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Author: Promise Odejide

  • Wike Fires Back After Pastor’s Emotional Plea Over Jabi Lake

    FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has reacted to a viral appeal by Pastor Sarah Omakwu, dismissing emotional pressure over the proposed development of the Jabi Lake recreation area in Abuja.

    The response came during his Wednesday media briefing, days after the cleric publicly pleaded against any private takeover of the site.

    Pastor’s plea sparks public attention

    Omakwu, Senior Pastor of Family Worship Centre, had gone on her knees in a video, urging the minister not to allocate the lake area to private interests.

    “I cannot fight the minister… but I go on my knees… that Jabi Lake Recreation Centre should not be given to anybody,” she said.

    The emotional appeal quickly gained traction online.

    “I’m not moved by emotions” — Wike replies

    Reacting, Wike said governance cannot be driven by sentiment, stressing that not everyone will agree with government decisions.

    “I’m human in this government and you don’t expect everybody to be happy,” he said.

    He questioned the basis of the claim, asking who owns the lake and why individuals would assume control over public assets.

    Concerns over current state of the area

    Wike explained that the location had previously been allocated to a company for development but had deteriorated into what he described as shanties.

    He said the condition of the area raised security and environmental concerns.

    “There is a hotel there… who would come and stay when there are shanties all over? You don’t know if there are criminals,” he added.

    Debate over public space and development

    The exchange has sparked wider conversations about urban development, public access, and government decision-making in the FCT.

    While some support redevelopment efforts, others insist the lake should remain a public recreational space.

  • FG Bans Honorary Degree Holders from Using ‘Dr’ Title Nationwide

    The Federal Government has prohibited recipients of honorary degrees from using the title “Dr” in any official, academic or professional setting across Nigeria.

    Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, announced the directive on Wednesday after the Federal Executive Council meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

    Crackdown on ‘Dr’ title misuse

    Alausa said the move follows a growing pattern of abuse linked to honorary degrees, which he described as increasingly politicised.

    “The recent trend… has revealed a growing abuse and politicisation of this academic privilege,” he stated.

    Concerns over patronage and ethics

    According to the minister, honorary awards have in some cases been used for political patronage and financial gain.

    He also raised concerns about the practice of conferring such honours on serving public officials, noting that it goes against established academic ethics.

    New rule takes effect

    Under the directive, recipients of honorary doctorates can no longer prefix their names with “Dr”.

    Instead, they are expected to clearly state the honorary nature of the award after their names.

    Push to restore academic integrity

    The government said the decision is aimed at protecting the credibility of academic titles and ensuring that earned qualifications are not undermined.

    The development is expected to trigger reactions across academic and public circles, where honorary titles have become increasingly common.

  • Adeosun Raises Alarm as Dangote Struggles to Find Skilled Workers in Nigeria

    Former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, has raised fresh concerns about Nigeria’s labour market, pointing to a widening gap between job seekers and employable skills.

    She made the remark during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Platform, citing a recent discussion with industrialist Aliko Dangote.

    “Too many CVs, not enough skills”

    Adeosun said Dangote expressed frustration over the difficulty of recruiting qualified staff locally, despite receiving large volumes of applications.

    “I had a conversation with Dangote recently… he told me it’s not that he wants to employ foreigners but he can’t get staff in Nigeria,” she said.

    She noted that the situation suggests a deeper structural issue within the country’s workforce.

    Growing mismatch in labour market

    According to Adeosun, the problem goes beyond unemployment figures, pointing instead to a disconnect between education and industry needs.

    She warned that many graduates lack practical, job-ready skills, making it difficult for employers to fill roles even when vacancies exist.

    Echoes of earlier concerns

    Her comments come shortly after Moniepoint CEO Tosin Eniolorunda revealed that the fintech company is struggling to fill over 500 roles due to a shortage of qualified candidates.

    The parallel concerns from both the industrial and tech sectors have intensified discussions around Nigeria’s workforce readiness.

    Online reactions highlight deeper tensions

    The remarks have triggered mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians blaming poor education and lack of training opportunities, while others questioned whether companies are offering competitive salaries.

    The debate continues to reflect broader concerns about wages, employability, and the future of Nigeria’s workforce.

  • Reno Omokri Claims UK Fuel Hits ₦3,200/Litre, Sparks Fresh Debate in Nigeria

    Former presidential aide Reno Omokri has stirred fresh conversation after claiming petrol now sells for as high as ₦3,200 per litre in England, using the comparison to argue that rising fuel costs are a global issue.

    The comment followed a video he recorded shortly after arriving at Heathrow Airport in the United Kingdom.

    Conversation with UK driver fuels claim

    In the video, Omokri engaged a cab driver who said diesel prices were nearing £2 per litre, while petrol ranged between £1.65 and £1.85.

    The driver noted that prices had climbed from earlier levels of about £1.30 to £1.40 per litre.

    Omokri estimated the increase at over 30 percent, a claim the driver appeared to agree with.

