Speaking through Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, during a special prayer session held at the National Mosque in Abuja to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, Tinubu asked Nigerians to re-elect him to finish the good work.

“This anniversary—the 66th—by all accounts signifies Nigeria has come of age. The person of 66 years cannot be called a child anymore. Nigeria has become mature, even though when we reflect on the journey from independence to date, we may say it was a mixed journey.

“Nigeria was bedevilled with a lot of issues in the past and opportunities as well. But we thank Almighty Allah for granting us the life and the peace for us to witness this very historic event today.

“My message to the country on behalf of the Mr president, the senate president and all members of the national assembly is that the citizens should not lose hope. Peace is coming back to this country. Development is coming back to this country. Things will get better as we progress in this democracy.

“More importantly, citizens should look at the focus of the government of today, that the mistakes of the past—the cumulative mistakes and the missed opportunities of the past—are being corrected in this particular administration.

“And I want to categorically make it clear that Nigeria is on the right path; that there is light at the end of the tunnel, and that Nigerians have finished making sacrifices for this country to be great again.

“We should give this government more opportunity for it to come back and finish the good work.”

The post “I’m Correcting Mistakes By Past Administrations” – Tinubu appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Nigeria’s opening Group L match in the AFCON 2027 qualifying series was in jeopardy thanks to an early goal conceded, but the two youngsters rewarded Coach Eric Chelle’s faith with goals that helped Nigeria over the line.

The win continued Nigeria’s unbeaten record against Madagascar in AFCON qualifiers history.

Chelle welcomed both Stanley Nwabali and Ola Aina back into the team and straight into the starting XI for the AFCON 2025 bronze winners, and both warmed their way back into the team despite a slow start.

Nigeria controlled 60% of possession but it was the visitors who took the lead from a well-executed corner kick play. Eshan sprang the poor offside trap to meet Ryan Ponti’s cross with a well placed header for 1-nil.

The Super Eagles continued to probe their defensively-minded opponents and tried 14 shots in the first half until the equalizer arrived on 45 minutes through debutant Ilenikhena.

The Al-Ittihad striker controlled an Alex Iwobi through ball before slotting into the net for 1-1 at halftime.

Nigeria made a double substitution of Moses Simon and Moses Usor, and the latter completed the comeback with an excellent solo goal.

The LASK Linz forward collected the ball following a cleared Madagascar corner kick, racing towards goal and dancing past two defenders before deceiving the goalkeeper with a finish at his near post for the winner.

The determined hosts held Madagascar off to seal victory and go joint-top of Group L with Guinea-Bissau.

Eric Chelle’s team travels to Bissau to face the Djutus in their next match of the series on Tuesday, September 29.

The post Debutants Hand Nigeria 2-1 Victory Over Madagascar In 2027 AFCON qualifier appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Ohale made the announcement in a statement shared on her official Instagram handle on Friday, bringing an end to a national-team career in which she earned 86 caps and represented Nigeria at four FIFA Women’s World Cups and seven Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) tournaments.

“After 16 years of wearing the Nigerian jersey, representing my country, and giving everything I had to the beautiful game, I have made the very difficult decision to retire from international football,” Ohale said.

The 34-year-old defender reflected on her journey from dreaming of playing for Nigeria to becoming a five-time WAFCON champion.

“I can only look back with a heart overflowing with gratitude,” she said.

Ohale was part of the Super Falcons teams that won five WAFCON titles and featured prominently across several major international tournaments.
Reflecting on her career, the defender said the memories of representing Nigeria would remain with her beyond the statistics and trophies.

“I have stood on the biggest stages in the world, representing Nigeria at four FIFA Women’s World Cups and seven WAFCON, and I am incredibly proud that we lifted the African title five times,” she said.

“But beyond the numbers and trophies are the memories that will stay with me forever — the tears, the celebrations, the difficult moments, the victories, the defeats, the friendships, the sacrifices, and every time I stood proudly with my hand over my heart and heard the Nigerian anthem.”

Ohale also thanked her teammates, coaches, support staff, family, friends and the Nigeria Football Federation for being part of her journey.

“To my teammates, coaches, staff, family, friends, Nigeria Football Federation and everyone who walked this journey with me — thank you,” she said.

