Monday, June 8

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Rev. Fr. Maleek Urges Total Commitment, Unity at Knights of St. John International Thanksgiving Mass in Abuja
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Rev. Fr. Maleek Urges Total Commitment, Unity at Knights of St. John International Thanksgiving Mass in Abuja

A cross session of brothers of Knight of St. John International Commandery 574- Maitama. At the joint grand thanksgiving Mass at Papal ground, Abuja. By Victor Okoye Abuja Rev. Fr. Matthew Maleek, the Parish Priest of St. John Paul II, Kubwa has urged Christians to remain steadfast in faith, unity, and service to God and humanity.Fr. Maleek, made the call at a joint thanksgiving mass for Knights of St. John International and Ladies Auxiliary. This was following the successful convention and election which ushered new leaders expected to pilot the activities of the order in Abuja Archdiocese. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Brig.-Gen. Francis Njoku was elected as the Grand President, Abuja Grand Commandery, while Noble Sister Amaka Umeokeke emerged as the Grand R...
“Contest Is Open”: Alao Reaffirms Tinubu’s Neutrality In Oyo APC Race 
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“Contest Is Open”: Alao Reaffirms Tinubu’s Neutrality In Oyo APC Race 

A leading governorship aspirant on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Engineer Oyedele Hakeem Alao, has firmly dismissed claims that President Bola Tinubu has anointed any candidate for the party’s 2027 gubernatorial ticket. Speaking on Lagelu FM’s popular Yoruba programme Bosenlo, Alao emphasised that, unlike in APC strongholds such as Lagos and Ogun States—where incumbent governors hold sway—the party remains in opposition in Oyo, currently governed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This dynamic, he argued, levels the playing field for all aspirants ahead of the primaries. “What transpired in Ibadan yesterday, where some elders purportedly endorsed Senator Sharafadeen Alli, is an exercise in futility,” Alao declared. “I can state categorically...
Defection: Every party Peter Obi joins goes into crisis, he’s the problem – Reno Omokri
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Defection: Every party Peter Obi joins goes into crisis, he’s the problem – Reno Omokri

Nigeria’s ambassador to Mexico, Reno Omokri has urged northerners to reconsider placing their political hopes on Peter Obi ahead of the 2027 general Election.Omokri, in a statement shared on his X handle on Sunday, explained that the former Anambra State governor’s history of party defections raises questions about his consistency.This follows Peter Obi’s resignation from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Sunday. Obi had while explaining his resignation noted that the same Nigerian state and its agents, who created what he described as unnecessary crises and hostility within the Labour Party which forced his exit, now appear to be finding their way into the ADC.Reacting, Omokri alleged that parties Obi joined were relatively stable before his arrival but later became troubled by in...
World Relays: Team Nigeria Faces Tough Hurdles
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World Relays: Team Nigeria Faces Tough Hurdles

Team Nigeria may have to go deep to be able to secure some tickets at the World Relays, which begin this Saturday in Botswana.World Athletics officially released the heat lists for the 2026 World Relays on Friday.Nigeria is drawn in difficult groups across multiple relay events as the country aims to secure qualification for the 2027 World Championships.In the men’s 4x100m event, Team Nigeria will compete in Heat 3 alongside India, Poland, Brazil, China, South Africa, Ghana, and Great Britain & Northern Ireland.The women’s 4x400m team was placed in Heat 1 where they will battle Brazil, Germany, Spain, France, Jamaica, and the Czech Republic.For the mixed 4x100m relay, Nigeria will face Portugal, Ukraine, Italy, Canada, the Netherlands, and Germany in what is expected to be another hig...
INEC Okays Baba-Ahmed As PRP Chairman
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INEC Okays Baba-Ahmed As PRP Chairman