    “Fuel hikes are global”

    Omokri used the exchange to argue that Nigeria’s fuel price situation should be viewed within a broader global context.

    He said geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, are driving price increases across countries, regardless of whether they produce oil.

    “Price increases are not limited to Nigeria,” he suggested.

    Oil production not equal to cheap fuel

    The cab driver also noted that the UK produces between 700,000 and one million barrels of crude oil daily, yet still faces rising domestic fuel prices.

    Omokri pointed to this as evidence that oil-producing nations are not immune to global market forces.

    Mixed reactions trail comparison

    The claim has triggered debate online, with some Nigerians agreeing that global trends influence local fuel costs, while others question the accuracy of direct currency comparisons.

    The discussion reflects ongoing public concern over petrol pricing and economic realities in Nigeria.

  • Birthday Twist as Kalu Signs Tinubu’s 2027 Nomination Form

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has publicly endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid, signing his nomination form for the 2027 general elections.

    The move coincided with Kalu’s 55th birthday, which he described as a symbolic moment to reaffirm his political stance.

    “A birthday gift” — Kalu explains move

    Kalu said endorsing the President’s form was a rare privilege and a meaningful way to mark his birthday.

    “This was indeed a beautiful birthday gift… reaffirming my support and commitment to the continuity of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

    Top figures join endorsement

    The signing took place on Tuesday alongside other key figures, including Ikeja lawmaker James Faleke and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    Kalu disclosed the development in a post shared on his X handle.

    Backing continuity beyond 2027

    According to the Deputy Speaker, the endorsement reflects a broader commitment among some political leaders to sustain the current administration’s reforms.

    He said efforts remain focused on advancing development and improving the welfare of Nigerians.

    “We remain resolute in our pledge to work with Mr. President in delivering transformative reforms,” he added.

    Early signals ahead of 2027

    The development adds to early political signals ahead of the 2027 elections, with alignments and endorsements gradually taking shape within the ruling camp.

  • Davido Pauses Music, Steps Into Campaign Trail for Adeleke’s Re-Election Push

    Afrobeats star Davido has announced a temporary pause in his music career as he throws his weight behind the re-election bid of his uncle, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke.

    The singer made the declaration in Ede on Tuesday during the inauguration of the Imole Youth Campaign Mobilisation Team, where he was unveiled as chairman.

    Two-month break for political push

    Davido said he would suspend his music activities for two months to focus fully on grassroots mobilisation efforts across the state.

    “I have put my musical career on hold for two months… not only because he is my uncle but because he is doing a good job and still has more to accomplish,” he said.

    He stressed that the election is critical and requires strong engagement, especially among young voters.

    Focus on youth-driven mobilisation

    According to him, the youth campaign team will play a central role in connecting with voters at the grassroots level.

    He described the committee as one of the most important in the campaign structure, noting its focus on mobilising young people across communities.

    “This is one of the most important committees because it focuses on youths,” he added.

    Call for door-to-door engagement

    Davido urged members of the team to adopt direct engagement strategies, including door-to-door campaigns in all local government areas.

    He said the goal is to highlight the governor’s achievements and communicate his future plans effectively to residents.

    “Engage people within your communities and communicate the governor’s programmes effectively,” he said.

    Celebrities and political influence

    The development reflects a familiar trend in Nigeria’s political space, where entertainers increasingly play active roles in election campaigns.

    Observers note that such involvement has grown in recent years, particularly in mobilising younger voters ahead of major elections.

  • Rufai Oseni Raises Alarm Over Justice Crack Arrest, Questions Military Action

    Arise TV anchor Rufai Oseni has reacted strongly to the reported arrest of content creator Justice Crack, questioning the Nigerian military’s justification and the manner of his detention.

    The incident follows a viral video in which Justice Crack raised concerns about the welfare of Nigerian soldiers.

    Rufai questions basis of arrest

    Speaking on the development, Rufai challenged the allegations against the content creator, particularly claims that the information he shared was false.

    He argued that the issues highlighted are already widely known, even among military personnel.

    “What exactly did he say that many military personnel themselves are not already complaining about?” he asked.

    “He was picked up against his will”

    Rufai also criticised how the arrest was reportedly carried out, describing it as forceful and lacking due process.

    According to him, Justice Crack was taken into custody against his will, raising concerns about the legality of the action.

    “He was picked up against his will… he was practically kidnapped until people started speaking up,” he said.

    Concerns over free expression

    The journalist further warned that such incidents could have wider implications for freedom of expression in the country.

    He suggested that individuals who speak on sensitive national issues could become vulnerable if due process is not followed.

    “I am speaking up today because it can happen to anyone,” he added.

    Debate grows over accountability

    The development has since triggered conversations online, with many Nigerians debating the balance between national security and the right to speak out.

    While some support the need for caution around sensitive information, others argue that concerns about soldiers’ welfare should not attract punitive measures.