The defender, who plays for Mexican Liga MX Femenil club Pachuca Femenil, also expressed appreciation to Nigerian fans for their support throughout her international career.

“To the Nigerian fans: thank you for believing in us, supporting us, celebrating with us, and standing by us through every high and every low. Your love made wearing this jersey even more special,” she added.

Ohale said she was leaving international football without regrets, describing her opportunity to represent Nigeria as her greatest achievement.

“Today, I say goodbye to international football with no regrets — only gratitude.

“86 caps. 16 years. 4 World Cups. 7 WAFCON. 5 WAFCON titles. But the greatest achievement of all is knowing that I had the privilege to serve my country.”

She concluded her statement with an emotional message to Nigeria, saying her retirement would not diminish her connection with the country.

“The jersey will leave my shoulders, but it will never leave my heart. Thank you, Nigeria, for allowing me to live my dream.”

“Forever a Super Falcon. Forever Nigerian,” Ohale said.

The post Super Falcons Defender Osinachi Ohale Retires From International Football appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Utomi stated this in a post shared on his official X account on Thursday, where he reiterated his position on the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate’s political future and outlined his views on the kind of leadership he believes Nigeria needs.

“Peter Obi has my support for the presidency.

“But my position is clear, I am not supporting the idea of Peter Obi becoming somebody else’s Vice President.

“The day Peter Obi accepts a Vice Presidential position, I will walk away from his corner. I have said this plainly, and I stand by it,” he said.

Utomi said his position was not based on personalities, but on the type of leadership he believes Nigeria requires.

“My concern is not about personalities. It is about the kind of leadership Nigeria needs and the direction in which we want our country to go,” he said.

He also called for a rethink of the age of politicians seeking executive office, proposing that presidential and governorship candidates should be aged 70 or below.

According to him, the presidency should not be used as a retirement destination for politicians, stressing the need for leadership focused on the future.

“I have also argued that we should begin to rethink the age of those seeking executive office. The Nigerian presidency should not become a retirement home for politicians.

“I believe there should be a serious national conversation about limiting presidential and gubernatorial candidates to those aged 70 or below,” Utomi said.

He added that Nigeria needed leadership that was focused on the future rather than “another cycle of political succession.”

“These are principles I have stated publicly, and Nigerians should judge them for themselves,” he said.

The post 2027: ‘I’ll Walk Away If Obi Accepts VP Slot’ — Pat Utomi appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Following an investigation into City’s financial dealings, the Premier League had in February 2023 referred the case to an independent commission for a hearing.

Citing an anonymous source, The Athletic reported on Friday that eight-time Premier League champions have been found guilty on all but one of the 115 charges against City.

The Athletic reported that the independent panel has yet to determine the nature of the sanctions to be imposed on City, noting that all possibilities remain on the table.

It added that the process to decide on the appropriate sanctions is underway, but the club is expected to appeal.

“The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements to be completed, and subject to strict confidentiality. As such, Manchester City FC’s position remains consistent with the club’s statement of February 2023.

“The club has diligently respected due process for eight years on the basis that the Premier League board and executive would behave as an independent, impartial and fair-minded regulator, free from partisan influence,” a spokesperson for City said in response to the development.

The post Man City Declared Guilty Of 114 Of 115 EPL Financial Charges appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Mefor spoke on Thursday during an interview on the 90MinutesAfrica podcast, hosted by Rudolf Okonkwo.

He said the scrutiny of Obi’s financial records by the state government was not aimed at undermining his achievements or presidential ambition, noting that the disagreement centred on the former governor’s claim that he left no financial liabilities for successive administrations.

According to him, the objective of the state government is to clarify its financial records by disputing Obi’s claim that he left no financial liabilities for subsequent administrations.

The commissioner questioned Obi’s claim that his administration left N12.13 billion in an ecological fund account with First Bank’s Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (UNIZIK), branch.

He reiterated that the state government requested the relevant account statement from the bank but found no evidence of the claimed balance.

“The intention of the Anambra State government is not to indict Peter Obi. Peter Obi did well as governor.

“There is no rift between Governor Soludo and Peter Obi. They are both in politics, and they have their interests to defend,” Mefor said.

