Thursday, April 23

News

US Lawmakers demand FIFA cover World Cup transport costs amid fare surge
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US Lawmakers demand FIFA cover World Cup transport costs amid fare surge

A growing controversy is unfolding ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup in the United States, as top American lawmakers push back against rising transportation costs that could place a heavy burden on fans and local residents. At the centre of the debate is FIFA, football’s global governing body, which is projected to generate nearly $11 billion in revenue from the tournament. Critics argue that while FIFA prepares for massive profits, commuters are being left to shoulder steep increases in travel costs to match venues. Leading the criticism is Chuck Schumer, who has called on FIFA to take responsibility for transportation expenses during the tournament. Reacting to reports of sharp fare hikes, Schumer warned that fans could be priced out of attending matches. “FIFA is set to...
DSS To Open Case Against Malami, Son May 26
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DSS To Open Case Against Malami, Son May 26

The Department of State Services (DSS) is to open its case of alleged terrorism against the immediate-past Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, SAN, and his son, Abdulaziz. The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja fixed May 26 for trial. The DSS is prosecuting Malami and his son on allegations bordering on terrorism offences before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik. At the resumed hearing, Akinlolu Kehinde, SAN, who appeared for the prosecution (DSS), told the court that an amended five-count charge had been filed to replace an earlier one on which they had been arraigned. Kehinde applied to withdraw the earlier charge and requested the amended one be read to the defendant for the pleas to be taken afresh. The lawyer to the defendants, Shaibu Aruwa, SAN, con...
Amupitan: Why the ADC is Chasing Shadows
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Amupitan: Why the ADC is Chasing Shadows

It is no surprise that the African Democratic Congress is insistent on the immediate resignation of the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan. First, was for the ‘high crime’ of seeking to play safe over a judgment of the court which demanded that ADC’s feuding parties and INEC under the leadership of Amupitan in particular take no further step to present the court with a fait accompli over a matter before it. Not sufficient to play the judge and jury in its own cause, it also insists on treating the appearance of any position deemed contrary to its own as treasonable. Now, they want the head of the electoral body served on the platter over an alleged pro-President Bola Tinubu tweet in 2023. And so determined to press its case, the ADC, in ...
NAWOJ Secures Land for National Secretariat, Strengthens Ties with NUJ
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NAWOJ Secures Land for National Secretariat, Strengthens Ties with NUJ

The Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has announced the successful acquisition of land for the construction of its permanent National Secretariat, marking a significant milestone in the association’s history. This development was disclosed during a courtesy visit by the NAWOJ National Executive, led by the National Chairperson Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim, to the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahaya. Speaking during the visit, the NAWOJ National Chairperson informed the NUJ leadership that the association has successfully secured the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) for the allocated land in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), following the completion of all required documentation and processes. She noted that the pro...
White House denies ceasefire request reports, says Iran talks remain ongoing
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White House denies ceasefire request reports, says Iran talks remain ongoing

The White House has denied reports suggesting that the United States has requested a ceasefire in the ongoing Iran conflict, saying no such request has been made while confirming that diplomatic talks are continuing. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, speaking at a briefing on Wednesday, said discussions with Iranian representatives remain active and have not been concluded.She dismissed claims circulating in some reports, noting that while diplomatic engagements are ongoing, no formal agreement or announcement has been made. “These discussions are ongoing, and nothing is official until you hear it from us here at the White House,” Leavitt said. She added that the talks have been “productive,” but stressed that details regarding any future meetings remain under con...
2027 Will Be My Last Presidential Run – Atiku
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2027 Will Be My Last Presidential Run – Atiku

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has disclosed his intention to contest in the 2027 presidential election. Atiku said the 2027 poll may be his final attempt to become Nigeria’s leader because of age. He made the remark during an interview on Arise Television on Wednesday evening. Responding to a question on whether turning 80 by 2027 would make the stakes higher for him, Atiku said it would likely be his last outing. “Certainly yes, because the stakes are higher and I believe that will be my last outing,” he said. Atiku has made multiple attempts to become Nigeria’s president since returning to partisan politics in 2003. He first contested the presidency in 1993 under the Social Democratic Party primaries before stepping down for the late Moshood Abiola. He la...
APC chieftain Oyintiloye backs Oyebamiji for Osun guber
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APC chieftain Oyintiloye backs Oyebamiji for Osun guber

Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun, says Bola Oyebamiji, the party’s governorship candidate, will fulfil all campaign promises if elected. Oyintiloye spoke on Thursday during a visit to the palace of Festus Awogboro, the Alademure of Ibokun.He said the APC remains committed to delivering on its pledges, noting that fulfilling campaign promises is key to sustaining public trust.“While I appreciate the opportunity given to me to represent the good people of Obokun, I must say emphatically that Oyebamiji will fulfil all his campaign promises,” he said.The former lawmaker urged residents to support the APC candidate in the forthcoming governorship election. He said support for the party would improve the chances of addressing the commu...
MAFARKI’ debuts On ROK2, spotlights struggles of Northern Girl-child
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MAFARKI’ debuts On ROK2, spotlights struggles of Northern Girl-child