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has updated its portal to reflect the new leadership of the Peoples Redemption Party, PRP, formally recognising Hakeem Baba-Ahmed as National Chairman. This follows the conclusion of the party’s convention in Abuja.The update settles questions around the party’s leadership and gives the PRP a legally recognised structure on INEC’s records, clearing a key administrative hurdle as political parties begin to position for the 2027 electoral cycle.In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Muhammed Bello Ishaq, the party announced the development and listed the officials now reflected on the electoral body’s portal.INEC’s portal lists Kanu Sunday Uchenna as National Secretary, Bayawo Yunusa Abdullahi as National Treasurer, ...
Ex-SDP guber candidate Ajaka declares for Kogi senatorial bid under APC
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Ex-SDP guber candidate Ajaka declares for Kogi senatorial bid under APC

The former governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kogi, has announced his intention to contest for the Kogi-east senatorial seat in the 2027 elections.In a statement published on Facebook, Ajaka said he had received “countless calls” and engaged with different stakeholders from Kogi-east asking him to offer himself for service.Ajaka said, upon reflection of the numerous calls, he has decided to offer himself to serve the Kogi-east senatorial district on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).The former governorship candidate said he looks forward to “deeper consultations” with Usman Ododo, governor of Kogi state.“I have received countless calls, hosted numerous visits, and engaged in meaningful discussions with elders, political associates, youth group...
Scotland: Iheanacho nets winner for Celtic against Hibernian
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Scotland: Iheanacho nets winner for Celtic against Hibernian

Kelechi Iheanacho netted the winning goal as Celtic secured a 2-1 win over Hibernian at the Easter Road on Sunday. The win kept the Hoops Scottish Premiership title hopes alive. Daizen Maeda gave Celtic the lead from a simple tap-in two minutes before the break. The hosts levelled through Joe Newell in first half stoppage time. Iheanacho was introduced in the 70th minute, replacing Yang Hyun-jun. The hosts levelled through Joe Newell in first half stoppage time. Iheanacho was introduced in the 70th minute, replacing Yang Hyun-jun. The Nigeria international fired home the winning goal two minutes later. It was the forward’s seventh goal across all competitions for Celtic this season. Martin O’Neill’s side remain second on the table level on points with league...
NIPR applauds Idris’ legacy of ethical communication at 60
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NIPR applauds Idris’ legacy of ethical communication at 60

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has paid glowing tribute to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, as he marks his 60th birthday. In a statement issued in Abuja on Saturday, the Institute’s President and Chairman of Council, Dr. Ike Neliaku, commended the minister’s outstanding contributions to the field of communication and national service. He described Idris as an “Icon of Reputation,” highlighting his professionalism, ethical standards, and steady leadership as qualities that have strengthened public communication and earned him widespread respect within and beyond the profession. “Idris remains an Icon of reputation, an embodiment of public relations values, a role model and beacon of...
IPMAN Hails Dangote Refinery As Saviour From Fuel Scarcity Amid Global Tensions
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IPMAN Hails Dangote Refinery As Saviour From Fuel Scarcity Amid Global Tensions

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has praised Aliko Dangote for launching the country's first indigenous refinery, crediting it with shielding Nigerians from fuel shortages amid escalating global tensions. In a press statement issued by IPMAN's authentic National President, Chief Dr Kolawole Adewoyin, on behalf of the association's executives and members—released to mark this year's May Day celebrations—Dangote was hailed as a "messiah" who has freed the nation from chronic fuel scarcity, price hikes, and related woes. Chief Adewoyin also extended hearty congratulations to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), all workers across the country, and those in the oil and gas industry on the occasion of Workers' Day. "Your tireless dedication powers our ec...
May Day: FCT nurses demand workload-based pay reform
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May Day: FCT nurses demand workload-based pay reform