The post Soludo Govt. Says Peter Obi Did Well As Governor, But Left Financial Liabilities As Governor appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Obi made the declaration during an interview with ARISE NEWS on Thursday, September 24, 2026, while outlining his position on electoral integrity and democratic governance ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

The former Anambra State governor said his administration would take a strict position against electoral malpractice.

“I’ve said it, and I’ll say it again: if I am the serving president of this country, whoever rig elections will be in jail. Even for one vote, you will be in jail,” Obi said.

He also pledged to protect opposition parties from harassment and involve them in decisions on matters of national importance.

“No political party will be harassed; we will support them,” he said.

“We will be working with opposition political parties if there’s a matter of state where we have to take a decision, especially in a situation like we find ourselves now. We will invite all opposition.”

Obi said he would also ensure opposition politicians were consulted when he travelled outside the country, arguing that governance should involve all political interests.

The NDC candidate further promised to remain accessible and spend most of his time in Nigeria if elected.

“Nobody will look for me and say, ‘Where is Peter?’ I won’t be on holiday; I must be in Nigeria,” he said.

Obi also criticised restrictions on campaign activities, recalling that as Anambra governor, he allowed political opponents to campaign in the state.

He cited former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, saying he provided his convoy for Fashola’s campaign visit to Anambra.

Obi also recalled accompanying former President Olusegun Obasanjo when he campaigned for Andy Uba in Anambra, despite supporting a different political position.

According to Obi, allowing opponents to campaign freely was part of democratic practice.

“That’s democracy, because I wanted the people to vote. There was no issue,” he said.

The post 2027: Obi Vows To Jail Election Riggers If Elected appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Speaking during Arise Television’s ‘Morning Show’ on Thursday, Abati said it is discriminatory to allow only Tinubu’s picture on the bridge especially amid the campaigns for the 2027 general elections.

Recall that Umahi gave the order on Wednesday while inspecting rehabilitation work on the bridge.

Reacting, Abati said, “Where I disagree with him is the Minister saying the bridge should be decorated only with the posters of President Bola Tinubu. No, that’s discriminatory. In a political season, no.

“The posters that should be there should be the posters of all candidates. It’s campaign season. People can campaign. If posters are going to be there, there should be no monopoly. Every candidate should be allowed to have a say.

“If there will be no poster, then even President Tinubu’s poster must not be there. There should be no discrimination because the money that the Ministry of Works used to rehabilitate that old bridge is Nigerians’ money. It is our money.

“So whether you are AA or you are ZLP or you are whatever, you can have access to that road. It can’t be for only APC people. I agree with you on that one.”

The post ‘You Are Wrong’ – Reuben Abati Knocks Umahi Over Tinubu’s Pictures On Niger Bridge appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Built for users who want more from their smartphone, Galaxy A08 proves to be the perfect mobile companion that goes the distance with features typically associated with more advanced smartphones now included in the Galaxy A-Series’ latest addition.

Power That Keeps Up

At the heart of Galaxy A08 is a 6,000mAh battery, designed to provide dependable power throughout the day and beyond. Whether users are streaming, browsing, connecting with friends or consuming content, Galaxy A08 is built to keep up with daily demands.

With video playback of up to 22 hours, users can spend more time doing what they enjoy without constantly reaching for a charger.

Made to Handle Everyday Life

Galaxy A08 is designed with durability in mind. It features IP64-rated protection against dust and water splashes. This added layer of protection gives users greater confidence when using their device in everyday environments.

From busy commutes to spontaneous moments, Galaxy A08 remains the reliable choice.

Smarter Experiences with Galaxy AI

Galaxy A08 brings intelligent Galaxy experiences to more users with features including Circle to Search and Multiple AI Agents.

With Circle to Search, users can search for information directly from what is displayed on their screen, making it easier to discover products, places, images and more without interrupting what they are doing.

The Multiple Agentic AI experience further enhances how users interact with their smartphone, helping them complete tasks across supported applications through more seamless & intelligent interactions with Gemini and Perplexity.

Powerful Performance, Uninterrupted Flow

Galaxy A08 is equipped to deliver smooth performance, with an advanced application processor and upgraded memory that handles everything from social media and streaming, to multitasking and gaming.

This means users can enjoy a smartphone experience that is responsive and capable, whether they are working, creating, communicating or simply staying entertained.

