinde, however, said the government has achieved some success with the operation, with some individuals already arrested in connection with the situation.

Well, from the information available from the Commissioner of Police, about six individuals have been arrested within the locality.

“Some of them, we believe, are perhaps informants or people running logistics for the terrorists.

“Also, three individuals of interest have been arrested by another security outfit within the state,” he said.

Online reports that the gunmen invaded the school on Friday, May 15, and abducted the principal, alongside other teachers and several students.

The attack, which happened some weeks after a failed kidnap attempt that left one traveler dead along the Ibadan-Ijebu road, has renewed concerns over rising insecurity in parts of Oyo State and across Nigeria.

culled from punch 

Three governorship aspirants of the All Progressives Congress in Yobe State have faulted the emergence of Baba Malam Wali as the party’s consensus candidate ahead of the 2027 governorship election, insisting on transparent primary elections.

The dissatisfied aspirants include former Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency, Mustapha Maihaja; ex-lawmaker Bashir Machina; and Kashim Musa Tumsah.

The aspirants argued that any attempt to impose a candidate on party members would violate the provisions of the Electoral Act and the APC constitution.

Speaking in Damaturu on Sunday on behalf of the group known as G-3, Tumsah said the consensus arrangement being promoted within the party did not follow due process.

According to him, the group was determined to ensure that democratic procedures were respected in selecting the party’s governorship flag bearer.

“The issue of consensus has not been properly handled. Since the laid-down process was not followed, we believe the arrangement has failed,” Tumsah said.

He added that the aspirants were entitled to demand direct primaries in line with the Electoral Act and APC guidelines.

Tumsah accused some party stakeholders of attempting to impose a candidate instead of allowing members to decide freely through voting.

What we want is a transparent exercise where APC members will vote and choose the candidate themselves.

“We will not accept a situation where election results are allegedly written without any real voting process taking place. The law guiding direct primaries must be respected,” he said.

The aspirant warned that the group could challenge the outcome of the exercise if the party leadership failed to ensure fairness and compliance with electoral regulations.

He, however, pledged that the group would support whoever emerged through a credible process.

“If a candidate emerges through a free and fair primary election, we will support him and work for the success of the party in the general election,” he added.

Also speaking, Machina urged APC supporters in the state to reject what he described as attempts to handpick candidates without proper consultation.

He argued that candidates produced through endorsements by a few influential figures, rather than democratic participation, might not protect the interests of the people of Yobe State.

Commuters travelling along the Ilorin–Igbeti Federal Highway in Kwara State were left stranded on Monday after heavy flooding overtook the collapsed Moro Bridge, submerging vehicles and disrupting movement across the busy interstate route.

The PUNCH gathered that the incident followed an overnight downpour that caused the Moro River to overflow its banks, leaving several vehicles trapped in floodwaters, while desperate passengers reportedly climbed onto car roofs awaiting rescue.

The affected bridge, located between Oko-Olowo/Mandala in Ilorin West and Asa local government areas, had earlier collapsed on April 30 after a heavy-duty articulated truck reportedly passed over the aging structure.

The collapse had already cut off a major transport link connecting Kwara State to neighbouring Oyo State and onward routes towards the Benin Republic border.

Monday’s flooding further worsened the situation, as the temporary diversion promised by the state government after the bridge collapse was yet to be completed.

Video footage obtained by The PUNCH from the scene showed vehicles partially submerged in the overflowing river, while stranded commuters struggled to navigate the flooded passage.

Residents and motorists expressed frustration over the prolonged delay in completing emergency intervention works at the site, warning that the situation could become more dangerous as the rainy season intensifies.

A trader identified simply as Kafayat lamented the impact of the incident on economic activities in the area.

“This development has negatively affected economic activities, causing delays and increasing the cost of transportation for commuters and businesses,” she said.

Some residents also questioned why an alternative bridge project located beside the collapsed structure had remained abandoned for several years.

The worsening condition has heightened fears among communities around the Moro River axis, especially with peak rainfall months still ahead.

Residents warned that more severe flooding could occur in July and August if urgent measures are not taken to restore safe passage across the river.

Following the initial collapse of the bridge in April, the Kwara State Government had announced traffic diversion measures and promised immediate intervention to ease the hardship faced by commuters.

The Commissioner for Works, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, had said the government was working with federal authorities to address the situation.

The Kwara State Government is working with federal authorities to immediately divert traffic following the collapse of the Moro Bridge overnight,” the commissioner had stated.

“The collapse occurred in the early hours after a heavy-duty truck passed over the bridge, resulting in a major disruption along the route,” he added.

Olododo also disclosed that engineers had been mobilised to begin palliative work on alternative routes to reduce traffic congestion and hardship for road users.

He further assured residents that construction was ongoing on a new Moro Bridge located a few metres away from the collapsed structure.

Despite the assurances, Monday’s flooding has now intensified public concern over the safety of commuters and the pace of response at the site.

The Moro Bridge, a colonial-era Bailey bridge, has for decades served as a critical crossing point linking parts of Kwara and Oyo states, although the structure has repeatedly undergone rehabilitation due to persistent structural defects.

International students willing to study in Canada are encouraged to 2026 Douglas University Entrance Scholarship.

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This post will explain all the details of the scholarship including how to successfully apply for it.

2026 Douglas University Entrance Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Canada
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• Category: Undergraduate Scholarships 
• Eligible Countries: All Countries 
• Reward: $100,000
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• Deadline: September 30, 2026

2026 Douglas University Entrance Scholarship Details:

Douglas College offers nearly $100,000 in entrance scholarships to new international students each year who have proven to be successful in their previous academic studies.

Douglas College currently has two categories of entrance scholarships available for Fall, Winter, and Summer semesters at Douglas College.

The Douglas College International Student Scholarship for the academic year 2025 is designed specifically for undergraduate international students.

Eligibility Requirements for 2026 Douglas College Scholarship

To be considered for the 2026 Douglas College Scholarship, 

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Deadline: September 30, 2026

OGOJA — A woman, identified as Blessing, said to be the wife of a herbalist known as Dr. Respect Ogar, allegedly bathed her husband’s second wife, Mary, with hot water, at the weekend.

The incident occurred on Saturday morning in Wodah village, Yala Local Government Area of Northern Cross River State.

According to a village source, the first wife became angry after her husband allegedly paid the bride price and conducted the traditional marriage rites for the second wife, while she, despite being married to him for many years and bearing five male children, had not had her bride price paid or undergone formal traditional rites.

“The second wife, Mary, is always mocking Blessing because the man has completed her bride price and traditional marriage rites, even though she has no child for him, while the first wife, who has been with him for years and has five sons, has not been formally married,” a source, Ochuole, said.

The source added that Mary’s persistent taunting allegedly angered Blessing, who on Saturday morning poured a pot of boiling water on her co-wife, leaving her with severe burns on her chest and stomach.

“She often tells her senior  mate that the husband bought her a plot of land and rented an apartment for her in town, while the first wife has nothing. All these made Blessing angry, and when Mary again began to taunt her on Saturday morning, she poured hot water on her,” the source added.

Mary is currently receiving treatment at the Ogoja General Hospital and is expected to be transferred to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar.

“She was first taken to Life First Clinic in Abachor, and arrangements have been made to move her to the Teaching Hospital in Calabar on Monday,” the source said.

It was further gathered that Blessing was arrested and taken to the Okuku Police Station. However, following threats by Mary’s family to retaliate, she was later transferred to the Divisional Police Station in Okpoma for her safety and further investigation.

ENUGU—Residents of Ukehe and Agu-Ekwegbe communities, in Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area of Enugu State, have been thrown into shock and mourning, following two gruesome murder incidents involving family members.

The Enugu State Police Command confirmed that the incidents occurred on May 15, 2026, and involved alleged beheadings carried out by two male suspects.

Police spokesman, Daniel Ndukwe, said a 40-year-old man, Anikwe Onyebuchi, allegedly used a cutlass to behead his 60-year-old mother, Anikwe Felicia, at Nkporogwu Ukehe community.

According to him, operatives from the Igbo-Etiti Police Division responded to the incident, and recovered the corpse and severed head, and deposited the remains in a mortuary after doctors confirmed the victim dead.

Ndukwe said the suspect was rescued from an angry mob that had severely beaten him before he was taken to hospital for treatment and subsequently rearrested.

In a separate incident at Agu-Ekwegbe community, another suspect identified as Joshua Eze allegedly killed his sister, Nwabuche Eze, and her daughter, Favour Eze, with a cutlass.

Officers from the Command’s Distress Response Squad reportedly responded to a distress call, recovered the bodies and deposited them in a mortuary after confirmation of death by medical personnel.

Police said the suspect was also rescued from a mob attack in critical condition but later died in hospital.

Ndukwe disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed that Joshua Eze allegedly buried the victims in a shallow grave alongside a dead white cock, raising suspicions of ritual activity.

Reacting to the incidents, the Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, condemned the killings, describing them as “barbaric,” and directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department to carry out thorough investigations.

The police commissioner also urged residents to avoid jungle justice and report criminal suspects to security agencies for lawful prosecution.

No fewer than 80 persons have died from a fresh outbreak of Ebola virus in at least three health zones, including Bunia, Rwampara and Mongbwalu of the Democratic Republic of Congo, according to data from the World Health Organisation on Sunday.

This is as the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, in a statement by its Director General, Jide Idris, on Sunday, said it has increased its surveillance of the disease.

The 17th outbreak in Congo, where Ebola was first identified in 1976, could in fact be much larger, given the high positivity rate of the initial samples and increasing number of suspected cases being reported, the WHO said.

The health organisation described Congo’s outbreak as “extraordinary” as there are no approved Bundibugyo virus-specific therapeutics or vaccines, unlike for Ebola-Zaire strains.

All but one of the country’s previous outbreaks were caused by the Zaire strain.

The DRC’s dense tropical forests are a natural reservoir for the Ebola virus.

Director General of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Jean Kaseya, said in a statement that he had requested technical guidance and recommendations on the potential need to declare the outbreak a ?public health emergency of continental security.

The often-fatal virus, which causes fever, body aches, vomiting and diarrhoea, spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected persons, contaminated materials or persons who have died from the disease, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

Reacting to the development, the NCDC boss said the centre was closely monitoring the situation due to increasing regional movement across African countries and was working with relevant stakeholders, including the Port Health Services under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, to strengthen preparedness within Nigeria’s public health system.

“NCDC is closely monitoring the situation and working with relevant stakeholders, including the Port Health Services, to ensure continued vigilance and preparedness within the public health system,” he stated.

The NCDC boss described Ebola virus disease as a severe viral illness transmitted through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, secretions, or contaminated materials of infected persons or animals.

He noted that the disease has an incubation period ranging from two to 21 days, while symptoms include fever, weakness, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea and, in severe cases, unexplained bleeding.

Idris said the agency had continued to maintain surveillance systems for Ebola and other epidemic-prone diseases while strengthening risk communication and community engagement activities nationwide.

He urged Nigerians to remain calm and avoid circulating misinformation about the disease.

“Members of the public should remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation,” he said.

The NCDC advised Nigerians to practice regular hand hygiene, avoid contact with bodily fluids of sick persons, refrain from handling dead animals or bushmeat from unknown sources, and promptly report unusual illnesses to the nearest health facility.

The agency also urged citizens to rely only on updates from official public health authorities.

Healthcare workers were advised to maintain a high index of suspicion for Ebola, especially in patients presenting symptoms compatible with the disease alongside relevant travel or exposure history.

Idris stressed the importance of strict adherence to infection prevention and control measures, including early identification and isolation of suspected cases, proper use of personal protective equipment, hand hygiene, and prompt reporting through established channels.

“NCDC will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary,” he added.

Nigeria gained international recognition for successfully containing an Ebola outbreak in 2014 after an infected traveller arrived in Lagos from Liberia.

Through rapid emergency response measures, aggressive contact tracing and coordinated public health interventions, the outbreak was curtailed within months.

The experience prompted significant investments in disease surveillance, emergency preparedness and laboratory capacity by the NCDC and the Federal Government, positioning Nigeria as one of Africa’s leading countries in epidemic response coordination

The lawmaker representing Surulere Constituency at the Lagos State House of Assembly, Desmond Elliot, has raised concerns over alleged intimidation and coercion ahead of the All Progressives Congress direct primaries in Surulere.

Speaking in a video posted in his X handle on Sunday, Elliot called on party leaders to ensure a free and fair exercise and accused some party members of attempting to influence voters through threats and intimidation.

While commending President Bola Tinubu and the APC leadership for approving direct primaries nationwide, Elliot said the process was designed to test the popularity of aspirants.

“I want to appreciate the President of this great country and the party leadership for allowing direct primaries to be held across the country. We say thank you so much because this is meant to test the popularity of all the aspirants across the board,” he said

The lawmaker, however, alleged that some individuals in Surulere were intimidating party members and attempting to force support for certain candidates.

“I want to bring to your notice that intimidation, coercion, arm-twisting and forcing people to follow their own candidate is what exists today in Surulere,” he said.

According to him, some party loyalists were allegedly threatened with exclusion from future empowerment programmes if they failed to support a preferred aspirant.

Please, this is not done and should not be done. We are all members of the same party,” Elliot added.

He further claimed that some local government workers were dismissed because of their support for him.

“We’ve been intimidated so much that a lot of people from the local government have been fired because they follow me. That should not be allowed,” he said.

Elliot also alleged that local government authorities had openly backed another aspirant months before the primaries.

“It is bad enough that the local government already took a side months ago to support a particular aspirant. I didn’t say anything,” he stated.

The APC chieftain claimed that his security personnel had been withdrawn shortly before the primaries.

“My security personnel were taken away from me yesterday for reasons best known to them. Now I am left alone to myself. What have I done?” he queried.

He warned against any attempt to cause violence during the exercise and appealed for peaceful conduct among party supporters.

“They want to bring people from outside and from within to cause mayhem and to cause trouble. Please allow for a free, fair election on the 20th of May, 2026,” he said.

Elliot urged party leaders to investigate the allegations and appealed to his supporters not to be intimidated.

“To all you lovers of Desmond Olusola Elliott, who believe in accessibility and fair play, do not be intimidated. Come out on that day because there will be maximum security guaranteed from the party,” he said.

The lawmaker also mobilised support for other APC candidates ahead of the elections, urging supporters to vote for Wasiu Eshinoku on May 18, Governor Kadri Obafemi Hamzat on May 21, and President Tinubu on May 23.

“Stop the intimidation in Surulere. We want peace in Surulere. God bless you,” Elliot said.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has confirmed that seven teachers were abducted during the recent attack on schools in the Oriire area of the state, while the exact number of missing pupils is still being determined.

The governor disclosed this on Sunday while addressing journalists on the security situation following the invasion of the schools by suspected gunmen.

He had earlier met with service commanders and heads of security agencies in the state to receive an update on the kidnapping incident.

Makinde revealed that an Islamic Studies teacher was killed during the attack, adding that security agencies had already arrested six suspects within the community and three other persons of interest in connection with the incident.

According to him, the attackers are believed to be members of armed groups fleeing intensified military operations against terrorists and bandits in the North-West.

“With the pressure on the terrorists and the bandits in the North-West, they will keep moving southward,” the governor said.

Makinde noted that he had been engaging with authorities in other states over the growing security threat, warning that terrorists displaced from conflict zones could take advantage of areas with weak security presence.

But the problem that we have is when you have pressure in one place, we must be prepared on this side to either repel or neutralise any terrorists fleeing the pressure points,” he stated.

The governor further disclosed that preliminary intelligence reports suggested that some of those arrested might have acted as informants for the attackers within the affected communities.

“The information available is that about six individuals have been arrested within the locality. Some of them we believe are informants. Also, three individuals of interest have been arrested,” Makinde added.

He stressed that the state government would not rely solely on military action in tackling the crisis, noting that consultations were ongoing with religious and community leaders, including officials of the Baptist Convention, as one of the affected schools is owned by the church.

“We have decided that we will adopt not just a kinetic approach. We are engaging leaders, elders and religious leaders, especially at the Baptist Convention,” he said.

Makinde appealed to residents to remain calm and assured families of the abducted victims that efforts were underway to secure their safe return.

“We are not taking this lightly. We will do everything within our means to resolve this quickly and bring our children back safely,” the governor assured.

Describing the development as “very difficult and challenging,” Makinde announced that the state government would commence daily press briefings to keep residents updated on rescue operations and security efforts

The Federal Government, through its Bureau of Public Procurement, on Sunday barred government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies from processing upward revisions of contract sums without first obtaining a Bureau certificate.

This was as it issued other sweeping guidelines that centralised the review of all contract variations and scope modifications under its authority. According to a statement signed by its Head of Press and Public Relations, Zira Nagga, the Bureau said the reform is designed to close one of the most persistent channels for cost inflation and corruption in Nigeria’s public procurement system.

The guidelines, issued pursuant to Sections 5(a) and (o) of the Public Procurement Act 2007, give effect to a Federal Executive Council-approved policy conveyed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation in December 2025.

The statement is titled ‘Contract Variations: BPP Releases Guidelines

The new guidelines replace an earlier 2013 framework that required Presidential approval only for variations above 15 per cent of the initial contract sum or N1bn.

Under the new framework, every request for a variation order, fluctuation claim, or scope modification, regardless of size, must first be submitted to the BPP for review and certification before proceeding to the relevant approving authority.

Nagga noted that a BPP Certificate of No Objection, valid for six months, is now a mandatory precondition for any further action. Variations processed without it will attract sanctions under the Public Procurement Act 2007, including suspension of responsible officers and debarment of contractors, the statement said.

It also quoted the Bureau’s Director-General, Adebowale Adedokun, as saying, “Variations must not become a backdoor for cost inflation and scope creep.

“These guidelines ensure that every adjustment to a public contract is necessary, justified, and delivers value to Nigerians. The BPP will apply these rules rigorously and fairly across all MDAs.”

Accordingly, the guidelines draw a firm line between permissible and impermissible grounds for variation. Acceptable grounds include unforeseen site conditions, material errors in design or bills of quantities, statutory changes after contract execution, significant price escalation due to macroeconomic shocks or force majeure, and value engineering improvements that reduce cost without altering scope.

Variations arising from inadequate planning, avoidable design flaws, or the addition of new components not contemplated in the original contract scope will be rejected outright, Nagga noted.

Such additions, the guidelines stated, must be procured as entirely separate contracts, a provision aimed at blocking the practice of using variations to effectively award new projects under the cover of an existing contract.

On fluctuation claims, adjustments for changes in the cost of labour, materials, and exchange rates, the guidelines introduced new deterrents against deliberate project delays.

It stated that, going forward, contractors found to have intentionally slowed down execution in order to generate larger fluctuation claims will be denied those claims and may be debarred if the claims are found to be bogus or overstated.

The revised approving authority thresholds are now tied to the augmentation sum, the amount of the increase, rather than the total revised contract cost. Works variations of N10bn and above will require Federal Executive Council approval.

It stated, “Those between N5bn and N10bn go to the Ministerial Tenders Board; those between N75m and N5bn to the Parastatal Tenders Board; and anything below N75m for works, or N50m for goods and services, can be approved at the Accounting Officer level.”

Similar thresholds apply to goods and services procurement. To address the upstream cause of many avoidable variations, the guidelines mandated the use of approved final designs for all procurements from the outset.

It also stated that the use of preliminary or flawed designs that subsequently generate unnecessary variations will attract regulatory sanctions, a provision targeting the entrenched practice of commencing projects with incomplete engineering designs.

On transparency, the BPP said all MDAs are required to publish details of every approved variation, including the contractor’s name, original contract sum, augmentation amount, revised contract sum, and grounds for the increase, on their websites and the BPP portal within 30 days of Tenders Board approval.

The BPP said it will also periodically submit council notes to the Federal Executive Council on reviewed and approved variations across government. The guidelines take immediate effect and apply to all ongoing projects regardless of when the original contract was awarded.

Three-time champions Nigeria will discover their opponents for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Tuesday when the Confederation of African Football conducts the draw for the tournament to be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The qualifying draw will be held at the headquarters of the Egyptian Football Association in Cairo ahead of the finals, which are scheduled to take place from June 19 to July 17, 2027.

Tagged AFCON PAMOJA 2027, it will be the first edition in the competition’s history to be co-hosted by three countries.

Nigeria won the tournament in 1980, 1994 and 2013. The Super Eagles also finished runners-up in 2023 and third in 2025.

A total of 48 teams, including the three co-hosts, will participate in the qualifiers.

According to CAF, the 48 participating countries will be divided into 12 groups of four teams, with the top two sides in each group qualifying automatically for the finals.

The qualifiers will be played across three FIFA international windows between September 2026 and March 2027.

CAF said, “Matchdays one and two are scheduled for September 21 to October 6, 2026, while the third and fourth rounds of fixtures will take place from November 9 to 17, 2026. The final qualification matches are set for March 22 to 30, 2027.

“For the co-hosts, the tournament represents more than just football.

“Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda view AFCON 2027 as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to accelerate infrastructure development, tourism and international investment while showcasing East Africa’s culture and passion for the game on the continental stage.”

Residents of Oke Egan in the Ilogbo-Eremi area of Badagry, Lagos State, were thrown into shock on Friday after the body of a sexagenarian woman, Victoria Adegoke, was found abandoned in a nearby bush.

PUNCH Metro learnt from community sources on Sunday that the deceased was allegedly found naked and was suspected of having been raped and strangled before her body was dragged into the bush.

One of the photographs obtained by PUNCH Metro on Sunday showed what appeared to be marks indicating that the victim’s hands had been tied by her assailants.

A community leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the incident, said Adegoke, believed to be in her 60s and a grandmother, was found around 6:10am on Friday.

He told our correspondent that the deceased had attended a programme at The Joy of Christ Ministry, popularly known as Ayo Jesu Church.

According to the source, Adegoke was allegedly ambushed by some hoodlums while returning home in the early hours of the day.

“The deceased is someone I know. Her daughter stays abroad. She went to church last Tuesday and had been there for some time because they were holding a programme that ended four days ago.

“She later stayed with one of her siblings who lives close to the church. It was while she was returning home around six in the morning that she was reportedly attacked.

“The suspects removed her clothes and underwear. They strangled her and also took her phone. Her ATM card and Bible were found at the scene,” the source said.

Another resident who identified himself only as Adeola described the incident as shocking, questioning why an elderly woman would be subjected to such brutality.

She should be between 65 and 68 years old. Passersby found her body inside the bush and reported the matter at the police post in Ilogbo-Eremi.

“The police are aware of the incident and should be able to track the assailants through the woman’s stolen phone,” the resident said.

A community member, who also requested anonymity for fear of attack, described the area of the incident as notorious for violent crimes.

“The community is along the boundary between Lagos and Ogun states and is known for criminal activities. This is not the first time such a crime has happened here.

In fact, this would be about the fourth such incident reported in the area.

“The place is prone to violence, so people have to be careful. She was a grandmother, not a young woman. She was found naked, and it was when the police arrived that her body was covered. Her pants had been removed, which suggested she was raped,” the source added.

When contacted on Sunday, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, CSP Abimbola Adebisi, did not respond to calls or a WhatsApp message sent to his line at the time of this report.

This is not the first time a disturbing incident has been reported in Badagry. In November 2025, the corpse of an unidentified man was discovered in front of a filling station in the Seme area of the town.

The discovery was first reported by CityMood Badagry, a local social media news platform.

The deceased was found lying face-up, wearing what appeared to be a white top with black stripes, with parts of his chest and neck visibly exposed.

Nigeria concluded the 24th African Athletics Championships with 12 medals after the women’s 4x400m relay team delivered a commanding gold-medal performance on the final day of competition

The quartet of Esther Okon, Toheebat Jimoh, Jecinter Lawrence and Patience Okon-George successfully defended Nigeria’s title in the event, clocking 3:29.25 to finish comfortably ahead of Ethiopia and Kenya on Sunday.

Nigeria’s team dominated the race from start to finish and crossed the line nearly 30 metres ahead of their closest challengers to secure the country’s fourth gold medal of the championships.

The victory ensured Team Nigeria ended the competition with four gold, five silver and three bronze medals, placing fourth overall behind Kenya, South Africa and Ethiopia in the final standings.

Kenya topped the medal table with six gold, four silver and seven bronze medals for a total of 17, while South Africa won six gold, two silver and six bronze medals. Ethiopia finished third with five gold, four silver and six bronze medals.

Nigeria’s only other medal on the final day came through Rosemary Chukwuma, who won silver in the women’s 200m after running 23.60s.

The Nigerian sprinter finished behind Ivory Coast’s Maboundou Kone, who won gold in 23.36s, but Chukwuma still ended the championships with an impressive three-medal haul.

She had earlier won gold in the women’s 4x100m relay and silver in the 100m, making her one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the competition.

Nigeria’s medal-winning campaign was led by world record holder Tobi Amusan, who secured gold in the women’s 100m hurdles in 12.83s.

The mixed 4x400m relay team of Ezekiel Asuquo, Toheebat Jimoh, Victor Sampson and Patience Okon-George also won gold in 3:16.44, while the women’s 4x100m relay team of Rosemary Nwankwo, Jennifer Chukwuka, Rosemary Chukwuma and Miracle Ezechukwu added another gold in 42.94s.

In the silver medal events, Oyesade Olatoye threw 69.60m to finish second in the women’s hammer throw, same with Divine Oladipo, who also grabbed silver in the discus, while Nigeria’s men’s 4x100m relay team also secured silver in 38.70s.

Adaobi Tabugbo won bronze in the women’s 100m hurdles with a time of 13.26s, while Chidera Ezeakor added another bronze in the men’s 100m after clocking 10.318s with Obiageri Amaechi’s third-place finish on the opening day.

The directive was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.

According to the statement, Adeleke ordered the Ministry of Education and other relevant government and security agencies to immediately strengthen the initiative as a precaution against a possible spillover of the attacks into Osun State.

“The governor additionally directed immediate beefing up of intelligence gathering, especially around schools located in border areas and remote sections of the state.

The Amotekun security service was specifically instructed to strengthen its partnership with various non-governmental peace organisations currently providing security services across many schools within the state,” the statement read.

PUNCH Online reports that the directive followed Friday’s attack on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, during which at least 45 pupils were reportedly abducted.

The schools attacked were Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esinele; and L.A. Primary School.

A school principal, Mrs Rachael Alamu, and a vice principal were also reportedly abducted.

The attack sparked widespread panic, the immediate closure of schools in surrounding communities and an ongoing manhunt by security forces.

Adeleke assured parents and school authorities of the safety of pupils and students, while directing his Special Adviser on Security Matters to work with security commanders on the implementation of the new measures.

“We are resolved to secure our pupils across our school system. Necessary steps are ongoing to improve security of schools especially in rural areas. The existing safe school plan will be strengthened,” the governor said.

“The Commissioner for Education and the Security Adviser are to meet to firm up the revitalisation plan. I assure parents and school authorities of their safety and protection.”

A drone strike triggered a fire near a nuclear power station in the emirate of Abu Dhabi on Sunday, authorities said, reporting no injuries or impact on radiation levels.

The UAE’s ministry of defence said the drone that targeted the facility was one of three that “entered the country from the western border direction”.

The projectile struck “an electrical generator outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the Al Dhafra area”.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the attacks, and updates will be disclosed upon completion of the investigations,” the ministry added.

Iranian-backed armed groups equipped with drones are based in Iraq, while Tehran’s allies in Yemen — the Houthi rebels — also possess combat-grade UAVs.

The UAE “condemned in the strongest terms the unprovoked terrorist attack” and “will not tolerate any threat to its security and sovereignty under any circumstances”, a foreign ministry statement said.

“These attacks constitute a dangerous escalation, an unacceptable act of aggression and a direct threat to the country’s security,” it added.

The Barakah Nuclear Power Plant began operations in 2020 and is 200 kilometres (120 miles) west of the UAE’s capital Abu Dhabi, near the borders with Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

It provides up to a quarter of the oil-rich country’s electricity needs, the state-owned operator Emirates Nuclear Energy Company said in 2024.

“No injuries were reported, and there was no impact on radiological safety levels,” the Abu Dhabi Media Office said. “All precautionary measures have been taken, and further updates will be provided as they become available.

The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) confirmed that the fire did not affect the safety of the power plant or the readiness of its essential systems, and that all units are operating as normal.”

Sporadic attacks –

An official from the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), which operates the Barakah plant, said there were no casualties and the plant had not been damaged.

“It does not appear that there was a direct attack on the nuclear plant we manage and operate. It seems a fire broke out at other power facilities on the outskirts,” the official said, quoted by the Yonhap news agency.

“In the case of one reactor, operations were briefly halted as a precaution to ensure safe operation,” the KEPCO official added.

Rafael Grossi, the head of the UN’s nuclear agency, condemned the attack.

The International Atomic Energy Agency said in a social media post that Grossi expressed “grave concern about the incident and says military activity that threatens nuclear safety is unacceptable”.

The United Arab Emirates was the second country in the region to build a nuclear power station, after Iran, and the first in the Arab world.

The Abu Dhabi statements did not say from where the drone was launched, but the United Arab Emirates has recently accused Iran of being behind attacks on its energy and economic infrastructure.

Tehran launched retaliatory strikes across the region after the United States and Israel struck Iran on February 28, killing senior leaders and triggering a broader war.

Iran has accused the UAE and other US allies in the Gulf of allowing US forces to carry out attacks from their territory. The UAE has angrily denied Iranian reports that it has actively carried out attacks of its own.

Washington and Tehran agreed a truce on April 8 but peace negotiations have stalled and sporadic attacks have continued.

The UAE’s ministry of defence said the drone that targeted the facility was one of three that “entered the country from the western border direction”.

The projectile struck “an electrical generator outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the Al Dhafra area”.

“Investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the attacks, and updates will be disclosed upon completion of the investigations,” the ministry added.

Iranian-backed armed groups equipped with drones are based in Iraq, while Tehran’s allies in Yemen — the Houthi rebels — also possess combat-grade UAVs.

The UAE “condemned in the strongest terms the unprovoked terrorist attack” and “will not tolerate any threat to its security and sovereignty under any circumstances”, a foreign ministry statement said.

“These attacks constitute a dangerous escalation, an unacceptable act of aggression and a direct threat to the country’s security,” it added.

The Barakah Nuclear Power Plant began operations in 2020 and is 200 kilometres (120 miles) west of the UAE’s capital Abu Dhabi, near the borders with Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

It provides up to a quarter of the oil-rich country’s electricity needs, the state-owned operator Emirates Nuclear Energy Company said in 2024.

“No injuries were reported, and there was no impact on radiological safety levels,” the Abu Dhabi Media Office said. “All precautionary measures have been taken, and further updates will be provided as they become available.

The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) confirmed that the fire did not affect the safety of the power plant or the readiness of its essential systems, and that all units are operating as normal.”

– Sporadic attacks –

An official from the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), which operates the Barakah plant, said there were no casualties and the plant had not been damaged.

“It does not appear that there was a direct attack on the nuclear plant we manage and operate. It seems a fire broke out at other power facilities on the outskirts,” the official said, quoted by the Yonhap news agency.

“In the case of one reactor, operations were briefly halted as a precaution to ensure safe operation,” the KEPCO official added.

Rafael Grossi, the head of the UN’s nuclear agency, condemned the attack.

The International Atomic Energy Agency said in a social media post that Grossi expressed “grave concern about the incident and says military activity that threatens nuclear safety is unacceptable”.

The United Arab Emirates was the second country in the region to build a nuclear power station, after Iran, and the first in the Arab world.

The Abu Dhabi statements did not say from where the drone was launched, but the United Arab Emirates has recently accused Iran of being behind attacks on its energy and economic infrastructure.

Tehran launched retaliatory strikes across the region after the United States and Israel struck Iran on February 28, killing senior leaders and triggering a broader war.

Iran has accused the UAE and other US allies in the Gulf of allowing US forces to carry out attacks from their territory. The UAE has angrily denied Iranian reports that it has actively carried out attacks of its own.

Washington and Tehran agreed a truce on April 8 but peace negotiations have stalled and sporadic attacks have continued.

A resident of Kasuwan Ali community in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, Sani Abdullahi, has been reportedly shot dead at the venue of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for the House of Representatives.

Eyewitnesses told newsmen that the victim was allegedly shot by security personnel following a disagreement over the commencement of the exercise.

Ibrahim Sale, a resident of the area who confirmed the incident, said the trouble started when some APC members protested the delay in the commencement of the primary scheduled for Saturday.

According to him, “The exercise was supposed to hold on Saturday morning, but it did not take place due to the absence of returning officers. So the youths started protesting, alleging that the delay was deliberate.

“As this was going on, government officials who came to witness the exercise decided to leave because of the absence of the electoral officers.

However, some youths blocked the road to prevent the officials from leaving the venue.

The youths insisted they would not leave until electoral officers arrived and conducted the primary.

This drew the attention of security personnel, who moved in to disperse them.

“As soon as the security personnel arrived, the youths started throwing stones at them. The security personnel then started shooting, and a stray bullet hit the victim, killing him,” he said.

Our correspondent gathered that the incident sparked confusion at the venue, with residents condemning the killing and calling on relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure justice for the victim.

culled from vanguard 

The World Health Organisation has declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda a public health emergency of international concern.

The declaration follows cases of Ebola caused by the Bundibugyo virus in both countries.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus made the declaration on Sunday in a statement after consulting with both countries.

The statement read, “The Director-General of WHO, after having consulted the States Parties where the event is known to be currently occurring, is hereby determining that the Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda constitutes a public health emergency of international concern, but does not meet the criteria of pandemic emergency.”

As of Saturday, eight laboratory-confirmed cases, 246 suspected cases and 80 suspected deaths had been reported in Ituri Province of the DRC across at least three health zones, Bunia, Rwampara and Mongbwalu.

Two confirmed cases, including one death, were also reported in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, on Friday and Saturday among travellers arriving from the DRC, while a confirmed case was recorded in Kinshasa on Saturday among a returnee from Ituri.

At least four healthcare workers had also died in circumstances consistent with viral haemorrhagic fever.

The statement said this raised “concerns regarding healthcare-associated transmission, gaps in infection prevention and control measures, and the potential for amplification within health facilities.”

Ghebreyesus cautioned that the outbreak was likely far larger than current figures showed, pointing to the high positivity rate of initial samples, cross-border confirmations and rising syndromic reports

He said, “The high positivity rate of the initial samples collected, the confirmation of cases in both Kampala and Kinshasa, the increasing trends in syndromic reporting of suspected cases and clusters of deaths across the province of Ituri all point towards a potentially much larger outbreak than what is currently being detected and reported, with significant local and regional risk of spread.”