By Kelu Musa/ Joan Nwagwu Nurses in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have called for urgent pay reforms based on workload as Nigeria marks this year’s May Day celebration. Dr Jama Medan, Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), FCT Chapter, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Abuja. Medan spoke on the sidelines of the 2026 May Day celebration which had “Insecurity, Poverty: Bane of Decent Work” as its theme. He said May Day should go beyond celebrations and serve as a platform for government to address worsening conditions facing Nigerian workers. According to him, nurses are working under severe pressure caused by insecurity, economic hardship and poor health infrastructure across the ...
Why Seyi Makinde Must Support Governorship Ambition of Arapaja – Hon. Okiki
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Why Seyi Makinde Must Support Governorship Ambition of Arapaja – Hon. Okiki

A prominent political figure from Ibadan South East Local Government area in Oyo State, Hon. Adebolu Okiki, has urged Governor Seyi Makinde to support the governorship ambition of Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja. In a press release, Hon. Okiki stated that, of all the aspirants seeking to succeed Governor Makinde, only Arapaja possesses the political experience and track record to win a governorship election in any party the governor selects to lead his followers. “We all know that Ambassador Taofeek Oladejo Arapaja is a veteran politician and diplomat with a strong grasp of politics. He is a grassroots mobiliser who honed his skills at Molete and has distinguished himself as an accomplished leader,” Hon. Okiki said. Hon. Okiki, a former vice chairman of Ibadan South LCDA, called on th...
Catholic men’s tournament to promote fitness, unity – CMO
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Catholic men’s tournament to promote fitness, unity – CMO

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer The Catholic Men Organisation (CMO)  says its 2026 Football Tournament in Lugbe Deanery Abuja aims to showcase talent, build brotherhood and promote fitness among Catholic men. Chairman and Secretary of the Media, Publicity and Protocol subcommittee, Michael Jegede and Anselm Okoro, said this this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja. According to them, the competition slated for May 9, with the theme “Building Bonds of Brotherhood” reflects the goal of promoting fellowship, unity and fitness through sport. They said the competition would help build  brotherhood among men across 26 parishes and pastoral areas in the Archdiocese of Abuja. ”The preliminary stage will feature 26 teams of registered CMO members drawn into six groups. G...
Amb. Kingsley Onuche Represents Nigeria at Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development, Pushes Agenda for Inclusive Growth in Addis Ababa
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Amb. Kingsley Onuche Represents Nigeria at Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development, Pushes Agenda for Inclusive Growth in Addis Ababa

By Genesis ogiri Ambassador Kingsley Onuche, President of the Peace Ambassador Advocacy Network, has represented Nigeria at the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, reaffirming the country’s firm commitment to advancing Africa’s sustainable development agenda. The high-level continental forum convenes policymakers, development partners, and institutional stakeholders from across Africa and beyond, serving as a strategic platform for assessing progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and strengthening regional cooperation mechanisms.Ambassador Onuche’s participation underscores Nigeria’s sustained engagement in shaping continental policy frameworks aimed at promoting inclusive growth, economic resilience, and broad-based social devel...
Sahara: US Maintains Recognition of Morocco’s Sovereignty
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Sahara: US Maintains Recognition of Morocco’s Sovereignty

The United States has reaffirmed its recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, Morocco’ s foreign ministry said in a statement on Wednesday. According to the statement, “The United States recognizes Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara,” said the U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, Mr. Christopher Landau, during a press conference on Wednesday following his meeting in Rabat with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Nasser Bourita. The American official also emphasised that “we are trying in the framework of the most recent Security Council resolution [Ed. Resolution 2797] to bring a peaceful resolution to the conflict that has gone on for an unacceptable time,” adding that “this situation cannot wait another 50 years or 150 y...
Kozaki Foundation Trains 300 Male Allies to Tackle Gender-Based Violence in North Central Nigeria.
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Kozaki Foundation Trains 300 Male Allies to Tackle Gender-Based Violence in North Central Nigeria.