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer A new television series, MAFARKI (Dream), produced by Uzee Usman in collaboration with ROK Studios Nigeria, is set to premiere on Thursday night. Usman disclosed this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja. He said the series would air on ROK 2 on DSTV channel 169 and GOTV channel 10, showing Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm. According to the producers, MAFARKI is one of the biggest series to emerge from Northern Nigeria, reflecting ongoing efforts to expand the region’s presence in Nollywood. “The project is a partnership between Usman and Mary Njoku, whose studio is behind the production. “The series features a cast including top veterans in the game of movie such as Ali Nuhu, Uzee Usman, Tope Olowoniyan, Chelsea Eze, Rabiu Rikadawa, Eve Esin an...
ADP Pledges Consensus-Based Primaries, Transparent Processes to Field Credible Candidates
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ADP Pledges Consensus-Based Primaries, Transparent Processes to Field Credible Candidates

By Diana Omueza The Action Democratic Party (ADP) has pledged to conduct consensus-based primaries and transparent processes ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party’s National Chairman, Yabagi Sani, made the pledge in a statement on Thursday in Abuja after the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting and INEC verification exercise. Sani said the gathering marked a significant moment in the party’s journey and Nigeria’s democratic development, describing ADP as disciplined and forward-looking. He said the party had taken deliberate steps in recent months to reposition itself as a credible platform for national leadership and democratic advancement. According to him, ADP has strengthened internal structures, expanded membership across states and wards, and begun di...
Empowered women key to industry transformation, national development — FG
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Empowered women key to industry transformation, national development — FG

By Joan Nwagwu The Federal Government says women empowerment remains essential to industrial transformation and sustainable national development across key sectors of the economy. The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, said this at the third edition of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) Women Annual Convention on Wednesday in Abuja. The convention is with the theme: The Dynamic Woman, Sharping Tomorrow; Influence, Impact and Legacy.” Sulaiman-Ibrahim said focused and united women possess the capacity to shape policies, boost productivity and provide leadership required to secure Nigeria’s economic future, particularly in the energy sector. She said empowered women were critical driv...
PENGASSAN urges women to lead change in oil, gas sector
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PENGASSAN urges women to lead change in oil, gas sector

By Joan Nwagwu Mr Festus Osifo, the President of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), has urged women to take the lead in driving change in the oil and gas industry. He said they should also focus on building a lasting legacy within the sector. Osifo made the call at the third PENGASSAN Women Annual Convention on Wednesday in Abuja, themed “The Dynamic Woman, Shaping Tomorrow; Influence, Impact and Legacy.” He said women must go beyond participation to become leaders, innovators, and key decision-makers shaping the future of the union and Nigeria’s economy. He emphasised that influence was not about position but the ability to inspire progress, promote equality, and drive meaningful change within the energy sector. The PENGASSAN ...
Amb. Ekwutoziam Ashiedu Ogwus Bags Iconic Personality Award, Honorary Doctorate
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Amb. Ekwutoziam Ashiedu Ogwus Bags Iconic Personality Award, Honorary Doctorate

Ambassador Ekwutoziam Ashiedu Chinedu Ogwus has established herself as one of Africa’s most influential figures, with remarkable achievements spanning business, fashion, and diplomacy. Her recognition as one of the 100 Iconic Personalities of 2026 with the award “Icon award for African Economic Advancement “ at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos. In a double celebration of distinction, she was also conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Administration and Management by the American Management University, California, marked a defining milestone in her career. These honors not only celebrated her personal success but also highlighted Africa’s growing presence on the global stage. The Lagos ceremony was a glamorous gathering of distinguished personalities, including comed...
LGAN honours Chief Mamah, decorates Okwuosa as AACT Ambassador
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LGAN honours Chief Mamah, decorates Okwuosa as AACT Ambassador

By Victor Okoye The Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) on Monday conducted an All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT) sensitisation visit to Enugu Golf Club, during which it honoured Chief (Dr) Prince Emeka Mamah and decorated Egnr. Ogechi Okwuosa as an AACT ambassador. LGAN President Lami Ahmed, who led the delegation, said the AACT remained a platform for promoting women’s golf and enhancing Nigeria’s sporting image across Africa. She said the 2026 edition of the tournament, scheduled for Nov. 2 to Nov. 7 in Abuja would attract over 30 African countries. According to her, the event is expected to boost tourism, encourage youth participation, and enhance global recognition of Nigeria’s golf ecosystem. The association also presented an award of appreciation to Chief E...
ADC diaspora seeks prompt resolution of INEC, court issues before 2027Resolution
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ADC diaspora seeks prompt resolution of INEC, court issues before 2027Resolution