He identified ongoing insecurity, a humanitarian crisis, high population movement and a dense network of informal health facilities as factors worsening the risk, conditions he likened to those that drove the deadly 2018-19 Ebola epidemic in the same region.

Critically, he noted that “unlike for Ebola-zaire strains, there are currently no approved Bundibugyo virus-specific therapeutics or vaccines,” making the situation especially dangero

On international spread, the statement said neighbouring countries sharing land borders with the DRC were “at high risk for further spread due to population mobility, trade and travel linkages, and ongoing epidemiological uncertainty.”

WHO advised the DRC and Uganda to activate national emergency mechanisms, scale up surveillance and contact tracing, and establish specialised treatment centres near outbreak epicentres.

It called for exit screening at all international airports, seaports and major land crossings, and directed that confirmed cases must not travel until two negative tests taken at least 48 hours apart are obtained.

On border closures, the statement was unequivocal. It read, “No country should close its borders or place any restrictions on travel and trade. Such measures are usually implemented out of fear and have no basis in science. They push the movement of people and goods to informal border crossings that are not monitored, thus increasing the chances of the spread of disease.”

WHO also called on affected countries to implement clinical trials for candidate therapeutics and vaccines and urged that mass gatherings be postponed “until BVD transmission is interrupted.”

Ghebreyesus said he would convene an Emergency Committee as soon as possible to refine the temporary recommendations issued alongside the declaration.

Popular television host Frank Edoho has said his greatest fear is dying as a result of heartbreak or emotional damage inflicted by a woman.

The declaration comes days after his estranged wife, Sandra Onyenucheya, went public with explosive allegations of infidelity, abuse and financial recklessness against him.

Edoho made the statement in an interview with the YouTube channel Outside The Box, uploaded on Saturday, where he spoke at length about male vulnerability, silent suffering and how he wants to be remembered when he dies.

“I don’t want to go to the gates of heaven and they ask me what killed me and they say it’s a woman. Whether that woman be my daughter, my wife, my mother, I don’t want that. I don’t want that to be my way out of this portal,” he said.

The broadcaster, who gained national fame hosting the Nigerian edition of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, said the kind of death he wants is one defined by service and fulfilment, not heartbreak.

“I want to die with a smile on my face saying that all the people I met, I tried to put a smile on their face, and to have the only regret that I wish I did more good. Not that I wish I had more time, that’s all,” he said.

The comments arrived at a combustible moment in Edoho’s personal life.

His estranged wife, Sandra, had days earlier published a lengthy Instagram post accusing him of sustained infidelity during their marriage, naming several women she alleged he was romantically involved with.

She also accused him of emotional abuse, financial recklessness with her money, and pressuring her to abort their second child.

Edoho had responded separately with his own account of events, alleging that it was Sandra who had been unfaithful, and claiming she had an affair with singer Chike.

He said he had recordings of conversations between the two and had even approached Chike directly in an attempt to save the marriage for the sake of their children.

In the Outside The Box interview, however, Edoho did not address the marriage dispute directly.

Instead, he spoke about the broader burden men carry and how society conditions them to suffer in silence.

“The task of manhood is very daunting. Men don’t speak. Men go through a lot. Whatever a man is going through, he’s just silent. He doesn’t say it. He holds it to himself. And some of them go to the grave with it. Too many, actually,” he said.

He then made a personal admission that surprised the interviewers, revealing that he had himself passed through a severe private crisis for about two years without telling anyone around him.

“For two years, there was a couple of years back I was in a very dark hole but nobody knew. I couldn’t call you guys. I just said, you know what, this is a journey I have to make on myself to reorganise myself. And I’m happy I did. But at the time, I thought that the walls were caving in,” he said.

He attributed his ability to conceal that pain to decades of professional broadcasting discipline.

“Broadcasting taught me how to have a poker face. No matter what you’re going through, when it’s time to go on air, ‘Hi, good evening, welcome, I hope you’re having a nice time’, the only reason you’re not there is that you’re dead. If you’re alive, it doesn’t matter what you’re going through, you have to be there doing just that.

“But ironically, I can’t do it in real life. I can’t switch off like I switch off when the microphone is in front of me,” he said.

Edoho’s marriage to Sandra is his second. His first was to broadcaster Katherine Obiang, which also ended in separation and attracted public attention at the time.

He confirmed in an earlier statement that he and Sandra had been separated for close to two years before the recent online uproar.

The Ogun State Government has disclosed that all persons admitted at the State Hospital, Ijebu-Ode, following the recent chemical inhalation incident in some schools within the town, have been discharged after receiving medical attention and being certified fit by health personnel.

The Commissioner for Health, Tomi Coker, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday during an engagement with parents, guardians and residents at Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School on Saturday.

Coker stated that the state government would deploy ambulance crews to all wards in Ijebu-Ode to ensure prompt emergency response.

She stated that each ambulance would be staffed with a driver and a paramedic to respond swiftly to incidents in the area.

Coker also disclosed that the government had established a medical response protocol to ensure that any patient taken to secondary health facilities and requiring advanced care would be immediately transferred to the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital.

“There were persons admitted at the Ijebu-Ode State Hospital and others at Ijebu-Ife who were affected by the methane emission.

“Altogether, we had adults and children admitted, and I am glad to say that all have been discharged. They are hale and hearty.

Methane is a non-toxic gas; however, it competes with oxygen, which our body and brain need to function properly, and that is why it is of concern to us.

“In mild concentrations, it may not produce symptoms, but moderate exposure can cause fatigue, rapid heartbeat and breathing difficulties.

“In severe cases, it could lead to convulsion or unconsciousness, but we thank God that none of the patients recorded severe symptoms in the last 24 hours,” she said.

The commissioner urged residents not to panic in the event of any unusual occurrence, advising them to make use of the ministry’s emergency response line.

She disclosed that district surveillance nurses, nursing officers and rapid response personnel had already been deployed to the community, while the ministry had also informed the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control about the incident.

“We have an emergency call centre that operates daily.

“If you smell, hear or notice anything suspicious, please alert us immediately so that our personnel can investigate.

We have environmental health officials, rapid response teams and adequate oxygen supply in our ambulances and health facilities across the state,” she added.

Coker further revealed that the ministry would train teachers from public and private schools, while interested parents would also be trained as community first responders.

She explained that emergency response procedures include promptly calling for help and protecting the respiratory system with a wet cloth where methane exposure is suspected.

The commissioner added that toxicology tests would also be conducted on some of the affected children to determine the level of gas exposure.

“So far, all the cases recorded have been mild or moderate, with no severe cases,” she stated.

Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, disclosed that gas analysers had been installed around affected schools to monitor air quality in the environment.

He said the government planned to expand the coverage of the analysers across schools in Ijebu-Ode, adding that experts from Olabisi Onabanjo University were collaborating with the ministry to interpret data collected from the devices.

Oresanya further disclosed that health officers would be deployed to schools in the area beginning Monday.

“We have been monitoring these analysers every hour over the past four weeks, especially around this school and other parts of Ijebu-Ode.

“We are also collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Environment and research institutions to solve this challenge,” he said.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Abayomi Arigbabu, appealed to principals and teachers to help calm students and properly manage the situation.

He also urged parents and residents to remain calm, assuring them that the state government would continue to prioritise the welfare and safety of students across the state.

Arigbabu warned against the spread of false information capable of causing panic.

“I want to assure residents that the government will continue to prioritise the welfare of students and provide a safe learning environment.

With ambulances strategically positioned around the area, there is no need for panic. Residents should simply contact the emergency numbers whenever necessary,” he said.

On his part, the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, disclosed that the command, alongside the School Protection Squad established by the Inspector-General of Police, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit and other specialised departments, had been deployed to secure schools and surrounding communities.

He added that drones were already being used to survey and monitor the affected environment to ensure the safety of students and residents.

Recall that, for the second time in less than two months, another gas leak was reported in Ijebu-Ode on Friday, affecting over 100 students and teachers.

Some of the schools affected are Anglican Girls Grammar School, Obalende; Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School, Epe Garage, Ijebu-Ode; among other public schools.

During the first incident, which happened last month, about 30 students and one teacher of Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School, Ijebu-Ode, were hospitalised after they were exposed to the gas leak shortly after the school resumed for the day.

The APC screening committee approved 17 senatorial aspirants across the state’s three senatorial districts for the primaries scheduled for Monday.

Bello, whose eligibility had been the subject of speculation in recent days, was officially confirmed after his name appeared as number 13 on the list of cleared aspirants for the Kogi Central Senatorial District race.

The former governor is expected to battle Momoh Yusuf Obaro and Ibrahim Yakubu Adoke for the party’s ticket in Kogi Central Senatorial District.

In Kogi West, incumbent Senator Sunday Karimi emerged as the consensus candidate after a stakeholders’ meeting chaired by Governor Usman Ododo at the Government House in Lokoja.

Although six other aspirants, including former Senator Smart Adeyemi and Aro Bamidele, were also cleared by the committee, political observers believe Karimi remains the frontrunner following the consensus arrangement.

For Kogi East Senatorial District, seven aspirants were cleared to contest the APC primary. They include incumbent Senator Isah Echocho, Joseph Ameh and Murtala Ajaka.

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party has produced its House of Representatives candidates in Kogi through consensus arrangements across several federal constituencies.

Former lawmaker Abdulrahman Badamasuiy emerged as the PDP candidate for Okehi/Adavi Federal Constituency. Badamasuiy represented the constituency between 2011 and 2015.

Also emerging through consensus were Mohammed A. Etudaiye for Okene/Ogori-Magongo Federal Constituency and Lawal Idrisu for Ajaokuta Federal Constituency.

In Kogi West, Abdulkadir Ibrahim clinched the Lokoja/Kogi Federal Constituency ticket, while Femi Victor Olubiyi emerged for Kabba/Bunu Federal Constituency.

Ibigbemi Seun Samuel was returned unopposed for Yagba Federal Constituency.

In Kogi East, Abubakar Yahaya secured the ticket for Ankpa/Olamaboro/Omala Federal Constituency, while former lawmaker Okolo Ikani Benjamin emerged for Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency through affirmation.

Former Idah Local Government Chairman Ukwenya Paul Ogwu also emerged unopposed as the PDP candidate for Idah Federal Constituency.

Speaking after his affirmation in Ogaminana, Badamasuiy thanked party members for the peaceful conduct of the exercise and pledged to use his legislative experience to attract development projects and provide quality representation to his constituency.

“I want to sincerely appreciate party members for the peaceful manner in which the primary was conducted. I promise to deploy my wealth of experience as a former lawmaker to attract development projects when I get elected,” he said.

The Imo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has called on aspirants with complaints from the just-concluded House of Representatives primary elections to file their petitions on Monday, May 18, 2026.

The Chairman and Secretary of the APC National Assembly Primary Appeal Committee for Imo State, Tuoyo Omatstuli and Hon. Godwin Anaughe, made the announcement on Sunday in a statement releasedon Sunday.

They urged aspirants with grievances to submit their petitions to the committee at the APC State Secretariat from 10 a.m. to 4 pm in Owerri.

The committee also admonished aspirants to submit their petitions and complaints within the stipulated timeframe.

The statement read: “Notice is hereby given that, sequel to the just-concluded House of Representatives primary elections of the All Progressives Congress, the National Assembly Primary Appeal Committee for Imo State has been inaugurated and mandated to receive petitions/complaints arising from the House of Representatives primary elections held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in Imo State.

“The committee hereby invites aspirants in the said primary elections to submit petitions/complaints from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, May 18, 2026, at the APC State Secretariat, 47 Okigwe Road, Owerri, Imo State.

“By this notice, aspirants who intend to appeal the outcome of the primary elections are hereby enjoined to ensure that petitions/complaints are submitted and to appear before the committee within the specified period.”

Meanwhile, the committee said it could be reached during sitting hours via GSM 0703 205 4046.

The Lagos State Government has warned residents against consuming spoiled or fungus-infested tomatoes, popularly known as “Ata Esha,” citing serious health risks associated with such products.

The warning was issued on Sunday by the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency through a statement shared on the state government’s X handle.

The General Manager of the agency, Afolabi Solebo, urged consumers to avoid purchasing or consuming tomatoes showing visible white, green, or black fungal growth.

According to him, fungi found on spoiled tomatoes may produce harmful toxins, including aflatoxins, which can lead to severe health complications such as liver damage and related diseases.

Speaking on the importance of healthy food consumption, Solebo said, “A healthy person is determined by what he or she consumes from time to time.”

He further explained that “cooking, boiling, or frying contaminated tomatoes may not eliminate the harmful toxins, thereby making such food unsafe for human consumption

The LASCOPA boss also cautioned consumers against purchasing spoiled tomatoes because they are cheaper, stressing that health and safety should always take precedence over cost considerations.

Solebo encouraged Lagos residents to carefully inspect food items before purchase and avoid visibly spoiled or mouldy tomatoes and other food products.

He also advised consumers to properly dispose of contaminated food items and report the sale of unsafe, expired, or spoiled products to the appropriate government agencies responsible for public health, environmental safety, and consumer protection.

Furthermore, he noted that “consumers have fundamental rights as well as responsibilities, including being well-informed about products and services, speaking out against unfair practices, and making ethical and environmentally conscious choices.”

Solebo disclosed that government monitoring and enforcement teams had been deployed to markets across the state to apprehend traders engaged in the sale of unsafe food products.

Kaumi Zulum, brother of Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno, has emerged winner of the All Progressives Congress House of Representatives primary election for the Dikwa, Konduga, Mafa Federal Constituency in Borno State.

The Returning Officer and Chairman of the Primary Election Committee, Prophet Jones Erue, said at a news conference on Sunday in Maiduguri that Zulum emerged as the winner unopposed during the primary election.

The returning officer also announced Fati Alkali as winner and returned her as APC candidate for Mobbar, Guzamala, Abadam and Kukawa Federal Constituency.

Erue also declared Usman Zana winner and returned him as APC candidate for Magumeri/Kaga/Gubio Federal Constituency.

He further declared Ahmed Jaha winner and returned him as APC candidate for Gwoza/Chibok/Damboa Federal Constituency.

The returning officer also declared Satomi Ahmed winner and returned him as APC candidate for Jere Federal Constituency.

Erue declared Abdulkadir Rahis winner and returned him as APC candidate for the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council Federal Constituency after scoring 38,576 votes at the primary election.

He also announced Mustapha Abdullahi winner and returned him as APC candidate for Bama/Ngala/Kala-Balge Federal Constituency after scoring 20,509 votes at the primary election.

The returning officer, however, declared the Askira/Uba/Hawul Federal Constituency primary election inconclusive.

Erue said the Askira/Uba/Hawul Federal Constituency was declared inconclusive following a complaint filed by one of the aspirants, Mr Audu Zali.

He said his committee had decided to wait for the report of the Appeals Committee before announcing the result.

Erue said the House of Representatives primary elections were successfully conducted and concluded across nine out of 10 federal constituencies in a peaceful, transparent, orderly and commendable manner.

He expressed satisfaction that party members demonstrated unity, discipline and commitment throughout the exercise.

The returning officer said his committee carried out its assignment in strict compliance with Sections 84, 86 and 87 of the Electoral Act, Article 20 of the party constitution, the approved guidelines and all prescribed procedures of the APC.

He added that candidates for the House of Representatives elections emerged predominantly through affirmation and unanimous consensus arrangements freely and amicably adopted by stakeholders and party delegates without rancour, dispute, protest or objection, including instances involving single unopposed candidates.

Erue said direct primary elections were conducted in only two federal constituencies — Bama/Ngala/Kala-Balge and Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC).

He said the process was judged to be free, fair, credible, transparent, peaceful and generally acceptable to all.

(NAN)

Applicants seeking Master’s education in Canada can now apply for the University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarship.

The University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarship is offering tuition waiver, competitive stipends, as well as internal and external funding to interested individuals from all origin.

In this post, we will explain all the details, eligibility criteria, benefits, documents required, and the step-by-step application procedure for the University of Saskatchewan Scholarship.

University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Canada
• Study Abroad: Study in Canada 
• Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships 
• Eligible Countries: All Countries
• Reward: Full Scholarship | Monthly Stipends
• No IELTS Required 
• Deadline: Not Specified

University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarship Details:

The College of Dentistry extends an invitation to all prospective students who aspire to pursue a Master of Science (MSc) in Precision Oral and Systemic Health (POSH).

The MSc POSH program is actively seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to join our vibrant community of scholars. With a strong commitment to academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and real-world impact, our program offers a unique opportunity for you to gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies of precision oral and systemic health.

If you are driven by a desire to make a positive difference in the world and are ready to challenge yourself, we encourage you to explore the possibilities that our program has to offer.

Eligibility Requirements for University of Saskatchewan Scholarship

To be considered for the University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:

• A cumulative weighted average of at least a 70% (USask grade system equivalent) in the last two years of study (i.e. 60 credit units of course work)
• Language Proficiency Requirements: Proof of English proficiency may be required for international applicants and for applicants whose first language is not English.
• Professional degree in a relevant health sciences field (D.M.D., DDS, M.D., RN, PT, or equivalent), from a recognized university, or a four-year honors degree, or equivalent, from a recognized college or university in an academic discipline relevant to the proposed field of study.

Benefits of University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarship

• Funding from scholarships and teaching assistantships may be obtained on a competitive basis. Students will be encouraged to apply for both internal and external funding opportunities.
• The college has four scholarships available to students each year. The amount of these scholarships varies and is approved by the Associate Dean of Academic. These scholarships will be competitive and will be awarded to the most accomplished PhD students every year.
• Graduate students at USask can receive funding from a variety of sources to support their graduate education.

Required Documents for University of Saskatchewan Scholarship

To apply, candidates must be ready to submit the following documents;

• CV, 
• Letters of reference,
• A statement of intent
• Language Proficiency document
• Academic credentials

How to Apply for University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarship (Step by Step)

To apply for the University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarship, interested and qualified applicants should;

• Click on the button below to visit the project’s webpage
• Review the details of the program and click LEARN MORE.
• Proceed to submit an application for the program and upload all required documents.
• The application takes about 30 minutes to complete. You may save your application and return to it later.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Deadline: Not Specified

The Hubei Province is pleased to announce the 2026 Chinese Government Hubei Scholarship for international students to pursue undergraduate and graduate programs in China.

The Hubei Government Scholarship offers free tuition, on-campus accommodation, comprehensive medical insurance, and a living allowance worth up to ¥20,000 per year.

In this post, we will highlight the details of the scholarship opportunity, its benefits, eligibility criteria, required documents, and step-by-step application procedure.

Chinese Government Hubei Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: China
• Study Abroad: Study in Asia 
• Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships 
• Eligible Countries: All Countries
• Reward: Full Scholarship | ¥20,000 Stipends | Accommodation | Flight Costs
• No IELTS Required 
• Deadline: June 30, 2026

Chinese Government Hubei Scholarship Details:

The Chinese Government Hubei Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship that aims to attract bright minds to study in Hubei, one of China’s most developed provinces in terms of education and scientific research.

Hubei Government Scholarship 2026-2027 is generously funded with an initial 35 million yuan (about US$5 million) from the Beijing Municipal Education Commission.

This scholarship is designed to support students at various academic levels and offers significant financial benefits, including tuition waivers, accommodation, and a monthly living allowance.

Eligibility Requirements for Chinese Government Hubei Scholarship 2026

To be considered for the Chinese Government Hubei Scholarship 2025, you must:

• Be a non-Chinese citizen (from any country except China)
• Must be under 25 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent (Undergraduate Applicants).
• Should be under 30 years old with a bachelor’s degree (Masters Applicants).
• Must be under 35 years old with a master’s degree (Doctoral Applicants).
• Must meet specific academic and professional requirements.
• Must be in good health and meet the language requirements of their chosen program.

Benefits of Chinese Government Hubei Scholarship 2026

• All recipients of the Hubei Government Scholarship will receive free tuition, on-campus accommodation, comprehensive medical insurance, and a monthly living allowance.
• Stipend offered varies as follows;
• Undergraduate Scholarship: 10,000 RMB per year
• Graduate Scholarship: 15,000 RMB per year
• Doctorate Scholarship: 20,000 RMB per year
• General Scholar Scholarship: 5,000 RMB for 6 months or 10,000 RMB per year
• Advanced Scholar Scholarship: 10,000 RMB for 6 months or 20,000 RMB per year

Required Documents for Chinese Government Hubei Scholarship

To apply, candidates must be ready to submit the following documents;

• Application Form
• Application Form for Hubei Provincial Foreign Student Scholarship
• Copy of your passport
• Notarized highest diploma
• Notarized transcripts or certificate of job title
• Letters of recommendation
• Health certificate
• Legal documents for applicants under 18 years old

How to Apply for Chinese Government Hubei Scholarship (Step by Step)

To apply for the Chinese Government Hubei Scholarship, interested and qualified applicants should follow the procedures below;

• Click on the button below to visit the scholarship application webpage below;
• Select from the list of universities in Hubeieligible to participate in the scholarship program.
• Visit the chosen university’s official website, navigate to the International Students section, and locate the Scholarships tab.
• Click on the Hubei Municipal Government Scholarship link to access detailed application procedures and requirements.
• Complete the online application form on the university’s website and submit all required documents either online or by mailing them to the university’s admissions office.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Deadline: June 30, 2026

The All Progressives Congress, APC, National Assembly Primary Election Committee for Benue State has distributed election materials to Returning Officers for the House of Representatives primaries across the 23 Local Government Areas, LGA, of the state, with assurances of transparency, fairness and credibility in the exercise.

Speaking before the distribution of the materials in Makurdi, Chairman of the APC National Assembly Election Committee for Benue State, Alhaji Sabiu Mahuta, said the committee was fully prepared to conduct peaceful and acceptable primaries despite delays caused by logistics and security arrangements

We were here yesterday and we told you of our resolve and preparedness to come and conduct this primary election in this state for the APC,” Mahuta said.

“We promised that we would be here as early as 6:30, 7:00 or 8:00. For issues related to logistics and other security arrangements, we could not come as we promised. But here we are still, though a bit late, but certainly better because we have become more prepared, more organized and more committed

He stressed that the committee remained committed to conducting transparent and credible primaries across the state.

“We want the situation to be peaceful as we have been preaching and assuring yesterday. We maintain our words and we want to reiterate that we are here to ensure transparent, fair, credible and by the grace of God, acceptable primary elections for the APC in this state,” he stated.

Mahuta explained that voting would be conducted using the certified APC membership register in all wards, adding that only registered party members would participate in the exercise.

“The election is going to be for all the registered members of the All Progressives Congress. We are going to use the register of the certified members of APC for each ward to do accreditation for anybody who will vote in this primary election,” he said.

He disclosed that result sheets would be issued for all wards and local governments and must be endorsed by agents of all contestants before submission.

For other locations where we have contestants, local government returning officers, I want to emphasize that you must have all the agents for each of the contestants sign the result sheets and make it public and authentic before we accept it,” Mahuta said.

The committee chairman also outlined conditions for consensus arrangements, insisting that all candidates involved must submit written letters confirming their withdrawal and agreement to the consensus.

“Before we do affirmation for every seat, we must have a written consensus agreement by all the contestants. That is one of the conditions,” he added.

Warning against acts capable of undermining the credibility of the exercise, Mahuta urged Returning Officers to remain impartial, saying “Returning officers, yes, you may be party members, but we don’t expect you to be partisan. Every candidate, every contestant is a member of APC and must be treated fairly and equally,” he warned.

He cautioned that “We are not going to tolerate anybody who is coming with anything that would tempt or destroy the credibility of this election.”

He said the committee would reconvene at the end of the exercise for collation and official announcement of winners.

Also speaking, the Benue State Chairman of APC, Benjamin Omale, assured party members that adequate measures had been put in place to ensure peaceful and transparent primaries across the state.

Omale dismissed concerns over the late distribution of election materials, insisting that the priority was to ensure a smooth process. “The most important thing is to ensure that everything is put in order to ensure a smooth exercise,” he said.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde will on May 20, 2026, declare open the 59th National Board Meeting of the Bible Society of Nigeria with a divine service at the First Baptist Church, Oke Elerin, Ogbomoso, Oyo State.

The society’s Manager, Media, Benjamin Mordi, said in a statement made available to Sunday PUNCH on Saturday that the national board meeting would be held in Ogbomoso on Thursday.

“The President and Board Chairman of the Society, Bishop Banwo, will preside over the meeting. Discussions will centre on past and future activities of the organisation in line with its Bible work mandate

The organisation’s accounts for the past year will also be reviewed, while the General Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Pastor Samuel Sanusi, is expected to present the annual report,” Mordi stated.

He further disclosed that BSN Patron, Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (retd.), national officers, members of the board of trustees, delegates from across the country, and senior members of the management team will be in attendance.

The Bible Society of Nigeria is a non-profit, interdenominational Christian organisation committed to translating the Bible into Nigerian languages, publishing, and distributing the Holy Scriptures.

culled from punch 

No fewer than five persons have been confirmed dead after a three-storey building under construction collapsed in the Durumi 3 area near Gudu Market in the Abuja Municipal Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory on Saturday morning.

Ten other persons were rescued alive from the rubble, according to the media aide to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Lere Olayinka, who provided an update on the incident via his X handle on Saturday.

Olayinka further stated that the Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, who visited the site, disclosed that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, had directed that “all casualties be given free medical treatment.”

No fewer than five persons have been confirmed dead after a three-storey building under construction collapsed in the Durumi 3 area near Gudu Market in the Abuja Municipal Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory on Saturday morning.

Ten other persons were rescued alive from the rubble, according to the media aide to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Lere Olayinka, who provided an update on the incident via his X handle on Saturday.

Olayinka further stated that the Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, who visited the site, disclosed that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, had directed that “all casualties be given free medical treatment.”

According to him, emergency responders continued efforts to evacuate more victims believed to be trapped beneath the rubble.

Officials of the Federal Fire Service, health workers, security agencies and local volunteers were at the scene working to rescue victims.

In April, six persons were injured following the collapse of a two-storey building under construction in Jikwoyi within the AMAC area

A major political shake-up is looming ahead of the 2027 general elections as governors, former governors and other influential political figures intensify moves to take over seats in the National Assembly, putting the return bids of many serving senators at risk.

Findings indicated that more than 45 per cent of current senators may struggle to secure return tickets amid fierce battles over party structures, consensus arrangements and alleged imposition of candidates by powerful political interests.

The development has already triggered internal tensions across major political parties, particularly within the ruling All Progressives Congress, where several outgoing governors are positioning themselves for Senate seats ahead of the end of their tenure in 2027.

Among senators believed unlikely to return to the Red Chamber are Saliu Mustapha (Kwara Central), Suleiman Sadiq (Kwara North), Lola Ashiru (Kwara South), Solomon Adeola (Ogun West), Adetokunbo Abiru (Lagos East), Ahmad Lawan (Yobe North), Tahir Monguno and Kaka Lawan (Borno), Sarafadeen Alli and Abdulfatah Buhari (Oyo), Aliyu Ahmed (Nasarawa West), and Buba Umar Shehu (Bauchi South).

Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo South) has also exited the race following his appointment as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.

Several other senators are equally battling uncertain political futures amid indications that the APC may not guarantee automatic return tickets for lawmakers seeking re-election.

Those reportedly facing uphill battles include Ireti Kingibe (FCT), Lawal Usman (Kaduna Central), Khalid Mustapha (Kaduna North), Gbenga Daniel (Ogun East), Kelvin Chukwu (Enugu East), Abba Moro (Benue South), Emmanuel Udende (Benue North-East), Titus Zam (Benue North-West), Ned Nwoko (Delta North), and Peter Ndalikali (Niger South)

Kingibe, elected on the platform of the Labour Party, is said to be facing mounting pressure from political forces loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who is believed to be backing former senator Philip Aduda for the FCT seat.

In Kogi Central, senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is also facing a difficult re-election battle as former governor of the state, Yahaya Bello, intensified efforts to reclaim the district for the APC.

The unfolding political realignments come barely one week after the Senate reversed controversial amendments to its Standing Orders which would have barred first-time senators from contesting principal offices in the 11th National Assembly.

Before the reversal, amendments to Orders 4 and 5 of the Senate Rules required lawmakers seeking leadership positions to have served at least two consecutive terms, a move widely interpreted as an attempt to shut out incoming governors and former governors eyeing the Senate Presidency and other principal offices in 2027.

The decision sparked backlash within political circles, especially as several governors completing their second terms are already positioning themselves for senatorial tickets.

Among governors expected to leave office in 2027 and reportedly eyeing Senate seats are AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara), Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Babagana Zulum (Borno), Muhammadu Yahaya (Gombe), Mai Mala Buni (Yobe), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), and Bala Mohammed (Bauchi).

Although Governors Douye Diri of Bayelsa and Hope Uzodimma of Imo will complete their tenures in 2028 due to off-cycle elections, both have also been linked with Senate ambitions.

In Imo State, the APC leadership has reportedly endorsed Uzodimma for the Imo West senatorial seat despite the interest of incumbent Senator, Osita Izunaso and former governor Rochas Okorocha.

Similarly, Governor Dapo Abiodun interest in Ogun East has set up a potential clash with incumbent senator Gbenga Daniel.

In Gombe State, former governor and serving senator Danjuma Goje is believed to have lost support for a fifth Senate term following a zoning arrangement favouring a candidate aligned with Governor Muhammadu Yahaya.

In Yobe, Senator Musa Mustapha reportedly stepped aside after APC stakeholders endorsed Governor Mai Mala Buni for the Yobe East senatorial seat, while Governor Abdullahi Sule has emerged as the consensus candidate for Nasarawa North.

Governor Ahmadu Fintiri has also reportedly secured endorsement for Adamawa North.

In Delta State, former governor Ifeanyi Okowa is being positioned to challenge Senator Ned Nwoko for Delta North.

Meanwhile, several former senators are plotting returns to the National Assembly.

Those reportedly seeking comebacks include former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, Bala Na’Allah, Tolu Odeseyi, Victor Pam, Ben Murray-Bruce, Shehu Sani and Ayo Arise, among others.

Commenting on the development, Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Abdulmumin Abdulsalam, said the party would not impose candidates.

“We have been watching the ongoing political drama especially regarding the issue of consensus candidates, which the ruling party seemed to have embraced. As of today, we don’t have an arrangement for consensus candidates. Our nomination system will be opened and fair to all,” he said.

Abdulsalam also claimed that many aspirants were defecting from the APC and other parties to the NDC due to fears of manipulation and unfair primaries.

“We are fully prepared because many people are rushing from the APC and other parties to the NDC, either to avoid legal encumbrances or for fear of being denied fair competition in those parties,” he added.

On concerns that internal disputes could destabilise the party, he said safeguards had been established to reduce grievances.

“We are doing everything possible to put safeguards in place to make sure that candidates do not feel aggrieved. Of course, you can’t satisfy everybody,” he stated.

Also speaking, National Chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, Yusuf Bala, warned against what he described as attempts to entrench a one-party state.

“The fear that Nigerians are nursing about a looming one-party system and the desperation by the APC governors to install their anointed candidates at the 11th National Assembly is justified.

“But as party managers, we are working towards getting our platforms to participate and get credible candidates against the ones the ruling party will field,” he said.

He also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure fairness and provide a level playing field for all parties.

“INEC has to play a very key role by being fair and giving an enabling environment to all political parties to participate,” he added.

Labour Party National Publicity Secretary, Ken Asogwa, dismissed speculation that Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe could lose his seat in Abia State.

“Senator Abaribe is on ground and he has the support of the sitting governor. Also, the Labour Party platform that he is using to contest is a very popular party in Abia State where he hails from. So, I don’t see that happening,” he said.

Asogwa added that the Labour Party had learned from past political experiences and would prioritise credible and loyal candidates in 2027.

“We have learned our lesson from the experience we had in the last election where we sponsored a number of candidates who won election but eventually left our party with the mandates given to them,” he stated.

The current composition of the Senate stands at APC 87, ADC 8, PDP 4, NDC 3, APGA 1, Labour Party 1 and Accord 1, with four seats currently vacant.

culled from punch 

The All Progressives Congress has declared results of the election primaries conducted in the 12 federal constituencies in Rivers State with Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule leading the pack.

Recall that the APC had disqualified four aspirants loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, including three serving members of the Green Chamber of the National Assembly, while 20 others were cleared to contest Saturday’s election primaries.

The Returning Officer for the State APC House of Representatives Primary Election Committee and Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of Council, Federal University of Transportation, Daura, Katsina State, Wahab Owokoniran, declared the results after the collation officers for the various constituencies submitted the same to his committee at the APC Secretariat in Port Harcourt on Saturday night.

Present at the state APC secretariat where the results were declared were the State Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Dr Johnson Sinikiem and other members of the commission.

The Owokoniran-led committee went on recess twice after receiving results of the primaries from the first five federal constituencies in the state, namely: Port Harcourt, Eleme/Tai/Oyigbo, Akuku/Toru/Asari-Toru, Khana/Gokana and Degema-Bonny respectively.

In some of the constituencies, the Returning Officer said two aspirants contested while in other cases there were sole aspirants including that of Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency 1 where Amaewhule emerged as a candidate to contest the general election in 2027.

Owokoniran stated while declaring one of the results, “In this case, we only have one aspirant, Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule. He scored 17, 968 votes.

Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule having certified the requirement of the APC constitution and guidelines and scored the highest number of votes, is hereby declared the winner of the primary election and is returned elected as the party House of Representatives candidate for Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency, this day 16th of May, 2026.”

Similarly, Port Harcourt Federal Constituency also had a sole aspirant, Igwe Precious who polled 5, 885 votes and was declared winner of the primary election and candidate for next year’s election.

For Khana/Gokana federal constituency, a serving House member, Dumnamene Dekor, scored 17, 073 votes to defeat his rival, Israel Ngbuelo who scored 1,220 votes and was declared winner.

Cyril Hart scored 7,203 votes while his opponent, Philemon Tombodiea scored 1,020, as the former emerged as the party’s candidate for the main election in 2027 for Degema-Bonny federal constituency.

In Eleme/Tai/Oyigbo federal constituency, Felix Nweke, the sole aspirant, scored 18, 605 votes and was declared winner, while for Akuku-Toru/Asari-Toru federal constituency, Isobo Solomon scored 11,303 to defeat Luke Enerine, who polled 954 votes.

For the other results, Rt. Hon. Chukwuemele Obuzor who is the sole aspirant for the Ahoada West-Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni federal constituency scored 15, 626 to emerge as the APC candidate.

