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Author: Promise Odejide

  • Vice President Shettima Hails Lagos as Nigeria’s Economic Powerhouse, Sparks Debate

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has described Lagos State as the economic backbone of Nigeria and a major driver of Africa’s commercial growth, praising its role in shaping leading business fortunes across the continent.

    Shettima made the remarks on Sunday during the opening of the Invest Lagos 3.0 Summit held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, themed “Lagos: The Business Gateway to Africa.”

    Lagos as Africa’s Economic Engine

    Speaking at the summit, Shettima described Lagos as the “live wire” of Africa’s economy, noting that the state continues to serve as a hub for innovation, investment and enterprise.

    He said Lagos has played a central role in the rise of some of Africa’s most prominent business figures, highlighting its importance in Nigeria’s economic structure.

    “It was Lagos that gave Africa its richest man, not Kano. Aliko Dangote is a Lagos man,” he said.

    He also referenced BUA Group Chairman Abdulsamad Rabiu, saying Lagos had similarly played a key role in the expansion of his business empire.

    Debate Over Economic Narratives

    Shettima’s comments have since triggered debate online, with supporters praising Lagos as a thriving commercial hub that attracts investment and talent from across the country.

    Critics, however, argued that the remarks downplayed the origins and contributions of business leaders from other regions, insisting that their success stories are rooted in diverse backgrounds beyond Lagos.

    Dangote and Rabiu’s Business Roots

    Aliko Dangote, originally from Kano State, built his early trading ventures through commodity markets before expanding significantly via Lagos’ ports and industrial ecosystem.

    Similarly, Abdulsamad Rabiu, also from Kano, grew BUA Group into a major conglomerate spanning cement, sugar, and manufacturing, with Lagos serving as a central base for operations and expansion.

    Summit Focus

    The Invest Lagos 3.0 Summit brought together policymakers, investors and business leaders to explore opportunities in Africa’s largest city economy.

    Organisers said the event aims to promote investment, innovation and stronger public-private partnerships to support economic growth.

    The Vice President also linked Lagos’ performance to broader national goals, including Nigeria’s push toward a $1 trillion economy target under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

     

  • Nigeria’s New Power Minister Tegbe Promises Steady Electricity Improvements Amid Sector Challenges

    Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, has highlighted what he described as early improvements in the country’s electricity supply, while pledging sustained progress in the sector.

    Tegbe, who recently assumed office following the resignation of former minister Adebayo Adelabu, made the remarks during a television interview where he assessed developments in the power sector over the past few weeks.

    Early Gains in Power Sector

    The minister said recent coordination with key agencies such as the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has contributed to relative stability in electricity supply.

    He noted that the sector had recorded some improvements within a short period of time, describing them as encouraging signs for ongoing reforms.

    Persistent National Challenges

    Despite the reported progress, Nigeria’s power sector continues to face long-standing structural problems, including gas supply shortages, transmission constraints, and grid instability.

    Average electricity generation remains significantly below national demand, with output typically ranging between 3,000 and 4,500 megawatts, compared to installed capacity estimated at over 13,000 megawatts.

    These challenges have continued to result in frequent outages and uneven power distribution across the country.

    Public Reaction Remains Mixed

    While some stakeholders have welcomed claims of improved stability, others remain skeptical, citing persistent blackouts and lack of consistent supply in many parts of the country.

    Critics have also called for clearer data and transparency regarding actual improvements in generation and distribution.

    Minister Outlines Reform Priorities

    Tegbe said his administration will focus on stabilising the national grid, improving gas supply to power plants, expanding metering coverage, and upgrading infrastructure across the sector.

    He also promised improved coordination among stakeholders in the power value chain and hinted at plans to introduce a public performance tracking system.

    The power sector remains central to Nigeria’s economic development agenda, with stakeholders continuing to stress that reliable electricity is critical for industrial growth, job creation, and overall productivity.

  • FCT Police Commissioner Calls Upgraded Detention Cells “VIP”, Says Facilities Have AC and TVs

    The Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, has sparked widespread reactions after describing upgraded police detention cells as “VIP” facilities equipped with air conditioners and televisions.

    The remarks were made during a public address in a video that has since circulated widely on social media.

    Upgraded Cells Described as “VIP”

    Sanusi said the improvements were part of efforts to enhance humane treatment of suspects in police custody and align detention conditions with basic human rights standards.

    He noted that he personally ensured air conditioners were installed in cells, adding that detainees are now kept in improved conditions while awaiting investigation or trial.

