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Author: Promise Odejide

  • Oluremi Tinubu Says Nigerians Will Benefit From Ongoing Infrastructure Projects

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has expressed confidence in the country’s future, saying ongoing infrastructure investments by the federal government will deliver lasting benefits for Nigerians.

    Speaking in a video circulating online, she acknowledged concerns over the rising cost of air travel but noted that expensive flight fares are a global challenge and not peculiar to Nigeria.

    First Lady Addresses Travel Costs

    Senator Tinubu said air transportation costs have increased in several countries, including the United States, prompting the administration to focus on expanding alternative transportation systems.

    According to her, the government is investing in coastal transport routes and rail infrastructure to improve connectivity and ease movement across the country.

    “Nigeria is such a great country and now you can see airports emerging, so I know you will say, ‘Oh, the flights are so expensive,’” she said.

    “Everywhere in the world, even in America, flights are expensive. And that’s why Mr President is doing the coastal routes, not only coastal routes, even trying to have rail lines.”

    Government Continuing Rail Projects

    The First Lady stated that the current administration remains committed to completing rail projects initiated by previous governments.

    She said continuity in infrastructure development is necessary to achieve long-term national growth.

    “And so I know the previous administration started the rail line and, you know, we continue. We continue building,” she added.

    Optimistic About Nigeria’s Future

    Senator Tinubu expressed optimism that ongoing investments in transportation and other sectors would eventually improve the lives of Nigerians.

    She said the country has enormous potential and urged citizens to remain hopeful about the future.

    “Nigeria has a huge future ahead of it and by the grace of God, very soon we all will be beneficiaries of the success of what Nigeria will become,” she said.

  • Tinubu Swears In Joseph Tegbe, Sola Enikanolaiye as New Ministers

    President Bola Tinubu on Monday swore in Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe as Minister of Power and Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs during a ceremony held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

    The inauguration followed their confirmation by the Senate after the resignation of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and former Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, who stepped down to pursue governorship ambitions in their respective states.

    Swearing-In Held at Presidential Villa

    The ceremony was attended by family members of the new ministers, senior government officials and other invited guests.

    Tegbe and Enikanolaiye were nominated by President Tinubu and later screened and confirmed by the Senate on May 6, 2026.

    Their appointments fill the vacancies created by the recent cabinet reshuffle.

    Tegbe Takes Charge of Power Ministry

    Joseph Tegbe, an indigene of Ibadan in Oyo State, assumes leadership of the Ministry of Power with more than three decades of experience spanning the public and private sectors.

    Over a career lasting more than 35 years, he has been involved in economic management, public sector reforms, policy implementation and strategic planning.

    He is also known for his work in institutional development and stakeholder engagement.

    Enikanolaiye Joins Foreign Affairs Ministry

    Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, who hails from Igbagun in Kogi State, brings extensive diplomatic experience to the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

    He graduated with a First Class degree in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he emerged as the best graduating student in his faculty.

    He later obtained a Master’s degree in International Law and Diplomacy from the University of Lagos with distinction.

    Experienced Diplomat

    Before his appointment, Enikanolaiye served as Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Foreign Affairs and International Relations in the Office of the Chief of Staff.

    During his diplomatic career, he represented Nigeria in several countries and international missions, including Ethiopia, Serbia, Canada and the United Kingdom.

    He also served as Nigeria’s Head of Mission in New Delhi, India, before returning to the presidency.

  • WAEC Blames Logistics, Security Challenges for Delayed WASSCE Papers Across Nigeria

    The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has attributed the delayed conduct of Mathematics and Agricultural Science papers in parts of Nigeria during the ongoing 2026 WASSCE to a mix of logistical setbacks, security challenges and operational disruptions.

    WAEC Explains Cause of Examination Delays

    The Head of Public Affairs for WAEC Nigeria, Moyosola Adesina, said in a statement on Monday that the disruptions were linked to recent protests over the abduction of schoolchildren, alongside other unforeseen operational difficulties.

    According to the council, the situation was further worsened by the death of three WAEC staff members in a road accident in Gombe State while transporting examination materials.

    Students Affected Across Multiple Centres

    The examination process came under criticism after candidates in several states experienced long delays before writing scheduled papers.

    Reports showed that students waited for hours before sitting for examinations such as Physics, General Mathematics and other core subjects, with disruptions recorded in multiple centres.