The Kozaki Transformation and Development Foundation has trained 300 men across Benue, Nasarawa, and Plateau states as part of efforts to combat gender-based violence and promote gender equality in North Central Nigeria. The initiative, implemented in partnership with the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development under the Male Feminist Network Project, targets influential groups within local communities, including motorcyclists, tricycle (keke) riders, mechanics, barbers, and traditional and religious leaders. According to Programme Coordinator Manfred Soonen Akpen, the project is already driving significant changes in attitudes and practices across the three states. In Plateau State, trained male allies have begun challenging a long-standing masquerade traditi...
Wage award arrears to be paid April, May – ASCSN
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Wage award arrears to be paid April, May – ASCSN

By Joan Nwagwu The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) says the two-month outstanding wage awards due to federal civil servants will be paid in April and May. Mr Shehu Mohammed, National President of ASCSN, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja. Mohammed said the agreement on settlement of the outstanding money, after many months of delay, was reached between ASCSN and the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation. “The wage award has been pending for quite a long time, and we are glad that progress has been made through engagement with the Office of the Accountant-General. “One month will be paid immediately, while the remaining month will be paid with the following month’s salary. “We can n...
Unlocking the Artisan Economy: A Summit for Growth and Inclusion
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Unlocking the Artisan Economy: A Summit for Growth and Inclusion

By Victor Okoye Say it Loud Africa on Thursday announced plans to host the Artisan Summit and Expo (TASE) 2026, aimed at addressing challenges limiting artisans’ growth through empowerment, profitability and financial inclusion. The initiative is designed to bring together artisans and stakeholders from the public and private sectors to explore practical solutions for improved access to finance, training, and business structuring. Mr Femi Oyelade, Advocate for Artisans and Creative Director, Say it Loud Africa, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the summit was conceived to bridge long-standing gaps in Nigeria’s informal sector. NAN reports that the summit will also focus on skills development, mentorship, and innovative approaches to reposition artisans for sustain...
TUC expresses concern over workers’ welfare, plans protest
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TUC expresses concern over workers’ welfare, plans protest

By Joan Nwagwu The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has expressed concern over the rising pressure on workers’ welfare and economic conditions of the country. The congress said it would embark on nationwide protest, if there was no improvement. This was contained in a communiqué jointly signed by Mr Festus Osifo, TUC President, and Mr Nuhu Toro, Secretary-General, and issued on Monday in Abuja at the end of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting. The congress said the NEC meeting reviewed the state of the nation, developments within the congress, preparations for the 2026 May Day celebration, and other critical issues affecting Nigerian workers. “The prevailing economic hardship has significantly affected the living standards of Nigerian workers, making daily survival i...
Nigerian Legion empowers 40 fallen heroes’ widows, tasks veterans on community security
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Nigerian Legion empowers 40 fallen heroes’ widows, tasks veterans on community security

Nigerian Legion National Chairman, Ms Grace Henry, has urged veterans to take active roles in community security, as the Legion empowered 40 widows of fallen heroes with tailoring and grinding machines.Henry gave the charge on Monday in Abuja at the empowerment programme and induction of ex-servicemen into the Institute of Disaster Management and Safety Sciences (IDMSS).The chairman said that the programme reflected her vision to restore dignity to veterans and families of military personnel who died in service.She described the empowerment and induction as a dual strategy to tackle welfare gaps and insecurity across the country.``Today, we are gathered here to empower about 40 widows, 20 widows will be lucky to get grinding machines and 20 others will be lucky to get tailoring machines a...
Kogi APC to Meet Stakeholders, Aspirants
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Kogi APC to Meet Stakeholders, Aspirants

The All Progressives Congress in Kogi State has announced a series meetings with party stakeholders and aspirants across the state ahead of the party primaries scheduled for May this year. This was contained in a statement signed by party Chairman, Ezzu Aliyu Momoh and made available to journalists on Monday.According to the statement, the meetings will hold from Tuesday, April 28 to Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Lokoja.The statement said the schedule will begin on Tuesday, April 28, with meetings involving House of Assembly and House of Representatives aspirants from Kogi Central Senatorial District at 11am, followed by a session with party stakeholders from the district at 1pm. On Wednesday, April 29, House of Assembly and House of Representatives aspi...