    “We have AC and TVs to watch Premier League. Our suspects are enjoying their stay,” he said in the widely shared clip.

    He also stated that some suspects reportedly leave detention “happier” and speak positively about their experience after release.

    Push for Humane Treatment of Detainees

    The FCT police chief said the upgrades reflect a commitment to treating suspects with dignity, stressing that every accused person remains innocent until proven guilty.

    According to him, the reforms are aimed at improving public trust in policing and correcting past concerns over detention conditions.

    Sanusi, who assumed office as the 35th Commissioner of Police in the FCT in March 2026, previously served in key intelligence and response operations within the Nigeria Police Force.

    Public Reactions Trail Comments

    The comments have generated mixed reactions across social media, with some Nigerians welcoming the move as a step toward modern policing standards.

    Others, however, criticised the remarks, arguing that they appeared insensitive given the broader economic and infrastructure challenges facing ordinary citizens.

    Some users also questioned the prioritisation of detention upgrades amid concerns over welfare conditions in other public sectors.

    Ongoing Conversations

    The FCT Police Command has not issued additional clarification on the scope of the upgrades as discussions continue online.

    The command has, however, maintained its focus on intelligence-led policing and operations targeting crime across the capital territory.

  • DSS Arraigns Man Over Alleged Calls for Military Coup Against Tinubu

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned a Lagos-based man, Paul Oweleke, before the Federal High Court over allegations that he used social media to incite Nigerians to support a military coup against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    The suspect was brought before Justice Akintoye Aluko on a two-count charge bordering on alleged cybercrime offences, including the transmission of subversive messages through his online platform, “Oweleke TV.”

    Allegations by DSS

    Prosecuting counsel, Michael Bajela, told the court that Oweleke, on or about May 23, 2025, allegedly posted broadcasts calling for the unconstitutional removal of the President and advocating a military takeover similar to what occurred in Burkina Faso.

    He said the messages were capable of inciting public unrest and undermining national security and stability.

    Bajela further alleged that the defendant used his platform to harass and threaten the President, actions which he said placed the Presidency in fear of violence and bodily harm.

    Cybercrime Law Charges

    According to the DSS, the alleged offences violate sections 24(1)(b) and 24(2)(a) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, as amended in 2024.

    The defendant pleaded not guilty when the charges were read in court.

    Court Proceedings

    Following his plea, the prosecution requested that the court fix a date for trial and remand the defendant in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service pending the conclusion of proceedings.

    However, the defence counsel informed the court that a bail application had already been filed and served on the prosecution.

    Justice Aluko subsequently adjourned the case until June 16, 2026, for hearing of the bail application and ordered that the defendant be remanded pending further proceedings.

  • Warri-Itakpe Train Derails in Delta as NRC Confirms Three Deaths

    The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has confirmed the death of three passengers following the derailment of the Warri-Itakpe Train Service in Agbor, Delta State, on Monday, June 8, 2026.

    The corporation said four coaches left the rail track during the incident, prompting an immediate emergency response operation.

    NRC Confirms Casualties

    In a statement, the Managing Director of the NRC, Kayode Opeifa, described the incident as a serious accident on the Warri-Itakpe corridor.

    He disclosed that rescue operations were activated immediately after the derailment and that all passengers onboard had been accounted for.

    “Sadly, three fatalities have been confirmed at this time,” Opeifa stated.

    Emergency Response Ongoing

    According to the NRC, emergency response teams and relevant authorities are currently managing the situation and providing support to affected passengers.

    The corporation said efforts are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the derailment.

    Authorities are also assessing the extent of damage caused by the accident as investigations continue.

    Public Urged to Await Official Updates

    The NRC expressed condolences to the families of the victims and all those affected by the tragedy.

    Opeifa said the thoughts and prayers of Nigerians are with the deceased and their loved ones during this difficult period.

    The corporation further advised members of the public to rely only on verified information and official updates as investigations progress.

  • Indian Hotel Fire Claims Nigerian Victim as Death Toll Rises to 22

    A Nigerian national injured in the devastating fire that engulfed the Flourish Stays bed-and-breakfast facility in Hauz Rani, Malviya Nagar area of New Delhi, India, has died in hospital, raising the death toll from the incident to 22.

    The victim reportedly succumbed to burn injuries on Saturday while receiving treatment at Safdarjung Hospital, according to Indian authorities.

    Nigerian Victim Dies in Hospital

    Police said the deceased, a middle-aged Nigerian man, had been staying at the facility for several days before the fire broke out.