Also the Andoni-Opobo-Ndoni federal constituency, another sole aspirant, Fredrick Apiafi scored 8, 550 votes to win the primary election, while for Etche-Omuma federal constituency, Chibuzor Nwamaka scored 10, 414 votes, while Queen Obasi, polled 2,123

In Ikwerre-Emuoha federal constituency, Joy Nyebuchi scored 13, 704 votes to win the party primary election against her opponent, Lawrence Ogbor, who polled 2030 votes.

On the other hand, for Port Harcourt Constituency 2 federal constituency, where there was only one aspirant, Blessing Amadi who scored 5, 674 votes and was returned elected as candidate.

For the other breakdown of results, Linda Steward scored 12, 247 votes to win the party primary poll for Okrika/Ogu-Bolo, while her rival, Tekena Ikaki garnered 388 votes.

For Abua-Odual/Ahoada East federal constituency, the sole aspirant, Hon. Solomon Bob scored 16079 votes and was declared winner of the APC primary election.

Speaking afterwards, Owokoniran said, “This is the final declaration. We have declared 13 out of 13 federal constituency results. We want to let the whole world know that the election was conducted in a very peaceful atmosphere.”

Owokoniran expressed surprise that the state is peaceful contrary to widespread beliefs that it is a crisis-ridden place.

Continuing on the primaries, he said there was neither ‘rancour, not in-fighting or any problem whatsoever contrary to the impression out there that Rivers State is very violent and there will always be problems; saying, “Surprisingly myself I was disappointed there was no form of violence. So, congratulations to the Rivers people, especially members of APC.”

Owokoniran lauded members of the party for conducting themselves peacefully well and expressed the optimism that they will carry such disposition into the general election, expressing the optimism that the party will win the Presidential election and the governorship and all other polls in Rivers state come 2027.

The State APC Publicity Secretary, Chibike Ikenga, while answering questions from newsmen expressed happiness that the poll across the various constituencies were peaceful and advised the winners to be humble as the main election is ahead.

“For those who didn’t make it doesn’t mean they can’t make it tomorrow. It’s like that. Our party as well has a mechanism that we deploy to unite the party and talk to people whose nerves have been frayed, to calm the nerves and ensure that we rally round the candidates to defeat the opposition party in the general elections,” Ikenga stated.

For those who won, the party spokesman said, “You must be humble in victory. That you have won today doesn’t mean you have won the general election. So we want them to be humble and see how they can bring everybody together to ensure that our party wins at all levels.”

Our correspondent reports that the primary election was generally peaceful, adding that all those who emerged are loyalists of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, some of whom are members of the ‘Rainbow Coalition’, or ‘Joint Coalition ‘a political strategy adopted by Wike to bring the APC and PDP together in the state to support the second term bid of President Bola Tinubu.

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the death of 17 police officers following a terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.

Sunday PUNCH gathered that the officers were undergoing special operational training when the attackers struck the facility in the early hours of May 8, in what authorities described as a coordinated assault.

According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, the terrorists launched the attack from multiple directions at about 1:15am, overwhelming parts of the training institution during the incident.

“The officers, who were undergoing specialized operational training at the institution, lost their lives when terrorists launched a coordinated attack on the facility from multiple directions at about 0115hrs,” the statement said.

The Force also confirmed that several personnel of the Nigerian Army were killed while repelling the attackers during the exchange.

Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, according to the statement, described the deceased officers as courageous personnel who demonstrated exceptional commitment to national security through advanced counter-terrorism and tactical training.

He said the fallen officers paid the supreme price in service to the nation and assured that their sacrifice would not be forgotten by the Force.

The IGP extended condolences to the bereaved families and pledged continued support for those affected by the incident.

“As part of a solidarity visit, the Commissioner of Police in Yobe State, CP Usman Kanfani Jibrin, visited the training facility on behalf of the Inspector-General, where he commiserated with military authorities and surviving trainees,” he said.

He also commended the resilience of surviving officers and encouraged them to complete their training in honour of their fallen colleagues.

The Police further assured Nigerians that, in collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies, efforts were ongoing to track and bring the perpetrators of the attack to justice.

The Force reiterated its commitment to honouring the memory of the slain officers, describing them as heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

English football has produced some of the most decorated clubs in world sport, with historic dominance shifting across different eras. From early league pioneers to modern powerhouses, the race for trophies remains tightly contested.

According to Planet Football, here is the full list of the 10 most successful English clubs by major honours.

1. Blackburn Rovers – 10 honours

Blackburn Rovers

3 First Division / Premier League titles
6 FA Cups
1 League Cup

1. Newcastle United – 11 honours

Newcastle United

4 league titles
6 FA Cups
1 League Cup

1. Everton – 15 honours

Everton FC

9 league titles
5 FA Cups
1 League Cup

1. Tottenham Hotspur – 18 honours

Tottenham Hotspur

2 league titles
8 FA Cups
4 League Cups
3 UEFA Cups / Europa League
1 Cup Winners’ Cup

1. Aston Villa – 20 honours

Aston Villa

7 league titles
7 FA Cups
5 League Cups
1 European Cup (Champions League)

1. Chelsea – 25 honours

Chelsea FC

6 league titles
8 FA Cups
5 League Cups
2 Champions League titles
2 Europa League titles
2 Cup Winners’ Cups
1 Conference League title

1. Manchester City – 29 honours

Manchester City

10 league titles
8 FA Cups
9 League Cups
1 Champions League
1 Cup Winners’ Cup

1. Arsenal – 30 honours

Arsenal FC

13 league titles
14 FA Cups
2 League Cups
1 Cup Winners’ Cup

1. Manchester United – 44 honours

Manchester United

20 league titles
13 FA Cups
6 League Cups
3 Champions League titles
1 Europa League
1 Cup Winners’ Cup

1. Liverpool – 47 honours

Liverpool FC

20 league titles
8 FA Cups
10 League Cups
6 Champions League titles
3 Europa League titles

Cristiano Ronaldo suffered heartache for the second time in a week when his Saudi club, Al Nassr, were stunned at home 1-0 by Japan’s Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final on Saturday.

Ronaldo’s wait for his first piece of major silverware since signing a big-money deal to join Al Nassr in 2023 was extended by the Japanese club, who withstood a second-half barrage by the Saudi side.

In front of 26,000 fans at the King Saud University Stadium, Al Nassr were hot favourites to become the first Saudi Arabian side to win the AFC Champions League Two, the second-tier Asian continental crown equivalent to UEFA’s Europa League.

But it was Gamba who struck the only goal of the game, against the run of play, when forward Deniz Hummet latched onto Issam Jebali’s through ball and buried his finish from the edge of the box after 29 minutes.

We had prepared well but they were very fast and they surprised us,” said Al Nassr’s Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus.

“For the first 30 minutes, we were not at our best but after that, we dominated. They only had one opportunity and they scored from it.”

Earlier in the week, Ronaldo had been forced to wait longer for a first Saudi Pro League title when Al Nassr goalkeeper Bento conceded a bizarre injury-time own goal that gave second-placed Al Hilal a 1-1 draw.

A win would have secured a first Saudi domestic title for the Portuguese great, who then endured more agony in Riyadh four days later.

“The dream is close,” the 41-year-old wrote on X to his 107.5 million followers on Wednesday, after his side had been seconds from the league title glory against Al Hilal.

“Heads up, we have one more step to take! Thank you all for the amazing support tonight!”

Al Nassr are two points ahead of Al Hilal with one game to play and can seal the title at home to Damac on Thursday.

Al Hilal play their final match away to Al Fayha on the same night.

“We didn’t get what we wanted here but there is one more final for us, the Saudi Pro League title, which is very important to us,” Jesus said.

“We have five days to recover and prepare and there is no time for grieving. We have to get going again.”

AFP

The Association of Ijebu Sons & Daughters has expressed deep concern over the recurring incidents of suspected toxic gas emissions affecting schools and communities across Ijebu land in Ogun State, describing the development as disturbing and unacceptable.

In a press release issued on Friday and signed by the Global Secretary of the association, Alhaji Otunba Hammed Gafari, and the Global Chairman, Prince Bunmi Mebude, the group lamented that the latest incidents occurred barely weeks after a similar outbreak at Our Lady of Apostles Girls High School, Ijebu-Ode.

The association noted that fresh cases of suspected toxic gas emissions were reported on Friday at Anglican Girls Grammar School and Hope Immaculate High School in Ijebu-Ode, as well as at St. Anthony’s Grammar School in Ijebu Imusin.

According to the statement, eyewitnesses said the incidents caused panic among students and residents, with several persons reportedly affected and rushed to hospitals for treatment.

The group cited the case of a parent at Hope Immaculate High School who reportedly lamented that his daughter remained unconscious for over four hours before she was revived after medical intervention said to have cost nearly N170,000.

The Ijebu Congress questioned the outcome of investigations into the earlier incident at Our Lady of Apostles Girls High School, asking whether the Ogun State Government had released any preliminary or final report on the matter.

The association also demanded clarification on whether methane gas had been officially identified as the substance responsible for the emissions and why such incidents continued to occur around schools in the area.

“We are not just thoroughly concerned, we are deeply disturbed,” the statement read, stressing that repeated occurrences of the incidents suggested that adequate preventive measures had not been taken after the first outbreak.

The group called on the Ogun State Government, Ijebu-Ode Local Government and other relevant authorities to urgently investigate the source of the emissions and put measures in place to prevent future occurrences.

The association emphasized the need to safeguard the lives of students and residents, noting that the safety and wellbeing of children must remain a top priority for government at all levels.

Cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons in Nigeria have raised alarm over the manner in which operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, invaded and harassed medical personnel at the University of Uyo teaching hospital.

The surgeons under the aegis of the Association of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons of Nigeria (ACTSON) specifically condemned the maltreatment of the hospital’s Deputy Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC) and a consultant cardiothoracic surgeon, Prof. Eyo Ekpe.

The group, in a statement issued by its President and General Secretary, Prof. Abubakar Umar and Associate Prof. Salisu Ismail, which was made available to newsmen in Osogbo by the Public Relations Officer, Dr Olugbenga Ojo, on Saturday, disclosed that EFCC operatives invaded the hospital, dragged Professor Ekpe out of his office along with other medical personnel and maltreated them in public.

“While we recognise and respect the statutory responsibilities of law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies in the discharge of their duties, such responsibilities must always be exercised within the bounds of civility, due process, and respect for professional institutions. No individual is above the law; however, no institution or officer should be subjected to degrading treatment, intimidation, harassment, or actions capable of jeopardizing patient safety and public confidence in healthcare delivery.

We express our profound anger and disgust over the conduct of the operatives involved in this incident and call for an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding this invasion”, the group requested.

They condemned the manner in which the EFCC operatives invaded the hospital, saying the operations created fear, chaos, and widespread pandemonium within the hospital environment, calling for the probe of EFCC personnel involved in the act.

“We further demand that all officials responsible for the forceful dragging, intimidation, and public humiliation of Prof. Ekpe and other staff members be identified and brought to book.

“We also urge the management of University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, relevant professional bodies, organised medical associations, and authorities of the University of Uyo to take all necessary steps to protect the integrity, safety, and operational stability of healthcare institutions,” they said.

While stressing that medical professionals remain committed to accountability, transparency, and the rule of law, the group said, “intimidation and public humiliation of healthcare professionals within hospital premises must never become normalised in a civilised society.

We stand in solidarity with Prof. Eyo Ekpe, affected staff members, and the entire University of Uyo Teaching Hospital community at this difficult moment.”

However, the EFCC in its X handle had denied humiliating the deputy CMAC of the hospital, saying its visit to the institution was purely administrative rather than tactical to effect arrest.

The Christian body said the programme, scheduled for May 22 to May 24, 2026, is aimed at seeking divine intervention for peace, healing, national stability, economic recovery and credible elections amid growing fears over violence and uncertainty across the country.

Vanguard reported Saturday  that the decision was disclosed in a statement issued by the PFN National Publicity Secretary, Sylvanus Ukafia, following a meeting of the Fellowship’s National Executive Council.

According to the statement, the council reached the resolution after what it described as extensive prayerful deliberations on the state of the nation and the role of the Church at a critical time.

This is a defining moment for the Church to rise in unity and intercession for the nation,” the Fellowship stated.

The PFN expressed concern over persistent violence, attacks on communities and places of worship, as well as the deepening economic hardship affecting millions of Nigerians.

“We believe that as the Church unites in prayer, God will intervene in the affairs of our nation and grant Nigeria peace, healing, stability, and a new season of hope,” it said.

The Fellowship said the programme would coincide with the observance of Global Pentecost Day and would be anchored on the biblical instruction in 2 Chronicles 7:14, calling on believers to humble themselves, pray, seek God’s face and turn from wrongdoing so that the land may be healed.

It called on churches, pastors, Christian leaders, workers, youths, women and believers nationwide to participate actively.

The PFN said Friday, May 22, and Saturday, May 23, would be observed through fasting and prayers in homes, churches and local assemblies across the country.

On Sunday, May 24, which marks Global Pentecost Day, Christians are expected to gather at designated venues across states for a united national prayer assembly to conclude the programme.

According to the PFN, prayers during the period would focus on “divine intervention for Nigeria,” restoration of peace and security, an end to bloodshed, terrorism and criminality, economic relief for citizens, wisdom and unity among leaders, peaceful and credible elections, and the emergence of God-fearing and patriotic leaders.

The Fellowship added that Nigeria remained a nation of immense possibilities and urged citizens, especially Christians, to stand together, while appealing to pastors and Christian leaders to mobilise their congregations and networks for full participation.

The Lagos State Police Command has received additional operational assets from the Lagos State Security Trust Fund in preparation for the planned launch of the Violent Crime Response Unit, as part of ongoing reforms within the Nigeria Police Force.

The reform initiative is being implemented under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Command said the assets are intended to strengthen crime prevention and rapid response operations across Lagos State.

The statement was signed by Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Adebisi, on Saturday.

The Lagos State Police Command has received additional operational assets from the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) to strengthen crime prevention and rapid response operations across the State,” the statement said.

The items presented include operational vehicles and protective gear.

“The operational assets presented to the Command by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund include two operational vehicles, fifty ballistic helmets, fifty bulletproof vests, and fifty ballistic shields aimed at enhancing the operational capacity, safety, and effectiveness of personnel of the newly established Unit,” it added.

The presentation was made by the Executive Secretary of the LSSTF, Dr Ayodele Ogunsan, who reaffirmed continued support for security agencies in the state.

Presenting the items, he reiterated “the continued commitment to supporting security agencies in the State through the provision of critical operational equipment and logistics necessary for efficient policing and public safety.”

Receiving the equipment on behalf of the Command, Commissioner of Police Tijani Fatai expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government and the LSSTF.

He said the support would enhance the readiness of the unit and improve the Command’s capacity to respond to violent crime.

“The support will significantly boost the operational readiness of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) and further enhance the Command’s capacity in combating violent crimes, ensuring rapid response to emergencies, safeguarding lives and property across Lagos State,” the statement added.

He added that the Command remains committed to “effective policing, proactive crime prevention, and improved public safety in line with the reform agenda of the Nigeria Police Force.”

An aspirant for the All Progressives Congress House of Representatives ticket for Ado Ekiti/Irepodun-Ifelodun Federal Constituency, Pastor Yemi Olayinka, has alleged intimidation during the party’s National Assembly primary election.

Olayinka, who contested the primary alongside the incumbent lawmaker, Steve Fatoba, and Tope Ogunleye, claimed that threats directed at his supporters failed to stop them from participating in the exercise.

Speaking in Ado Ekiti on Saturday after voting in his ward, the cleric and politician said the turnout of his supporters showed resilience despite alleged pressure from political authorities in the state.

He added that although he lost at his ward, he was satisfied with participating in what he described as a struggle against intimidation

The turnout of my supporters demonstrated resilience despite pressure from political authorities in the state.

“We were intimidated. They even told our followers not to come, that they would beat us, that they would shoot us. That was why I sat in front. I said, ‘Okay, look, whoever wants to shoot me should just come over.

“We have defeated them by coming for an election. That is the defeat, that is the victory

What we have done today is that we have been able to defeat unnecessary and undue intimidation by the authorities of the state,” he said.

Reacting, the incumbent lawmaker, Fatoba, dismissed allegations that his candidacy was imposed on party members, insisting that his support base was evident from the turnout at the primary.

“With what you can see here today, is this really evidence of imposition? Did we coerce anybody who queued behind me?

“Politicians can say whatever they like, but the facts speak for themselves. What we can see physically here today shows clearly that I’m grounded and loved by my people,” Fatoba said.

Fatoba urged APC members to remain united ahead of future elections in the state and appreciated party leaders, including Governor Biodun Oyebanji and Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, for their support.

Also speaking, a former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State and Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Examinations Council, Prof. Modupe Adelabu, denied allegations of imposition, describing the primary as an open democratic process.

“Everybody is free to contest. Everybody is free to vote for whoever they want to vote for,” she said.

The APC is currently conducting primary elections and internal consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The All Progressives Congress APC, House of Representatives primary election held in Lagos Mainland on Saturday was thrown into crisis following allegations of widespread irregularities, voter intimidation and disruption of the electoral process across several voting centres.

The disruption was reported in areas like: Apapa Road, Makoko, Iwaya and Adekunle, where party members and delegates allegedly faced intimidation and were prevented from participating freely in the exercise.

According to eyewitnesses and party members, supporters of Kazeem Omolaja allegedly disrupted the exercise by forcing out participants and delegates believed to be loyal to one of the aspirants, Abdulhakeem Animashaun from the voting centres in the affected areas.

The development reportedly created tension and confusion, as aggrieved members accused some party leaders of attempting to manipulate the process in favour of a preferred candidate.

Supporters of Abdulhakeem Animashaun also alleged that loyalists of the local government chairman, simply identified as Emilagba, compromised the credibility of the exercise through various forms of electoral malpractices.

The aggrieved members claimed that the APC membership voter cards were not used during the accreditation and voting process, raising concerns over the transparency and credibility of the election.

Speaking after the exercise, some loyalists of Animashaun rejected the outcome of the primary election, insisting that the process failed to meet acceptable democratic standards.

“We reject whatever outcome emerges from today’s election because the process was flawed and manipulated,” one of the supporters stated during the protest.

Party members further called on the leadership of the APC to investigate the allegations and ensure justice for all aspirants and their supporters.

Security personnel were reportedly deployed to some of the affected centres to maintain law and order and prevent the situation from escalating further.

As of press time, the APC leadership in Lagos Mainland had yet to issue an official statement regarding the allegations and the disruption that marred the exercise.

The incident has, however, sparked concerns among party faithful over the credibility of the party’s internal electoral process ahead of the forthcoming 2027 general elections.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has published the names of House of Representatives aspirants disqualified from participating in its forthcoming National Assembly primaries across several states ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The affected aspirants, drawn from Ondo, Bauchi, Ebonyi, Kogi and Rivers states, were marked “not cleared” following the party’s screening exercise conducted for aspirants seeking tickets to contest various federal constituencies

In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by the APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the party said the screening was carried out in accordance with its internal guidelines.

According to the statement, “The screening exercise was conducted by the Party’s Screening Committees in line with established procedures and guidelines.”

Ondo State recorded the highest number of affected aspirants. Those listed as “not cleared” include Hon. Adefisoye Tajudeen for Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency; Olusegun Victor Ategbole and Seun Oluwashina Ajongbolo for Akoko South-East/South-West; Rt. Hon. Arowole Ayodeji Samuel for Owo/Ose; as well as Morufu Tosin Ibrahim, Oseni Oyeniyi and Olaleye John Adedipe for Akoko North-East/North-West Federal Constituency.

In Bauchi State, Dr. Bashir Ibrahim Bello was disqualified from contesting the Darazo/Ganjuwa Federal Constituency primary.

Ebonyi State had Hon. Idu Igariwe listed as “not cleared” for the Afikpo/Edda Federal Constituency race, while in Kogi State, Sanni Salau Ogembe was affected in the Okene/Ogori-Magongo Federal Constituency contest.

In Rivers State, the aspirants declared ineligible include Air Commodore John Azubuike Opara (retd) for Port Harcourt Federal Constituency, Hon. Anderson Allison Igbiki for Okrika/Ogu-Bolo Federal Constituency, Awaji Imombek D. Abirite for Andoni/Opobo-Nkoro Federal Constituency, and Hon. Boma Goodhead for Asari-Toru/Akuku-Toru Federal Constituency.

The ruling party, however, did not state the reasons behind the disqualification of the aspirants.

Meanwhile, in Katsina State, Jamila Mani, Special Assistant on Girl Child Education and Development to Governor Dikko Radda, emerged victorious in the APC primary election for the Mani/Bindawa Federal Constituency.

In Adamawa State, the party’s direct primaries reportedly faced disruptions in several wards due to the absence of electoral officials expected to supervise the process. Party members in Girei, Yola North and Yola South were said to have waited for hours without any official communication regarding the commencement of the exercise.

“The Bundibugyo strain has no vaccine, no specific treatment,” Kamba told a press briefing in Kinshasa.

This strain has a very high lethality rate which can reach 50 percent,” Samuel-Roger Kamba told a press briefing in Kinshasa.

Earlier Saturday, ministry officials said the death toll had already reached 80, up from 65 initially reported the previous day.

The strain has also claimed one life in neighbouring Uganda, officials said Saturday, that of a DRC national.

That correlated with an announcement late Friday by Uganda’s health ministry, which said a 59-year-old man from the DRC had died in Kampala after being admitted earlier in the week. His body was repatriated the same day.

Tests showed the victim in Uganda was infected with the Bundibugyo strain, first identified in 2007

Vaccines are only available for the Zaire strain, which was identified in 1976 and has a higher fatality rate of 60-90 percent.

African health officials had confirmed the latest outbreak Friday in Ituri province in northeastern DRC, bordering Uganda and South Sudan, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC Africa).

Adding to concerns of spread are significant cross-border population movements in the region affected.

According to Kamba, patient zero was a nurse who reported to a health facility in provincial capital Bunia on April 24, with symptoms suggesting Ebola.

Symptoms include fever, haemorrhaging and vomiting.

– High risk of spread –

The officials warned Friday of a high risk of spread, with initially 65 deaths reported in the 17th outbreak to hit the DRC.

The country’s health ministry said overnight the number of fatalities had risen to “246 suspected cases notified and 80 deaths”.

“It is a large outbreak,” said Jay Bhattacharya, acting director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Friday.

The previous outbreak of the highly contagious haemorrhagic fever which has killed some 15,000 people in Africa over the past 50 years, despite advances in vaccines and treatment, was last August in the central region.

That episode killed at least 34 people, before being declared eradicated in December.

Nearly 2,300 people died in the deadliest outbreak in the DRC between 2018 and 2020.

Ebola, believed to have originated in bats, is a deadly viral disease spread through direct contact with bodily fluids. It can cause severe bleeding and organ failure.

According to the World Health Organization, outbreaks over the past half century have seen a mortality rate among those affected of between 25 percent and as high as 90 percent.

The virus spreads from person to person through bodily fluids or exposure to the blood of an infected persons, who become contagious only once they display symptoms. The incubation period can last up to 21 days.

“Given the uncertainties and severity of the illness,  there is concern about the scale of  transmission in affected communities,” the WHO stated Friday as it prepared to airlift some five tonnes of material including infection prevention gear from Kinshasa.

Large-scale transport of medical equipment is a challenge in a country of more than 100 million people which is four times the size of France with a poor communications infrastructure.

Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) has announced the commencement of auditions for its eleventh season, with organisers confirming that the selection process will be conducted physically this year.

The organisers announced in a statement shared via Instagram on Saturday, confirming that interested participants must register between May 16 and May 20 to qualify for the audition process.

The organisers stated that the audition is free and open only to individuals aged 21 and above with a valid means of identification.

They also noted that there are limited slots available, adding that the registration portal will close once maximum capacity is reached.

Successful applicants will receive confirmation emails for physical auditions scheduled to take place from May 22 to May 24 in Lagos, Abuja, and Enugu.

The show’s return to in-person auditions continues a format introduced in its earlier seasons, after years of virtual and hybrid screening processes designed to widen participation.

The last edition of the reality show was won by Opeyemi Ayanwale, popularly known as Imisi, who emerged champion on October 5, 2025, after defeating 28 other housemates to claim the grand prize.

Interested applicants can apply here

Online streamer Carter Efe has revealed that public backlash and controversy almost drove him into depression, recalling how the reaction to his hit track ‘Machala’ affected his mental health and early career journey.

Speaking in a recent interview with BBC Pidgin, he said the criticism that followed the song led to intense online dragging, where he was labelled a rapper and thief, and insulted over his appearance.

People always say I’m controversial, but controversy almost pushed me into depression. After I dropped ‘Machala,’ people dragged but I have grown over it. I am not going back there,” he said.

He added that even while travelling to Dubai at the time, he was still battling depression and unable to enjoy his fame. According to him, he has now become mentally stronger and less affected by online criticism.

“Now, I don’t care. If you drag me from now till tomorrow, I cannot be moved,” he stated.

Efe also spoke about the difficulties of the streaming economy, describing the music industry as “very difficult” and mentally draining. He said he once struggled to get people to stream his songs and was shocked by how little revenue artistes earn from streaming platforms.

He claimed he previously believed releasing music guaranteed financial success, but later realised artistes may earn far less than expected from streaming income.

On his rivalry with musician Portable, Efe said his decision to enter boxing was driven by anger and past grievances, adding that their issues fueled his aggression during preparations.

“I entered boxing with the plan to kill Portable. He has done so many bad things off camera and that was what fuelled my anger inside the ring.

They say Speed Darlington wants to fight me. I am ready for him. I will destroy his waist,” he said.

Beyond the controversies, he made a surprising comment about Wizkid, saying he admires his music but does not like his personality.

I love Wizkid and his craft but I do not like his personality

Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski said Saturday he is leaving the club this summer at the end of his contract.

The veteran Polish forward, 37, scored 119 goals for Barcelona in 191 games across all competitions since joining from Bayern Munich in 2022.

Lewandowski helped Barca to three La Liga titles, including this season’s trophy, and the Copa del Rey in 2025.

After four years full of challenges and hard work, it’s time to move on,” said Lewandowski in a post on Instagram.

“I leave with the feeling that the mission is complete. Four seasons, three championships.”

The forward joined with Barca at a low ebb and struggling financially, helping restore them to the Spanish throne and also compete for the Champions League.

“Barca is back where it belongs,” continued Lewandowski.

“I will never forget the love I received from the fans from my very first days. Catalonia is my place on earth.”

Lewandowski will play for the last time at Barcelona’s Camp Nou stadium on Sunday against Real Betis, with coach Hansi Flick confirming he will start.

“He spoke with the team, said goodbye, and that it was a great time for him here in Barcelona,” said Flick, who also coached Lewandowski at Bayern Munich.

I’ve worked with Robert now for years, and we won together nine (trophies), all the titles I’ve won were with him.

“For me it’s a privilege to work with him. He’s a professional player… every day he gave the best with his body to be at the highest level.

He’s a perfect role model for young players… this is why he’s still playing at this level.”

Flick said Lewandowski was a “fantastic human, but also a world-class player”.

“Thank you, Robert Lewandowski, for every goal, every (bit of) fight, and every magical moment wearing these colours,” said Barcelona on social media. “He arrived as a star, he leaves as a legend.”

Lewandowski is one of the most prolific strikers of his generation and finished as La Liga’s top scorer in his debut campaign under Xavi Hernandez.

This season Flick rotated him up front with Spain international Ferran Torres, with Lewandowski scoring 18 goals in 44 games.

The striker did not confirm his next destination but has been linked with clubs in Saudi Arabia and the United States.

Actor Williams Uchemba has declined to speak on the marital status and alleged children of late Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo, insisting that such matters should only be addressed by the actor’s immediate family.

The award-winning actor, who was a close friend of the deceased Ekubo, while speaking during an interview with The Am Show earlier today, said he would respect whatever decision Ekubo made about keeping aspects of his private life away from the public.

Though I do not think I am in the place to say because if Alex did want it like that, I think I would respect it. I would respect his will and he wanted it that way,” he said.

The actor added that if any information were to be made public, it should come directly from Ekubo’s family.

“If anything would come out from that, it would be his family. People have their decisions, some people would not want it out there or in the public. So, it is still best for his immediate family to say anything on it,” he added.

Uchemba’s comments come amid growing conversations on social media about whether Ekubo had children.

The actor’s family confirmed that he passed away at Evercare Hospital in Lagos after battling metastatic kidney cancer and appealed for privacy as they mourn him.

Ekubo featured in over 100 Nollywood productions during his career.

Son Heung-min was named in South Korea’s squad for his fourth World Cup on Saturday.

Captain Son will turn 34 in July and he is now playing for Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer, having left Tottenham Hotspur and the English Premier League a year ago.

He heads an experienced Korean squad that also features Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Lee Kang-in, Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae and Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Hwang Hee-chan.

South Korea have been drawn in Group A with co-hosts Mexico, the Czech Republic and South Africa.

They will play all their first-round games in Mexico and take on the Czechs in their opener on June 11

Besiktas striker Oh Hyeon-gyu was also included in coach Hong Myung-bo’s 26-man squad, along with Celtic’s Yang Hyun-jin and Birmingham’s Paik Seung-ho

German-born Jens Castrop of Borussia Moenchengladbach also made the cut.

South Korea World Cup squad:

Goalkeepers: Jo Hyeon-woo (Ulsan), Kim Seung-gyu (FC Tokyo/JPN), Song Bum-keun (Jeonbuk)

Defenders: Kim Moon-hwan (Daejeon), Kim Min-jae (Bayern Munich/GER), Kim Tae-hyon (Kashima Antlers/JPN), Park Jin-seob (Zhejiang/CHN), Seol Young-woo (Red Star Belgrade/SER), Jens Castrop (Borussia Moenchengladbach/GER), Lee Ki-hyuk (Gangwon), Lee Tae-seok (Austria Wien/AUT), Lee Han-beom (Midtjylland/DEN), Cho Yu-min (Sharjah/UAE)

Midfielders: Kim Jin-gyu (Jeonbuk), Bae Jun-ho (Stoke City/ENG), Paik Seung-ho (Birmingham/ENG), Yang Hyun-jun (Celtic/SCO), Eom Ji-sung (Swansea/WAL), Lee Kang-in (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Lee Dong-gyeong (Ulsan), Lee Jae-sung (Mainz/GER), Hwang In-beom (Feyenoord/NED), Hwang Hee-chan (Wolverhampton Wanderers/ENG

Forwards: Son Heung-min (LAFC/USA), Oh Hyeon-gyu (Besitkas/TUR), Cho Gue-sung (Midtjylland/DEN)

A former aspirant for the Sabon Gari Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives, Mahmud Sadis Buba, also known as Abin Al-Ajabin Zazzau, has withdrawn from the race.

Buba announced his withdrawal in a statement shared on Saturday via his official Facebook page titled “Re: Voluntary Withdrawal from the Race for Sabon Gari Federal Constituency, House of Representatives.”

In the statement, he said the decision to step down was taken after consultations with family, political associates and party stakeholders, noting that it was influenced by reconciliation efforts within the party.

“Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am withdrawing from the race for Sabon Gari Federal Constituency, House of Representatives, effective immediately,” he said.

He added that the move was aimed at strengthening unity within the All Progressives Congress, stressing the need for the party to rally behind a single candidate ahead of the general election.

“This was not an easy decision. But it was hastened by the reconciliation efforts initiated by stakeholders and leaders of our party,” he said.

Buba also expressed appreciation to the leadership of the APC in Kaduna State, including Governor Uba Sani, for the opportunity to participate in the nomination process.

I want to thank the leader of our party, His Excellency Senator Uba Sani, CON, and the leadership of the party in Kaduna State for the opportunity to have participated in the nomination process,” he said.

He urged his supporters to remain calm and support the party’s eventual candidate, adding that his withdrawal should not be seen as weakness but as a sacrifice for party unity.

“I ask my supporters to remain calm, united, and to throw their full weight behind the party’s decision and whoever emerges as the party’s candidate,” he said.

Buba reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC, saying he remained committed to ensuring the party’s victory at the polls.

His withdrawal comes amid public discussions over allegations of age falsification linked to conflicting documents circulating online, although no official indictment has been made against him.

He had recently completed screening by the APC for the House of Representatives seat, where he appeared before party officials in traditional attire. His youthful appearance generated public reactions during the exercise, where he confirmed he is 30 years

old, the firstborn of nine siblings, and said he entered the race following calls from his community to serve.

Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski said Saturday he is leaving the club this summer at the end of his contract.

The veteran Polish forward, 37, scored 119 goals for Barcelona in 191 games across all competitions since joining from Bayern Munich in 2022.

Lewandowski helped Barca to three La Liga titles, including this season’s trophy, and the Copa del Rey in 2025.

“After four years full of challenges and hard work, it’s time to move on,” said Lewandowski in a post on Instagram.

“I leave with the feeling that the mission is complete. Four seasons, three championships.”

The forward joined with Barca at a low ebb and struggling financially, helping restore them to the Spanish throne and also compete for the Champions League.

“Barca is back where it belongs,” continued Lewandowski.

I will never forget the love I received from the fans from my very first days. Catalonia is my place on earth.”

Lewandowski will play for the last time at Barcelona’s Camp Nou stadium on Sunday against Real Betis, with coach Hansi Flick confirming he will start.

“He spoke with the team, said goodbye, and that it was a great time for him here in Barcelona,” said Flick, who also coached Lewandowski at Bayern Munich.

“I’ve worked with Robert now for years, and we won together nine (trophies), all the titles I’ve won were with him.

“For me it’s a privilege to work with him. He’s a professional player… every day he gave the best with his body to be at the highest level.

“He’s a perfect role model for young players… this is why he’s still playing at this level.”

Flick said Lewandowski was a “fantastic human, but also a world-class player”.

Thank you, Robert Lewandowski, for every goal, every (bit of) fight, and every magical moment wearing these colours,” said Barcelona on social media. “He arrived as a star, he leaves as a legend.”

Lewandowski is one of the most prolific strikers of his generation and finished as La Liga’s top scorer in his debut campaign under Xavi Hernandez.

This season, Flick rotated him up front with Spain international Ferran Torres, with Lewandowski scoring 18 goals in 44 games.

The striker did not confirm his next destination but has been linked with clubs in Saudi Arabia and the United States.

AFP

Isaac Fayose, brother of a former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, has announced the demise of his wife.