Built to Stand the Test of Time

Samsung is also extending the lifespan of Galaxy A08 through its commitment to software and security support. The device is set to receive up to six generations of OS upgrades and six years of security updates, helping users keep their device experience current and protected for longer.

This extended support reinforces Samsung’s commitment to providing significant value throughout the life of the device.

Innovation for Everyone

With Galaxy A08, Samsung continues to bring meaningful innovation to a wider range of consumers, combining dependable hardware, intelligent experiences and long-term software support in one accessible smartphone.

Galaxy A08 is now available at Samsung Experience Stores, authorized dealers, and partner retailers nationwide. It comes in Dark Blue, Silver and Green color variants.

The post Samsung Launches Galaxy A08, Bringing Improved Power, Advanced AI and Stronger Value to Users appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Okpebholo spoke on Thursday at the “Operation Rescue Benin-Asaba Road” event in Edo State, where he also urged Nigerians to be patient with the ongoing reforms.

“…What we are seeing in Nigeria today is a reform. And that reform that is ongoing is a very difficult one,” he said.

Using an aircraft as an illustration, the governor explained that the benefits of reforms would become more evident once the economy reaches a stable level.

“I make an illustration. When a plane is taking off, do you see them serving food? Do you see air hostesses serving food in the plane? They will never give you food until that seatbelt is released. That means on a cruising level. That is when they will start serving food.

“I want to let you know, very soon Nigeria will be on the cruising level. Nigeria will be on a cruising level,” Okpebholo said.

He also compared petrol prices in Nigeria with those in the United Kingdom, saying a recent visit to London prompted him to check how much motorists pay for the commodity there.

“When we complained about cost of petrol, I was in London last week. I told my friend, ‘Let’s go and buy fuel just to know the cost of fuel between Nigeria and England.’

“Let me tell you, after conversion, it’s about 3,000-something for one litre of fuel,” he said.

The governor argued that the comparison indicated that Nigerians were paying less for petrol than motorists in the UK.

“We are doing very well here. The President is stabilising the economy. He’s an economist,” he said.

His remarks come against the backdrop of persistent concerns over petrol prices and the broader cost of living following the removal of fuel subsidy and subsequent adjustments in pump prices.

Okpebholo also pointed to infrastructure development as another indication of the Federal Government’s efforts, particularly the construction of roads across the country.

“Look at the kind of roads that are being constructed today—concrete pavement all over Nigeria,” he said.

Beyond the road project, Okpebholo used the occasion to express support for Tinubu’s continued stay in office, questioning those preparing to challenge the President in the 2027 election.

“Is Aso Rock vacant? Is Aso Rock vacant? So Aso Rock is not vacant,” Okpebholo said.
He added, “I agree with the Oba of Benin that said, ‘You don’t change a working President.’”

Okpebholo maintained that the reforms would ultimately deliver improved conditions, while assuring that the state and country were being properly managed.

He said, “That means even when Asiwaju leaves, whoever President that comes in the future after his… I want to let them know that Edo is in a safe hand. Nigeria is also in a safe hand.”

The post “We’re Doing Very Well Here, Fuel Is N3,000/ltr In UK” – Okpebholo appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Obi spoke on Arise Television’s Prime Time on Thursday while responding to allegations by the Anambra State Government that his administration left loans and other financial liabilities for successive governments to service.

The former governor said he left office in March 2014 without owing salaries, pensions, gratuities or contractors whose projects had been completed, certified and verified.

“Let me categorically state again: I, Mr Peter Obi, did not approach any financial institution to borrow money or issue bonds on behalf of Anambra State in the eight years I was in government,” he said.

“On the day I left office, the government of Anambra State, which I headed, was not owing any salary, gratuity, or pension to those scheduled to be paid by the state government. We were not owing any contractor or supplier who executed his job, certified and verified — not one.”

Obi said some of the facilities being attributed to his administration were concessionary funds secured by the Federal Government and made available to states for specific development programmes.

He cited the State Education Programme Investment Project (SEPIP), saying Anambra was among three states — alongside Ekiti and Bauchi — selected for concessionary multilateral support because of their performance in education.

“Yes, and the World Bank,” Obi said when asked if the funding was provided through a Federal Government arrangement.