    In some parts of Oyo State, candidates were reportedly forced to complete their papers under poor lighting conditions, with videos showing students using torchlights and mobile phone flashlights.

    WAEC Cites Security Concerns and Protests

    WAEC said protests triggered by the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno states also contributed to movement restrictions that affected the timely distribution of examination materials.

    The council explained that the loss of personnel in the Gombe accident severely disrupted its logistics chain.

    “First, the delay is the direct result of a devastating motor accident on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, which tragically claimed the lives of three of our dedicated personnel who were transporting sensitive examination materials interstate,” WAEC said.

    It added that the incident, combined with prevailing security challenges, affected its distribution schedule.

    Emergency Measures Activated

    WAEC said it immediately activated contingency measures to minimise disruption and ensure that examinations were still conducted in affected centres despite the challenges.

    The council also extended condolences to the families of the deceased staff, describing them as dedicated officers who died in active service.

    Stakeholders Commended

    WAEC acknowledged the support of the Federal and State Ministries of Education, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies in managing the situation.

    It assured candidates and the public that corrective measures had been implemented to prevent a repeat of the disruptions and ensure smoother conduct of remaining papers.

    The council reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity and credibility of the WASSCE across Nigeria.

  • Kidnapped Oyo School Principal Rejects Ransom Claims, Reveals Fresh Demand by Abductors

    A principal abducted during the attack on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State has released a new video from captivity, dismissing reports that the terrorists demanded ransom, vehicles or the implementation of Sharia law for their release.

    Mrs. Alamu, the principal held by the abductors, said in the video that the demands circulating online are false and are complicating efforts to secure their freedom.

    The victims have now spent 24 days in captivity following the attack that led to the abduction of about 45 pupils and teachers.

    Principal Speaks From Captivity

    In the video, Mrs. Alamu said the abductors showed them reports claiming they demanded N1 billion, the implementation of Sharia law and other conditions.

    According to her, the reports do not reflect the actual position of the kidnappers.

    “Today marks the 24th day we have been in this place, and it seems that some people are making our case complicated already. We were shown some print media that these people who abducted us requested a billion naira and requested Sharia to be entrenched in the country. These are not true,” she said.

    She insisted that the abductors were not demanding money, weapons or religious laws.

    “They are not asking for Sharia law, they are not asking for money, the single thing they are asking for is the release of their people,” she added.

    Appeal Against Politicising Their Situation

    The principal appealed to authorities and the public not to politicise the abduction, warning that misinformation could affect negotiations.

    “They are not asking for Sharia law, they are not asking for weapons, they are not asking for money, all they are asking for is the release of some people and negotiation. Don’t play politics with our lives,” she said.

    Earlier Reports Linked Demands to Terror Suspects

    The latest video comes days after reports claimed the abductors demanded the release of detained terrorist commanders, ransom payments, two Hilux vehicles and the implementation of Sharia-related policies.

    According to reports, two of the individuals allegedly being requested are Mahmud Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a or Abbas Mukhtar, and his deputy, Abubakar Abba, alias Isah Adam or Mahmud Al-Nigeri.

    The suspects are said to be leaders of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimeena Fii Bilaadis Sudan (Ansaru), a faction that broke away from Boko Haram.

    They were reportedly arrested in 2025 and are currently standing trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja on terrorism-related charges.

    Government Yet to Respond

    Authorities have not officially commented on the claims made in the latest video.

    The abduction of the pupils and teachers has continued to generate concern across Oyo State, with families and residents calling for urgent action to secure the release of those still being held.

     

  • Food Entrepreneur Mary Osadebame Arokade Dies, Culinary Industry Mourns Loss

    Tragedy has hit Nigeria’s culinary industry following the death of food entrepreneur, Mary Osadebame Arokade, whose passing was announced in a tribute shared on her Instagram page.

    Passing Announced by Family and Business Page

    The announcement confirmed that the entrepreneur died on June 6, 2025, although no details were provided about the circumstances surrounding her death.

    The tribute also stated that operations linked to her business would be temporarily suspended in the wake of the loss.

    Family Requests Privacy

    The statement appealed for privacy as family members, friends, and associates come to terms with the development.

    It also expressed appreciation for the support and condolences received from the public following the announcement.

    “On behalf of the family and everyone associated with the business, we extend our sincere gratitude for the support, condolences and kindness that have already been shown. Please keep the family, friends and all those affected in your thoughts during this time,” the statement read.