He disclosed this in an instagram post on Saturday.

Sharing a picture of a candlelight, he wrote, “Rest In Peace, My darling wife.”

In another post where he shared pictures of his wife, Fayose bade her farewell, saying, “Odaro oyinbo mi.”

Earlier in March, after a visit to his family in Australia,Fayose revealed on Instagram that his wife was battling cancer.

“My wife is not feeling well. When I got here, she was very weak. The same woman who usually picks me up at the airport couldn’t come, so I had to take an Uber.

“She used to cook for me, but now I find myself cooking for her. She couldn’t cook or talk. I sat beside her and sang her favourite song; she held my hand as I sang,” Fayose said in tears.

The announcement of his wife’s death has drawn condolences from followers and celebrities such as Actress Yvonne Jegede, Comedian Ali Baba, and Veteran musician Daddy Showkey, among others.

The Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, confirmed this in a statement on Saturday, while commenting on the ongoing enforcement along the Alaba Rago corridor.

Gbadegesin said the clearance of illegal traders, squatters and unauthorised structures underscored the Lagos State Government’s zero tolerance for environmental nuisance and indiscriminate waste disposal.

He said the operation became necessary following persistent indiscriminate waste disposal, obstruction of sanitation operations and illegal occupation of the expressway setback by traders and squatters within the axis.

According to him, the exercise is aimed at restoring environmental order, improving sanitation standards and protecting public infrastructure along one of the state’s major transport corridors.

“Road setbacks are not designated for trading, habitation or related activities. Continued encroachment on such public spaces will not be tolerated,” he said.

He said the government would continue to enforce environmental regulations and prevent activities capable of undermining structured waste management operations and environmental sustainability across the state.

He urged traders and residents to utilise approved market spaces and designated waste disposal channels.

Gbadegesin said environmental responsibility and compliance remained critical to achieving a cleaner, safer and more sustainable Lagos.

He said the enforcement operation was carried out by LAWMA, in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps, and the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.

Gbadegesin said the operation followed the expiration of a three-day removal notice earlier served on occupants of the affected corridor.

According to him, several carts operated by illegal waste handlers and cart pushers were seized during the exercise, as part of measures to curb indiscriminate waste disposal and strengthen structured waste management within the axis.

He reaffirmed LAWMA’s commitment to sustained collaboration with relevant enforcement agencies, to maintain environmental order and strengthen sanitation enforcement across Lagos State.

Alaba Rago is a major, historic market located along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway in Ojo, Lagos State. It is known primarily as a bustling hub for northern traders, it serves as a massive livestock and food supply center, but is currently undergoing a major demolition and modernization project by the Lagos State, multiple reports stated.

NAN

The primary election was held on Saturday as part of the party’s National Assembly primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Mani defeated her closest rival, Ahmed Saleh, to clinch the ticket after polling 24,989 votes.

Saleh scored 1,256 votes in the exercise.

In other constituencies across the state, the APC conducted its primaries through affirmation following a consensus arrangement earlier adopted by stakeholders.

The APC is holding its House of Representatives primary elections across various states ahead of the 2027 general elections.

APC, in a statement released by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, in Ibadan, the state capital, sympathised with the family of the two slain citizens while calling on the governments and security agents to set all machineries in motion with a view to freeing the abducted pupils and Mrs Folawe Alamu from the criminal elements immediately.

The reports that some gun-wielding attackers, who operated on motorcycles, unleashed terror simultaneously on Yawota and Ahoro Esinele communities at about 9 am on Friday.

Two people were reportedly killed by the attackers, who also abducted an unspecified number of school children and a headteacher identified as Mrs Alamu.

Sadare said, “The Friday lethal attacks on the people of Oriire Local Government Area of the state have further exposed the ineptitude of the concerned authorities, especially the administration of Governor Makinde.

For quite some time, some local government areas in the state have witnessed violent attacks in the hands of gunmen and bandits who always killed, maimed and abducted hapless citizens, particularly in Oriire, Ibarapa North, Oluyole, Itesiwaju, Ido and some other local government areas whenever they struck.

“The saddening part of the whole thing is that Governor Makinde, who is the Chief Security Officer of the state, was busy gallivanting on the streets of Ibadan – the state capital at the time of the Friday attacks in the name of Street Credibility for the purpose of selfish politicking.

On the entourage of Governor Makinde were security agents and Amotekun Corps who were supposed to have been deployed to the nooks and crannies of the state to do their normal work.

“At this juncture, the good people of the state must rise up to ask questions; where are the security surveillance aircraft for which the governor removed billions of naira from the state treasury to purchase last year? Where are the impacts of the security votes which the governor receives every month from the Federal Government? Why does Makinde find it extremely difficult to work with relevant stakeholders to address insecurity in the state?

“It is time Governor Makinde was told that he should get serious with the business of governing the state, as he has to disembark from the high horse of deceit as his luck in the field of politics terminates on May 29, 2027.”

The 2026 David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship is now accepting applications from interested and qualified African students.

The David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship will grant students the opportunity to study at
Covenant and Landmark University, Nigeria.

Covenant University is the leading universities in Africa equipped with world-class facilities. It drives a vision to raise a new generation of leaders and reinstate the black race’s dignity. 

In this post, Scholarship Region will highlight the full details of the scholarship for interested applicants. We will also provide information on the eligibility criteria, benefits, required documents, and how you can apply successfully in simple terms.

David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Nigeria
• Study Abroad: Study in Africa
• Category: Undergraduate Scholarships 
• Eligible Countries: Nigeria
• Reward: Full Scholarship | Living Stipend | Healthcare
• Deadline: Not Specified
  

David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship Details:

The David Oyedepo Foundation scholarship programme is the major platform for promoting the Foundation’s vision and goals.

The scholarship program awards full-ride scholarships to qualified individuals who are indigenes and residents of African countries.

The scholarship seeks to develop youth leaders who are ready to put their learned skills to work in leading organizations, communities, and their local countries.

The scholarship grants students the opportunity to study at Covenant and Landmark University, Nigeria. 

David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship Requirements:

To be considered for the David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship, you must:

• Be a citizen and permanent residents of any African Nation 
• Be between the ages of 16 and 25 at the time of application submission.
• Be eligible to receive a Nigerian student visa
• Be proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English
• Have a record of exceptional performance at the secondary school level which is
  benchmarked by:
• At least 50 points above JAMB cut-off points (for Nigerians only)
• 80% recorded average or 4.0GPA/5.0 in Secondary/High School Transcript
• Already have begun admission applications to Covenant or Landmark University

David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship Duration and Reward

• Full Academic fees for a maximum of 5 years. (In accordance with the University stipulated time for the duration of the chosen course).
  

Required Documents for David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship

To apply, candidates must be ready to submit the following documents;

• Complete Application Form
• Secondary School Transcripts
• WAEC Result
• Letter of Recommendation (Academic)
• Letter of Recommendation (Religion)
• ESSAY 1  – WHY DO YOU NEED THIS SCHOLARSHIP? (500 WORDS)
• ESSAY 2 – WHY DO YOU WANT TO PURSUE YOUR CHOSEN COURSE? (500 WORDS)
• ESSAY 3 – WHAT IS YOUR LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE? (500 WORDS)ESSAY 3 – WHAT IS YOUR LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE? (500 WORDS)
• ESSAY 4 – DO YOU LOVE YOUR COUNTRY? (500 WORDS)

How To Apply for David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship (Step-by-Step Process)

To apply for the David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship, interested and qualified applicants should follow the procedures below;

• Click on the button below to visit the scholarship application portal
• Read all the instructions applicable to the scholarship before you apply.
• Apply for the scholarship and upload all required documents
• The David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship Program selection process is a need-dependent, merit-based open competition.
• After the deadline, all eligible applications will be reviewed by a selection panel.
• Following this review, chosen finalists will be interviewed by the David Oyedepo Foundation team, through an online video conferencing platform.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Deadline: Not Specified

The Oyo State Government has directed the reopening of schools in Oriire Local Government Area and neighbouring local government areas on Monday, following the deployment of additional security personnel to the affected communities. 

The government had earlier on Friday ordered the closure following attacks on schools in the Ahoro-Esinele community in Orire LGA, where a teacher was killed and a number of students kidnapped.

The affected areas include Oriire, Oyo East, Surulere and Olorunsogo local government areas.

The Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYOSUBEB), Dr Nureni Adeniran, in another statement issued on Friday in Ibadan, said that the decision followed a comprehensive security review conducted after the recent attack on schools in the Ahoro-Esinele community.

He said that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, had strengthened surveillance and safety measures across the affected areas to ensure the protection of pupils, teachers and other school personnel.

According to him, the deployment of additional security operatives under the directives of the Commissioner of Police has improved security architecture within the axis.

The safety of pupils and teachers remains a top priority of the state government.

“Learning activities can now resume without fear, as the government continues to monitor the situation closely in partnership with local authorities and community stakeholders,” he said.

Adeniran appealed to parents and guardians to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information, assuring them of sustained security presence in the communities.

He added that the government would continue to provide timely updates on developments relating to security in the affected areas. (NAN)

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday arrived in Lagos after concluding a three-nation diplomatic and investment tour of France, Kenya, and Rwanda, where he engaged global leaders, investors, and multilateral institutions on economic reforms and regional integration.

The President’s aircraft landed at the Presidential Wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, at about 7:12 pm, where he was received by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Femi Hamzat, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly Mudashiru Obasa, and other senior officials.

President Tinubu, while in France, met with global investors, emphasising transparency and fiscal discipline and explaining the rationale for the swift implementation of the bold economic reforms his administration has instituted. He also participated in the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, co-hosted by President Emmanuel Macron of France and President William Ruto,” this was contained in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President.

At the event, President Tinubu called for a reform of global financial architecture and a stronger economic integration that prioritises Africa’s growth and prosperity.   He also highlighted Nigeria’s potential in the blue economy as one of the cornerstones of Africa’s development, with a commitment to share Nigeria’s maritime intelligence infrastructure with willing Gulf of Guinea states.   While in Nairobi, the President also had a bilateral meeting with his Madagascan counterpart, Michael Randrianirina.   In Kigali, Rwanda, President Tinubu joined other African leaders, investors, and Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of global and African companies at the Africa CEO Forum to chart practical ways to accelerate the continent’s economic transformation through shared scale, regional integration, and increased cross-border investments.   He also held a bilateral meeting with the Rwandan leader and host, Paul Kagame,” the statement continued.

He met with delegations from multilateral and multinational companies, including the International Finance Corporation (IFC), APM Terminals, and the Winme Group, with notable favourable outcomes.   President Tinubu also featured in panels and discussions that highlighted, among other things, the thrust of his administration’s economic reform programmes.   While in Lagos, the President will participate in the All Progressives Congress primary elections, starting on Saturday.   He had earlier, in a statement to party faithful, called on all participants in the primaries to “keep the peace and be ready to play as sportsmen and women in the overall interest of the party and our country.”

The Nigeria Immigration Service announced this in a statement issued on Friday, following President Bola Tinubu’s announcement at the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda, granting Rwandan nationals visa-free entry into Nigeria for up to 30 days.

According to the statement signed by the NIS Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, the gesture reciprocates a similar arrangement by the Rwandan government for Nigerian citizens.

Under the bilateral arrangement, Rwandan nationals may enter Nigeria without a visa for lawful purposes such as tourism, business and official engagements for a period not exceeding 30 days.

The NIS, however, stated that individuals intending to stay beyond the approved duration would be required to obtain the appropriate visa through a Nigerian embassy or high commission abroad, or via the Nigeria e-visa channel.

It added that all international entry points, including airports, land borders and seaports, had been directed to commence immediate implementation of the policy in line with the presidential directive.

The agency noted that the initiative reflected diplomatic and bilateral relations between Nigeria and Rwanda while promoting intra-African mobility, tourism and economic cooperation.

The Service remains committed to facilitating safe, orderly, and lawful migration in accordance with international best practices and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement added.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Friday said a Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, had remanded social media influencer, Okoro Nkiruka, popularly known as Blessing CEO, in its custody over an alleged N36m fraud.

In a statement obtained by Saturday PUNCH, the commission said the defendant was arraigned by its Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 before Justice D.I. Dipeolu on a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and stealing.

According to the EFCC, the defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to her.

The commission stated that during the proceedings, defence counsel, P.I. Nwafor, informed the court that the defendant had refunded N24m to the nominal complainant and sought a short adjournment to allow both parties resolve the outstanding balance

We have an application to make. The defendant approached the nominal complainant and refunded N24m out of the N36m.

“We are asking for a short adjournment to resolve the outstanding balance. The nominal complainant agreed that if the balance is paid, they can prevail on the EFCC to drop the case,” said the statement.

However, prosecution counsel, S.I. Suleiman, told the court that the Federal Government was the complainant in the matter and that the prosecution was not aware of any arrangement between the defendant and the petitioner.

The statement noted that the court held that any discussion between the defendant and the nominal complainant would not affect the proceedings and directed that the defendant takes her plea.

The EFCC in the statement says “One of the counts alleged that the defendant, between July 14 and 17, 2024, obtained N36 million from one Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye under the false pretence of leasing a six-bedroom detached duplex in Lekki, Lagos, which representation she allegedly knew to be false.

“Another count, according to the commission, accused her of fraudulently converting the said sum to personal use,”.

Following her plea, the prosecution applied for a trial date and prayed the court to remand the defendant in a correctional facility pending trial.

Defence counsel, however, urged the court to remand her in EFCC custody, noting that she had just been served with the charges and was still perfecting her bail application.

Justice Dipeolu granted the request and ordered that the defendant be remanded in EFCC custody.

The case was adjourned till June 5, 2026, for commencement of trial, the statement added.

The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed five inspectors attached to the Rivers State Police Command over their alleged involvement in a violent criminal syndicate accused of armed robbery, kidnapping, extortion and conspiracy in Port Harcourt and other parts of the state.

Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, disclosed this on Friday while parading eight police inspectors at the command headquarters, Moscow Road, Port Harcourt.

According to Placid, the dismissed officers — John Okoi, Eyibo Asuquo, Udo Ndipmong, Bright Nwachukwu and Anele Ikechukwu — were part of a wider criminal network allegedly operated by serving policemen who used official cover to abduct, rob and extort unsuspecting residents.

Placid said, “Five of the suspects attached to the Rivers State Command have been dismissed after undergoing orderly room trial, while three others attached to Zone 16 Headquarters, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, will face further disciplinary action and prosecution in court. Three additional suspects linked to the operations are currently at large.”

He added that investigations revealed the officers operated in Sienna buses under the guise of patrol duties, during which they allegedly intercepted residents, carried out illegal stop-and-search operations, forced victims to unlock mobile phones and accessed bank and cryptocurrency accounts to steal funds running into millions of naira.

The Force spokesperson said intelligence-led investigations uncovered a pattern of abductions, assaults and extortion carried out between September 2025 and January 2026 across parts of Rivers State.

He said victims were allegedly taken to isolated locations where they were beaten and forced to transfer money under duress.

Placid further disclosed that the case involving the three officers attached to Zone 16 Headquarters was triggered by petitions submitted through the Behind Bars Human Rights Foundation on behalf of victims.

He said items recovered from the suspects include three Toyota Sienna vehicles and ₦7,338,800 traced to the operations.

Investigators also linked the group to an incident in which a victim was allegedly abducted along Igbo-Etche Road, Port Harcourt, and forced to transfer ₦4.5 million from his account and $1,742 from a cryptocurrency wallet.

Placid said the Force had also identified supervisory lapses that enabled the misconduct, adding that disciplinary actions were being extended to officers who failed to enforce operational directives.

He stressed that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to internal cleansing and accountability, noting that the actions of the dismissed officers do not represent the institution.

“The Nigeria Police Force wishes to assure members of the public that these acts are criminal aberrations. The Force remains committed to discipline, transparency and the protection of citizens’ rights,” he said.

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons says it has secured the conviction and life imprisonment of two security guards, James Sule, 30 and Adamu Yau, 25, for serial rape of a six-year-old girl.

A statement by NAPTIP Press and Public Relations officer, Mr Vincent Adekoye, in Abuja on Friday, disclosed that the convicts were based in Abuja.

Adekoye said that the convicts were handed life imprisonment, without the option of fine, by Justice S.M. Mayana of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court 46, Apo, Abuja, following their arraignment by NAPTIP.

He said that the convicts were arraigned in line with the provisions of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) (VAPP) Act, 2025

The spokesman added that the development was hailed by a cross section of stakeholders and members of the Civil Society Organisations across the country.

According to Adekoye, the development is in furtherance of the renewed commitment and determination by the present management of NAPTIP to step up the implementation of the VAPP Law and ensure commensurate justice for victims of Sexual and Gender Based Violence in the country.

Adekoye stated that the victim, was constantly raped when she was six years old in 2016 till 2022, when she was 12 years when the matter was reported.

The victim recounted that in 2016, her grandmother engaged the service of James Sule, who was then their family security guard, to repair a broken toilet in their residence at Penthouse Estate, Lugbe, Abuja.

The victim recounted that while her grandmother returned to the kitchen, Sule remained in the toilet, adding that she was crying on the bed in the room over a cellotape she had spoiled when Sule called her into the toilet.

The victim said that Sule assured her he would help prevent her grandmother from punishing her, then locked the door, forcibly removed her pants, and raped her while covering her mouth, and later brought out a knife and, threatened her not to tell anyone.

She said that this marked the beginning of repeated sexual abuse, fear, pain, and trauma that continued for six years.

Meanwhile, the NAPTIP Press Officer stated that in a move by this victim to share the sexual pleasure with his friends, Sule, later recruited two other guards in the Estate, Adamu Yau, who is the second convict, and one Muhammed, now at large.

The NAPTIP Press Officer said that they all together had sex with the victim whenever opportunities arose, threatening to kill and wipeout her entire family if she spoke to anyone about their act with her.

He said that the victim endured this traumatic abuse in silence for about six years before her parents noticed troubling changes in her behaviour, and became visibly agitated whenever Sule entered the house and refused to let him escort her to school or pick her up from the school bus.

In a bid to get an explanation for the sudden, strange behaviour of the little girl, her parents took her to a prayer house where she confided in the Pastor that Sule, Yau, and Mohammed had been sexually abusing her, particularly whenever she returned from school before her parents arrived home.

“The parents immediately reported the matter to the Association for Reproductive and Family Health (ARFH), which subsequently transferred the case to NAPTIP and the convicts were immediately arrested.

“Following further investigation, charges were filed in court on February 9, 2023.

Sule and Yau were arraigned on October 23 of the same year on two
-count charge under Section 1(1), punishable under Section 1(2), and Section 5 of the VAPP Act 2015,” Adekoye said.

He stated the convicts pleaded not guilty, when the trial commenced on December 5, 2023.

The prosecution presented five witnesses, including the victim’s mother, who testified tearfully.

The NAPTIP Press officer said that seven exhibits were also tendered to support the case, including a medical report showing that the victim’s hymen was breached.

He said that all witnesses were cross-examined.

Speaking on the conviction, the Director General of NAPTIP, Hajia Binta Adamu-Bello, commended the judiciary for the landmark judgment, which she described as a clear warning to all offenders across the country.

She said, “I am excited that indeed, adequate justice, which is commensurate with the magnitude of the crime committed by the convicts, was duly served on them.
“This will go a long way to assuage the pain and traumatic experience of the victim and her family.

“It is important to point out that this is one of the fallouts of our improved strategies aimed at tightening the noose on violators across the country through stringent implementation and enforcement of the provisions of the VAPP Act to ensure the protection of all Nigerians.

“It will no longer be business as usual for them.

“I want to use this medium to appeal again to all Nigerians, especially parents, school owners, and other stakeholders, to ensure that they carry out due diligence and strict profiling on any service providers before employing them.

“The service providers include drivers, Security Guards, Home Lesson Teachers, babysitters, Cooks, and others. This is to avoid any unpleasant situation of this nature.”

NAPTIP appreciates the support and collaboration of the judiciary in the fight against SGBV, as well as the partnership from ARFH and other stakeholders,” Adamu-Bello stated.

On her part, the mother of the victim (name withheld), in her response, thanked the Management of NAPTIP, especially the Counsel, for ensuring that justice was served on the violators of her daughter.

Adekoye however, said that the convicts have since been taken to the Kuje Correctional Centre as directed by the Court, where they will spend the rest of their lives.

NAN

In the Gold Cup final last year, the US lost in a Houston stadium overwhelmingly packed with rival Mexico fans. The semi-final in St Louis, Missouri, was a sea of light blue for their opponents Guatemala.

There were similar scenes at the US-hosted Copa America a year earlier.

It is a huge concern for the US players under extraordinary pressure to deliver as co-hosts at this summer’s World Cup, documentary filmmaker Rand Getlin told AFP.

It devastates them. It hurts them. It makes them sad. They’re disappointed in themselves for not giving fans more to cheer for,” said Getlin, who spent the past four years embedded with the US team for an HBO series.

“They’re like, ‘I want to go out and I want to do something spectacular with this men’s national team at the World Cup, so we can change the way the sport is viewed in this country forever,'” he explained.

Getlin’s five-part docuseries is appropriately titled “U.S. Against the World.”

It takes viewers into the homes and locker rooms of several US stars including Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie.

The series charts their journeys from humble backgrounds in a then-soccer skeptical country to unlikely success playing for Europe’s top clubs.

It also depicts the sacking of Gregg Berhalter and the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino as head coach less than two years before the World Cup.

Pochettino, the Argentine former coach of Tottenham Hotspur, was quick to note the contrast between the ferocity of the “unbelievable” Guatemala fans and US supporters.

“That is the connection that we would like to see in the World Cup. That connection that makes you fly,” said following the Gold Cup clash.

“To see (Guatemala), how they fight, how the fans behave, that is an important thing that we need to learn in this country,” he added.

• ‘Pressure’ –

Soccer has boomed in North America over the past decade or so. But the focus of fans’ support is often glamorous European clubs or, for immigrant communities, their nation of ancestry.

In recent weeks, outlets including The Athletic have reported below-expectation ticket sales for the United States’ World Cup games, though sky-high prices are mainly deemed responsible.

The US will play more Latin American opposition in the group stage opener, against Paraguay, before coming up against Australia and Turkey.

In the documentary, both Pochettino and the players are careful to avoid blaming the US fans for being frequently outnumbered.

For one thing, Getlin said, they are meticulously media trained, especially in “what not to say.”

The series shows the vitriol Pulisic received just for opting not to play in the Gold Cup after an exhausting season, in part to prepare for the World Cup.

Pulisic had to delete social media and hurled his phone at the wall in anger at his treatment. In the series, he discusses the mental health toll it took.

It was brave of him to invite us home at that time,” said Getlin, who considers the sometimes prickly Pulisic a “profoundly misunderstood” character.

But there is also a sense among US players that have not yet earned the vast, vociferous home support and loyalty that they witness from other nations.

The US failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, did respectably at the 2022 edition, but then suffered embarrassing failures at the Copa America and last year’s Nations League.

For every recent loss and poor performance, there is “pressure that’s mounting toward the World Cup,” admits goalkeeper Matt Turner.

Getlin’s hope is that the documentary — which was made in association with the US Soccer Federation — can give American fans an “emotional on-ramp” to get behind their side at the World Cup.

“We wanted to give the United States something to cheer for,” said Getlin.

“And in order to cheer for this team, I think you have to know and care about them before the tournament kicks off.”

AFP

A man in his thirties was in a “critical” condition Saturday after being attacked by a shark in Western Australia, rescue services told AFP.

The incident took place after 10:00 am (0200 GMT) off Rottnest Island near the city of Perth, a spokesperson for St John Ambulance Western Australia said.

“The rescue helicopter is on scene, along with police and island emergency services,” they added.

There have been nearly 1,300 shark incidents around Australia since 1791, of which more than 260 resulted in death, according to a database of the predators’ encounters with humans.

The most recent fatality was a 12-year-old boy who died after being attacked by a shark in Sydney Harbour in January.

That attack was one of four recorded in the span of two days, which prompted officials to close dozens of the city’s beaches.

It was the city’s third recent shark-related death.

Australian scientists believe increasingly crowded waters and rising ocean temperatures are swaying sharks’ migratory patterns, which may be contributing to a rise in attacks.

AFP

Taiwan said on Saturday it is an “independent” nation, hours after US President Donald Trump warned the democratic island against declaring formal independence.

Taiwan “is a sovereign and independent democratic nation, and is not subordinate to the People’s Republic of China”, Taiwan’s foreign ministry said in a statement, noting that since Trump took office the United States has repeatedly reaffirmed that its policy on the island “remains unchanged”.

AFP

The Ogun State Government has activated emergency environmental and public health response measures following another chemical odour incident that affected over 90 students across different schools in Ijebu Ode.

The incident, which occurred barely one month after a similar outbreak in the town, reportedly affected students from schools including Our Lady of Apostles Girls School, Anglican Girls Grammar School, Ijebu-Ode Grammar School, and Sambadola Private School, among others. Many of the affected students were rushed to health facilities, with some reportedly complaining of abdominal pain and related symptoms.

Top government officials, including the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, visited affected students receiving treatment and urged parents and residents to remain calm while medical and environmental experts continue investigations into the incident.

Speaking on the development, the General Manager of the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA), Hon. Kehinde Bello, disclosed that the state’s Air Quality Monitoring Device installed at Ijebu Ode Grammar School detected elevated methane gas concentrations within parts of the affected area, recording peak readings of about 13,500 ppm in surrounding locations.

According to Bello, although the methane level remains below the lower explosive limit, the concentration is environmentally significant and requires immediate technical investigation and precautionary action. He noted that the monitoring system forms part of the Ogun State Government’s environmental surveillance initiative aimed at ensuring early detection of air quality abnormalities and timely intervention.

He further stated that the government has activated a multi-agency response team comprising environmental regulators, emergency management officials, public health experts, and technical air quality specialists to investigate the source of the odour and recommend appropriate measures.

Residents were advised to avoid open flames or ignition sources in areas where unusual gas odours are perceived and to immediately report symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headaches, or respiratory discomfort to nearby medical facilities.

The Ogun State Government reiterated its commitment to protecting public health, environmental safety, and the wellbeing of residents while assuring the public that verified updates would continue to be provided as investigations progress.

India’s state-run oil companies raised petrol and diesel prices by more than three percent on Friday as disruption to energy supplies due to the Iran war mounts pressure on the economy.

The increase marks the first hike in automobile fuel prices in India since the war broke out in February, prompting Iran’s near-total blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

India, the world’s third-largest oil buyer, normally sources about half of its crude through the vital waterway

In Delhi, petrol prices rose to 97.77 rupees ($1.02) per litre from 94.77 rupees, while diesel climbed to 90.67 rupees from 87.67, according to data from the Indian Oil Corporation.

Rates vary across the country depending on local taxes.

Oil companies say they have been incurring losses due to higher global crude oil prices.

The government had earlier raised prices of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), a primary cooking fuel for millions of households.

The latest move comes as authorities ramp up austerity measures to curb fuel consumption and conserve foreign exchange.

Delhi’s chief minister on Thursday said government offices will have two work-from-home days a week for those able to and urged residents to cut back on private vehicle use.

The steps came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi said restrictions on fuel use were necessary to save foreign currency spent on fuel imports.

India has ramped up imports of Russian crude to plug gaps in supplies from the Middle East, ship‑tracking and import data show, following a temporary US waiver on sanctions.

But with the waiver set to end on Saturday, Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar criticised “unilateral coercive measures”, without naming any country.

Such measures disproportionately affect developing countries,” he said on Thursday as he met foreign ministers from BRICS nations, including Iran’s Abbas Araghchi and Russia’s Sergey Lavrov — representing two of the countries most heavily sanctioned by the US.

“These unjustifiable measures cannot substitute dialogue, nor can pressure replace diplomacy.”

AFP

This development came on a day the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which is listed as a defendant in the matter, failed to send legal representation to court.

However, both former President Jonathan and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) were represented during the proceedings.

While Jonathan, through his team of lawyers led by Chief Chris Uche, SAN, had already filed processes challenging the competence of the suit, a lawyer from the office of the AGF, J. D. Esho, told the court that the office had not yet received a copy of the originating summons.

Esho disclosed that Jonathan had also sent the processes he filed in opposition to the suit to the office of the AGF.

Although a registrar of the court confirmed that INEC was duly served with a hearing notice, there was no evidence that the Commission had received a copy of the plaintiff’s suit.

Justice Peter Lifu, who is presiding over the case, expressed his displeasure at the slow pace, even as he berated the plaintiff for not prosecuting the case diligently.

He proceeded to award a fine of N1 million against the plaintiff and in favour of ex‑President Jonathan.

The fine followed an application by Jonathan’s lawyer, Chief Uche, SAN, who had demanded N5 million, accusing the plaintiff of tardiness.

Referencing INEC’s election timetable, Justice Lifu held that, in view of the political undertone of the case, it ought to be expeditiously determined.

“The duty of this court is to ensure that political cases are given accelerated hearing and disposed of expeditiously.

“In that wise, and as earlier stated, this court reiterates the provisions of the National Judicial Policy in case management.

“I hereby order as follows:

The plaintiff, who filed this suit on October 6, 2025, and has not deemed it fit to serve, is hereby granted a grace of two hours from now, that is, 10:30 a.m., to serve all processes on the 2nd and 3rd defendants (INEC and AGF) unfailingly.

“The 2nd and 3rd defendants are hereby ordered to file and serve their responses, if any, before 11:00 a.m. on Monday, 18 May 2026.

“By consent of counsel, this suit is adjourned to 18 May 2026 at 12:00 noon for definite hearing of the originating summons and all pending applications,” Justice Lifu held.

The plaintiff, Mr. Johnmary Jideobi, had earlier filed a motion for Justice Lifu to recuse himself from the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2102/ 2025, accusing him of bias.

He further petitioned the Chief Judge of the court, Justice John Tsoho, demanding retrieval of the case file and its reassignment to another judge for the objective determination of the legal questions posed therein.

In a petition dated May 9, the plaintiff alleged that Justice Lifu took decisions that revealed his bias against him.

According to him, his counsel, Ndubuisi Ukpai, had notified the court that all parties in the suit had been duly served with the originating processes and had also confirmed that the 1st defendant (Jonathan) had just served him with a counter-affidavit, written address, and notice of preliminary objection in opposition to the suit.

The plaintiff said his lawyer thereafter sought an adjournment to enable him to respond to all the processes, pursuant to the provision of Order 13 Rule 50 of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019, which provides 14 days within which to fully prepare and file a reply.

He alleged that, without any application by any of the parties for an abridgement of time, the judge unilaterally gave his lawyer only three days—which included a weekend—to respond to the processes.

The petitioner told the CJ that, despite pleas from his lawyer that he had a case already fixed before another court, Justice Lifu declined to rescind his decision, citing the election timetable of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which none of the parties had raised.

“I most respectfully submit that the actions of Hon. Jusuce Peter Lifu have created a situation where I no longer believe I can receive a far hearing, based on the following premises.

“The learned Judge, without any prompt/application from the parties, stripped me of my statutory 14-day window to file a Reply to the 1st Defendant’s Counter Affidavit and Written Address, which evinces a radical departure from regular procedure and suggests a predisposition against my Constitutional right.

“The Judge’s unilateral introduction of the INEC timetable, which was not part of the 1st Defendant’s arguments, I believe, suggest that the Judge has stepped out of his role as a neutral arbiter and is acting as an advocate for a ‘speedy disposal’ that specifically prejudices my case.

“Section 36(6)(b) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees me adequate time and facilities to prepare my case. Forcing a response within 72 hours over a weekend, when no emergency was proven, is a grave violation of this right.

“In light of the foregoing, I humbly pray Your Lordship as follows:

The immediate transfer of Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/ 2102/2025 from the court of Hon. Justice Peter Lifu to any other Judge of the Federal High Court, Abuja.

“A directive or Memo to Hon. Justice Peter Lifu to, forthwith, suspend further proceedings pending the determination of this transfer request,” the petitioner added.

The plaintiff had in his suit, posed a lone question for the court to determine:

“Whether in view of the combined provisions of the entirety of Sections 1(1), (2) & (3) and 137(3) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended and their conflated interpretation, the 1st Defendant is eligible, under any circumstances [whatsoever] to contest for the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria?”

Upon the determination of the question, he sought among other reliefs:

An order of perpetual injunction of this Honourable Court restraining the first Defendant [Goodluck Ebele Jonathan] from presenting himself to any political party in Nigeria for nomination as its candidate for the general election into the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria holding in 2027 and other years to come.

“An order of perpetual injunction of this Honourable Court restraining the 2nd Defendant [INEC] from either accepting from any political party in Nigeria the name of the 1st Defendant [Goodluck Ebele Jonathan] or publishing same as a candidate for election into the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria holding in 2027 and other years to come.”

As well as, “an order of this Honourable Court directing the 3rd Defendant [Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation] to ensure compliance with the decisions and Orders of this court.”

In an affidavit of facts that was deposed in support of the suit by one Emmanuel Agida, the plaintiff contended that if ex-President Jonathan wins the 2027 presidential election, which is for a term of 4 years spanning 2027 to 2031, he would have exceeded 8 years being the cumulative maximum years a Nigerian President is statutorily permitted to stay in office.

“That the Plaintiff believes that the 1st defendant, having completed the unexpired term of late President Yar’Adua and subsequently served a full term after the 2011 election, has exhausted the constitutional limit of two tenures as President.

That if the court does not intervene timeously, a political party may present the 1st defendant as its presidential candidate in the 2027 general election, thereby breaching the Constitution.

“In the event the 1st defendant is returned as elected and sworn as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria come in 2027, it will mark the 3rd time the 1st defendant will be taking oath of office as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he added.

culled from vanguard 

Media personality and influencer Tega Dominic has denied claims of having an inappropriate relationship with TV host Frank Edoho, following renewed allegations made by his ex-wife, Sandra Edoho.

In a statement shared online, Tega addressed the controversy directly, insisting there was “absolutely no sexual or emotional relationship” between herself and the veteran broadcaster.

I have absolutely no sexual or emotional relationship with Frank Edoho,” she wrote. “Frank is a great guy and a very good friend of mine.”

The statement comes amid ongoing conversations sparked by Sandra Edoho’s accusations of alleged extramarital affairs during her marriage to the TV host.

Responding to the rumors, Tega explained that her interactions with Frank Edoho were strictly platonic and mostly industry-related.

“We started talking around mid last year after he sent birthday wishes to my mum,” she said. “Like many people in the industry, we already knew each other through social media and mutual familiarity.”