“To support us. Not that we go to the World Bank and say give me this, not that we go to any commercial bank. And to even make it more… when it came, if you look at SEPIP, you will see that the drawdown was well after I left office.”

The Anambra Government has maintained that loans contracted during Obi’s tenure remain liabilities of the state, with the government saying it continues to service them.

Obi, however, argued that undrawn funds under a loan facility should not be treated as debt incurred by his administration.

“Even if I had gone to a bank and borrowed money — even if I had gone to a bank and borrowed money, but I did not spend the money, you cannot call it debt I left,” he said.

He also cited former Debt Management Office Director-General, Abraham Nwankwo, who he said publicly stated at his send-off ceremony that Obi was the only governor who did not visit his office to seek approval to borrow money.

The former governor maintained that his administration’s financial record could be verified from official documents, including the handover report.

The post Anambra debt: “I Never Borrowed Or Issued Bonds As Governor” — Obi Insists appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Obele has been in hiding since 2021 when members of his gang were arrested after a victim died during a kidnap operation.

The suspect, who was then only 21, was described as very deadly and nicknamed ‘Obele’, which meant small boy in Igbo language, because of his small frame and tender age.

A statement by the Anambra State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said since the suspect escaped five years ago, he has been in hiding and unaware that he was being tracked.

The statement read, “In the early hours of 23rd September 2026, Olisa Oyelu alias Obele ‘M’, aged 25 years, was arrested. He is the last identified member of the notorious armed robbery and kidnapping gang led by a suspected criminal known as ‘Pincode’in connection with a 2023 kidnapping incident which resulted in the death of the victim.

“The Command at the conclusion of the investigative proceedings shall handover Olisa Oyelu to the Correctional Centre where Pincode and four others are already being remanded awaiting the judgement of the court.”

Ikenga said the arrest followed sustained intelligence gathering and painstaking investigation by police operatives.

He said the command views the arrest as a significant development in the ongoing investigation and reiterates its commitment to ensuring that all persons found to have participated in the crime are brought to justice.

The post Anambra Police Arrest Notorious Kidnapper, ‘Obele’ After Five Years In Hiding appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Minister of Works David Umahi announced this on Wednesday during an inspection tour of the bridge, where he also directed that all illegal advertisements currently mounted on the structure be removed.

Umahi said the bridge should no longer be used for unauthorised advertising, adding that anyone interested in placing advertisements would have to obtain approval from the Ministry of Works.

He explained that the advertising spaces would instead be used to display pictures of President Tinubu in recognition of what he described as the President’s efforts and infrastructure projects across the South-East.

“Once we are done with work on this bridge, I want all the illegal adverts on this bridge removed. Anyone who wants to advertise should apply to the Ministry of Works. For now, the bridge will be decorated with the pictures of President Tinubu.

“The President has worked so hard and we need to reward his hard work by decorating this bridge with his pictures,” Umahi said.

The minister also called on voters in the South-East to consider the infrastructure projects being carried out by the Tinubu administration as they prepare for the 2027 presidential election.

He urged residents of the region not to overlook the Federal Government’s projects when making their electoral decisions, saying the administration’s work in the region should be taken into account.

The First Niger Bridge had previously been shut following reports that vandals removed some structural components, including bolts, nuts and parts of its expansion joint.

Umahi reiterated that advertisements on the bridge would henceforth require formal approval from the Ministry of Works.

The post Umahi Orders Decoration Of First Niger Bridge With Tinubu’s Pictures, Removal Of Other Adverts appeared first on Information Nigeria.

For the record:

1. I was not consulted and did not give my consent to my name being published as a member of the ADC candidate’s policy team.

2. I am NOT, in fact a member of Atiku’s policy team, even unofficially or in any advisory capacity.

3. I have quit partisan politics in Nigeria since 2022. I have maintained, and continue to maintain, my non-partisan posture in our country’s national affairs. I am not a member or sympathizer of any political party in Nigeria.

4. My primary engagement is as President of @IGETAfrica, a non-partisan public policy think tank and executive education academy, and as CEO of Sogato Strategies, a geopolitical risk and regulatory strategy advisory firm.

5. I remain committed to my country, Nigeria and its progress, but such commitment does not have to entail ANY partisan alignment. I have adopted the path of statesmanship, not partisanship.