  • “I Avoided Love to Stay Focused” — Zubby Michael Opens Up on Career Sacrifice

    Nollywood actor Zubby Michael has opened up about a personal decision that shaped his early journey in the film industry, revealing why he deliberately avoided romantic relationships.

    The actor said the choice was driven by a need to stay focused during his struggling years in Asaba.

    Why he kept his distance

    Speaking candidly, Zubby explained that he feared emotional distractions could derail his progress at a critical stage of his career.

    He noted that relationships often come with pressures that can affect mental focus, especially for someone trying to build a name in a competitive industry.

    “I’ve been scared of women… it can destroy this thing,” he said, referring to his career path.

    Focus over feelings in early years

    According to him, his priority at the time was to establish himself and create stability before introducing any form of emotional commitment.

    He recalled how fully immersing himself in his work helped him grow without distractions that might have slowed him down.

    “Maybe if I had a girlfriend then, I might not be here,” he added.

    “There’s time for everything”

    Zubby stressed that his decision was not rooted in any negative view about women, describing them as “beautiful,” but rather about timing and discipline.

    He said he believed relationships should come at the right phase of life, when one is more stable and ready to handle the responsibilities that come with them.

    Now open to love

    With a more established career and personal achievements, including owning a home, the actor said he is now in a better place to explore relationships.

    “Now I can say okay, let’s see how it goes… there’s time for everything,” he said.

    The revelation has sparked conversations online about career sacrifice, timing, and the balance between personal life and professional growth.

     

  • “How Much Are You Paying?” — Phyna Questions Moniepoint as Hiring Debate Heats Up

    Reality TV star Phyna has weighed in on the growing controversy surrounding Moniepoint’s hiring challenges, questioning whether salary levels match expectations for “global talent.”

    Her reaction comes after comments attributed to the company’s CEO, Tosin Eniolorunda, about difficulties filling over 500 roles in Nigeria.

    Phyna questions pay vs reality

    In a viral response, Phyna challenged the narrative that Nigerians lack skills, shifting attention instead to compensation and living conditions.

    “How much is the salary?” she asked, arguing that some content creators reportedly earn more daily than certain monthly corporate wages.

    She also pointed to rising living costs, including rent and basic expenses, insisting that job vacancies cannot be viewed in isolation from economic realities.

    “You cannot just say Nigerians are not smart because jobs are not being filled,” she said.

    “I studied engineering” — reality star speaks

    Phyna added that her own career path reflects broader systemic issues, revealing she holds an engineering degree but chose a different route.

    “I have my certificate… If Nigeria gets better, I will dust it and move into the corporate world,” she said.

    Her remarks struck a chord with many young Nigerians navigating similar choices between traditional careers and alternative income streams.

    Debate over talent gap intensifies

    The comments come amid a wider conversation in Nigeria’s tech space about employability, skill gaps, and corporate expectations.

    While some industry voices maintain that there is a shortage of globally competitive talent, others argue that salary structures and work conditions play a major role in attracting qualified professionals.

    Mixed reactions across social media

    Online reactions have remained divided, with some supporting Phyna’s position on wage realities, while others insist that skill development remains a key challenge.

    The controversy continues to fuel discussions around the future of work in Nigeria, especially as companies expand and compete in the global market.

  • Davido’s Surprise Moment Sparks Buzz as He’s Caught Vibing to Wizkid’s Song

    Davido has stirred reactions online after a viral clip showed him singing a song by Wizkid and Asake during a recent visit to Osun State.

    The Afrobeats star was spotted arriving in a convoy alongside his uncle, Governor Ademola Adeleke, ahead of the state’s 2026 governorship election.

    Caught off-guard, but fully vibing

    In the now-trending video, the singer appeared relaxed and unaware of being filmed as he sang along to “Jogodo,” one of the standout tracks from Wizkid and Asake’s joint EP.

    He could be heard delivering the line, “Celebrity life e no easy,” while riding in the convoy.

    The moment quickly caught attention online, especially given the long-standing rivalry often associated with fanbases of both artistes.

    Song behind the viral moment

    “Jogodo” is part of the four-track project titled “REAL, Vol. 1,” released by Wizkid and Asake in January 2026.

    Other songs on the EP include “Turbulence,” “Iskolodo,” and “Alaye,” all of which have gained traction among fans.

    Mixed reactions trail viral clip

    The video triggered a wave of reactions across social media, with many users praising Davido’s personality and openness.

    Some described him as “real” and easygoing, while others pointed to the irony of him publicly enjoying a song from a perceived industry rival.

    Despite the divided opinions, the moment has added to ongoing conversations about relationships among Nigeria’s top artistes.

    Beyond rivalry, music still connects

    The clip has also reignited discussions around the long-running Wizkid-Davido fan rivalry, often amplified online.

    However, the moment reflects a different narrative, one where artistes themselves appear less invested in tension than their supporters.

    For many observers, the viral scene reinforces Davido’s reputation as a relatable figure who openly appreciates good music, regardless of where it comes from.