Addressing claims that they had spent time together privately, Tega stated that the only occasion she met with the broadcaster was in the presence of her manager.

The first and only time I hung out with Frank was with my manager, Paul Ukonu, present,” she wrote. “I have absolutely nothing to hide.”

Tega also pushed back against what she described as “false accusations,” saying she has worked hard to build her personal brand and reputation.

“I have worked too hard to build myself and my brand step by step to allow false accusations stain my name like this,” she stated.

The former reality TV star added that she is considering legal action over the matter and called for evidence to support any allegations being made against her.

“I believe it is important for evidence to be provided because I will not let this slide,” she said. “My name cannot be dragged carelessly into false narratives.”

She concluded her statement by describing the situation as “very upsetting” and noted that her lawyers would handle the matter going forward.

“This will be the only time I address this matter,” Tega added.

Pep Guardiola insisted Manchester City have had a successful season whether or not they win the Premier League title or Saturday’s FA Cup final against Chelsea.

Guardiola’s side will put their attempt to catch Premier League leaders Arsenal on hold as they head to Wembley for a fourth successive FA Cup final appearance.

City start every season with the Premier League and Champions League as their main targets, but they are on the verge of falling short in both.

Knocked out of the Champions League last-16 by Real Madrid in March, City will be five points behind Arsenal if the Gunners beat relegated Burnley at home on Monday.

Guardiola’s men can close the gap back to two points with a victory at Bournemouth in their penultimate match of the season on Tuesday.

But Arsenal would then still be able to guarantee their first English title since 2004 by winning at Crystal Palace on May 24.

Having already won the League Cup by beating Arsenal, City have a chance for a domestic double this weekend.

However, Guardiola is adamant the campaign has been positive, no matter what happens at Wembley or in the title race.

“It depends on the trophies you lift. Sometimes you lift trophies and the season has been successful,” said Guardiola, who would only offer “we’ll see” when asked if Rodri would be fit to start in midfield.

“Sometimes, you lift and the truth is the season has been really, really bad.

I said a few weeks ago this season has been good. Really, really good.”

Do better’ –

After starting with Erling Haaland, Rayan Cherki and Jeremy Doku on the bench for Wednesday’s win against Crystal Palace, Guardiola is likely to field a full-strength team against Chelsea instead of prioritising the title fight.

“It is the final of the FA Cup. The message is there are two prestigious clubs at Wembley in the FA Cup final. Our fans make an incredible effort to come down to London. It is not cheap,” he said.

“We try to perform as much as possible to win. It is always the game-plan.”

City have lost the last two FA Cup finals against Crystal Palace and Manchester United, who they had beaten in the 2023 showpiece.

There’s excitement, of course. I hope we can do better than the last two times,” Guardiola said.

Wembley is still a special place. Everything is so nice. The pitch is extraordinary. We are desperate to perform well.”

Ahead of his 24th trip to Wembley with City, Guardiola joked that he is “so disappointed” he has not had a stand named after him at the home of English football.

“So many times I have been there, at least a lounge or a box or something like that. Maybe I have to go 24 more times!” he said.

Guardiola has one year left on his City contract and is yet to sign a new deal amid speculation that he could end his decade at the Etihad Stadium once the current campaign is over

Asked about reports that City’s fitness coach Lorenzo Buenaventura and goalkeeping coach Xabi Mancisidor are set to leave the club, Guardiola said with a smirk: “I extended the contract with them three more years,” before adding: “Nope.”

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Edo Command on Thursday trained members of the National Youth Service Corps Drug Free Club as anti-drug abuse advocates.

The specialised one-day “Anti-Drug Abuse Train the Trainer” seminar, held in Benin on Thursday, was meant to strengthen grassroots sensitisation and prevention efforts among young people.

Speaking during the event, Mitchell Ofoyeju, who is the state Commander of the NDLEA, said the initiative was designed to equip corps members with the knowledge and skills required to champion drug abuse prevention campaigns in their communities.

Ofoyeju, who officially decorated the President of the NYSC Drug Free Club, Patience Ichin, as a War Against Drug Abuse partner, urged the corps members to serve as role models and peer educators in the fight against substance abuse.

He also presented copies of the NDLEA Edo State Command magazine to participants to support their advocacy activities.

He also presented copies of the NDLEA Edo State Command magazine to participants to support their advocacy activities.

Delivering a lecture titled, “Drug Use Among Youth: A Global Perspective,” Ofoyeju highlighted the growing prevalence of substance abuse among young people and its social, health and security implications.

According to him, youths remain one of the most vulnerable groups affected by drug abuse, making preventive education and community engagement critical in tackling the menace.

Also speaking, the Head of Counselling, Treatment and Rehabilitation of the command, Hope Aigbogun, stressed the importance of the NYSC Drug Free Club in combating drug abuse.

Aigbogun described corps members as strategic change agents capable of influencing positive behavioural change among their peers and within communities.

The training also featured a drug exhibition session where participants were exposed to various illicit substances and educated on their harmful effects.

Ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Friday called on federal authorities and the Kaduna State Government to immediately release former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, describing his continued detention before the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations as “cruel, unjustifiable, and deeply troubling.”

Atiku described the situation as a violation of civil liberties, democratic norms and the rule of law, and warned against the use of state institutions to intimidate perceived political opponents.

The position was contained in a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu.

The former vice president, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, described El-Rufai’s continued detention as politically provocative and inconsistent with the principles of justice and democracy.

He said: “At a time when millions of Muslims across Nigeria and around the world are preparing to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir — a sacred season of sacrifice, compassion, forgiveness, and family reunion — it would be unconscionable for any government to weaponise state power in a manner that denies a citizen his liberty without just cause, particularly in circumstances that raise legitimate concerns about political persecution.

“Eid is a time for mercy, reconciliation, and humanity. There is absolutely no justification for keeping a man away from his family during such a solemn and spiritually significant occasion, especially where due process has not been clearly demonstrated.

“I therefore call for the immediate release of Mallam El-Rufai and urge all relevant authorities to rise above political bitterness and act in the interest of justice, peace, and national cohesion.”

Atiku said the Federal Government and Kaduna State authorities must ensure that democracy is judged by how fairly perceived opponents are treated, warning that selective justice undermines confidence in the rule of law.

He said that if the former Kaduna governor is being detained through a legal process, authorities should be transparent with Nigerians.

“Mallam El-Rufai, regardless of political differences or shifting alliances, remains a Nigerian citizen entitled to the full protection of the Constitution, including his rights to dignity, liberty, and due process.

“Democracy does not grant the government the licence to punish dissent, settle political scores, or deploy coercive institutions as instruments of intimidation.

“The Federal Government and the Kaduna State authorities must understand that selective justice is injustice. The credibility of any democracy is measured not by how it treats loyalists, but by how it treats perceived opponents,” he said.

The demand comes one week after the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission announced that a Federal High Court in Kaduna granted El-Rufai access to medical treatment while in custody.

The ruling followed a plea by defence counsel during proceedings in the ongoing trial of the former governor over alleged money laundering and corruption-related offences.

El-Rufai and co-defendant Joel Adoga are facing a 10-count charge before Justice Rilwan Aikawa of the Federal High Court, Kaduna, bordering on alleged conversion and possession of proceeds of corruption, as well as money laundering contrary to the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The National Pension Commission has commenced the pilot phase of a free healthcare initiative for low-income pensioners under the Contributory Pension Scheme, with registration now open for 30,000 retirees nationwide.

The commission, in a notice issued on Friday, said the initiative, known as PenCare, is designed for retirees aged 60 years and above who earn monthly pensions of not more than N70,000 from Pension Fund Administrators.

PenCom stated that the programme would operate on a first-come, first-served basis and urged eligible retirees to register through its website or the websites of Pension Fund Administrators.

“The National Pension Commission invites retirees under the CPS to enrol in the free healthcare initiative, PenCare,” the commission stated.

It added, “If you are at least 60 years old and receive a monthly pension of not more than N70,000 from a Pension Fund Administrator, you qualify for this pilot phase.”

The commission disclosed that registration had commenced for up to 30,000 eligible retirees, directing applicants to visit the PenCom website or PFA platforms for enrolment.

According to the notice, the programme is being introduced as a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative to ease healthcare costs for pensioners.

PenCare is a CSR project dedicated to preserving your dignity and well-being by reducing the burden of medical expenses,” PenCom stated.

The development comes amid growing concerns about the welfare of retirees in Nigeria, particularly pensioners facing rising medical bills and inflation that has eroded purchasing power.

The PUNCH earlier reported that the National Pension Commission inaugurated the Board of Trustees for PenCare, the Pension Industry Health Care Initiative, with the pioneer Director-General of the commission, Muhammed Ahmad, named chairman.

According to PenCom, PenCare is a healthcare programme created to ensure retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme have access to quality healthcare.

Students of Community Secondary School, Aka Offot, Uyo, and Itam Secondary School, Itam, in Itu Local Government Area, have signed anti-cultism pledge forms to abstain from cultism.

The students also received books, T-shirts and certificates of participation.

They signed the forms during an anti-cultism sensitisation campaign launched by the Niger Delta Development Commission in collaboration with Bamor Fountains Limited in Uyo on Friday, with the theme “Education, Peace and Unity for a Greater Niger Delta.”

Speaking at the event, the NDDC Director of Alternative Dispute Resolution, Godwill Ayewumi Ogedegbe (SAN), represented by staff of his office, Edidiong Udofia Nkereuwem and Azibagiri Tonye Okio, said the campaign was part of efforts to curb the growing spread of cult-related activities among teenagers.

He stated that NDDC was dedicated to uplifting the Niger Delta region through targeted initiatives to enhance livelihoods, education, healthcare and socio-economic conditions.

“This campaign is part of our efforts to stop the growing spread of cult-related activities among teenagers. NDDC is committed to uplifting the Niger Delta region through targeted initiatives to enhance livelihoods, education, healthcare and socio-economic conditions among youths,” he said.

In his remarks, the Project Coordinator of the Awareness Campaign for Bamor Fountains Limited, Dr Festus Erewele, warned that cultism destroys lives, disrupts academic pursuits, promotes violence and, in many cases, leads to criminality and death.

He advised students to remain vigilant and avoid suspicious groups and associations capable of ruining their future, while urging them to report any attempt at forceful initiation or intimidation to parents, teachers or security agencies.

“Cultism destroys lives, disrupts academic pursuits, promotes violence and, in many cases, leads to criminality. I urge you to remain vigilant and avoid suspicious groups and associations capable of ruining your future. Report any attempt at forceful initiation or intimidation to parents or teachers,” he said.

In his remarks, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Education, Prof Ubong Umoh, represented by Mr Anthony Sylvester, commended the NDDC and Bamor Fountains Limited for the initiative and encouraged the students to remain focused on their studies and become positive ambassadors in their schools and communities.

“This collaboration is a laudable initiative. I encourage you, the students, to remain focused on your studies and become positive ambassadors in your schools and communities,” he said.

Also speaking, security consultant and resource person, Mr Nnamdi Ibe, highlighted the various tricks and tactics often used by cult groups to lure unsuspecting students into membership, warning them never to succumb to pressure from friends or strangers.

The State Lead and Facilitator of the programme, Prof Edet Udoh of the University of Uyo, commended the Niger Delta Development Commission and the Akwa Ibom State Government for supporting the anti-cultism awareness programme aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence in the Niger Delta region.

In their separate remarks, the Principal of Itam Secondary School, Dr Usoro Umoren; the Principal of Community Secondary School, Aka Offot, Elder Ime Akparawa; and the Principal of Uyo High School, Mr Uko Udo, described the exercise as timely and necessary in view of rising security concerns in schools and society.

Four aspirants contesting for the Ogun Central Senatorial ticket on the platform of the All Progressives Congress have rejected the endorsement of Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu as the party’s consensus candidate for the 2027 election, insisting on a primary election.

Dapo Abiodun had on Thursday announced Salisu as the consensus candidate during a stakeholders’ meeting of the party in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

The meeting, held at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, was attended by party chairman Yemi Sanusi; Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola; Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide; Secretary to the State Government, Tokunbo Talabi; and other party leaders and stakeholders.

Before announcing the endorsement, Abiodun appealed to party members to forgive the senator’s perceived shortcomings, stressing that “nobody is perfect.”

However, four aspirants in the race — former senators Lanre Tejuoso and Olugbenga Obadara, former Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment Emmanuel Sofela, and businessman Otunba Muraina Banjoko — rejected the endorsement.

Speaking to newsmen on Friday, Tejuoso, who represented Ogun Central in the Senate between 2015 and 2019, described the move as unacceptable, insisting that party members should decide the candidate through a primary.

Obadara, who represented the district from 2011 to 2015, described the endorsement as immoral.

It’s not in any way supported by us. It’s against morality and against our discussion at the last meeting.

“We are totally rejecting the decision to endorse Senator Salisu. That’s the decision of the four of us,” he said.

Sofela also faulted the endorsement, saying democracy should allow party members to determine who represents them.

“We are practising democracy. As aspirants, we are expressing our desire to serve our people. If the people who are currently being served in the constituency, the preponderance of them, are saying no, what more evidence do you want?

If four people who are aspirants and the preponderance of the people of Ogun Central are saying we don’t want somebody who’s representing us to go back and represent us, what more evidence is needed?” he stated.

Banjoko aligned himself with the position of the other aspirants, saying a previous meeting on consensus ended without any agreement.

“I was in a meeting yesterday night around 1:30 to 2 o’clock, and the meeting was inconclusive.

Our people wondered why they went ahead to endorse someone today and raised his hand.”

Former Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun, who is also reportedly interested in the seat, has yet to officially react to Salisu’s endorsement.

Meanwhile, a recent stakeholders’ meeting reportedly convened at the residence of former governor and APC chieftain Olusegun Osoba over consensus arrangements allegedly ended in deadlock after aspirants refused to step down.

A source at the meeting claimed Amosun said he had the backing of the Presidency and that other aspirants, including Salisu, had agreed to support him, a claim reportedly rejected by the aspirants.

However, in a statement issued by his media office, Amosun denied pressuring any aspirant to withdraw from the race.

“Nowhere throughout the meeting did I request anyone to withdraw from the race for me because that would be undemocratic and unacceptable,” he said.

The former governor also said he would not participate in any primary election whose outcome had already been predetermined.

The party cleared 48 aspirants for the Senate and House of Representatives tickets, while 107 others were approved for the Anambra State House of Assembly primary.

A notice of successful aspirants issued on Friday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mazi Ejimofor Opara, said the decision followed the conclusion of its screening exercise.

According to the notice, eight aspirants were cleared for the Senate while 40 were cleared for the House of Representatives.

The notice read, “The All Progressives Grand Alliance, hereby publishes the list of successfully screened aspirants for the 2026 Primary Elections in Anambra State.

All successful aspirants whose names appear on the list are directed to proceed to the Party’s Regional Office in Awka on Monday, May 18, 2026, to collect their nomination forms.

“Please note that the sale of nomination forms shall close on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. Aspirants are advised to complete the process within the stipulated timeframe

The National Working Committee congratulates all successful aspirants on this milestone. We wish you the very best as you proceed to the Primary Elections.”

The Senate and House of Representatives primaries are scheduled for Saturday, May 23, 2026.

Among the cleared aspirants are former Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah, who is seeking the party’s ticket for Anambra North Senatorial District, and a former aide to the governor, Primus Odili, also vying for the same seat.

Ogun East Senator, Gbenga Daniel has issued a public challenge to Governor Dapo Abiodun to appear on a national television programme for a live, face-to-face debate.

He declared that any refusal by the governor would be taken as an admission of defeat.

Daniel, who served as the governor of Ogun State, for two terms from May 29, 2003, to May 29, 2011, threw down the gauntlet on Thursday during an interview on TVC’s Beyond The Headlines, where he warned that Abiodun’s silence on the issues he raised would speak louder than any response.

“This is an open invitation. And between you and I, if you don’t do that, my assumption is that he ran away. It’s an open challenge,” Daniel said.

The senator asked the host to set up a joint encounter without delay.

“You will have done this programme disservice if you don’t pair us. And let’s do it quickly,” Daniel said.

The host, for his part, confirmed that the programme would extend the invitation to Abiodun, stating that a seat had been reserved for the governor and that Daniel would return for the encounter.

The challenge caps weeks of escalating tension between the two APC chieftains over the Ogun East Senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.

APC stakeholders in the district endorsed Abiodun as the consensus candidate for the seat in April 2026, a decision Daniel has rejected, insisting on open primaries and accusing the process of manipulation.

During the interview, Daniel warned Abiodun directly that his time in office was running out.

“Your Excellency, you are now going to be a former governor very soon. I would say, Your Excellency, you remember I came to you, and I told you pointedly that this young man who is following you is going to be the one who is going to destroy your government.”

He added that certain unspoken rules governed political conduct and that the governor had violated them.

“There are certain lines you don’t cross in this business. There are certain lines you don’t cross.”

Neither Abiodun’s media office nor the Ogun State Government House had responded publicly to the challenge as of the time of filing this report.

Abiodun is serving his second and final term as governor and is constitutionally barred from seeking re-election.

With his tenure ending, the Ogun East Senate seat has become his most publicly discussed political destination for 2027.

Daniel, the sitting senator for the district, has framed the contest as an act of betrayal by a man he claims to have helped install in Government House.

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 14 Brigade under Operation UDO KA have rescued a kidnap victim and intensified security operations across Abia State in a coordinated push against criminal groups.

A statement by Assistant Director Army Public Relations attached to brigade Captain Mazinho Attah, on Friday stated that the soldiers from the 145 Battalion, working with Operation Crush and the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Nigeria Police Force, carried out an intelligence-led operation in Umuahia that led to the rescue of Mr. Onyebuchi Nwaoha.

He said the victim was abducted earlier by armed men, adding that the rescued victim and some arrested suspects are in custody for further investigation as troops work to dismantle other criminal networks in the area.

The statement read, “The operation was conducted under operation EASTERN SANITY II. The troops have maintained a heavy presence along major routes and vulnerable communities, including the ABSU–Okigwe–Ihube Road, the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, and parts of Umunneochi, Bende, Isiala Ngwa, Ukwa East, Ukwa West, Umuahia, and Arochukwu Local Government Areas.

The operations target IPOB/ESN and other criminal groups, and also aim to curb the unauthorized use of explosives. In Aba, troops at Osisioma responded to a shooting incident on Brass Street in GRA. They found the body of an unidentified man by the roadside after he was reportedly attacked by gunmen. Emergency responders evacuated the body, and investigations to apprehend the attackers are ongoing.

“Coordinated night patrols and ‘stand-to’ operations were also carried out in strategic locations, including Isiugu, Akanu-Ukwu, Ameakpo, Nguzu, Arochukwu, Bende, and adjoining communities. Security officials said the areas remained calm during the period under review.

“This successful operation underscores the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to neutralizing threats, safeguarding communities, and ensuring peace and stability across the region.”

The Army urged residents to support security operations by reporting individuals involved in separatist activities and rejecting divisive ideologies

The Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arraigned social media influencer and self-styled relationship therapist Blessing CEO over an alleged N36 million fraud.

Blessing CEO, whose real name is Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, was arraigned on Friday before Justice D.I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.

According to a statement shared on their website, EFCC disclosed that she is facing a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and alleged stealing of N36 million.

During proceedings, defence counsel P.I. Nwafor informed the court that the defendant had already refunded part of the money to the petitioner.

The lawyer said, “We have an application to make. The defendant approached the nominal complainant and refunded N24 million out of the N36 million.

“We are asking for a short adjournment to resolve the outstanding balance. The nominal complainant agreed that if the balance is paid, they can prevail on the EFCC to drop the case.”

However, prosecuting counsel S.I. Suleiman argued that the anti-graft agency was not part of any private settlement discussion between the defendant and the petitioner.

The complainant here is the Federal Government of Nigeria, and we are here for the arraignment. We urge that the defendant take her plea, as that is the business of the day,” he said.

In his ruling, Justice Dipeolu held that any discussion between the defendant and the nominal complainant would not affect the criminal proceedings before the court.

“The defence and the nominal complainant can have discussions even during the pendency of the charge. It does not affect the proceedings before the court. The defendant will take her plea,” the judge ruled.

According to one of the charges, Blessing CEO allegedly obtained N36 million from one Mrs Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye between July 14 and 17, 2024, under the pretence of leasing a six-bedroom detached duplex located at No. 1B Tunbosun Osobu Street, off Kuboye Road, Lekki, Lagos State.

The EFCC alleged that the representation was false and constituted an offence under the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.

Another charge accused her of fraudulently converting the sum to personal use, contrary to provisions of the Criminal Code Act.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Following her plea, the prosecution asked the court to remand her in a correctional facility pending trial.

Her counsel, however, told the court that the defence had only been served with the charges on Thursday and was still preparing a bail application.

He subsequently requested that the defendant be remanded in EFCC custody pending perfection of her bail conditions.

Justice Dipeolu granted the application and ordered that Blessing CEO be remanded in EFCC custody.

The matter was adjourned till June 5, 2026, for the commencement of the trial.

Lagos lawmaker and Nollywood actor, Desmond Elliot has publicly apologised to his supposed political mentor and the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, saying he may have offended him in the course of his political engagements.

Elliot made the apology during an appearance on TVC’s Your View on Friday, where he said any misunderstanding was unintentional and insisted he remained committed to party unity and development in his constituency.

His apology comes amid previous political tensions linked to the Lagos State House of Assembly leadership crisis, during which Gbajabiamila had revealed that he nearly lost his position at the Presidency due to allegations tied to Elliot’s political activities.

Gbajabiamila had said President Bola Tinubu confronted him over intelligence reports suggesting Elliot’s involvement in moves around the Assembly speakership tussle, a claim he denied at the time.

Speaking on the programme, Elliot said he grew into politics under the guidance of a senior colleague he described as his “egbon”, adding that emotions and misunderstandings may have contributed to past friction.

“I’m not saying, oh, yes, media will come out, oh yes, Desmond begs again. Yes, because he’s my egbon. And I grew up learning everything I knew in politics through him,” he said.

He added that human error could not be ruled out in political relationships.

To err is human, to forgive is divine. So I’m sorry, my daddy, if I’ve offended you in any way,” he said.

Elliot also extended his apology to who he described as the “matriarch of Surulere”, saying he regretted any offence caused.

“To the matriarch of Surulere, mama, I’m sorry if I’ve offended you,” he said.

Despite the apology, he maintained that he remains focused on strengthening the party and delivering on his mandate.

“But I will keep keeping the party strong. And to all Surulerians, my scorecard is there. You know the things I’ve done to make Surulere a better place,” he added.

The Lagos Assembly crisis, which involved leadership tensions within the All Progressives Congress, had triggered internal disputes before it was eventually resolved through high-level interventions.

Gunmen have invaded Ahoro-Esinele community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting the principal of a secondary school and an unspecified number of students.

The incident, according to the Oyo State Police Command, occurred between 8:00 am and 9:00 am on Friday at Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele.

Police spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, in a statement on Friday, said the attackers stormed the school premises and whisked away students whose number is yet to be confirmed, alongside the school principal, Mrs Rachael Alamu.

The statement read, “Gunmen have invaded Ahoro-Esinele community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting the principal of a secondary school and an unspecified number of students.”

According to him, a resident reported that the gunmen also shot a teacher during the attack

The source also said a teacher was shot during the attack, though the extent of the injury has not been confirmed.

“According to the report, the gunmen fled the scene with the principal in her vehicle and escaped into a forest reserve bordering the community.

Residents said the nearest police station is some distance away, which delayed immediate response,” he said.

The police command stated that the Commissioner of Police had deployed officers to the area for assessment and rescue operations.

More Details later…

The Labour Party has constituted an eight-member committee to screen aspirants seeking elective positions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

This was contained in a public notice jointly signed by the party’s National Chairman, Nenadi Usman, and National Secretary, Iheanacho Obioma, on Friday in Abuja.

According to the notice, the committee was established in line with provisions of the party’s constitution and the electoral guidelines for the 2026 primaries.

The committee, chaired by Usman, has Mrs Oluchi Okpara, Mohammed Salisu, Mrs Martina Umana, Mrs Deborah Yusuf, Chibuzo Okereke and Dr Olu Ayewo as members, while Obioma will serve as secretary

The party said the committee would be responsible for screening aspirants contesting for presidential, governorship and National Assembly positions and recommending qualified candidates for the party’s primaries

It added that the committee would also verify the authenticity of documents submitted by aspirants and ensure compliance with the party’s constitution, the Electoral Act 2026 and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

According to the timetable released by the party, screening for House of Assembly and governorship aspirants will hold on May 20, while National Assembly and presidential aspirants will be screened on May 22.

The Labour Party urged members of the committee to carry out their duties with integrity as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.

NAN

For the second time in less than two months, another gas leak was reported in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, on Friday, affecting over 100 students and their teachers.

The incident affected several schools, including Anglican Girls Grammar School, Obalende; Our Lady of Apostle Secondary School, Epe Garage, Ijebu Ode; among others.

Affected students were taken to the Ogun State Hospital, Ijebu Ode, and other private medical facilities within the town.

A video posted on Facebook showed students running out of one of the affected schools while teachers assisted those who had fainted into vehicles for medical attention.

A teacher called on authorities and members of the public to assist in responding to the emergency.

An eyewitness, who spoke to our correspondent on condition of anonymity, said the incident occurred less than a month after a similar case in the same town.

“I am right now at the Ogun State Hospital, Ijebu Ode and I can tell you that the previous gas leak which happened last month is a child’s play when compared to this one. The whole hospital here is full and some parents have even taken their children to private hospitals for treatment.

The affected students are complaining of stomach ache and they are weak. This incident also affected multiple schools and over 100 students are said to be affected,” the eyewitness said.

The Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, confirmed the incident, saying relevant agencies had been deployed to the affected areas.

“I am aware of the situation, and necessary action is being taken by the Ministry of Education, OGEPA, security agents, and the local government,” he said.

Officials, including the Chairman of Ijebu Ode Local Government, Dare Alebiosu, and the Managing Director of OGEPA, Kenny Bello, were seen visiting affected areas to assess the situation and ensure victims received medical care.

The state government, in a Friday statement issued by Oresanya, said air quality monitoring had recorded elevated methane levels in the area.

“The Air Quality Monitoring Device installed at Ijebu Ode Grammar School has recorded elevated methane (CH4) concentrations within its monitoring coverage area in Ijebu Ode, with peak readings of approximately 13,500 ppm in surrounding locations,” the statement said.

It added that the monitoring system forms part of the state’s environmental surveillance programme for early detection of abnormal air quality conditions.

The commissioner said while the methane level was below the lower explosive limit, it remained environmentally significant and required investigation.

“In response, the state government will activate a multi-agency environmental and public health assessment team comprising environmental regulators, emergency response services, and technical air quality experts to determine the source of the emissions, assess spatial extent and exposure risk, and evaluate associated gases such as hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other relevant air quality parameters,” he said.

Residents were advised to remain calm and continue normal activities, while avoiding open flames or ignition sources in areas where unusual gas odours are detected.

The government also advised that symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, nausea, or respiratory discomfort should be reported to nearby health facilities.

The Ogun State Government said it remained committed to safeguarding lives, public health, and environmental integrity, adding that further updates would be communicated as investigations progress.

Recall that in April, no fewer than 30 students and one teacher were hospitalised after a gas leak at Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School, Ijebu Ode.

The incident, which occurred shortly after morning assembly, caused panic as a gaseous substance spread across the school premises, leaving students and staff struggling to breathe.

As embattled British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, faces a likely leadership contest, several rivals are getting into position to stand against him to lead the Labour Party and the country.

If a leadership race is triggered, the winner will be selected by the party membership. Here are the possible contenders:

• Wes Streeting –

The 43-year-old rising Labour star resigned as health minister on Thursday with a barbed message saying he had “lost confidence” in Starmer.

He urged debate on the party’s future direction with the “best possible field of candidates”, rather than launching a solo bid.

Streeting, whose full name is Wesley, was one of the most visible Labour figures during the 2024 election campaign and hailed as one of its best communicators. Streeting is popular on the party’s right.

He comes from a working-class background, growing up on an east London municipal housing estate he has described as “grim” and attending a state school

Streeting has talked about his grandfather being an armed robber who knew notorious London gangsters, the Kray Brothers. After studying at Cambridge University, he was elected an MP in 2015.

He came out as gay while a student. His partner is a communications adviser.

In a potentially damaging connection, Streeting initially defended Labour grandee Peter Mandelson when he was sacked as US ambassador over his association with US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Streeting has denied that he was close friends with Mandelson.

• Angela Rayner –

Former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner hinted at standing this week when she announced she has resolved a tax issue that led her to leave the government.

Rayner is well-liked on Labour’s left wing and known for her straight-talking style.

The 46-year-old is an outlier in a country long dominated by a ruling class disproportionately educated at private schools and Oxford and Cambridge universities.

She grew up in social housing in northern England and left school at 16 when she became a single mother.

A trade unionist before being elected to parliament in 2015, she became Labour’s number two in 2020.

She resigned last year over unpaid property taxes, but said Thursday she had paid up and been cleared of deliberate wrongdoing.

Rayner has three children. One of her sons has a serious disability.

• Andy Burnham –

Popular mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, needs to become an MP before any leadership bid and has announced his intention to stand in a by-election.

Starmer has one of the lowest popularity ratings ever among prime ministers at just 19 percent, according to a YouGov poll.

Born in London, he had a successful career as a human rights lawyer and chief state prosecutor and was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II.

A keen flautist and Arsenal fan, he became an MP in 2015, succeeding Jeremy Corbyn as Labour leader five years later.

• Other possibilities –

Other candidates could emerge with speculation centred on energy minister Ed Miliband and junior armed forces minister Al Carns — while neither has confirmed.

Miliband, 56, became Labour leader in opposition in 2010, beating his own brother, David. He resigned after the party suffered a severe defeat in the 2015 election.

Carns, a decorated former commando, became an MP in 2024. Allies have suggested the 46-year-old relative unknown would step forward if someone else “fires the starting gun”.

AFP

The Lagos Business School of the Pan-Atlantic University has announced applications for the 2026 Young Talents Programme for Nigerian students and graduates.

The Lagos Business School Young Talents Program will expose you to world-class insights on productivity, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

This post will highlight all you need to know to successfully apply for the program, as well as how submit your application successfully.

Lagos Business School Young Talents Program Summary

• Host Country: Nigeria
• Category: Training 
• Eligible Countries: Nigeria
• Reward: Training | Career Development | Networking | Mentorship
• No IELTS Required 
• Deadline: June 2, 2026

Lagos Business School Young Talents Program Details:

The YTP is a two-day career development programme that will expose you to world-class insights on productivity, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Led by LBS faculty and industry experts, this programme is designed to prepare you for a successful career and even a doctoral degree.

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to join the LBS Management Scholarship Academy and take your career to new heights.

Apply now for the Ninth edition of the Young Talents’ Programme, taking place on July 2-3. We look forward to welcoming the brightest graduates in Nigeria to our world-class institution!

Eligibility Requirements for LBS Young Talents Program 2026

To be considered for the LBS Young Talents Program 2026, you must meet the requirements below:

• Applicant must have graduated with a First or Second Class Upper degree (or its equivalent)
• Applicants must be under 30 years old at the time of application
• Applicant may be currently enrolled in or have completed a master’s degree (optional)
• Note: Previous participants of the YTP are not eligible to apply

Benefits of Lagos Business School Young Talents Program 2026

Participants of the Lagos Business School Young Talents Program will enjoy the following benefits;

• Training from Industry-experts
• Networking Opportunities
• Business and Leadership Training
• Mentorship 

How to Apply for Lagos Business School Young Talents Program (Step by Step)

To apply for the Lagos Business School Young Talents Program, interested and qualified candidates should use the button below to submit their applications.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Deadline: June 2, 2026

Newly-crowned Spanish champions Barca suffered a 1-0 defeat by Alaves on Wednesday, ending their bid to match the all-time La Liga record points total of 100.

Hansi Flick’s side needed to win their remaining three matches to reach that figure but fell at the first hurdle in Vitoria.

Ibrahim Diabate’s goal in first half stoppage time earned Alaves a vital victory in their battle against relegation, taking Quique Sanchez Flores’s team out of the drop zone and up to 15th.

Barca coach Flick gave 21-year-old centre-back Alvaro Cortes his debut, among several changes to the side that won the Clasico on Sunday to clinch back-to-back league titles.

The Catalans celebrated winning La Liga on Monday with an open-top bus parade and their performance reflected that to some extent.

Barca had plenty of the ball and winger Marcus Rashford offered energy, but Alaves dug deep to keep the visitors at arm’s length.

Just before the break Diabate fired past Wojciech Szczesny, after Antonio Blanco headed a corner back towards goal, with Barca defenders not reacting quickly.

Szczesny pushed away a Diabate strike early in the second half as Alaves tried to double their lead.

Barca struggled to create any clear chances and the hosts came close through Jon Guridi, who beat Szczesny but struck the post with a drive across goal.

Earlier, Sevilla produced a sensational comeback from two goals down to beat Villarreal 3-2 and climb towards safety.

The Andalusian side have been struggling towards the bottom in recent months but secured their third consecutive victory to rise up to 10th provisionally, four points clear of the drop zone.

Gerard Moreno and Georges Mikautadze fired hosts Villarreal, third, into a two-goal lead inside 20 minutes.

However Oso and Kike Salas pulled Sevilla level before the break and Akor Adams struck in the 72nd minute to seal Sevilla’s win, in a week where their former defender Sergio Ramos is reported to be close to completing a takeover of the club alongside an investment firm.

“It’s an indescribable feeling, giving back to the fans all the love they give us,” said Sevilla defender Salas.

Espanyol defeated Athletic Bilbao 2-0 at home to win their first match in 2026, ending an 18-game run without a victory.

Pere Milla and Kike Garcia’s second-half goals helped the Catalan side, 14th, move three points clear of the bottom three.

“It’s been one of the worst experiences of my professional and personal life,” said Espanyol coach Manolo Gonzalez of his team’s winless run

The coach had tears in his eyes after Garcia struck late on to guarantee his team victory at long last.

“Now we have to go to Pamplona and win (against Osasuna on Sunday),” explained Gonzalez.

“We can’t go there to play it safe. We have to take this momentum as far as possible.”

culled from vanguard 

The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has approved the extension of health insurance coverage to the retirees in the state under a newly introduced scheme known as the Ogun State Retirees Health Insurance Scheme.