Professor Kingsley Moghalu
Former Deputy Governor
Central Bank of Nigeria
Ifekaego Nnewi

The post “Atiku Didn’t Consult Me Before Listing Me In Policy Team For 2027 Campaign, I’ve Quit Politics Since 2012” – Kingsley Moghalu appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Mr Odinkalu, a lawyer, said the simultaneous absence of Mr Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima had created a leadership problem that previous administrations had avoided.

He spoke on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, amid growing criticism of Mr Tinubu’s extended stay in Europe and Mr Shettima’s presence in New York for the 81st United Nations General Assembly.

“Running a country requires common sense,” Mr Odinkalu said.

He said it had been an established practice under previous administrations for either the president or vice president to remain in Nigeria when the other was out of the country.

“It never happened before. As a rule, as a convention, pretty much a binding convention of government, no president allowed himself to be out of the country with the vice president at the same time. It never happened. It was not permitted,” he said.

Mr Odinkalu cited the administrations of Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Yar’Adua, Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari as examples.

“Under Buhari, whenever Buhari was going out of the country, Osinbajo was required to be back in the country. Under Obasanjo, Obasanjo would never contemplate it. Yar’Adua did not contemplate it. Jonathan did not allow it,” he said.

The former NHRC chairman questioned whether those currently running the country fully understood the responsibilities attached to their offices.

“The question, therefore, you’ve got to pose is do the current people running the country even think or understand what the obligations of running the country are before we get into the constitutional text,” he said.

Mr Odinkalu described Mr Tinubu’s prolonged absence as “japa”, a Nigerian slang commonly used to describe leaving the country in search of better opportunities.

He also likened the situation to the long periods President Paul Biya spends away from Cameroon.

“Tinubu cannot interminably run Nigeria like Paul Biya runs Cameroon,” he said.

He further described Nigeria as an “ungoverned territory” during the simultaneous absence of the president and vice president, arguing that the country’s leaders had abdicated their responsibilities.

Mr Odinkalu also challenged the suggestion that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, could assume presidential functions while both Messrs Tinubu and Shettima are outside the country.

He referred to Section 145 of the 1999 Constitution, which provides for the transfer of presidential functions when the president proceeds on vacation or is otherwise unable to discharge the functions of his office.

The provision states that the president is to transmit a written declaration to the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives. Until a contrary declaration is transmitted, the vice president performs the functions of the president as acting president.

It further provides that if the president fails to transmit the declaration within 21 days, the National Assembly may, by resolution, mandate the vice president to perform the functions of the president as acting president.

Mr Odinkalu said the constitutional provision should be understood alongside the basic responsibility to ensure the country has effective leadership.

He argued that focusing solely on a technical reading of the Constitution could obscure the broader obligation of those holding public office.

Mr Tinubu left Abuja on 30 August for a three-week working vacation in Europe, beginning in London before travelling to Paris, where he met French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bollore.

The Presidency later announced that the president had extended his stay by a few days and would return to Nigeria at the weekend. It said Mr Tinubu had remained in contact with officials at home and continued to direct government affairs while abroad.

Mr Shettima left Abuja on 20 September for New York to represent Mr Tinubu at the 81st UN General Assembly and deliver Nigeria’s national statement.

The Presidency said that while Mr Shettima was away, Mr Akume would continue representing the president at official events. It also said the president had delegated the vice president to represent him at some official functions.

The federal government has defended Mr Tinubu’s absence from the UN General Assembly, saying Mr Shettima has the president’s full mandate to represent Nigeria and that the country would be fully represented at the gathering. It is the third consecutive time Mr Tinubu has delegated Mr Shettima to represent him at the UN General Assembly.

The issue has also drawn criticism from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who questioned Mr Tinubu’s absence from the UN meeting and asked who was in charge of the country.

The post “Don’t Run Nigeria From Abroad Like Biya Runs Cameroon” – Odinkalu Tells Tinubu appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The apex court, in a unanimous decision by a seven-member panel of Justices, allowed an appeal filed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to challenge the appellate court’s judgment.