    He was initially rushed to a nearby hospital before being transferred to Safdarjung Hospital, where he later died from injuries sustained in the blaze.

    Authorities confirmed that the Nigerian Embassy had been notified of the development.

    The latest casualty increases the number of foreign nationals killed in the fire to 13.

    Police Intensify Investigation

    Delhi Police have continued investigations into the tragedy, with efforts focused on locating two key hotel officials, identified as accountant Jay Mishra and manager Rakesh, who remain at large.

    Police have already arrested the hotel owner and the facility’s cook, Keshav Negi, in connection with the incident.

    Investigators said three hotel employees were present when the fire broke out, including Negi, manager Rakesh and another staff member.

    According to police findings, the fire allegedly started in the hotel kitchen after sparks were noticed in an air fryer.

    Authorities claimed Negi fled the scene after noticing the malfunction instead of alerting occupants or contacting emergency responders.

    Police said his actions formed part of the basis for his arrest.

    Reconstruction of Incident Underway

    On Sunday, officers took Negi back to the hotel to assist in reconstructing the sequence of events leading to the fire.

    Investigators questioned him about how the fire started and his actions immediately afterward as they sought to establish accountability.

    Uttarakhand Governor Intervenes

    The arrest has attracted attention in Uttarakhand, where Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said he had spoken with Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta following claims by Negi’s family that he was innocent.

    Dhami said Gupta assured him that the investigation would be guided strictly by evidence and that no innocent person would be punished.

    He also revealed that he had spoken with Negi’s daughter and promised support for the family.

    Negi, who lives in Dilshad Garden, East Delhi, with his wife and two children, had reportedly worked at the hotel for about two years before the incident.

     

  • Nigeria Considers Retaliatory Measures Over Anti-Nigerian Violence in South Africa

    The Federal Government has indicated that Nigeria may consider retaliatory measures against South Africa following renewed incidents of violence targeting Nigerians living in the country.

    Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made the disclosure while speaking with journalists at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, saying the option remains under consideration as concerns grow over the treatment of Nigerians in South Africa.

    Evacuation Process Delayed

    According to the minister, plans to begin evacuating willing Nigerians from South Africa on Monday were delayed due to ongoing verification and screening exercises being conducted jointly with South African authorities.

    She explained that the documentation process, which reportedly involved more than 1,000 Nigerians, began last Thursday and was expected to conclude before evacuation arrangements could be finalised.

    The government said preparations were still ongoing for citizens who had indicated their desire to return home.

    Nigeria Not Happy, Says Minister

    Speaking on the possibility of restricting certain privileges currently enjoyed by South Africans in Nigeria, Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the matter could be considered at the highest levels of government.

    “Well, that is a situation that we are considering. This is up to our legislature. This is a decision that has to be taken at the highest level of government,” she said.

    She added that the option was “not off the table.”

    References to Nigeria’s Support During Apartheid

    The minister noted that many Nigerians remain unhappy about what they see as a pattern of hostility despite Nigeria’s historic role in supporting South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle.

    According to her, Nigeria committed significant resources, financial support and educational opportunities to South Africans during the fight against apartheid.

    She recalled that many Nigerians participated in protests and advocacy campaigns in solidarity with South Africa during that period.

    Concerns Over Targeting of Black Migrants

    Odumegwu-Ojukwu also alleged that black migrants were being disproportionately targeted.

    “Nigeria is a serious frontline state, and Nigerians are not happy about how they have been treated. They are not asking other migrants to leave; they’re only asking black migrants to leave,” she said.

    The development comes amid growing calls for stronger diplomatic engagement between both countries as concerns persist over the safety and welfare of Nigerians living in South Africa.

  • Senate Moves to Pass State Police Bill This Week Amid Rising Insecurity

    The Senate has announced plans to consider and pass a constitutional amendment establishing state police this week, citing growing concerns over terrorism, banditry and other security challenges across the country.

    Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, saying the proposal would be transmitted to the 36 state Houses of Assembly after passage by the National Assembly.

    State Police Tops Senate Agenda

    Bamidele said lawmakers had reached a consensus that the establishment of state police could no longer be delayed due to the current security situation across the federation.

    According to him, the National Assembly would separate the state police proposal from other constitutional amendment bills to fast-track its passage.

    “Our position is very clear on state police. We are standing with Nigerians on the issue of state police,” he said.

    “All strata of the federation have made it clear that there cannot be a better time to establish a state police than now.”