A statement on Thursday from the state Head of Service, Mr Kehinde Onasanya, said the initiative was designed to cater for retired public servants, thereby ensuring that they continue to enjoy access to quality and affordable healthcare services after retirement.

Onasanya said, “Governor Dapo Abiodun has approved the payment of N17.4m monthly for the payment of the retiree health insurance premium. All retirees will enjoy the full insurance coverage without paying or contributing any amount.

“This is to show that the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun understands the value of taking care of our retirees, which marks another significant milestone under the ‘Social Welfare and Well-being’ agenda of the present administration.

This initiative is aimed at safeguarding the health and well-being of retired officers who devoted the productive years of their lives to the service and development of Ogun State.”

Onasanya said the initiative followed the successful implementation of the Public Sector Health Insurance Scheme for serving public servants introduced by the government in August, 2024.

“This further reflects the deliberate policy direction of government towards inclusive healthcare coverage for all categories of workers, including those in retirement,” Onasanya added.

According to him, under the OGRHIS, beneficiaries will have access to a defined package of healthcare services through accredited healthcare facilities across the state.

The scheme is expected to reduce the burden of out-of-pocket medical expenses and prevent catastrophic healthcare spending among retirees while encouraging continuous healthcare management.

culled from punch 

A passenger from the hantavirus-stricken MV Hondius cruise ship is in quarantine on tiny Pitcairn Island, a volcanic outcrop in the South Pacific famously settled by mutineers from the HMS Bounty.

The woman, a US citizen, journeyed halfway across the globe to reach remote Pitcairn Island after disembarking the cruise ship in Saint Helena, authorities said.

“We can confirm that someone who had contact with a hantavirus-exposed individual is currently isolating on Pitcairn Island, showing no signs of illness,” said a Pitcairn government spokesman.

“We are working closely with the health authorities and the UK Government to manage the situation. The wellbeing of our community remains the top priority.”

It was not clear how long the woman might be stuck on Pitcairn Island or how she will be isolated from the around 50 people who call the British territory home.

Pitcairn Islanders contacted by AFP said they had been advised against speaking with journalists and should pass all questions on to government officials.

It was no small effort for the jet-setting American to reach Pitcairn Island, which bills itself as a “must see for adventurous travellers seeking truly remote horizons

She first flew from San Francisco to Tahiti and then onwards to the isle of Mangareva in outer French Polynesia.

From Mangareva most tourists reach Pitcairn by hitching a 32-hour ride on one of the cargo ships that shuttle back and forth every few days.

The government of French Polynesia said she had done all this without telling authorities of her possible exposure to hantavirus.

She will not be allowed to leave the island as long as she “poses a risk to others”, the government said in a statement earlier this week.

The UK government — which counts Pitcairn as an overseas territory — said the woman was not symptomatic, but it was still taking a “precautionary approach”.

There is only one grocery store on Pitcairn Island, which typically opens three times a week.

The nearest hospitals are in French Polynesia, some 1,350 miles (2,170 kilometres) to the northwest, or New Zealand, about 5,300 kilometres (3,300 miles) southwest

Three people died after the rare rat-borne hantavirus spread through passengers holidaying on the MV Hondius cruise ship, sparking a global health scare.

Health authorities have repeatedly emphasised that the broader risk to public health from the outbreak of the Andes strain of hantavirus — the only one known to spread between people — is low.

Globally, the death toll remains at three.

No vaccines or specific treatments exist, but health officials have said the risk is low and have dismissed comparisons to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Pitcairn Islands were colonised in 1790 by the mutinous crew of the Royal Navy ship HMS Bounty, led by the master’s mate Fletcher Christian.

Their actions, casting adrift the ship’s captain William Bligh, have been immortalised in books and film.

Pitcairn’s people are descended from the mutineers and their Tahitian companions.

AFP

The Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, says Nigeria has sufficient domestic liquidity to close its infrastructure deficit if transparent structures are put in place to attract and secure investments.

Sule said this on Thursday in Abuja while delivering his keynote address during the 2026 Infrastructure Dialogue.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the dialogue had the theme: “Building Nigeria’s Future: The Strategic Role of DFIs and Capital Markets in Infrastructure Financing and Economic Development.”

Drawing from his experience as former Group Managing Director of Dangote Refinery, Sule said the high level of investor interest in the private sector was evidence that substantial capital was available within Nigeria.

Nigeria has so much money. The easiest way to know is to look at the Dangote Refinery.

“If they decide to sell 30 per cent of a 20-billion-dollar enterprise to the capital market, that six billion dollars will be oversubscribed at least three times by PENCOM, banks and hedge funds,” he said.

According to him, investors are primarily concerned about return on investment, transparency and trust, rather than the physical assets themselves.

Sule said his administration had applied this principle in Nasarawa, transforming the state from a predominantly civil service economy into an emerging industrial hub.

He said an executive order mandating solid mineral firms to process raw materials within the state had attracted some of Africa’s largest lithium processing plants.

”Our Internally Generated Revenue rose from N7 billion annually in 2019 to about N36 billion today.

“We did not take foreign loans because of the associated foreign exchange risks. Instead, we blocked leakages and built roads that opened up mining and agricultural corridors,” he said.

Earlier, the Convener of the dialogue and Managing Partner of Deutsche Partners Holdings, Dr Onuoha Nnachi, said a 2024 assessment put Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit at 30.1 trillion dollars.

Nnachi said 62 per cent of the deficit was in economic infrastructure, which could be financed by the private sector because such projects were commercially viable.

“Budgetary provisions of the federal and state governments cannot fund this gap.

We must allow government to focus on social infrastructure such as schools and hospitals, while the private sector drives economic infrastructure,” he said.

He commended Nasarawa as one of the few states to establish its infrastructure fund through legislation, with a dedicated portion of state revenue committed to long-term development.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion and Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, described infrastructure as the foundation upon which economic and social life is built.

Kefas called for a shift from dependence on sovereign budgets to blended finance and green bonds to help meet Africa’s estimated 100-billion-dollar annual infrastructure financing gap.

He was represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Prof. Nicholas Namessan.

Also speaking, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, represented by CP Justin Obiora, said sustainable development could not thrive in an atmosphere of insecurity.

He said the Nigeria Police Force was adopting technology-driven policing, including advanced surveillance along critical corridors, to safeguard infrastructure from vandalism and sabotage.

The 2026 Infrastructure Dialogue brought together policymakers, development finance institutions and private sector leaders to explore ways of aligning capital with Nigeria’s development priorities.

NAN

The United Nations Children’s Fund, in collaboration with the Imo Government and with support from the Gates Foundation, has initiated efforts to strengthen maternal and child nutrition.

The organisation’s Chief of Enugu Field Office, Mrs Juliet Chiluwe, disclosed this during Thursday’s meeting of the state Ministry of Health, Imo Primary Healthcare Development Agency and UNICEF in Owerri.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting was convened to review and validate the nutrition Social Behaviour Change (SBC) strategy for Imo and the integration of Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (MMS) for pregnant women.

Chiluwe commended the Imo Government for its commitment to investing in human capital, health and sustainable development.

She gave assurance that UNICEF, with support from Gates Foundation, would continue to advance the nutrition agenda.

She described MMS as a “cost-effective intervention that helps reduce anaemia, low birth weight, stillbirths, and other adverse maternal and child health outcomes”.

Chiluwe called for strong government ownership, coordinated implementation, and increased domestic investment.

We encourage greater State investment in the Child Nutrition Fund to support the procurement of MMS and other essential nutrition commodities.

“This will strengthen sustainability, unlock additional partner support, and ensure continued access to life-saving nutrition interventions for women and children,” she said.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Chioma Egu, said that SBC was designed to help individuals and families make healthier nutrition choices from pregnancy and infancy to childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age.

Egu also said that the strategy promotes good nutrition practices, such as proper maternal nutrition, exclusive breastfeeding, appropriate complementary feeding, micronutrient supplementation, healthy eating habits, hygiene, and timely utilisation of health services.

She commended healthcare workers and community volunteers in the state for their dedication and tireless efforts in driving progress in nutrition programming and service delivery.

She also called for the holistic implementation of the meeting’s outcome.

“By integrating MMS into our SBC framework, we are ensuring that pregnant women across Imo, in both rural and urban communities, not only have access to these essential supplements but also understand their importance and are empowered to utilise them appropriately.

When a pregnant woman in a rural community receives MMS, she is not just taking a supplement – she is taking a step toward a healthier pregnancy, a stronger baby, and a brighter future for her family,” Egu said.

Also, the Imo Commissioner for  Budget and Economic Planning, Mr Anslem Anyanwu, said that the State Government was committed to sustaining the programme through relevant policies, increased ownership, resource mobilisation, and creation of an enabling environment.

Anyanwu thanked UNICEF, Gates Foundation and all the stakeholders and partners, whose technical and financial contributions, he said, continued to advance the nutrition agenda in the state.

NAN further reports that the meeting was also attended by Permanent Secretaries of relevant government ministries, civil society organisations, and representatives of academic institutions, among others.

NAN

Injured Kaoru Mitoma was left out of Japan’s World Cup squad on Friday in a major blow to their chances of progressing beyond the last 16 for the first time.

The 28-year-old winger suffered a hamstring injury during Brighton’s 3-0 win over Wolves in the Premier League last weekend.

“The medical team assessed that it would be difficult for him to get back to fitness during the tournament,” coach Hajime Moriyasu said in naming his squad in Tokyo.

Monaco forward Takumi Minamino also missed out after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in late December.

Japan have been drawn with the Netherlands, Sweden and Tunisia in Group F and they start their campaign against the Dutch in Arlington, Texas on June 14.

Mitoma is one of Japan’s best players and scored the winner in their 1-0 friendly victory over England at Wembley in March.

He also played a key role in his country’s shock wins over Germany and Spain at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where Japan eventually lost on penalties to Croatia in the last 16.

Ajax’s Takehiro Tomiyasu made the 26-man squad despite not having played for Japan since June 2024 because of injuries.

Crystal Palace’s Daichi Kamada, Liverpool’s Wataru Endo and Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo were all included.

Wolfsburg’s Kento Shiogai, who won his first cap in Japan’s 1-0 win over Scotland in Glasgow in March, also made the cut.

Squad

Goalkeepers: Zion Suzuki (Parma/ITA), Keisuke Osako (Sanfrecce Hiroshima), Tomoki Hayakawa (Kashima Antlers)

Defenders: Yuto Nagatomo (FC Tokyo), Shogo Taniguchi (Sint-Truiden/BEL), Ko Itakura (Ajax/NED), Tsuyoshi Watanabe (Feyenoord/NED), Takehiro Tomiyasu (Ajax/NED), Hiroki Ito (Bayern Munich/GER), Ayumu Seko (Le Havre/FRA), Yukinari Sugawara (Werder Bremen/GER), Junnosuke Suzuki (Copenhagen/DEN)

Midfielders/forwards: Wataru Endo (Liverpool/ENG), Junya Ito (Genk/BEL), Daichi Kamada (Crystal Palace/GER), Koki Ogawa (NEC/NED), Daizen Maeda (Celtic/SCO), Ritsu Doan (Eintracht Frankfurt/GER), Ayase Ueda (Feyenoord/NED), Ao Tanaka (Leeds United/ENG), Keito Nakamura (Reims/FRA), Kaishu Sano (Mainz/GER), Takefusa Kubo (Real Sociedad/ESP), Yuito Suzuki (Freiburg/GER), Kento Shiogai (Wolfsburg/GER), Keisuke Goto (Sint-Truiden/BEL)

AFP

Global superstar Shakira has officially released “Dai Dai,” the anthem for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, in collaboration with Nigerian Afrobeats star, Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy.

The Colombian singer announced the release directly to fans via social media on Friday.

She posted: “Dai Dai is here. The @FIFAWorldCup 2026 starts now!”

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association also announced the song in a statement posted on its X handle on Friday, saying the track is now available on major streaming platforms.

Global superstar Shakira has officially released “Dai Dai,” the anthem for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, in collaboration with Nigerian Afrobeats star, Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy.

The Colombian singer announced the release directly to fans via social media on Friday.

She posted: “Dai Dai is here. The @FIFAWorldCup 2026 starts now!”

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association also announced the song in a statement posted on its X handle on Friday, saying the track is now available on major streaming platforms.

FIFA also disclosed that Shakira would donate her royalties from the song to the fund, while Sony Music would match the first $250,000 raised with an additional donation.

“Dai Dai” features motivational lyrics centred on resilience, ambition, and unity.

In one of the verses, the artistes referenced football legends and stars including Pelé, Diego Maradona, Paolo Maldini, Romário, Cristiano Ronaldo, Andrés Iniesta, David Beckham, Kaká, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Mohamed Salah.

The track also mentions several football nations, including Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Colombia, the United States, England, Germany, France, South Africa, Spain, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, and the Netherlands.

This marks Shakira’s return to the World Cup stage following her hits “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” for the 2010 tournament in South Africa and “La La La” for the 2014 Brazil edition.

It also marks the second time a Nigerian artist will feature in a World Cup song, following Davido’s appearance on “Hayya Hayya (Better Together)” with American singer Trinidad Cardona and Qatari singer AISHA.

Meanwhile, FIFA said Nigerian Afrobeats star Rema will headline the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Los Angeles, United States, on June 12.

Shakira will also co-headline the FIFA World Cup 2026 final halftime show on July 19, marking the first halftime show in the tournament’s history.

According to the organisation, the halftime performance will bring together global artistes “at the intersection of sport, culture, and purpose” in support of the education fund.

FIFA added that “Dai Dai” follows the release of other songs from the official FIFA World Cup 2026 album, including “Lighter,” “Por Ella,” “Echo,” and “Illuminate,” with more singles expected in the coming weeks as preparations for the tournament continue.

Former Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, has emerged as the governorship candidate to lead the new movement of the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 election in the state.

Dan’iya, a close political ally and former deputy to ex-Governor Aminu Tambuwal, confirmed the development in a statement issued by his former Press Secretary, Aminu Abubakar, in the early hours of Friday where he thanked party leaders, stakeholders and supporters for the confidence reposed in him.

The former deputy governor, who also holds the traditional title of Walin Sokoto, described his emergence as a major responsibility and pledged to work for unity, stability and development across the state.

He particularly appreciated Tambuwal for his support, guidance and commitment to the political growth of Sokoto State, noting that the backing from elders, youths, women groups and political associates reflected a shared vision for the future of the state.

According to him, the ADC movement represents a fresh push for inclusive leadership, good governance and people-oriented policies ahead of the 2027 governorship race.

“I sincerely appreciate His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, alongside all stakeholders, political associates, elders, youths, women and supporters for the confidence reposed in me,” Dan’iya stated.

“This support is a responsibility I deeply value, and together, we shall continue to work for the unity, stability and development of Sokoto State,” he added

Dan’iya also called on members and supporters of the movement to remain peaceful, focused and united as political consultations intensify ahead of the next general election.

No fewer than 10 aspirants signified their intention to contest for the governorship position in the party including former Ambassador to Jordan, Faruk Malami Yabo among others.

Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has announced the birth of twin princes with his wife, Mariam Ajibola, to the Royal House of Oduduwa.

The monarch disclosed this in a post shared on his official Facebook page on Friday.

Ooni expressed joy at the arrival of his princes and gave thanks to God as both his wife and the children are in good health.

“To God be all the glory and adoration for His wondrous works and abundant blessings once again!

“Warmest congratulations to the entire House of Oduduwa and to Olori Mariam Ajibola on the joyous arrival of twin princes to the royal throne of Oduduwa today.

We give thanks to Almighty God as both mother and children are in good health,” the statement read.

Recall that following his crashed marriage to Olori Naomi, the monarch moved on from her to marry six wives in the space of three months.

The queens are; Mariam Anako, September 6, 2022; Elizabeth Akinmudai; Tobiloba Philips, October 9, 2022, Ashley Adegoke, October 14, 2022, Ronke Ademiluyi, October 20, 2022, and the sixth, Temitope Adesegun, on Monday, October 24, 2022.

While marking his 48th birthday and seventh coronation anniversary, Ooni clarified why he married Mariam Anako and the others, explaining that he tried making some changes but he couldn’t because of the traditional heritage of Ile Ife.

A leading political group in Ogun State, the Yayi Progressives Movement (YPM), has reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots mobilisation ahead of future elections, pledging support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

The commitment was reiterated by the Convener of the movement, Armstrong ‘Tope Akintunde, alongside other apex leaders following the successful inauguration of the group at the Ake Palace in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

Speaking at a press conference recently held at the Iwe Iroyin Press Centre, the State Coordinator of the movement, Hon. Olusegun Kaka, said the group remained focused on massive grassroots mobilisation, particularly in support of the APC governorship aspiration of Senator Solomon Adeola Olamilekan.

Kaka noted that the movement would continue to strengthen its presence across the state to ensure electoral success for APC candidates in future elections.

Also speaking, one of the apex leaders of the movement and a former two-term member of the House of Representatives who represented Ijebu Central Federal Constituency, Hon. Kehinde Odeneye, described the Yayi Progressives Movement as a formidable political force that has continued to make significant contributions to Ogun State’s political landscape.

According to him, the movement is committed to mobilising support for the APC and consolidating the party’s strength at the grassroots level.

In his reactions, the Convener of the movement, Armstrong ‘Tope Akintunde, disclosed that funds announced during the inauguration ceremony would be deployed for campaign logistics and grassroots mobilisation of its principal, Senator Solomon Adeola Olamilekan Yayi.

He stated further that the initiative forms part of broader efforts aimed at securing victories for APC candidates in both the presidential and governorship elections.

Akintunde commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating what he described as an enabling environment for political participation and mobilisation, adding that Senator Adeola’s emergence as the party’s consensus candidate reflects the APC’s preparedness for the polls.

Describing the donations made during the inauguration as a collective contribution by supporters, he said the gesture demonstrated the group’s commitment to strengthening the party’s electoral prospects in Ogun State.

He expressed confidence that Ogun State would deliver strong support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, while maintaining that Senator Adeola possesses the experience and track record required to govern the state effectively.

Akintunde also dismissed opposition efforts in the state, insisting they would not affect the APC’s chances in future elections.

- Oluseun JOSHUA,
State Media Director, Yayi Progressives Movement

The Nigeria Police Force says jungle justice is a crime, following Monday’s mob attack on a US-based medical doctor who was falsely suspected of kidnapping.

The Force Media Officer, CSP Aliyu Giwa, condemned the act in a post shared on his X handle, @aleeygiwa, on Thursday.

He urged members of the public to always verify facts and report any suspicious activity to the police rather than taking the law into their own hands.

Jungle justice is not justice; it is a crime.

“Always check the facts before reacting and report to the police before taking any action.

“An innocent man was almost lynched, and his car was burnt, all because of an assumption,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the incident occurred around the 2nd Powerline Area, Ologuneru, Eleyele-Ido Road, Ibadan, at about 2.30 p.m.

Giwa said an angry mob, suspecting the doctor had abducted two young girls who were found in his Lexus 330 SUV, dragged him out of the car and beat him severely.

The mob, he said, went on to set the vehicle ablaze.

According to him, investigations later revealed that the allegations were false and based entirely on misunderstanding and assumption.

Preliminary findings showed that the two girls, aged 15 and 12, were legally under the care of the doctor and were being taken to assist his mother with domestic chores.

Their guardian confirmed the arrangement to investigators, while the girls also corroborated the doctor’s explanation,” he said.

He noted that tension escalated because the girls could not communicate in the local language, and the doctor was unable to explain the situation quickly enough before the crowd turned violent.

He said that, but for the prompt intervention of officers of the Oyo State Police Command, the doctor would have lost his life because no one bothered to verify the facts. (NAN)

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, on Thursday, declared his intention to run for president in 2027, saying it is time to reset Nigeria.

Makinde said this at a mega-rally to announce the alliance between the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, and the Allied Peoples’ Movement, APM.

The governor, who expressed worry over the dwindling fortunes of Nigerians,, said it was time for the people to engage the system and not stand by as spectators.

He said: “Without a multi-party system, there is no democracy. Where is our multi party? “Where do we go from here?

“We have been pushed to the wall. The calculated and self opposition cannot unite but I am here to say that the opposition is the everyday Nigerian. 

This is the time for all us to ensure Nigeria works for us. This is the time to confront it fears. It is time to engage as citizens and not spectators. 

For the opposition political parties, this is the time to unite and work in unity and give our nation the much reset it needs.

“The time to reset Nigeria is now. Ibadan is the city of warriors. The first grand alliance is formed. The PDP and APM is formed. This handshake will allow us to field candidates from presidency to state Assembly.”

The governor, who hinted that the PDP-APM alliance will field candidates is from presidency to state house of Assembly, said: “And so, I declare my candidacy for office of the president of Nigeria.”

Daniella Owoeye, who intends to study Medicine and Surgery at the University of Lagos, scored 372 out of 400 marks in the Joint Admission and Matriculation Examination to lead other candidates who sat for the examination.

The Ogun State-based Ekiti indigene was unveiled as the 2026 UTME highest mark scorer during a Policy Meeting on Admissions to Tertiary Institutions held in Abuja on Monday.

Daniella Owoeye was said to have attributed her success to “consistency, strategic studying, and extensive use of past questions”.

Olajide described the 16-year-old girl’s outstanding performance as “a remarkable accomplishment that reflects your hard work, discipline, determination, and academic excellence”.

The union, in a congratulatory letter to Daniella Owoeye on Thursday, stated, “Your success has brought pride not only to your family but also to your school, community, Erinmope Ekiti. Moba Local Government and Ekiti State.

“This achievement is a clear indication that dedication and perseverance always yield positive results. You have become a source of inspiration to other students who aspire to attain greatness through education.

As you celebrate this milestone, may this success open greater doors of opportunities for you in your academic journey and future career. Continue to strive for excellence, remain focused, and uphold the values that have brought you this far.

“Once again, congratulations on this exceptional performance. We wish you greater achievements and a bright future ahead,” the national president stated.

Youth leaders of the All Progressives Congress in Cross River State have appealed to Governor Bassey Otu to intervene in the growing internal crisis rocking the party in the Akamkpa/Biase Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The youths, under the umbrella of the Akamkpa/Biase Youth Movement, made the appeal during a meeting held in Calabar on Wednesday, warning that the lingering division within the party could weaken the APC’s chances in future elections if not urgently addressed.

The group also endorsed the member representing Akamkpa/Biase Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Onun Emil Inyang, for a second term in office.

Speaking on behalf of the youths, Daniel Enang from Ehom Ward said the party was experiencing an unprecedented level of division in the constituency, stressing that the development was already causing tension among party supporters and young people.

He said, “We are concerned about the growing division in the party, especially in our federal constituency. As youths, we are not ready to go into another election with this kind of division. It is tearing us apart and creating serious challenges for the party.”

Enang noted that many youths played active roles during the 2023 elections and contributed significantly to the APC’s victory across polling units in the constituency.

“Many youths played active roles during the 2023 elections and contributed significantly to the APC’s victory across polling units in the constituency,” he emphasised.

He commended Otu for what he described as impactful developmental projects across the state but urged him to use his position as leader of the party in the state to restore peace and unity within the constituency.

“On behalf of the youths, I commend Governor Bassey Otu for his impactful developmental projects across the state. But we want him to use his position as leader of the party in the state to restore peace and unity within the constituency,” Enang said.

The youth leader also threw his weight behind Inyang’s second-term ambition, describing the lawmaker as a performing representative who had delivered on several campaign promises.

“The federal lawmaker has executed projects in education, agriculture and infrastructure, including the installation of over 24 solar-powered boreholes in different communities,” Enang said.

He added that the lawmaker had facilitated empowerment programmes for hundreds of constituents in fisheries, agriculture and skills acquisition, with several beneficiaries receiving cash support to establish businesses.

Another speaker, Raphael Egwu from Erei North in Biase Local Government Area, described Inyang as a loyal APC member who had repeatedly sacrificed personal ambition for the interest of the party.

Egwu recalled that the lawmaker stepped down for other aspirants during previous election cycles to maintain peace and party unity before eventually securing the mandate of the people in 2023.

He argued that supporting Inyang for a second term would preserve the existing political understanding between Akamkpa and Biase, which he said was based on fairness and equity.

The youths called on APC stakeholders in the state to unite behind the lawmaker and resolve internal disagreements ahead of the next election cycle.

Benue State Commissioner for Finance and Economic Planning, Michael Oglegba, has said local government councils can survive without depending entirely on federal allocations if they fully harness their internally generated revenue sources.

Oglegba stated this during an interview with journalists in Makurdi on Thursday.

According to him, the Constitution provides enough opportunities for local governments to generate revenue internally, but many councils have failed to explore the available sources.

The commissioner, who maintained that local government areas in the state are autonomous, urged council authorities to look inward instead of depending solely on monthly allocations.

He said, “The drafter of our constitution gave opportunity to local government to collect internally generated revenue. For instance, the tenement rate, which people pay for residing in a place.

“This is much more than grant rent, and it is supposed to generate a lot of money; unfortunately, there is no local government that has successfully collected the money. Most of them are not interested but wait for money to come.

“They (LGAs) have a long list of rates they ought to collect. IGR is the way out.”

Oglegba, however, blamed poor management and lack of proper governance structures for the inability of local governments to maximise their revenue potential.

He advised officials managing local governments to embrace capacity building and strengthen governance systems.

“There is a lot of IGR trapped in local government areas, another area is the mineral resources that are abound in some councils and there is nothing to stop them from benefiting directly from those resources,” Oglegba said.

Speaking on the state’s internally generated revenue, the commissioner said the Benue State Government had significantly improved revenue generation through various reforms and strategies.

“When we came on board, the IGR in the state hovers between N700m and N800 million monthly but we grew it to N1.5 billion monthly and then N2 billion monthly as at last year but today, we have exceeded N3 billion per month,” the commissioner said.

The issue of local government financial autonomy has remained a major national discourse following the push for greater fiscal independence for councils across the country, with many stakeholders advocating improved revenue generation and accountability at the grassroots level.

The Academic Board of Kogi State Polytechnic has approved the first semester results for the 2025/2026 academic session and has withdrawn 229 students over poor academic performance.

The decision was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Acting Coordinator, Public Relations and Protocols of the institution, John Amos Onimisi, in Lokoja.

Onimisi said the decision was taken during the Academic Board meeting held on May 12, 2026, chaired by the Rector, Professor Salihu Sanusi Avidime.

“The meeting had in attendance Principal Officers, Deans, Heads of Departments, and other members of the Academic Board, who deliberated extensively on academic matters concerning the institution” the statement read.

According to him, the approval of the results followed a rigorous verification exercise conducted by the Academic Board Central Results Verification Committee.

“The committee carefully scrutinised and authenticated the submissions from various departments and schools to ensure accuracy, fairness, and compliance with the Polytechnic’s academic regulations.

“The committee’s report subsequently served as a critical guide in the Academic Board’s deliberations and final decisions on the results,” he said.

Onimisi added that the Rector commended members of the committee for their diligence, commitment and professionalism in carrying out the exercise.

He said the efforts of the committee had continued to strengthen the institution’s academic integrity and uphold educational standards.

The Board said the withdrawal of the 229 students was in the overall interest of maintaining academic excellence and preserving the quality of certificates issued by the institution.

It added that the measure was in line with the institution’s academic regulations and was intended to encourage discipline and improved academic commitment among students.

The Presidency has criticised former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi over his pledge to serve only one term if elected president, saying his political history shows inconsistency.

Obi had said in a viral clip from an interview scheduled to air on News Central TV on Thursday that he would not remain in office beyond four years “even with a gun to my head.”

Reacting on Thursday in a post on X, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, dismissed the promise, insisting that Obi’s past political decisions show a pattern of broken loyalty.

“If you believe Peter Obi’s promise to serve only one term as president, you’ll believe anything,” Onanuga said.

He said Obi had previously pledged loyalty to the All Progressives Grand Alliance while serving as governor of Anambra State but later defected to the Peoples Democratic Party.

Peter Obi’s pledges have always been short-lived. He ultimately abandoned APGA for the PDP, and since then, he has drifted from one political platform to another—a political rolling stone,” he stated.

According to Onanuga, Obi’s political movements over the years show that his promises are unreliable.

By his own actions, Peter Obi has shown that his word cannot be trusted. His promises are as fleeting as his political allegiances,” he added.

Obi was the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 presidential election, where he finished third behind President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party.

He has since joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress following his exit from the African Democratic Congress coalition ahead of the 2027 presidential election scheduled for January 16, 2027.

It was earlier reported that Mimiko, who governed the Sunshine State between 2009 and 2016, resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party last month.

Joining the ruling party on Thursday at the APC secretariat in Ward 7, Ondo West Local Government Area of the state, the former governor said he took the decision in order to join President Bola Tinubu in moving the country forward.

He said, “There are a lot of good things being done by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government, and though much more will still have to be done, I am coming in to lend my support to ongoing efforts to keep Nigeria on the path of peace, progress and genuine development.

“The NELFUND initiative to democratise access to education is another commendable effort of Mr President which must be applauded, and for an avowed supporter of state police like myself, the current effort to decentralise policing as being pursued is another reason I am happy to be part of the current effort under Mr President.”

Receiving the defector, the state chairman of the APC, Kolawole Babatunde, said Mimiko was a progressive in all ramifications, having posted remarkable results in health, education, infrastructure and many other areas in and out of office.

“Former Governor Mimiko is a progressive through and through, and his coming into the APC is like a homecoming. President Tinubu’s every initiative and effort are progressive in nature and are yielding positive results that are endearing to other positive and progressive-minded Nigerians,” the chairman stated.

In his remarks, a former member of the House of Representatives representing Ondo East/West Federal Constituency, Joseph Akinlaja, stated that the arrival of Mimiko into the APC climaxed the full and final movement of the Mimiko political structure into the APC in Ondo State.

“Before now, some of us had moved into the APC mostly with his consent, but now feel fully satisfied that he has finally joined us so that we can all contribute to the landslide electoral success of President Tinubu and all the party’s candidates in subsequent elections,” Akinlaja said.

The Amazon Web Services, in collaboration with Udacity, is providing 4,500 Udacity nanodegree Amazon AI and ML Scholarships to students who identify as underserved or underrepresented in technology.

The Udacity/AWS AI and ML Scholarship covers full tuition for Udacity’s Nanodegree program. At each stage, you will gain AI knowledge and receive coaching from professionals.

In this post, we will delve into the details of the scholarship program, including a stepwise procedure on how to apply successfully.

2026 Amazon AI and ML Scholarship Summary

• Host: Amazon/Udacity
• Category: Training 
• Eligible Countries: All Countries
• Reward: Full Sponsorship | Certification 
• No IELTS Required 
• Deadline: June 24, 2026
  

Udacity/Amazon AI and ML Scholarship Details:

The AWS AI & ML Scholarship program, in collaboration with Udacity, is an AI/ML-focused scholarship program providing 4,500 Udacity nanodegree scholarships annually, as well as a mentorship program, to students that identify as underserved or underrepresented in technology.

The amazon AI and ML Scholarship program aims to make the future tech workforce more diverse by removing financial barriers, providing skills training for a career in tech, and offering mentorship support.

The AWS AI & ML Scholarship program uses a free, student-only version of AWS DeepRacer to prequalify participants for the scholarship application. 

Eligibility Requirements for AWS AI and ML Scholarship 2026

The requirements for the AWS AI and ML Scholarship are as follows;

• Any student, early-career professionals or motivated career switchers over the age of 18 that self identifies as underserved or underrepresented in technology, and is currently enrolled in high school or college, may apply (subject to terms and conditions on Udacity).
• No prior knowledge in machine learning, computer science, or car racing is needed. This program is designed to help anyone get started with ML through the engaging concept of racing.

Benefits of Udacity/Amazon AI and ML Scholarship 2026

• The scholarship covers full tuition for Udacity’s Nanodegree program. At each stage you will gain AI knowledge and receive coaching from professionals. 
• The program is designed to help anyone get started with Machine Learning (ML) with no prior technical knowledge required. 

Top 4,500 learners based on assessment performance will advance into one of three Nanodegree tracks, aligned with in-demand AI roles.

• Future AWS AI Programmer
• Future AWS Agentic AI Business Professional
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Selection Process for Amazon AI and ML Scholarship

• Phase 1: Challenge Phase
• Apply between: 03/24/2026 – 06/24/2026: Open to up to 100,000 learners globally, fully funded by AWS Based on the AWS AI Practitioner Learning Plan
• Self-paced foundational AI & Agentic AI training using real AWS services
• Earn a Certificate of Completion upon successful participation
  
  Phase 2: Udacity Nanodegree
• Runs 08/04/2026 to 11/04/2026
• For 4,500 top assessment-performing students from the Challenge Phase
• Choose from three specialized, career-aligned Nanodegree tracks
• Project-based learning designed to build job-ready AI portfolios using AWS AI services

How to Apply for Udacity/Amazon AI and ML Scholarship 2026 (Step by Step)

To apply for the 2026 Udacity/Amazon AI and ML Scholarship, interested and qualified candidates should use the APPLY button below to visit the scholarship webpage.

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Deadline: June 24, 2026

The Nigerian naira recorded mixed performance against the United States dollar across the official Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) and the parallel market on Thursday, May 14, 2026, as traders continued to monitor liquidity conditions and Central Bank of Nigeria interventions.

At the official market, data from the Central Bank of Nigeria showed the naira trading around ₦1,375.62/$ at the NFEM window, following recent gains supported by improved dollar supply and stronger market turnover.

Market reports indicated that FX turnover at the NFEM recently surged to about $1.89 billion in single-day trading, reflecting increased liquidity and stronger participation by banks and investors. Analysts said the development has helped reduce pressure on the local currency in recent sessions.

In the parallel market, also known as the black market, the dollar traded between ₦1,395 and ₦1,405, depending on location and transaction size. Bureau De Change operators in Lagos and Abuja quoted buying rates around ₦1,385–₦1,395 and selling rates near ₦1,400–₦1,405.

Reports also showed that the exchange rate gap between the official market and the parallel market remained relatively narrow, ranging between ₦20 and ₦30, compared with wider spreads seen earlier in the year.

Financial analysts attributed the naira’s relative stability to sustained FX interventions by the Central Bank, rising external reserves, and improved investor confidence in the Nigerian foreign exchange market. Nigeria’s external reserves were recently reported at approximately $48.48 billion.

Currency dealers, however, noted that demand pressure from importers, travelers, and businesses seeking foreign exchange outside the banking system continues to influence black-market rates despite ongoing reforms in the FX sector.