In its lead verdict, delivered by Justice Adamu Jauro, the Supreme Court specifically validated the provisions of sections 77(5), (6) and (7), as well as 84(2) of the Electoral Act 2026, which regulate the membership registers of political parties and the procedure for the nomination of candidates for the 2027 general elections.

It faulted the appellate court for upholding an appeal filed by the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) against those portions of the electoral law.

According to the apex court, the contested sections of the Electoral Act were not in conflict with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.

Stressing that the ZLP’s appeal ought to have been dismissed, the panel went ahead to reinstate the judgment of the Federal High Court on the matter.

Aside from dismissing the appeal, the Supreme Court awarded costs of N2 million against the ZLP, which was listed as a respondent in the appeal.

It will be recalled that the Abuja Division of the appellate court had, on July 16, struck down portions of the Electoral Act for being inconsistent with the Constitution.

The appellate court, in a unanimous decision by a three-member panel, held that the sections were at variance with the provisions of sections 221 and 222 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which give political parties the right to decide whom to sponsor in an election.

The judgment followed an appeal marked CA/ABJ/CV/750/2026, which the ZLP lodged against INEC.

The ZLP had gone to the appellate court to challenge the dismissal of a suit it filed to query the constitutionality of some provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 relating to the membership registers of political parties and the conduct of primary elections.

Section 77(5) of the Electoral Act stipulates that only persons whose names are contained in the register submitted to INEC not later than 21 days before the date fixed for primaries, congresses or conventions are eligible to vote.

Sub-section (6) provides that a political party shall not use any other register for party primaries, congresses and conventions except the register submitted to the Commission.

Likewise, sub-section (7) provides that a political party that fails to submit its membership register within the stipulated time shall not be eligible to field a candidate for the election.

On the other hand, section 84(2) of the Electoral Act 2026 provides that the procedure for the nomination of candidates by political parties for the various elective positions shall be by direct primaries or consensus.

The appellate court, in its lead verdict delivered by Justice Eberechi Nyesom-Wike, found merit in the case the ZLP brought before it.

However, dissatisfied with the invalidation of sections of the Electoral Act 2026, INEC took the matter before the Supreme Court.

While the electoral body, in the appeal marked SC/CR/495/2026, urged the apex court to allow the appeal and overturn the appellate court’s decision, the ZLP sought its dismissal for want of merit.

Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court in Abuja had, on May 5, dismissed the ZLP’s case as lacking in merit.

Dissatisfied with the verdict, the political party approached the appellate court and asked it to determine, among other things, whether the stated provisions of the Electoral Act are superior to the powers conferred on political parties by the 1999 Constitution, as amended.

The party urged the appellate court to determine whether the electoral law was an attempt to usurp the right of political parties to decide how to conduct their internal affairs.

In its judgment, the appellate court noted that sections 177 and 182 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, already listed the qualifying and disqualifying factors for political parties and candidates in an election.

It held that no other condition contained in a subsidiary law could disqualify an individual already qualified by the Constitution.

The post 2027 Polls: S’Court Allows INEC’s Appeal, Restores Voided Portions Of Electoral Act appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The two-time heavyweight world champion shared a video of himself undergoing the unusual workout at his training gym in Dubai.

Joshua was strapped to a modern Pravilo machine, which stretched his arms and legs into a starfish-like position before rotating his body.

The unusual workout has been described as “torture” training by British media outlets including the Daily Mail and The Sun, based on the painful-looking positions Joshua was put through.

Joshua captioned the Instagram video, “When the instructor says, relax and breathe.”

The Pravilo is a stretching and conditioning machine associated with Slavic and Russian training traditions.

The 36-year-old’s workout comes as he prepares for an expected fight against fellow British heavyweight Tyson Fury.

The proposed bout is expected to take place at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium in December, after plans for the fight in New York were reportedly changed.

Joshua has previously fought twice in Cardiff, defeating Carlos Takam in 2017 and Joseph Parker in 2018.

The proposed Fury fight would pit two of Britain’s most prominent heavyweight boxers against each other for the first time.

The post Anthony Joshua Endures ‘Torture’ Training Ahead Of Fury Fight appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Omori spoke during an interview on the Afropolitan podcast published on YouTube on Wednesday, where he recounted his experience with kidney failure and the challenges he faced while awaiting a transplant.