    Operations to Resume Later

    The tribute added that updates on suspended business activities will be communicated later, while noting that previously scheduled commitments may still go ahead as planned.

    Colleagues and well-wishers have since flooded the comment section with messages of condolence and tributes to the late entrepreneur.

    The development adds to past losses within Nigeria’s food industry, which has seen the deaths of several chefs and culinary professionals in recent years.

  • Zubby Michael Urges Youths to Reject Political Violence Ahead of 2027

    Nollywood actor Zubby Michael has urged Nigerian youths not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of political violence ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The actor made the appeal in a video circulating on social media, where he criticised the country’s infrastructure challenges, insecurity, and governance issues.

    Actor Questions Political Manipulation

    Speaking in the video, Zubby questioned why young people should fight one another on behalf of politicians while many communities continue to suffer from poor roads, unstable electricity, and insecurity.

    He argued that political actors who encourage violence are often unwilling to expose their own children to the same dangers.

    “Light no dey, road no dey. Yet them dey mobilize you, you dey jump up and down. You no get sense. Tell that person wey send you make him give him own pikin this gun na,” he said.

    Calls for Focus on National Challenges

    The actor maintained that the real battle facing Nigerian youths is not against one another but against the problems affecting society.

    According to him, issues such as kidnapping, corruption, injustice, insecurity, and poor governance should be the focus of young Nigerians seeking change.

    “The war is not youth against youth. It’s youth against injustice. Youth against kidnapping. Youth against stealing. Youth against bad governance,” he stated.

    Message Ahead of 2027 Elections

    Zubby also encouraged youths to demand accountability from leaders rather than becoming involved in political clashes.

    He stressed that meaningful change would come through collective action against societal problems and not through violence.

    “The mood is revolution, not killing one another,” he added.

  • Police Arrest Four Suspects Linked to Gun Found on Musician Killed in Delta

    The Delta State Police Command has arrested four suspected members of a gun-running syndicate linked to the Beretta pistol recovered from upcoming musician Oghenemine Ogidi before he was shot dead by a police officer in Effurun, Delta State.

    The arrests followed an intelligence-led investigation into the firearm, which was intercepted at a motor park in Uvwie Local Government Area on May 1.

    Police Trace Source of Firearm

    Delta State Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, disclosed the development on Monday, saying operatives tracked the suspects through coordinated operations in Bayelsa and Imo states.

    The suspects were identified as Emmanuel Chukwuemeka, Clifford Boleyelefa, Amadi Princewill and Amadi Felix Chibuike.

    According to the police commissioner, Emmanuel Chukwuemeka was arrested in Bayelsa on May 4 alongside a friend whose phone was allegedly used to arrange the firearm purchase.

    How the Gun Changed Hands

    Oyeniyi said Chukwuemeka confessed to purchasing the gun from Amadi Princewill for N290,000 before selling it to a man identified as Desmond, who remains at large, for N380,000.

    Police said Desmond allegedly sent the firearm through a waybill service to Effurun and contacted Ogidi to collect the package and forward it to Sapele.

    The commissioner added that investigations led to the arrest of Princewill in Imo State on May 15.

    During interrogation, Princewill allegedly revealed that he bought the weapon from Amadi Felix for N200,000. Felix was subsequently arrested in Owerri on May 16.

    Background to Ogidi’s Death

    The case drew national attention after Ogidi was killed on April 26 while attempting to collect a package at a motor park in Effurun.

    Reports indicated that the package contained a hidden Beretta pistol, which Ogidi allegedly did not know about.

    After the weapon was discovered, police officers reportedly restrained the 28-year-old musician.

    A viral video from the scene showed Ogidi crying and insisting that he had been deceived into collecting the package.

    Despite his pleas, ASP Nuhu Usman allegedly shot him at close range.

    Investigation Continues

    The Delta State Police Command said investigations are ongoing as operatives continue efforts to uncover other members of the syndicate and dismantle the network.

    The command also assured the public that all individuals connected to the illegal firearm operation would be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

  • Lady Urges Graduates to Boycott NYSC, Questions Programme’s Relevance

    A lady has generated reactions on social media after calling on Nigerian graduates to stop participating in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), arguing that the scheme no longer serves a meaningful purpose.

    In a video circulating online, she questioned the value of the programme and urged young Nigerians to reconsider taking part in it.

    Calls for Graduates to Reject NYSC

    Speaking in the video, the lady argued that refusing to participate in the scheme would force authorities to review its structure and address concerns raised by critics.