    Constitutional Amendment Underway

    The Senate leader explained that the amendment would seek to alter Section 214(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which currently provides for only one police force in the country.

    He expressed confidence that the proposal would receive the necessary support from state legislatures once transmitted.

    “The bill can as well be on its way to the 36 State Houses of Assembly as soon as possible because we will need two-thirds of the assemblies to approve it before presidential assent,” he stated.

    Tinubu, Governors Back Proposal

    Bamidele revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors and key security stakeholders are aligned with the National Assembly on the need for state police.

    He said several consultations had taken place involving the National Assembly, the Attorney-General, the Chief of Staff to the President, security agencies and constitutional review committees.

    According to him, the Senate Committee on Constitution Review led by Barau Jibrin and the House Committee chaired by Benjamin Kalu have held extensive discussions with relevant stakeholders.

    Push for Improved Security

    The renewed effort comes amid increasing calls for decentralised policing as communities across the country continue to grapple with kidnappings, banditry and terrorist attacks.

    Earlier, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, disclosed that consultations on the constitutional framework for state police were nearing completion and that a report would be submitted to President Tinubu.

  • FIFA Drops Omar Artan After US Denies Somali Referee Entry for 2026 World Cup

    FIFA has removed Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan from the list of officials for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after he was denied entry into the United States, ending his hopes of becoming the first Somali to officiate at the tournament.

    Artan, who was named the 2025 CAF Men’s Referee of the Year, was stopped at Miami International Airport and later repatriated. He is currently in Turkey.

    FIFA Confirms Referee’s Removal

    In a statement, FIFA confirmed that Artan would no longer participate in the World Cup after US authorities declined to admit him into the country.

    “FIFA can confirm that match official Omar Abdulkadir Artan will be unable to train and officiate at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after he was denied entry into the United States,” the governing body said.

    FIFA added that immigration and visa decisions remain the responsibility of host governments and not the organisation.

    No Official Reason Given

    US immigration authorities have not publicly disclosed the reason for Artan’s denial of entry.

    However, Somalia is among the countries affected by travel restrictions introduced under the administration of Donald Trump.

    A senior adviser to Somalia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports told the BBC that Artan had travelled with valid documentation, while a Somali embassy official in Nairobi said he was issued a diplomatic passport to ease travel after previous visa difficulties.

    Somalia Seeks Clarification

    The Somali Football Federation has reportedly contacted FIFA to seek clarification over the incident.

    Artan was one of 52 referees selected by FIFA to officiate at the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

    Career Milestone Cut Short

    Artan became a FIFA referee in 2018 and has officiated in several major competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations.

    His inclusion on the World Cup referees’ list had been widely celebrated in Somalia as a historic achievement for the country’s football community.

  • VeryDarkMan Urges Government to Act After New Video of Abducted Oyo Pupils Emerges

    Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has reacted to a newly circulated video allegedly showing some of the teachers and pupils abducted in Oyo State, calling on authorities to act swiftly to secure their freedom.

    The video reportedly featured one of the victims, Mrs. Alamu, a school principal, who appealed from captivity and disputed claims that the abductors were demanding money, weapons or the implementation of Sharia law.

    VeryDarkMan Calls for Urgent Action

    Reacting to the footage, VeryDarkMan said the safety and return of the abducted children and teachers should be the government’s immediate priority.

    He argued that any genuine and verifiable demand capable of securing their release should be considered without unnecessary delays.

    “Everything is very clear and I think their demand is very, very realistic. I don’t think the government should wait any second,” he said.

    Focus Should Be on Victims, He Says

    The activist maintained that prolonged debates over the demands would not help the victims, many of whom have reportedly spent more than two weeks in captivity.

    “There should be any debate whether they talk one billion or not. It’s clear since they are the ones that recorded her,” he stated.

    “I personally think that is a very, very good trade because these are just children that have been inside the bush for more than two weeks.”

    Appeal for Immediate Resolution

    VeryDarkMan added that authorities should prioritise the safe return of the victims rather than attempting to outsmart the abductors during negotiations.

    “I don’t think there is any reason to play smart if this is what they want. Please give them what they want and let the kids come back home,” he said.

    Concerns Continue Over Abducted Pupils

    The latest video has intensified public concern over the fate of the abducted teachers and pupils, with many Nigerians demanding urgent intervention from security agencies and government officials.

    Authorities have yet to issue a detailed statement confirming the authenticity of the video or clarifying the exact conditions being demanded by the abductors.