By Victor Okoye The U.S. chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary to ensure timely resolution of ongoing legal matters ahead of the 2027 general elections. Dr Safiyanu Saidu (Maibiyar), ADC U.S. Chairman, made the call in a statement on Monday. Ali said developments affecting opposition parties required attention, noting that they were “ongoing, not speculative,” and urged Nigerians to remain attentive to the process. He said the ADC was working to strengthen its platform ahead of 2027, describing it as “a credible alternative” in the evolving political landscape. Ali said the party observed the removal of the names of Sen. David Mark and Mr Rauf Aregbesola from INEC’s portal on Apr...
Defence Minister Says the Nigerian Military Remains Central To Nigeria’s Stability, Unity and Survival
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Defence Minister Says the Nigerian Military Remains Central To Nigeria’s Stability, Unity and Survival

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa Retired, has said, the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain central to the country’s stability, unity and survival amid evolving National Security challenges. General Musa, who was represented by General Bala Isandu Rtd, stated this at the Gala Night and 40th Anniversary Reunion of the Short Service Combatant Course 27 of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), on Saturday night in Abuja. He celebrated the alumni for decades of service in defence of the nation describing them as the “shine stars” of the academy. The Minister, however, urged serving and retired officers to sustain professionalism, unity and operational discipline, noting that the complexity of current security threats required stronger cohesion across all levels of comma...
Yòmí Oyékàn Charges Youths on Purpose-Driven Leadership at Southwest Youth Summit 4.0
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Yòmí Oyékàn Charges Youths on Purpose-Driven Leadership at Southwest Youth Summit 4.0

By Victor Okoye Akure, April 12, 2026 -The Director of Corporate Affairs, Shanono Bank, and CEO of Yòmí Light Farms, Otunba Yòmí Oyékàn , has called on young people to embrace purposeful and impact-driven leadership as a catalyst for societal transformation. Oyékàn made this call while speaking as a panelist at the Southwest Youth Summit 4.0 held at The Dome, Akure. The session, themed “Redefining Youth Leadership in a Dynamic Socio-Economic Landscape,” brought together young leaders, professionals, and stakeholders across the region. Addressing participants, Oyékàn emphasized the need for youths to move beyond passive participation and take intentional steps toward leadership, innovation, and value creation. He noted that the evolving socio-economic realities demand a new gener...
Nigerian Navy, Egyptian Navy Partner On Shipbuilding, Maritime Operations
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Nigerian Navy, Egyptian Navy Partner On Shipbuilding, Maritime Operations

The Nigerian Navy has engaged Egyptian Navy to advance its indigenous shipbuilding capacity and maritime special operations capability. The decision was reached during a strategic engagement with a delegation from the Egyptian Navy Special Forces Brigade under the ongoing cross-attachment programme. In a statement issued by the Naval Spokesman Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, said the delegation was hosted at Naval Dockyard Limited (NDL), Lagos, where they were briefed on the dockyard’s activities and capabilities in depot maintenance, ship design and construction. He said the engagement featured technical discussions and a guided tour of key facilities, providing a platform for both navies to exchange knowledge and deepen collaboration in indigenous shipbuilding and sustainment....
Federal High Court in Abuja Jails 386 Terrorists in four days.
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Federal High Court in Abuja Jails 386 Terrorists in four days.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted a total of 386 terrorists put on trial by the federal government in the last four days. The convicted terrorists were sentenced to various jail terms ranging from five years to life imprisonment based on the gravity of the charges against them. The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN who confirmed this today Friday said that a total of 508 defendants were arraigned before ten courts between Tuesday April 7 and Friday April 10, 2026. Briefing journalists at the conclusion of the mass trial, Fagbemi said that eight of the defendants were discharged while two were acquitted from the charges against them. The Minister of Justice further explained that, a batch of 11...
FG list of 48 individuals and groups accused of financing terrorism, following mass trials that results in 386 convictions.
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FG list of 48 individuals and groups accused of financing terrorism, following mass trials that results in 386 convictions.

The Federal Government has released a list of 48 individuals and groups allegedly involved in financing terrorism across the country, marking a major step in its ongoing crackdown on security threats. The list, published by the Nigeria Sanctions Committee, was made public shortly after the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation concluded the ninth phase of mass trials involving more than 500 suspects linked to terrorist activities. The trials, which lasted four days, were conducted by judges of the Federal High Court in Abuja, resulting in 386 convictions secured by the government. The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, led the prosecution alongside the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Rotimi Oyed...
Future Of West African Children: A Task Before ECOWAS Parliament
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Future Of West African Children: A Task Before ECOWAS Parliament

West Africa confronts a myriad of crises that have in recent years affected children in the region in the most devastating way that demands urgent attention and that is why the ECOWAS Parliament has perhaps taken some bold steps to tackle these scourges. The recent ECOWAS Parliament Joint Committee meeting in Freetown, Sierra Leone centred on protecting children in street situations presented an avenue to strengthen policies, redefine objectives and refocus the priorities of the region to save the vulnerable children from the trap of poverty and deprivation found in the streets. West African children in street situations are remarkably vulnerable due to a mixture of extreme poverty, systemic family breakdowns, and weak child protection frameworks. These children often dubbed...