    She maintained that many former corps members do not believe they gained significant benefits from the programme despite spending a year in service.

    “The first step to rebel in this country is by not going for NYSC. That is the first step to rebellion. You people should stop that nonsense. What are you using it for?” she said.

    The lady added that if she were given the choice again, she would not participate in the scheme.

    Questions NYSC Certificate Requirement

    She also criticised employers who make the NYSC discharge certificate a mandatory requirement for employment.

    According to her, graduates who choose not to participate in the programme should not be denied job opportunities because of that decision.

    Her remarks come amid ongoing conversations about the relevance of the scheme, especially as concerns over youth unemployment and security continue to dominate public discussions.

    Mixed Reactions Online

    The video has attracted mixed reactions from Nigerians on social media.

    While some users agreed that the programme requires major reforms, others defended NYSC, arguing that it remains an important platform for national integration and cultural exchange.

    Several commenters also noted that the scheme still provides opportunities for networking, work experience and exposure to different parts of the country.

    Debate Over NYSC Continues

    Established in 1973, the National Youth Service Corps was designed to promote national unity by deploying graduates to states outside their places of origin for one year of service.

    Over the years, however, questions have continued to arise about its effectiveness, welfare provisions and relevance in addressing the needs of young Nigerians.

  • Oyo Government Demolishes Building Linked to Adelabu Family Kidnapping Investigation

    The Oyo State Government has demolished a three-bedroom bungalow in the Lako Community along the Aiyegun–Anaye Road axis of Ibadan over its alleged connection to an ongoing kidnapping investigation in the state.

    The demolition was carried out on Monday by officials of the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation, alongside operatives of the Nigeria Police Force.

    Property Linked to Kidnapping Probe

    According to the government, the building was identified during investigations into the abduction of Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul.

    The victims were reportedly kidnapped at Elewura in the Challenge area of Ibadan on June 3, 2026.

    Authorities said the property was allegedly used in connection with the operation being investigated by security agencies.

    Government Moves Against Criminal Hideouts

    The state government said the action is part of ongoing efforts to tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes across Oyo State.

    Officials explained that the demolition was intended to disrupt criminal networks and prevent further use of such structures for illegal activities.

    The government also reiterated its commitment to supporting security agencies in their operations to rescue victims and apprehend suspects.

    Commitment to Rule of Law

    The government stressed that properties found to be linked to criminal activities will be dealt with in line with lawful procedures where applicable.

    It added that the demolition reflects its broader strategy to strengthen internal security and curb rising cases of abduction in parts of the state.

    The incident comes amid heightened security operations following recent kidnapping cases reported across Ibadan and surrounding communities.

  • Obi Warns Against Ethnic Profiling, Defends Fulani Community

    The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has raised concerns over what he described as growing ethnic profiling targeting the Fulani community and other ethnic groups in Nigeria.

    Obi made the remarks in a statement posted on his verified X account on Monday, where he said Nigerians must stop linking crime to ethnicity.

    Obi Speaks on Ethnic Stereotyping

    The former Anambra State governor said he has personally experienced stereotypes and labelling because of his Igbo identity, adding that many Nigerians face similar treatment.

    According to him, such experiences show a wider national problem where individuals are judged based on ethnicity rather than personal conduct.

    He also expressed concern about the unfair treatment of ordinary Fulani people who are often associated with crimes they have no connection to.

    “Crime Has No Ethnicity”

    Obi stressed that criminals should be identified by their actions and not their ethnic backgrounds.

    “A thief is a thief, a terrorist is a terrorist, and a kidnapper is a kidnapper,” he said, adding that offenders must be held accountable under the law regardless of origin.

    He argued that every ethnic group in Nigeria has its own culture and contributions, warning that crime should never be generalised or attributed to entire communities.

    Reference to Global Civil Rights Struggles

    Drawing comparisons with the civil rights movement in the United States, Obi referenced Martin Luther King Jr.’s call for people to be judged based on character rather than race.

    He said Nigeria must embrace similar values of fairness, justice and mutual respect to strengthen national unity.

    Call for National Unity

    Obi urged Nigerians to reject narratives that promote ethnic blame, warning that such attitudes deepen division and weaken social cohesion.

    He called for greater appreciation of Nigeria’s diversity and renewed commitment to justice and national integration.

    The statement has added to ongoing conversations around insecurity, ethnic relations and national unity in the country.