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

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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.

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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.”

Daniel argued that Governor Abiodun’s decision to seek a Senate seat after completing his tenure as governor makes public scrutiny of his record both legitimate and necessary.

“Since the governor has decided to go to the Senate after eight years in office, he has the constitutional right to contest, but we also have the responsibility to ask questions,” he stated.

The former governor further alleged that Governor Abiodun consistently failed to support several federal government projects he facilitated for Ogun East Senatorial District.

Daniel cited the naval base project in Abigi, Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, explaining that the initiative encountered serious obstacles before eventually taking off.

“When I became Chairman of the Senate Committee on Navy, we facilitated the naval base project because Ogun State deserved it,” he said.

“The project is ongoing today, but we went through serious difficulties before it could commence.”

He also referenced the Federal Medical Centre project in Ijebu Ode, maintaining that the project would have progressed more rapidly if it had received stronger collaboration from the state government.

“In Ijebu Ode today, we still do not have a standard hospital. That was why I facilitated the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre, but the support expected from the state government was not there,” Daniel alleged.

The senator equally revisited the controversial relocation of the Dangote Refinery project from Ogun State to Lagos, accusing Governor Abiodun of playing a major role in the loss of what he described as a historic economic opportunity for Ijebuland.

According to him, significant groundwork had already been completed on the refinery project before his administration left office in 2011.

“By the time we left office, substantial work had already been done on the Dangote Refinery project that was originally planned for Ogun Waterside,” Daniel said.

“After reconciling with Senator Ibikunle Amosun, he told me to ask our current governor what happened because he represented the government during the negotiations.”

Daniel said the people of Ijebuland deserve explanations regarding how such a major investment eventually left Ogun State for Lagos.

The former governor also accused Governor Abiodun of failing to support the agitation for the creation of Ijebu State, describing the governor’s alleged silence on the issue as disappointing to many people in Ogun East.

He further alleged that critical institutions established during his administration, including the Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic in Ijebu Igbo and the Ijebu Ode International Stadium, have suffered infrastructural decay under the present administration despite improved government revenues.

Daniel insisted that the growing dissatisfaction within Ogun East should not be ignored and maintained that he remains confident of victory in any transparent APC primary contest.

“I am aware of the enormous powers of incumbency, but if there is a free and fair primary election, I will defeat the governor overwhelmingly,” he declared.

“You can see the turnout here and hear what people are saying publicly. That tells you many people believe these concerns are genuine.”

Earlier in his remarks, the Director General of the BATOGD Campaign Organisation, retired General Okunowo, questioned Governor Abiodun’s claim to party unity and grassroots trust, arguing that many APC loyalists in Ogun East remain dissatisfied with the administration’s political handling of the region.

Okunowo asked whether the governor could convincingly campaign on unity after what he described as years of internal division within Ogun APC.

He also questioned whether the people of Ijebuland should easily overlook what he described as unresolved concerns surrounding political trust, infrastructure, and relationships with traditional institutions.
According to him, many citizens increasingly view the current administration as distant from grassroots realities and overly influenced by elite political interests.
“For many citizens, Dapo Abiodun’s administration increasingly symbolizes distance from the grassroots, elite favoritism, and political calculation without emotional connection to the people,” he said.
The retired general also raised concerns regarding the governor’s silence on the agitation for Ijebu State and Ijebu-Remo State creation, arguing that political leadership should not remain disconnected from long-standing regional aspirations.

He warned against allowing political branding and propaganda to overshadow accountability, insisting that history ultimately judges leaders based on their impact on ordinary citizens.

“This is not about hatred. It is about accountability. It is not about tribal sentiment. It is about political memory,” Okunowo stated.

Daniel concluded by urging APC members across Ogun East to remain politically active, secure their membership cards, and support leaders they believe would remain accountable to the grassroots after elections.