IBADAN— GOVERNOR Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, yesterday, declared that federal might will not influence the outcome of the 2027 general elections.

Makinde, who spoke at the Oyo state tourism summit held at the University of Ibadan International Conference Centre, ICC, expressed optimism that Nigerians would vote for leaders of their choice regardless of political influence.

He said: “I believe that this election cycle, federal might will not work. It has worked in Ekiti state in both instances but this time around, Nigerians will show politicians pepper.

They will show us that they don’t want to be bystanders anymore; they will participate, and I’m sure of what I’m saying.”

On governance in Oyo after his tenure, the governor said his administration has created structures in the state that would ensure continuity.

The governor said although he would recommend a successor, the people of Oyo would ultimately decide who becomes the next governor.

He, however, cautioned that electing a candidate without the capacity to govern would have lasting consequences for the state.

“I tell people that I will recommend for Oyo state people, but the decision will rest with the people of Oyo state,” he said.

But if you make a mistake and bring someone who will not do good work, it is a one-day event, but the impact will last four years.

“So, we must get it right. Leadership changes but systems, they endure. So, our focus has been deliberate”, he said.

There have been speculations that Makinde may back a former Commissioner for Finance, Mr Bimbo Adekanbi, as his preferred governorship candidate.

Speaker of the Oyo House of Assembly, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin, on Wednesday, said he led lawmakers in the state “to a strategic breakfast meeting” with Adekanmbi, “the consensus gubernatorial candidate of our new party in the State Allied Peoples Movement.”

Responding to the speculations, Makinde said he would support any candidate who is loyal to Oyo and possesses the capacity to govern effectively.

The governor said: “People said ‘oh, so Seyi, you did not mentor anyone these seven years you have been in government that can take over from you without the taint of APC’? And I ask them that Morohunkola Thomas or Bimbo Adekanbi, are they not from Oyo State? For us, if you’re from Oyo state, loyal to Oyo state, and have capacity, we will support you. We are blind to party colouration but open to capacity that can move Oyo state forward.”

The governor said the state has moved beyond merely identifying opportunities and is now concentrating on creating systems capable of sustaining long-term development and growth.

Workers’ unions of the West African Examinations Council in Nigeria on Wednesday commenced a three-day nationwide protest over unresolved welfare issues and alleged unfair labour practices.

The protest, organised by the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, began at the WAEC national office in Yaba, Lagos, as early as 8:00 a.m., with parallel actions held at regional and state offices nationwide.

The action followed the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued by NASU national leadership to WAEC management over nine key demands, including alleged irregular recruitment practices and poor staff welfare conditions.

WAEC Nigeria, alongside four other member countries — Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia and Liberia — is currently conducting the 2026 May/June West African Senior School Certificate Examination, with 1,959,636 candidates from 24,207 schools participating nationwide.

The Head of National Office of WAEC Nigeria, Dr Amos Dangut, had on Monday expressed confidence in the smooth conduct of the examination, assuring stakeholders that measures had been put in place to avert a recurrence of the glitches recorded in the 2025 edition, when some candidates reportedly wrote papers late into the night.

However, the aggrieved workers insisted that the industrial action was unavoidable, citing unresolved grievances with management.

The nine-point demands of the workers were contained in a letter issued by the NASU national body to Dangut, dated May 5, 2026

Signed by NASU General Secretary, Peters Adeyemi, the letter was titled, “Re: A Call For Immediate Stop to the Shady Recruitment Interview Practices.”

The union warned that workers would embark on the three-day protest if management failed to address the issues within seven days.

The letter read in part, “Kindly refer to our letter on the above subject referenced NASU/EBL/88/VOL.XVIII/198 dated 21st March, 2026 and your response to the same, which we shared with our Branch Executive Officers.”

It added, “The Branch Executive Officers have expressed concerns that the issues raised in our letter remain unresolved. These have further given rise to additional issues requiring your immediate attention.”

Speaking on the protest, the Chairman of NASU-WAEC, Mr Kayode Ogunyade, said the action, scheduled from 7:30 a.m. to 12 noon daily for three days, was intended to compel management to return to the negotiation table.

“The protest is to press home our demands and get management back to the table,” Ogunyade said.

He added that the action was also a warning signal to management over the growing frustrations of workers.

If these issues are not addressed, it simply means management is not ready to resolve them,” he warned.

Ogunyade, however, noted that further action after the three-day protest would be determined by NASU national leadership.

Reacting, WAEC, through its Head of Public Affairs, Moyosola Adesina, assured candidates, parents, school owners and stakeholders that the ongoing WASSCE would not be disrupted.

“The West African Examinations Council wishes to reassure candidates, parents, school owners, stakeholders and the general public of its unwavering commitment to the seamless, hitch-free and successful conduct of the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination for School Candidates, 2026,” the statement read.

The council said the examination had continued uninterrupted despite the protest by some categories of workers.

It added that it respects the rights of workers and unions to express grievances within the ambit of the law, stressing that management had taken steps to address the issues raised.

“The Council, as a law-abiding organisation, respects the rights of unions and staff members to peacefully express their grievances within the ambit of the law,” it said.

WAEC explained that the adjustment in examination days was necessitated by the streamlining of subjects from 76 to 38, adding that the shorter timetable reflected the revised structure and hybrid mode of examination delivery.

It also dismissed allegations of indiscriminate dismissal and unfair sanctions, stating that disciplinary matters were handled in line with its staff handbook and statutory provisions.

“The assertion of incessant dismissal and disproportionate sanction is not correct,” the council said.

It further explained that the engagement of contract Examination Officers and Assistant Examination Officers was part of measures to manage rising workloads and ensure efficiency across the sub-region.

WAEC added that management was already in dialogue with the union and had put measures in place to ensure that the examination timetable remained undisturbed.

The council urged the public to disregard rumours or misinformation capable of causing panic over the conduct of the examination.

It reaffirmed its commitment to delivering credible and reliable educational assessment services to Nigerian candidates.

Boko Haram terrorists have reportedly beheaded five men out of 416 victims abducted from Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

In a video obtained by our correspondent on Wednesday through a mediation group, the Borno South Youth Alliance, the terrorist group, Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad, was seen chanting while displaying the bodies of the victims.

The 30-second video was released following an earlier 72-hour ultimatum reportedly issued to the Federal Government.

Recall that on April 20, The report that Boko Haram terrorists released a video daring the Nigerian government to attempt a forceful rescue of 416 abducted victims in Borno State.

They also warned that if their demands were not met within 72 hours, the victims would be moved to undisclosed locations where they might never be seen again.

In a statement made available to The PUNCH on Wednesday, the President of the Borno South Youth Alliance, Samaila Kaigama, said the deceased victims attempted to escape from captivity.

The statement accompanying the video reads: “Borno South Youth Alliance (BOSYA) yesterday, at about 5:18 pm, received a disturbing video showing the execution of about four to five men, both old and young, who reportedly attempted to escape from JAS/Boko Haram captivity

Kaigama said the group had explored all possible interventions and humanitarian channels, yet the 416 women, children and a few men in captivity had largely been abandoned to their fate.

This video is not intended to promote terrorism or any related activity, but rather to expose the painful reality on the ground, a reality we have spent over two months trying to prevent through continuous mediation and humanitarian appeals,” he said.

The group called on well-meaning Nigerians to support efforts toward the rescue of the victims.

“Borno Youth Alliance is calling on well-meaning Southern Borno indigenes, political office holders, political aspirants, and all patriotic Nigerians from the North, South, East and West, as well as international organisations, to urgently support efforts toward the release of the 416 women and children,” he stated.

He added: “Four to five people are already dead. More victims are sick, and some men who attempted to escape have now been killed.”

He stressed that lives are involved and that victims were enduring severe hardship in captivity.

“Please let us come together and donate toward raising N50,000,000 for the release of 50 women and children,”he added.

culled from punch 

Senate President Godswin Akpabio, on Wednesday, stressed the need for more synergy among the Federal Government, academia, researchers, financial institutions, development partners, technology experts, agribusiness investors, and farmers with a view to transforming food insecurity into agricultural abundance in Nigeria.

He made the call in his keynote address at the maiden National Legislative Summit and Expo on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions, themed, “Unfolding The Potential of Agricultural Colleges and Institutions Through Collaboration and Innovation To Enhance Food Security And Job Creation,” held at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

Represented by the Deputy Senate Majority Leader, Isa Ashiru, Akpabio explained that the future of agriculture would not be determined merely by hoes and cutlasses, but by research, technology, mechanisation, innovation, biotechnology, data systems, irrigation science, climate adaptation, and knowledge-driven productivity.

The Senate President said, “The government alone cannot transform agriculture. Educational institutions alone cannot do it. Farmers alone cannot do it. The private sector alone cannot do it.

Transformation happens when government, academia, researchers,

financial institutions, development partners, technology experts, agribusiness investors, and farmers work together within one integrated ecosystem.

“We must dismantle institutional silos and build bridges between research and practice, between policy and implementation, between innovation and accessibility.

Second, innovation. We cannot solve 21st-century problems with 20th-century methods. Our young people are creative, energetic, and technologically savvy.

“We must make agriculture attractive, profitable, mechanised, and innovation-driven. Agriculture must no longer be presented as punishment for failure, but as a frontier of opportunity and wealth creation.

“The future farmer may operate drones, use artificial intelligence for crop analysis, deploy digital irrigation systems, and manage greenhouse technology,” Akpabio stated.

He said the National Assembly remained committed to supporting initiatives that would promote food security, rural development, youth employment, and agricultural industrialisation.

Akpabio added, “A hungry nation cannot be peaceful. A hungry people cannot be stable. Hunger weakens productivity, fuels social tension, deepens poverty, and threatens national cohesion.

“But beyond feeding ourselves, Nigeria must think bigger. We must move from being merely consumers to becoming exporters.

“We must move from raw production to agro-processing. We must move from dependence to competitiveness. We must move from potential to performance.”

In his address, the Director General of IITA, and Regional Director for Africa, Simeon Ehui, said that through various collaborations in implementing bold reforms and initiatives on food security, Nigeria will achieve multiple successes worthy of celebration.

He said, “IITA is a non-profit organisation that develops agricultural technologies to address Africa’s most pressing concerns. including hunger, malnutrition, poverty, and natural resource degradation.

“We work with a variety of partners across and beyond Africa to improve lives, food and nutrition security, increase employment, and protect natural resource integrity.

“Recent initiatives (2026) include a partnership with the Nigerian government to establish 774 soil testing laboratories and a focus on youth agribusiness development, with the MoU signed with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and the Ministry of Youth Development, respectively.

“We look forward to engaging in a successful and continuous partnership aimed at improving technology delivery to our large farming and agro-industrial stakeholders.

“I passionately believe that through our collaboration in implementing bold reforms and initiatives on food security, we will achieve multiple successes worthy of celebration.”

In his welcome address, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions, Sharafadeen Alli, said the summit brought together lawmakers, policymakers, heads of institutions, development partners, researchers, private sector stakeholders, investors, students, and key actors within the agricultural value chain from across Nigeria and beyond.

He said, “This gathering is not merely ceremonial; it is a platform for meaningful dialogue, strategic partnerships, legislative engagement, exploring innovation exchange, and for actionable policy recommendations that will strengthen agricultural colleges and institutions across the country.”

The United States said Wednesday it would ease its system of demanding bond payments of visa applicants for certain fans seeking to come for the World Cup.

Under one of President Donald Trump’s many initiatives to crack down on migration, the United States has begun asking people from 50 developing countries to hand over anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 for a US visa, refundable once they return home.

The State Department said it would waive the bonds for team members competing in World Cup matches in the United States as well as for fans from competing countries who already have tickets and signed up for a priority system set up for visas.

“We remain committed to strengthening US national security priorities while facilitating legitimate travel for the upcoming World Cup tournament,” said Mora Namdar, the assistant secretary of state for consular affairs.

She said the Trump administration wanted to organize the “biggest and best FIFA World Cup in history.”

“Today’s announcement from the US State Department further demonstrates our ongoing collaboration with the US Government and the White House Task Force for the FIFA World Cup to deliver a successful, record-breaking and unforgettable global event,” a FIFA spokesperson said in a statement.

Five countries that qualified for the World Cup are among those whose nationals are required to pay visa bonds: Algeria, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal and Tunisia.

At least two other countries that have qualified for the soccer showcase have seen nearly total bans on entry into the United States under Trump: Haiti, the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere, and Iran, which the United States and Israel attacked on February 28.

The Trump administration has also sharply expanded scrutiny for visitors from friendly Western countries, requiring them to provide access for the US government to look through their social media postings.

A study by the Mendoza Law Firm found that Haiti could play its matches with virtually no fans traveling from the country due to the restrictions.

It said that in the five qualifying countries affected by the visa bonds, $15,000 is equivalent to an average of three years of income.

The World Cup, which kicks off June 11, is being co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.

AFP

Makinde stated this at the International Tourism Summit Oyo State 2026 held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the governor said key infrastructure projects connecting towns and communities across the state, improved security, and efforts to revitalise tourist attractions would significantly boost tourism activities in the coming years.

Speaking at the summit themed, “From Groundwork to Governance: Building Tourism That Endures,” Makinde said continuity of policies and ideas remained critical to sustaining long-term investment in tourism development.

Some of you here were part of the tour of the Oke Ogun Zone. I hope you can now see why Oyo is set to become the tourism capital of South-West Nigeria in the coming years,” he said.

Makinde highlighted ongoing road projects across the state, noting that improved connectivity would support tourism and economic growth.

“I usually boast to people that from the train station in Moniya, you can drive at least 180 kilometres on state roads with no single pothole,” he added.

The governor acknowledged concerns often raised by investors about policy continuity after changes in government, stressing that his administration was focused on building enduring systems rather than projects tied to personalities.

“When investors consider opportunities within our environment, there’s always an underlying question: what happens after this administration? Will policies continue? Will agreements be honoured?” he said.

According to him, the administration had prioritised institutionalising policies to ensure continuity beyond political transitions.

He cited the ongoing 110-kilometre Circular Road project, which was first conceived in the early 2000s before construction eventually commenced under his administration, as an example of delayed development caused by lack of continuity.

“Leadership changes, but systems endure. So, our focus has been deliberate. For this tourism sector, we’re not just initiating projects, we’re building structures that can sustain them,” Makinde stated.

He added that the government had established a 25-year tourism master plan committee and development frameworks for tourism assets such as Eleyele Lake.

The governor also disclosed that the state had signed a 15-year concession agreement with SystemSpecs for the management of Bower’s Tower.

Addressing investors at the summit, Makinde said Oyo offered a stable framework for long-term investment.

“It means that when you engage with Oyo, you are engaging with a system where decisions are guided by frameworks, engagement is coordinated across government, and projects are anchored in long-term plans,” he said.

Earlier, former Ekiti State governor, Kayode Fayemi, commended Makinde for infrastructure development across the state and for promoting tourism and regional economic integration.

Fayemi urged the governor to sustain continuity in governance, stressing that tourism must be institutionalised to survive beyond individual administrations.

“For tourism to be sustained and developed, it must be institutionalised rather than personalised,” he said.

He also advocated the establishment of a South-West Tourism Circuit that would connect tourist attractions across the region.

Presenting the state’s 25-Year Tourism Master Plan Framework, Kola Lawal said the initiative was aimed at attracting investment and promoting Oyo’s cultural and heritage assets

Filmmaker Kunle Afolayan and Managing Director of Whatadeal Africa, Obafela Bank-Olemoh, also commended the government for improving road infrastructure to support tourism development.

The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatubosun, said the tourism framework being developed by the state was designed to ensure long-term growth, coordination and consistency in policy implementation.

He said this in a statement sent to the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday in Abuja, while acknowledging that he only honoured an invitation by the commission.

The statement signed by Alhaji Abdulrasaq Danjuma, his Media Aide, however, said this was in line with due process and respect for the constituted authorities.

He appealed to the public to avoid speculation, misinformation, sensational commentary, and the circulation of unverified claims that may distort facts, prejudice ongoing processes, or create unnecessary tension.

He said the public should allow the relevant agencies to carry out their responsibilities so that the facts would emerge through lawful, transparent, and due process.

“It is important to clarify that he was not arrested, but attended the engagement voluntarily as a responsible public servant committed to transparency and accountability.

“At this time, we respectfully urge supporters, associates, stakeholders, and members of the public to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding while the appropriate authorities carry out their constitutional responsibilities.

It is also important to emphasise that the matters currently in the public domain remain allegations subject to investigation and due legal process.

In line with established principles of justice and fairness, every individual is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise by a court of competent jurisdiction,” he said.

Earlier reports from The Punch late Wednesday night quoted a source who claimed that the ECN DG was in EFCC custody

All efforts to get the agency’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, to comment on the facts surrounding the incident as of press time proved futile.

A source within the anti-graft agency, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak on the matter, disclosed that the alleged fraud involves funds estimated at N500bn.

NAN

The Zone One Police Headquarters in Kano has arrested a 32-year-old suspect, Richard Peter, over an alleged fake ushering job involving students of Bayero University, Kano.

The police also recovered 29 mobile phones and other items allegedly stolen from the victims.

This was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the zone, DSP Abdullahi Hussaini.

According to the statement, the suspect, said to be from Lagos State, was arrested following a petition submitted to the office of the Assistant Inspector-General of Police by a group of students led by Clementina Paul

The students alleged that the suspect defrauded them under the guise of offering ushering jobs.

The police said preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect, through one Faith Dauda, invited 38 female students to Mairabo Hotel in the Sabon Gari area of Kano on May 10, 2026.

Upon arrival, the victims were allegedly asked to change into working attire and leave their phones and personal belongings behind on the claim that phones were not allowed at the supposed event venue.

The statement added that the suspect later took the students to the hotel restaurant, ordered food valued at N6,000 for each person and disappeared without paying

After eating and waiting for several hours, the victims returned to the room and discovered that their phones and other items had been stolen,” the statement said.

The police said one of the stolen phones was later traced to the Kano Line Motor Park through intelligence and technical support.

According to the statement, operatives moved to the location but discovered that the suspect had already boarded a vehicle heading to Lagos.

He was, however, intercepted and arrested in Zaria, Kaduna State.

“Twenty-nine phones and other items belonging to the victims were recovered. The suspect is currently in custody at the Zonal Criminal Investigation Department and will be charged in court upon completion of the investigation,” the statement added.

The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone One, Garba Ahmed, commended the operatives for the swift operation and reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting residents against fraud and related crimes.

The police also advised members of the public to be cautious of unverified job offers and avoid handing over personal belongings to strangers.

The Navy has intensified efforts to curb cross-border fuel smuggling with the seizure of over 6,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) during a targeted operation along the Badagry-Ajara axis in Lagos State.

Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Information, disclosed on Wednesday that the operation was conducted by personnel of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry following intelligence reports on the activities of smugglers operating within the area.

The mission formed part of ongoing efforts to disrupt illegal fuel trafficking routes and restrict the movement of petroleum products through unauthorized border corridors,” Folorunsho said.

“During the operation, naval personnel discovered about 240 jerry-cans of 25 litres each of PMS concealed and prepared for illegal movement through the Badagry border waterways.

The products were subsequently recovered and evacuated to FOB Badagry for further necessary action in accordance with established procedures.

The operation highlights the Nigerian Navy’s sustained focus on dismantling the logistics chain supporting trans-border smuggling activities, particularly the illegal diversion of petroleum products through maritime and littoral routes.

“The Nigerian Navy remains committed to maintaining operational pressure across strategic border corridors and denying criminal networks the freedom to exploit the maritime environment for economic sabotage.”

General Overseer of Land of Joy and Prayer Ministry, Agah, Ganmo, in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Prophet Ajiboye Olayinka, has been sentenced to life Imprisonment for having unlawful sexual intercourse with three minors inside the church’s mission house.

Justice H.A. Gegele of the Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin on Wednesday also sentenced Prophet Olayinka to 14 years imprisonment for illegal abortions of several pregnancies of his victims.

The court subsequently discharged the defendant of the charge of bigamy.

The defendant had faced an eight-count charge bordering on criminal conspiracy, unlawful sexual intercourse with minors, illegal abortion, and unlawful possession of firearms, contrary to Sections 97, 235 and 283 of the Penal Code, Section 3(1) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, 2004 and Section 31(2) of the Kwara State Child Rights Law, 2006.

During the hearing, the prosecution called 12 witnesses and tendered exhibits.

In the evidence of the victims, particularly PW3, PW4 and PW5, the prosecutors averred that the defendant administered anointing oil on their private parts before having forceful sexual intercourse with them in the mission house.

The prosecutor added that the defendant used to give them a Bible to swear an oath of secrecy not to divulge the rape incident to anyone, or else he would kill them.

On 11th February, 2026, the prosecution team led by Issa Zakari, Chief State Counsel, vigorously cross-examined the defendant and his witnesses in his defence before the court.

Upon the close of defence, written addresses were filed and adopted and the case was adjourned for Judgement.

In his verdict, Justice Gegele held that the prosecution had successfully proven the offences of unlawful sexual intercourse with minors, rape and illegal abortions, but failed to establish the offence of bigamy.

The court described the defendant as “a Pedophile and philanderer whose conduct should be deprecated by all and sundry in the society.”

Justice Gegele further directed that the pump-action gun recovered from the defendant be forfeited to the Federal Government.

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have arrested the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Mustapha Abdullahi, over alleged money laundering offences.

A source within the anti-graft agency, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak on the matter, disclosed on Wednesday that Abdullahi was arrested in Abuja and is currently in the custody of the commission.

According to the source, the alleged fraud involves funds estimated at N500bn.

“We have arrested the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, for money laundering offences. He was arrested and is currently in our custody. The money is to the tune of N500bn,” the official said.

Efforts to get confirmation from the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, were unsuccessful as he could not be reached as of the time of filing this report.

President Bola Tinubu had on October 24, 2023 appointed Abdullahi as Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria.

Details later…

Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Yahaya, on Wednesday warned politicians and their supporters against violence ahead of the conduct of party primaries for the 2027 general elections, declaring that his administration would enforce zero tolerance for lawlessness and political unrest.

Speaking in a statewide broadcast from his conference room, the governor said political parties across the state would conduct their primaries in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and the guidelines of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

According to him, Section 84(2) of the Electoral Act provides that political parties can only nominate candidates through either direct primaries or consensus arrangements.

“As you are all aware, preparations for the 2027 general elections have begun. Political parties are expected to conduct their primary elections in accordance with the Electoral Act 2026,” he stated.

The governor disclosed that the ruling All Progressives Congress initially explored the consensus option with the support of the party’s elders and state executives, describing the process as largely successful.

“Many aspirants rallied behind our endorsed candidates across various elective offices. However, complete consensus could not be reached due to disagreements from a few aspirants,” he said.

Yahaya explained that the inability to secure unanimous acceptance of the consensus arrangement made direct primaries inevitable.

In the absence of unanimous acceptance of the consensus option, we must proceed with direct primaries. This is democracy at work. The will of the people must prevail, and direct primaries offer every aspirant a fair and transparent platform to seek the mandate of party members,” the governor said.

The governor, who noted that he would be entering the final year of his second term on May 29, stressed that preserving peace and stability in the state remained his top priority.

I address you today not as a candidate or political leader, but as a governor who took an oath to protect lives and property. The stability of Gombe State is bigger than the ambition of any politician or political party,” he stated.

He also warned that security agencies had been directed to deal decisively with anyone attempting to disrupt the peace during and after the primaries.

“Let me be very clear: there will be zero tolerance for violence, lawlessness and political rascality from any individual or group.

“Any individual or group, no matter how highly placed, who is implicated in any breakdown of law and order before, during and after the primary elections will face severe legal consequences,” he added.

The governor expressed concern over what he described as the activities of “conflict entrepreneurs” seeking to exploit the political season to create instability in the state.

“Elections come and go, but Gombe State will always remain. Since its creation in 1996, the state has enjoyed relative peace and stability despite the security challenges facing the North-East and northern Nigeria,” he said.

He called on political parties, aspirants and supporters to place the interest of the state above personal ambitions and pledged continued collaboration with security agencies to ensure peaceful primaries and general elections.

“Together, we must deny agents of darkness and merchants of conflict the opportunity to sow seeds of discord among our people,” the governor said.

As political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, political parties across Nigeria are increasingly adopting either direct primaries or consensus arrangements to select their candidates in line with the Electoral Act 2026.

Members of the Oyo State House of Assembly, led by the Speaker, Adebo Ogundoyin, have endorsed Bimbo Adekanmbi, the preferred aspirant of Governor Seyi Makinde, for the 2027 governorship election in the state.

The lawmakers arrived at the resolution during a “strategic breakfast meeting” with Adekanmbi at his Iyaganku GRA residence in Ibadan on Wednesday.

According to a statement by the media aide to the Speaker, Oyetunji Oyekunle, the delegation endorsed Adekanmbi as the governorship aspirant of the Allied Peoples Movement in the state ahead of the 2027 general election.

Makinde had last week, during a meeting with stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party, announced Adekanmbi, a former Commissioner for Finance in Oyo State, as his preferred governorship aspirant.

The governor subsequently met with other gubernatorial aspirants to calm frayed nerves, inform them of his choice, and rally support for Adekanmbi ahead of the governorship election.

The endorsement also came hours ahead of the “Unity Mega Rally Ibadan 2026,” expected to feature the declaration of a political alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party and the Allied Peoples Movement in the state.

According to the statement, Wednesday’s meeting focused on strengthening party unity, building early political structures, and ensuring a coordinated approach towards the 2027 governorship election.

Addressing the gathering, the Speaker described Adekanmbi as an experienced political figure capable of sustaining good governance and providing purposeful leadership for the state.

Ogundoyin noted that the endorsement by the lawmakers was borne out of their “collective conviction in Adekanmbi’s leadership capacity, political maturity, and understanding of governance.”

“We believe Bimbo Adekanmbi possesses the experience, exposure, and political understanding required to move Oyo State forward. Our gathering here today is not just symbolic; it reflects our confidence in his ability to unite stakeholders and provide inclusive leadership for the people of the state,” he said.

He added that members of the House remained committed to supporting initiatives and individuals who would sustain political stability, strengthen democratic institutions, and consolidate developmental strides across the state.

Ogundoyin further stressed the importance of early consultations and grassroots mobilisation.

He noted that internal cohesion and strategic planning would play major roles in determining the success of political parties during the polls.

In his remarks, Adekanmbi appreciated the lawmakers and party stakeholders for the confidence reposed in him, describing the endorsement as a major responsibility and a call to greater service.

He pledged to ensure inclusive and people-oriented leadership, particularly by consolidating the achievements of the Governor Seyi Makinde administration in infrastructure development, education, healthcare delivery, economic expansion, and youth empowerment across the state.

“I am deeply honoured by this show of confidence and solidarity from the lawmakers and party leaders. This endorsement is not just about me as an individual. It is about our collective aspiration to build a more prosperous, united, and progressive Oyo State,” he said.

He assured party members that he would continue extensive consultations across all geopolitical zones in the state to ensure inclusiveness and unity within the party.

Adekanmbi also emphasised the importance of issue-based politics, urging political actors to avoid divisive tendencies capable of creating unnecessary tension within the political space.

Some lawmakers who spoke during the meeting described the endorsement as timely, noting that early alignment among party stakeholders would help reduce internal disagreements and strengthen the APM in Oyo State ahead of the next governorship election.

The Kano State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of two more suspected miscreants linked to the recent attack on the popular Farm Centre GSM Market in Kano in April 2026.

Similarly, the command has arraigned seven suspects before Magistrate Court Number 2, Nomansland, Kano, for prosecution on charges relating to criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbance, unlawful assembly, being armed with deadly weapons, and mischief.

This is contained in a statement by the command’s public relations officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna, a copy of which was made available to The PUNCH on Wednesday.

“Further to the press release issued on the thuggery attack at Farm Centre GSM Market, Kano, on 28th April, 2026, the Kano State Police Command wishes to update the public on the progress of investigation and prosecution.

Following discreet and intelligence-led investigation, operatives of the Command identified and arrested two additional suspects connected to the incident, namely: Sadiq Ayuba, 18, of Darmanawa Quarters, Kano, and Abdulganiyu Abba, 38, of Mariri Quarters, Kano,” it said.

It added that during interrogation, Ayuba confessed that he and other suspects were mobilised and paid by one Mallam Hassan, now at large, to carry out an attack on Farm Centre GSM Market and on the entourage of A A Zaura.

“The attack led to destruction of businesses and properties, damage to a Toyota ambulance belonging to the entourage, and a tricycle belonging to one Shamsuddeen Sani.

With these arrests, the total number of suspects apprehended in connection with the incident now stands at seven.

“All seven suspects were today, 13th May, 2026, arraigned before Magistrate Court Number 2, Nomansland, Kano, for prosecution on charges relating to criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbance, unlawful assembly, being armed with deadly weapons, and mischief,” it said.

The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, reiterated the command’s commitment to identifying and bringing to justice all individuals and sponsors behind violent thuggery and public disturbances in the state.

He assured that the manhunt for the fleeing principal suspect, Mallam Hassan, is ongoing, while commending the public for providing credible information that aided the investigation. He also urged residents to continue supporting the police with timely intelligence to ensure Kano remains safe and peaceful.

“The Command remains committed to upholding law and order and ensuring that perpetrators of violence face the full weight of the law,” the statement added.

The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, was attended by top government officials, civil servants, and political appointees across the state.

Those sworn in as permanent secretaries include Dr Yinkore A. Paul, Dr Okwunze A.C, Amadubogha Peters, Nkenchor O.O., Akambe O.H., Engr Solomon Aghagba, Ogbugo Victor Chike, Ighoyota M. Rocky, Itawansa Augustine A., Onobraekpeyan O. Edwin, and Nkemachor Lucky, among others.

Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori described the appointments as well-deserved and necessary to strengthen the state civil service and improve service delivery across ministries and local government areas

According to the governor, the appointments became necessary following vacancies created by the retirement of some permanent secretaries.

He explained that the selection process was based on merit, seniority, competence, professionalism, and the need to ensure inclusive governance across the state.

Oborevwori stated that every local government area in the state now has a serving permanent secretary in line with the administration’s commitment to fairness, equity, justice, and inclusiveness.

He said, “The selection of these officers from a pool of equally competent and capable hands was based on vacancies in the respective local government areas, seniority and merit.

“As of today, every local government has a serving permanent secretary in the Delta State civil service in line with our policy of inclusive governance and expectations for a civil service driven by the principles of fairness, equity, and justice.”

The governor also disclosed that his administration recently approved a 93 per cent salary increase for permanent secretaries in the state.

He noted that attaining the position marked the fulfilment of the career aspirations of the affected officers after years of hard work and dedication.

According to him, the appointments should not be seen as a reward alone but as a call to higher responsibility and accountability in public service.

Oborevwori urged the new permanent secretaries to demonstrate discipline, integrity, professionalism, and commitment in the discharge of their duties.

He warned them against compromising standards or allowing political office holders to mislead them into actions that could damage their careers.

Don’t allow politicians to mislead you. Guide them and tell them the truth so that you don’t put your hands into something that will consume you,” the governor said.

He explained that permanent secretaries, as accounting officers in ministries, would be held responsible for lapses in service delivery and implementation of government policies.

The governor, therefore, advised them to work closely with commissioners and provide professional guidance for the smooth administration of ministries and agencies.

Oborevwori also announced a new policy requiring anyone aspiring to become Head of Service in the state to spend at least six months serving as a permanent secretary.

According to him, the policy is aimed at ensuring proper understanding of administrative procedures and personnel management within the civil service.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to building a professional, efficient, and result-oriented civil service capable of driving the MORE Agenda of the state government.

The governor added that the state had established a performance feedback mechanism to monitor and evaluate the performance of ministries, departments, and agencies.

He said the initiative was introduced to ensure accountability and measurable impact in governance and policy implementation.

The event was attended by the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Monday Onyeme; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor; top government officials; and other dignitaries.

Veteran comedian and entrepreneur, Atunyota Akpobome, fondly called Ali Baba, has urged Nigerians to deliberately develop their talents to attain commercial and societal value.

Ali Baba, according to a statement on Wednesday, gave this charge while speaking at the Life Guide Colloquium in Lagos.

The colloquium saw brand strategist and leadership architect, Jide Adeyemi, present his book titled “Life Guide: Stories, Lessons and Insights to Empower Your Journey.”

Addressing the theme of ‘Influence Engineering’, the comedian explained that talent alone is not enough, noting that individuals must continuously develop their abilities to the point where they become recognised assets.

Veteran comedian and entrepreneur, Atunyota Akpobome, fondly called Ali Baba, has urged Nigerians to deliberately develop their talents to attain commercial and societal value.

Ali Baba, according to a statement on Wednesday, gave this charge while speaking at the Life Guide Colloquium in Lagos.

The colloquium saw brand strategist and leadership architect, Jide Adeyemi, present his book titled “Life Guide: Stories, Lessons and Insights to Empower Your Journey.”

Addressing the theme of ‘Influence Engineering’, the comedian explained that talent alone is not enough, noting that individuals must continuously develop their abilities to the point where they become recognised assets.

He explained that influence is built when individuals intentionally nurture their potential until it becomes valuable and indispensable to society.

Speaking on “Influence Engineering,” the comedian stressed that true success should inspire and empower more people.

“We are talking about mining your potential properly until it becomes an asset,” he said. “Potential is where to start from, but you have to develop it enough to the point where people begin to seek it for commercial or societal value.”

He stressed the need for Nigerians to appreciate and acknowledge people who create opportunities and contribute meaningfully to society, saying recognition encourages others to do the same.

Ali Baba maintained that recognising and rewarding positive contributions is essential for building a compassionate and progressive society where individuals are motivated to continue creating opportunities for others.

Speaking, brand strategist Adeyemi called for purposeful and intentional leadership in Nigeria, stressing that the country’s major challenge is not a lack of capable leaders, but the absence of continuity, genuine concern for citizens and sustainable governance.

Adeyemi noted that Nigeria is richly blessed with human capital, but suffers from inconsistent leadership approaches that hinder national development.

According to him, many political leaders enter government without a clear purpose, often abandoning the programmes of their predecessors to pursue personal agendas rather than building on existing achievements.

We have amazing leaders in Nigeria, but what is lacking is intentionality and purposeful leadership,” he said.

“One government comes with fantastic programmes, and immediately they leave office, the next person starts something new. That is why we don’t have continuity

He noted that sustainable leadership requires leaders who are genuinely concerned about people, committed to impact and determined to leave lasting legacies.

Adeyemi described Nigeria as a country filled with enormous opportunities despite its challenges, noting that gaps in critical sectors create room for innovation and enterprise.

“This is one country where you can go to bed with nothing and wake up the next morning a millionaire because someone gives you an opportunity,” he said. “In places where everything already works, there may be fewer opportunities, but in Nigeria, there are many gaps to fill.”

Adeyemi explained that the colloquium was designed to provide guidance and clarity for individuals navigating life, business, leadership, faith and nation-building in an increasingly distracting world.

“We are trying to provide a compass through which people can navigate life,” he said. “There is so much noise and distraction around people today, and there is a need for clarity, purpose and direction.”

He emphasised the interconnectedness of leadership, faith, branding and nation building, arguing that no society can thrive without stable leadership, strong values and effective communication.

“You cannot build a nation without quality leadership, you cannot have personal clarity without faith in God, and you cannot do anything without marketing,” he stated.

Speaking on his book, Adeyemi said Life Guide was written to help readers gain personal clarity, build purposeful lives and develop wisdom for growth across different areas of life.

According to him, the book challenges readers to rethink their approach to life, embrace integrity and live more intentionally

By Adenike Fayomi-Olowe

At 2:17 a.m., the wheezing begins again. Adewale, a 52-year-old transporter living in Lagos, sits upright on his bed, struggling to pull air into his lungs. The fan is on, the windows are open, but his chest feels sealed shut. His breathing becomes shorter, faster, louder. Beside him lies a blue inhaler he now carries everywhere—from bus parks to church services.

“I never had asthma as a child,” he says. “This started when I was already over 40.”

For years, asthma in Nigeria was largely viewed as a childhood condition—something children “outgrow.” But doctors are increasingly warning about a different and growing reality: adults with no previous history of asthma are now developing the disease later in life, often with more severe symptoms and at significantly higher financial cost.

The condition, known as adult-onset asthma, is emerging as one of Nigeria’s overlooked non-communicable health challenges, worsened by pollution, stress, poor air quality, delayed diagnosis, and the rising cost of treatment.

And for many patients, the crisis is not only medical. It is economic.

What exactly is adult-onset asthma?

Adult-onset asthma refers to asthma that develops in adulthood, typically after the age of 20. Unlike childhood asthma, which is often linked strongly to genetics and allergies, adult-onset asthma can appear suddenly in people who have never experienced breathing problems before.

Doctors say it is often more persistent and harder to control than childhood asthma.

The disease causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs properly. During an attack, patients may experience wheezing, chest tightness, coughing, and severe shortness of breath.

For some Nigerians, symptoms begin gradually with persistent coughing at night or breathlessness during simple activities like climbing stairs. Others experience sudden attacks that send them rushing to emergency rooms.

Unfortunately, many adults do not initially suspect asthma.

In Nigeria, symptoms are frequently mistaken for malaria, catarrh, stress, pneumonia, or ordinary fatigue. Some patients spend months—or even years—using antibiotics, cough syrups, herbal remedies, and self-medication before receiving the correct diagnosis.

Why are more Nigerian adults developing asthma?

Respiratory specialists point to a combination of environmental and lifestyle pressures.

Nigeria’s urban centres, particularly Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano, and Onitsha, expose residents to heavy air pollution daily. Exhaust fumes from vehicles, generator smoke, industrial emissions, open refuse burning, and dusty roads all contribute to long-term irritation of the airways.

Indoor pollution is another major trigger. Millions of households still cook with charcoal, firewood, and kerosene in poorly ventilated spaces. Continuous exposure to smoke damages the lungs over time.

Work environments also play a role. Factory workers, welders, cleaners, mechanics, farmers, hairdressers, and construction workers are regularly exposed to chemicals, dust, fumes, and strong odors capable of triggering asthma.

Stress, obesity, smoking, strong perfumes, mold, cold weather, respiratory infections, and untreated allergies may also increase the likelihood of developing asthma later in life.

For women, hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause may contribute to adult-onset asthma as well.

The signs Nigerians should never ignore

Many asthma patients say they ignored their symptoms initially because they seemed minor.

Doctors warn that the following signs should never be dismissed:

Persistent coughing, especially at night.
Wheezing or whistling sounds during breathing.
Chest tightness or heaviness.
Shortness of breath after mild activity.
Frequent “catarrh” that never completely clears.
Difficulty sleeping because of breathing discomfort.
Feeling unusually tired after walking short distances.

Symptoms may worsen at night, during cold weather, after exposure to dust or smoke, or during stressful periods.

In severe attacks, patients may struggle to speak properly, gasp for air, or develop bluish lips due to low oxygen levels. Such situations require urgent medical attention.

How doctors diagnose adult-onset asthma

Diagnosis usually involves a detailed medical history and lung assessment.

Doctors may use a test called spirometry, which measures how well the lungs function and how much air a person can exhale forcefully.

Some hospitals may also conduct allergy testing, chest examinations, or peak flow monitoring.

However, access to proper respiratory testing remains limited in many parts of Nigeria, contributing to delayed diagnosis.

The treatment reality: inhalers, medication, and rising costs

Asthma has no permanent cure, but it can be effectively managed when properly treated.

Treatment focuses on controlling inflammation, preventing attacks, and helping patients breathe normally.

The most common medications are inhalers.

Reliever inhalers

These are fast-acting inhalers used during asthma attacks to quickly open the airways.

The most commonly used is Salbutamol, popularly known as Ventolin.

Doctors describe it as a rescue inhaler because it provides relief within minutes.

Prices currently range between approximately ₦2,500 and ₦6,000 depending on location and brand availability.

However, doctors warn against overdependence on reliever inhalers alone.

“Many Nigerians only buy the blue inhaler because it works immediately,” a Lagos-based physician explains. “But asthma inflammation continues silently if proper controller medication is ignored.”

Controller inhalers
These inhalers are used daily to reduce inflammation and prevent attacks.

They include:
Beclomethasone
Budesonide
Combination inhalers such as Fortide inhaler

These medications are considered essential for long-term asthma control.

But affordability has become a major problem.

A Lagos patient recently reported being quoted ₦93,600 for a Beclomethasone 200 mcg inhaler, highlighting the extreme price fluctuations affecting imported respiratory medications.

Meanwhile, Fortide inhalers—which combine anti-inflammatory and airway-relaxing medications—can cost around ₦20,000.

For many Nigerians already battling rising living costs, sustaining monthly asthma treatment has become extremely difficult.

Some patients reduce dosage, skip medications, or stretch inhalers beyond recommended usage periods simply to save money.

Other treatments doctors may recommend
Depending on severity, treatment may also include oral medications, steroid tablets for severe attacks, nebulization therapy in hospitals, oxygen therapy, allergy medications, and breathing exercises.

Doctors also advise patients to identify and avoid personal triggers.

The things asthma patients should NEVER do

Medical experts say many asthma complications arise from poor management habits.

Patients are strongly advised not to ignore persistent symptoms or stop medication once they feel better. Asthma often remains active even when symptoms temporarily improve.

Self-medication with antibiotics or excessive herbal mixtures can worsen respiratory conditions or delay proper treatment.

Smoking is highly dangerous for asthma patients, including exposure to secondhand smoke.

Doctors also caution against excessive exposure to dust, generator fumes, harsh chemicals, strong perfumes, insecticides, and open burning.

Patients should never share inhalers or use medications prescribed for another person.

Perhaps most importantly, doctors warn against waiting too long during severe attacks.

“If someone cannot speak properly, is gasping for air, or their lips turn blue, that is an emergency,” a respiratory specialist says.

What asthma patients SHOULD do
Experts recommend regular medical follow-up, proper inhaler use, adherence to prescribed medications, and routine monitoring of symptoms.

Patients are encouraged to keep inhalers nearby at all times, sleep in well-ventilated environments, reduce exposure to smoke and dust, exercise moderately if approved by doctors, drink enough water, treat allergies early, learn proper inhaler techniques, and seek immediate help during severe breathing episodes.

Stress management is also important, as anxiety and panic can worsen breathing difficulties.

The emotional and financial burden
Beyond the physical symptoms, asthma quietly affects livelihoods, sleep, productivity, and mental well-being.

Many adults living with asthma describe constant fear—fear of sudden attacks, fear of crowded environments, fear of hospital bills, and fear of running out of medication.

For workers in physically demanding jobs, asthma can threaten income and independence.

And because Nigeria’s health insurance coverage remains limited, most patients pay directly from their pockets.

A growing public health concern
Health experts warn that adult-onset asthma deserves far more attention than it currently receives.

As urbanization increases and environmental pollution worsens, respiratory diseases are expected to rise further.

Yet awareness remains low, inhalers remain expensive, and many patients continue suffering silently.

For Adewale, the disease has transformed daily life into careful planning.

He now avoids dusty roads, keeps his inhaler close, and thinks twice before physical exertion.

Still, every night carries uncertainty.

“People think breathing is automatic,” he says quietly. “Until one day, it isn’t.”

Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa called on French striker Kylian Mbappe on Wednesday to show “his commitment” to the team in the last three matches of the season.

Mbappe has faced criticism from the club’s own fans in recent weeks, in part for going on holiday to Sardinia during his recovery from a thigh injury.

The forward missed Madrid’s Clasico defeat by Barcelona on Sunday which confirmed the Catalan giants as La Liga champions for a second season running and ensured Los Blancos finish the season empty-handed.

“If he’s there and can complete the training session and is available, then he’ll definitely get some minutes… and the chance in these three games to keep showing the commitment he has to the club,” Arbeloa told reporters.

The Spanish coach said he hopes top scorer Mbappe can play and keep “scoring goals, showing, as I’ve said, the commitment he has to Real Madrid and that, as a coach but above all as a Madridista, is what I’d like to see”.

Arbeloa said he believes France captain Mbappe has given 100 percent to the team, ahead of Thursday’s La Liga match against relegated Real Oviedo.

Mbappe is likely to be the target of whistles from Madrid supporters at the Santiago Bernabeu.

“All my players (have), I couldn’t think otherwise, I couldn’t believe that a Real Madrid player doesn’t give absolutely everything he has for the club, because then he wouldn’t know where he is,” said Arbeloa

After nearly eight years away from acting, veteran Nollywood actress Genevieve Nnaji is making a major return to the screen with a lead role in BBC Studios’ upcoming thriller series, Wahala.

The celebrated actress, whose last on-screen appearance came in the 2018 movie Lionheart, will star in the six-part drama adaptation of Wahala, a novel written by BAFTA-nominated screenwriter Theresa Ikoko.

Produced by BBC Studios through its Firebird Pictures division, the series is expected to air on BBC One and stream on BBC iPlayer.

The production also features a star-studded cast including Adelayo Adedayo, Deborah Ayorinde, Cush Jumbo and Susan Wokoma.

Adapted from ‘Wahala’ by author Nikki May, the thriller follows the lives of four Nigerian-British women in London as buried secrets, complicated friendships and disturbing memories begin to unravel.

Reacting to her return to acting, Nnaji described the project as both exciting and deeply engaging.

I’m very happy to be joining Wahalaand to be working with such a brilliant team. It’s an intriguing story, and I’m excited to be a part of it,” she said.

Executive producer Elizabeth Kilgarriff also expressed confidence in the series, describing the cast lineup as exceptional.

“We are so proud to be announcing our incredible cast for Wahala and can’t wait to see them breathe life into these wonderful characters,” she stated.

Nnaji’s return is already generating excitement among fans, especially after years away from acting following her directorial debut in Lionheart, which became one of Nigeria’s most talked-about films globally.

Iran on Wednesday hanged a man found guilty of selling information to Israeli intelligence, the judiciary said, the latest in a wave of executions during the war with the country.

Since the start of the conflict with Israel and the United States in February, Iran has ramped up executions, particularly in cases involving alleged espionage or security-related charges.

“Ehsan Afreshteh, a spy trained by Mossad in Nepal who sold sensitive information to Israel, has been executed,” said the Iranian judiciary’s Mizan Online website.

“Arrested and tried for espionage and collaboration with the Zionist regime, he was hanged this morning after… the verdict was upheld by the Supreme Court,” it added.

Iran is the world’s second-most prolific executioner after China, according to rights groups.

On Monday, the country hanged an aerospace engineering student who had also been convicted of spying for Israel and the United States.

AFP

Gunmen suspected to be members of the Lakurawa group have allegedly killed two Customs officers in Tuga community, Bagudu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Wednesday when the attackers invaded two security checkpoints in the area.

A source, who spoke with our correspondent, on anonymity over security concerns said a senior officer among the victims was burnt alive after the assailants set fire to the location where he was sleeping.

The source said the attack happened around 3am.

He stated, “The gunmen attacked two checkpoints that are very close to each other.

“They shot one officer, a one star, while they burnt the three star officer alive.

They came in a truck, disguising as if they were carrying animals, in which they caught the officers unaware.

Two other officers with gunshot wounds are in the hospital now receiving treatment.”

When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of the Kebbi State Command, Mustapha Mubarak, said the command would issue a press statement once it obtains full details of the incident.

He neither confirmed nor denied the attack, saying, “We will issue a statement once we get the full report.”

The spokesman of the Nigerian Police, Kebbi State Command, SP Bashir Usman, could not be reached as of the time of filing this report.

The National Business and Technical Examinations Board has announced May 24 and May 31 as deadlines for the ongoing registration for the National Common Entrance Examination and the May/June In-School Certificate Examinations.

The disclosure is contained in a statement issued on Wednesday in Benin by the board’s Assistant Director of Media and Protocol, Uchechukwu Olisah.

The statement quoted the board’s registrar and chief executive officer, Dr Mohammed Mohammed, as saying registration for the 2026 May/June In-School Examinations will close on Sunday, May 31, 2026, while registration for the NCEE will close on Sunday, May 24, 2026.

Mohammed advised schools, parents, guardians, and prospective candidates to take advantage of the registration window and complete all necessary procedures before the stipulated deadlines to avoid last-minute challenges.

The NABTEB chief executive further stated that the registration process has been simplified through designated online portals to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience for candidates and schools.

“For the May/June (in-school) registration, schools are required to request slots through their respective state offices, capture candidates using the NABTEB biometric software, and complete registration via the official portal at mayjune.nabteb.gov.ng.

“Also, for the May/June (in-school) registration, schools are expected to obtain login details through the state office, log into the school portal, make payment, and complete registration through school.nabteb.gov.ng,” the statement read.

It added: “Similarly, candidates seeking registration for the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) are to request Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) through the state offices, complete registration on the Common Entrance Portal, and finalise the process through commonentrance.nabteb.gov.ng.

“Also, for the online NCEE registration, candidates may create accounts independently, log in, and complete registration online.

“Schools may also obtain login details through the state office to facilitate bulk registration. Payments and registration completion are to be carried out through student.nabteb.gov.ng.”

Mohammed reiterated the board’s commitment to leveraging technology to improve service delivery and examination administration nationwide.

He also urged candidates and school authorities to strictly comply with all registration guidelines and ensure accurate submission of candidates’ data.

NABTEB advised members of the public to contact the nearest state office or visit the board’s official registration portals for further clarification and support.

As reported by the Economic Times on Wednesday, the “Study in Japan” portal operated by the Japan Student Services Organization states that applicants are required to complete multiple stages before entering the country. These include securing admission from a recognised institution, obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), applying for a student visa, and completing residence registration after arrival.

Certificate of Eligibility is a key requirement.

A central part of the process is the Certificate of Eligibility (COE).

According to official guidance, the COE must be applied for through a regional immigration services bureau in Japan. In most cases, the accepting educational institution acts as the applicant’s representative.

The COE serves as official proof that the student meets Japan’s immigration requirements for long-term study. Without it, applicants may face significant difficulties in obtaining a student visa.

Students are also advised to coordinate directly with their university or language school regarding documentation requirements and processing timelines.

According to official guidance, the COE must be applied for through a regional immigration services bureau in Japan. In most cases, the accepting educational institution acts as the applicant’s representative.

The COE serves as official proof that the student meets Japan’s immigration requirements for long-term study. Without it, applicants may face significant difficulties in obtaining a student visa.

Students are also advised to coordinate directly with their university or language school regarding documentation requirements and processing timelines.

Financial proof is required

Japan also requires international students to demonstrate that they can financially support themselves during their stay.

This typically includes submitting bank balance certificates, income records, or documents showing the source of funds. These may belong either to the student or to a financial sponsor.

The requirement is intended to ensure students can cover tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses throughout their studies.

Student visa application process

Once the COE is issued, students can apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate in their home country or region of residence.

Standard requirements include:

Passport
Completed visa application form
Passport-sized photographs
Certificate of Eligibility (copy accepted)
Additional documents, if requested

Applicants are also expected to carry these documents when entering Japan for immigration checks.

Arrival and residence procedures

Students staying in Japan for more than three months are issued a residence card, known as a zairyu card, upon arrival at major airports such as Narita, Haneda, Kansai, and Fukuoka.

After arrival, students must register their residential address at a local municipal office within 14 days. The residence card must be carried at all times while living in the country.

“My Number” system for residents

Foreign residents are also assigned a 12-digit identification number known as “My Number.” It is issued after residence registration and is used for taxation, banking, employment, and other administrative services.

Students may also apply for a My Number card, which serves as an official identification document in Japan.

Short-term entry rules for exams

Students travelling to Japan solely for entrance examinations must apply for a Temporary Visitor visa using an official exam voucher issued by the institution where they plan to sit the test.

Depending on nationality, short stays may last 15, 30, or 90 days. In some cases, students must return to their home country after passing exams to apply for a formal student visa before beginning studies.

Overall, the system reflects Japan’s structured approach to managing international student entry, with a strong emphasis on documentation, financial verification, and post-arrival compliance.

Transport costs for matches at the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 have been reduced after strong backlash from fans over what were described as excessive fares for services to venues in the United States.

As reported by BBC Sport on Wednesday, prices for train and shuttle bus travel to MetLife Stadium, which will be referred to as New York/New Jersey Stadium during the tournament, were initially set at levels supporters criticised as far above normal rates.

Following the criticism, rail ticket prices have been reduced from 98 (£73), while shuttle bus fares have been cut from 20 (£15).

The venue will host eight World Cup matches, including one of England’s group-stage fixtures and a semi-final.

The Football Supporters’ Association’s England fan representative, Thomas Concannon, had earlier condemned the pricing as “astronomical,” arguing it was “completely out of the norm” compared with standard transport fares.

For comparison, a return rail journey from Penn Station in Manhattan to the stadium typically costs around $`12.90 (£9.50), highlighting the scale of the initial pricing.

New Jersey governor Mikie Sherrill said the revised fares were made possible through commercial sponsorship and would not rely on taxpayer funding. She said the changes were aimed at making travel more affordable for fans attending matches.

Good news: Ahead of NJ Transit World Cup train tickets going on sale, NJ Transit is lowering ticket prices to `$98 without New Jersey taxpayer money.

“Thank you to our partners for helping make this possible,” Sherrill said.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul also welcomed the reductions, saying access to the tournament should be as affordable as possible. She announced a 75% cut in round-trip bus fares and said a portion of tickets would be reserved for New York residents.

Despite the reductions in New Jersey, concerns remain over transport pricing in other host cities, with fans travelling to Foxborough in Boston facing significantly higher fares compared with usual rates.

England and Scotland supporters are expected to be among those affected, with fixtures scheduled across multiple US venues during the tournament.

The pricing adjustments come amid continued scrutiny of logistics and affordability as preparations intensify for the expanded 2026 World Cup across North America.

Youths in Mabudi, headquarters of Langtang South Local Government Area of Plateau State, on Wednesday staged a protest over persistent water scarcity in the area

They warned that they may boycott future elections if the situation is not urgently addressed.

The protesters, who turned out in their numbers, marched through the community wearing T-shirts with the inscription “No Water, No Vote,” while chanting slogans to press home their demands.

Some of the demonstrators also brandished placards, calling for immediate provision of potable water, as they lamented the absence of basic amenities in the area.

Speaking to The PUNCH, a youth leader, Mr. Nanlir Gambo, said the protest was meant to draw the attention of the government and elected officials  like their representatives in the state and National Assembly to the urgent need for a sustainable water supply scheme in the area.

“This protest is just a sign that we are serious about our demands. We won’t allow any politician to come here and deceive us again, using our needs only to abscond after election,” he said.

He lamented that residents were forced to depend on unsafe water sources, describing the situation as unacceptable.

Gambo noted that the recurring water shortage had placed a heavy burden on households, especially women and children who trek long distances in search of water.

He stressed that the youths were united in demanding immediate government intervention.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Langtang South LGA, Mr. Butko Iliya, when contacted on the issue, said the council had already put in place temporary measures to mitigate the crisis.

According to him, the Council Chairman, Nanfa Nbin, has been providing water through tankers since the onset of the dry season, with at least one tanker supplied daily to each village on a daily basis.

Iliya added that the council had also received directives to intensify efforts towards addressing the water scarcity by the Plateau state government.

Meanwhile, the Plateau State Ministry of Water Resources and Energy has commenced both immediate and long-term interventions to resolve the water situation in the local government.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Lohnan V. Gambo, led a high-powered delegation to the area following an appeal by the council chairman to Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.

Gambo  , who was in Langtang South on Tuesday, said the governor had directed the ministry to implement urgent measures while working on sustainable solutions, disclosing that a comprehensive geophysical survey had already commenced in Mabudi and surrounding communities.

He assured residents that government was committed to providing a lasting solution to the watee challenge.

Receiving the delegation on behalf of the chairman, the Council Secretary, Nanman Domtau, expressed appreciation for the swift response and assured the council’s full support.

Also speaking, the Galadima of Mabudi, Chief Ringjul Dashe, described water as essential to life and commended the government for responding promptly to the plight of the people.

According to the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund, Nigeria is facing a severe water crisis, with an estimated 179 million people lacking access to safely managed drinking water, despite having abundant water resources.

As of 2026, about 60–70 million people lack access to basic water, while 114 million lack basic sanitation. The crisis causes over 70,000 child deaths annually due to diarrheal diseases.

The Federal Government, on Tuesday, under the Presidential Power Initiative, inaugurated the Siemens Energy Education and Development training facility in Abeokuta, with plans to train no fewer than 6,000 energy professionals to boost capacity in Nigeria’s power sector.

Speaking at the inauguration, the Director of Human Resources Management, the Federal Ministry of Power, Samaila Nasiru, said the event represented more than the opening of a facility, describing it as a strong commitment to the future of Nigeria’s energy sector.

Nasiru explained that the mandate of the Presidential Power Initiative is focused on the modernisation and expansion of Nigeria’s power infrastructure.

He noted that while significant investments had been made in grid transmission and distribution under Phase One of the Presidential Power Initiative being undertaken by the Federal Government Power Company and other partners, infrastructure alone could not, however, resolve the sector’s challenges without deliberate capacity building.

The director said, “While we are making critical investments in grid transmission and distribution capacity nationwide under Phase One, we recognise that infrastructure alone can not solve our energy challenges.

“Although modernising the grid is essential, it is the empowerment of our people that makes such progress sustainable”.

He described the SEED programme as a practical expression of this philosophy, stressing that sustainable progress depends on a highly skilled workforce capable of operating, maintaining, and optimising complex power systems.

The five-year programme designed to train 6,000 energy professionals is critical for the growth of Nigeria’s power sector. Building local capacity and embedding technical skills within our domestic workforce is essential for long-term success,” he added.

He disclosed that collaboration with regulatory bodies such as the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria and the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency would enable participants to obtain internationally recognised certifications.

Speaking earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the FGN Power Company, Kenny Anuwe, said the SEED initiative would strengthen Nigeria’s power sector through structured human capital development and technical capacity building.

Anuwe described the programme as a strategic investment that aligned with the goals of the Presidential Power Initiative to modernise and expand power infrastructure for sustainable national development.

He emphasised that sustainable progress in the sector depends on skilled professionals who can efficiently operate, maintain, and optimise transmission and distribution networks nationwide.

Anuwe stated that “Today’s event is not only about the launch of a training initiative. It is about investing in people. It is about building the technical capacity, professional expertise, and institutional knowledge required to sustain Nigeria’s energy transformation for generations to come.

“At FGN Power Company, our mandate under the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) is clear: to drive the modernization and expansion of Nigeria’s power infrastructure in a way that delivers lasting impact for the country and its people.

Across the nation, critical investments are being made to upgrade transmission and distribution infrastructure under Phase I of the PPI.

“However, infrastructure alone is not enough. Sustainable progress in the power sector depends on the availability of highly skilled professionals who can operate, maintain, optimize, and innovate within these systems. This is why the SEED initiative is so important.

He explained that this five-year programme aims to train 6,000 energy professionals at multiple Nigerian training sites in partnership with reputable bodies like Council for Regulation of Engineering (COREN), Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA), Ecowas Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE).

Anuwe said that this partnership will support the training programme with internationally recognized certifications that guarantee employability across Nigeria and the ECOWAS sub-region.

He stated that beyond technical training, this initiative represents a deliberate investment in local content development.

The MD/CEO added that “For Nigeria’s power sector to truly thrive, we must build indigenous capacity, we must ensure that the knowledge, technical skills, and operational expertise required to sustain these investments are embedded within our local workforce and institutions.

“By doing so, we create jobs, strengthen economic opportunities, improve operational efficiency, and position Nigeria as a regional hub for technical excellence within the energy sector.”

Anuwe lauded other development partners such as the European Union, the German Government, Siemens Energy, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), and all collaborating institutions for their commitment to supporting Nigeria’s energy development journey.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of Siemens Energy in Nigeria, Sheu Suleman, said the SEED initiative would support the Federal Government’s plan to reset the power sector.

He noted that the Presidential Power Initiative remains central to President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda for the energy and power sectors.

According to Suleman, the programme would not only address technical losses in transmission infrastructure but also build local capacity through technology transfer and workforce development.

He added that the training would be conducted across multiple locations, including Abeokuta, Offa, Ibadan, Ayede, Birnin Kebbi, and Sokoto, with additional sites to be developed in collaboration with the Federal Government.

The Country Director of GIZ in Nigeria, Markus Wagner, said the SEED initiative is fully aligned with the Presidential Power Initiative and Nigeria’s power sector reform objectives.

He explained that key institutions are working to integrate industry-approved standards and quality assurance measures into the training programmes.

The President of the Council, Prof. Joseph Oluwasanmi, urged well-meaning sons and daughters of Ekiti State “to be prepared to play their roles in their individual and collective capacities to continue to support and promote the spirit of patriotism and selfless service to our society to make it a better place and preserving same for posterity.”

According to a statement by the Council’s Secretary, Niyi Ajibulu and Public Relations Officer, Dr Adebayo Orire, in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday, Oluwasanmi spoke during the induction of seven young citizens as Affiliate members of the council.

Ajibulu and Orire described the Affiliate members’ initiative of bringing in young persons for service as “a novel concept with a view to modernise and widen the horizon of the Elders’ Council’s activities for greater efficiencies and effectiveness”.

The pioneer affiliate members inducted on the occasion are the Speaker of Ekiti State House of
Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye, a development expert, Margaret Fagboyo and the Chief Executive
Officer of Agbeyewa Farms, Seyi Aiyeleso.

Others are a construction engineer, Oladipupo Bamisaye; an entrepreneur, Lawrence Olagoke Egunjobi; legal practitioner, Mrs Oluwasola Rachel Abe and broadcaster, Oluwakayode Jegede.

The Council, which is exclusive to Ekiti indigenes of 60 years and above, has been playing the role
of father, advising, admonishing and correcting as deemed fit at critical times in the affairs of Ekiti.

The Council’s President, who said that the affiliate members were selected “as a result of their noteworthy contributions to the Council and their remarkable achievements in their respective endeavours”, said that the offer would further engender the spirit of patriotism and selfless service in the younger ones.

He said, “The Council considers the affiliates very fit and worthy within its scope of giving back and striving for a better society.”

Oluwasanmi urged the affiliate members to be guided by their obligations, including “coming up with suggestions that will assist the elders to improve on their service deliverables by injecting contemporary best practices into council initiatives and as well establishing a strong link between the Council and Ekiti in diaspora for the overall benefit of the state and its people.

The affiliate members are also expected to recommend possible
interventions in the affairs of government for improved performance and as well carry out activities that will promote the vision and mission of the Elders’ Council,” he said.

In his lecture on the occasion, titled, “A call to special service”, the Pro-Chancellor, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti, Prof. Oladipupo Aina, appealed to professionals,
leaders and the Ekiti in diaspora to join the Affiliate platform of the Council as active partners in the state’s transformation.

Aina said that the initiative “presents the Council as a fountain of wisdom and stability, while positioning Affiliates as the drivers of modernisation – bringing innovation, global perspective and execution capacity to translate Ekiti’s intellectual strengths into economic growth and institutional impact”.

He charged the affiliate members, “The message is clear – this is not a call to observe, but to build – to
convert knowledge into results, align vision with action and to transform Ekiti from a reservoir of excellence into a hub of productive, inclusive and sustainable development.

Affiliates must therefore rise as transformation agents. They must strengthen innovation ecosystems, support enterprise development, contribute to education and mentorship and shape policy through insight and evidence.”

The Pro-Chancellor hailed the Ekiti Council of Elders, which it said had evolved into a moral compass, for its strategic roles, including “functioning as a quiet but effective stabilising force, shaping policy conversations, mediating in conflicts and preserving the values that bind the people together”.

Egunjobi, who responded on behalf of the affiliates, expressed their appreciation for the Council’s uncommon gesture as he pledged their unflinching support to the aspiration and programmes of the
organization.

Among dignitaries at the induction were the Vice Chancellor, BOUESTI, Prof. Andrew Omojola; his predecessor, Prof. Victor Adeoluwa; the VC, Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, Prof. Babatola Ayodele; and former VC, Venite University, Iloro Ekiti, Prof. Rev. Father James Olaogun.

The Ekiti Council of Elders, which is committed to the development of Ekiti as reflected in its programmes, projects and activities, comprises elders who are a bank of brains and assets in all fields of endeavour interested in and willing to give back to their communities and state both their experiences and substances as long as God grants them the favour.

The Ekiti Council of Elders has continued to champion developmental initiatives in the state through advocacy, mentorship and community engagement, leveraging the experiences and expertise of its members across different professional fields.

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Tuesday received a major political boost as leaders, delegates, and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun East Senatorial District formally presented and endorsed him as the consensus candidate of the zone for the 2027 senatorial election.

The endorsement, described by party leaders as a collective decision aimed at ensuring quality representation and sustaining party unity in the district, was witnessed by top APC chieftains, including the party’s consensus gubernatorial candidate in Ogun State, Senator Olamilekan Adeola, former deputy governors, and other senior stakeholders across Ogun East.

The event had in attendance former deputy governors, Yetunde Onanuga, Segun Adesegun, and Gbenga Kaka, the Ogun State APC Chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi, Deputy Chairman, Chief James Dina, Chairman of Ogun East Senatorial District, Senator Lekan Mustapha, and the Chairman of APC in Ogun East Zone, Dr. Adeleke Ogundoyin.

While presenting Governor Abiodun to leaders and stakeholders of the zone, former Deputy Governor, Segun Adesegun, said party members across the district had unanimously endorsed the Governor as the APC consensus candidate for Ogun East Senatorial District.

Senator Lekan Mustapha, on his part, stated that the adoption of Governor Abiodun was the collective decision of the people of the district to ensure effective and quality representation at the National Assembly.

He recalled the Ogun East stakeholders’ meeting held on April 20, where leaders of the district unanimously adopted Governor Abiodun as the preferred senatorial candidate of the party, noting that Tuesday’s gathering was convened to formally communicate the decision to the Governor and the party leadership.

In his remarks, the Chairman of APC in Ogun East, Dr. Adeleke Ogundoyin, formally handed over the Governor to the Ogun State APC Chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi, urging the state leadership to forward his name to the national secretariat of the party as the APC flag bearer for Ogun East Senatorial District.

Responding to the endorsement, Governor Dapo Abiodun expressed profound appreciation to leaders, stakeholders, and delegates of Ogun East Senatorial District for the confidence reposed in him, describing the consensus arrangement as a demonstration of unity, political maturity, and shared commitment to the progress of the district and Ogun State.

The Governor said he was deeply humbled by the overwhelming support and pledged not to betray the trust and confidence bestowed on him by the people and the leadership of the APC in Ogun East.

He assured party faithful and residents of the district that, if elected to represent Ogun East at the Senate, he would provide purposeful, people-oriented, and quality representation capable of attracting more development and democratic dividends to the area.

Governor Abiodun also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the unprecedented support the Ogun State Government has received since he assumed office, while commending leaders of the zone for prioritizing unity and cohesion, noting that the adoption of a consensus candidate would further strengthen the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the ideals and programmes of the party, while promising to continue working closely with stakeholders across the senatorial district to sustain the developmental strides already recorded in Ogun State.

The Governor equally appreciated Senator Olamilekan Adeola, former deputy governors, party executives, elders, and stakeholders for their support and solidarity, assuring them that the APC would remain united and victorious in the state.

Former governor cites Dangote Refinery loss, infrastructure decay, weak support for federal projects and silence on Ijebu State agitation

Former Ogun State Governor and Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, on Tuesday intensified political pressure on Governor Dapo Abiodun ahead of the 2027 Ogun East Senate race, accusing the governor of failing to deliver meaningful development across Ijebuland despite increased federal allocations to Ogun State.

Daniel also declared that he remains politically positioned to defeat Governor Abiodun in the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary election if the contest is conducted fairly and transparently.
The former governor spoke during the Bola Ahmed Tinubu/Otunba Gbenga Daniel Midterm Assessment and Empowerment Tour held at Obalofin Court, his residence in Ijebu Ode, where party members and supporters gathered for the political engagement.

At the event, the Director General of the BATOGD Campaign Organisation, retired General Okunowo, also delivered a strongly worded address questioning Governor Abiodun’s political legacy, party leadership style, and relationship with grassroots structures in Ogun East.
However, it was Daniel’s direct criticism of the governor’s stewardship in Ijebuland that dominated the gathering.

According to the senator, Ogun East Senatorial District, which comprises six local government areas, has witnessed insufficient infrastructural and economic transformation under the current administration despite what he described as unprecedented financial inflows into Ogun State following fuel subsidy removal.

“We need to thank President Bola Tinubu for increasing the amount of federal allocation going to the state by four times,” Daniel said.

“For our eight years in government, we had access to about N330 billion, but today the state operates a budget of over N1.6 trillion.

What we received in eight years is what the state now receives within a few months, yet there is little to show for it in Ijebuland.”