The music video director said a dialysis session costs between N50,000 and N70,000 at some hospitals, while he paid between N150,000 and N200,000 at a private facility.

According to him, patients may require up to three dialysis sessions a week, bringing the weekly cost to between N500,000 and N600,000.

“I spent a lot on surgery. Dialysis costs ₦70k a day, but at an exclusive place, I sometimes had 3 sessions a week, costing ₦500k. A minimum-wage person wouldn’t cope. I waited a year for a transplant, which cost ₦31m.

“So, a minimum-wage person is dead already on one session,” Omori said.

He estimated that a patient undergoing dialysis for about a year while waiting for a transplant could spend as much as N31m, excluding the cost of additional tests, medication and possible complications.

Omori also recounted his unsuccessful attempt to receive a kidney from his brother, saying it took nine months to find a donor before doctors discovered that the kidney was not compatible with his body.

“My brother gave me his kidney after it took us 9 months to find a donor. The doctor said my body wasn’t accepting it, that it didn’t match.

“The doctor tried again, but it wasn’t responding. I was pissed, and they said they would have to take me back to see how they could make my body accept it. My brother still has to live with only one kidney,” he said.

Reflecting on the financial demands of the treatment, Omori said even earning N1m monthly would not be sufficient to cover the cost.

“So, automatically, if your salary is even one million naira a month, it can’t serve you,” he said.

He said the experience also changed his perspective on the role of money and financial support during serious illness.

“Even though money can’t buy happiness, money can still buy some time,” Omori said.

Recall that TG Omori revealed in 2024 that he underwent a kidney transplant, saying that he was alive only because his only brother donated one of his kidneys.

To further confirm the development, Omori shared a photo of himself receiving treatment in the hospital, captioned, “Keep my spirit alive.”

The post “N1m Salary Can’t Cover Dialysis” – TG Omori Details Kidney Failure Battle appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Olukoyede said this on Wednesday at the 2026 Second Council Meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) in Abuja, with the theme, “Shared Sacred Flourishing in Nigeria.”

The EFCC chairman noted that pastors, imams, bishops, sheikhs and other religious leaders were among persons investigated, prosecuted and convicted for such offences.

He added that the commission’s case files contained numerous suspects identified by religious titles, with some already convicted and serving prison sentences.

“So many case files, pastor, imam indicted for financial crimes. And some of them are even badly convicted, and they are in jail,” Olukoyede said.

He observed that despite their convictions and imprisonment, some of the individuals continued to be addressed by their religious titles.

“And while in jail, they still refer to them as pastor and imam,” he said.

Olukoyede therefore advocated a review of the manner in which religious titles were conferred on individuals, saying titles should not become a shield against accountability.

“I advocated for a review of the titles we give to men of God. Maybe, if it is possible for us to remove those titles, pastor and imam.

“If it is possible for us to remove that title: pastor, Imam, bishop, sheik. And you know what? I have my case files full of these titles,” he said.

The EFCC chairman said the development required serious reflection on the qualities that should define a genuine man of God.

“So, it is something for us to really think about. Maybe, we are just to recognise them as men of God,” he said.

According to him, genuine spirituality should be demonstrated through conduct and integrity rather than outward appearance or self-acclaimed religious status.

“Because the spirit of God is by their fruits, not their appearance. Not what we call ourselves. It is by the fruits,” Olukoyede said.

He recounted an incident involving a suspect who was brought to the EFCC for investigation and demanded to meet him because of the religious titles he claimed.

“Somebody was brought in for investigation. And he demanded to see me… As he entered, he said, I am reverend, doctor, bishop,” he narrated.

Olukoyede said he disregarded the titles and concentrated on the allegation against the suspect, stressing that religious identity could not override the law.

He warned that nobody would be protected from prosecution merely because of his or her religious status or position.

“So, if you think you’re a Christian or you’re a pastor here, and you commit financial crime, I will be your enemy. I won’t be your friend,” he declared.

The EFCC chairman recalled what he described as disturbing discoveries from investigations into a pilgrimage board during his time as Chief of Staff and Secretary, saying almost 75 per cent of funds meant for pilgrims had allegedly been stolen.

He said religious institutions had an extraordinary responsibility in preventing corruption because faith communities could shape character and promote honesty.

“While EFCC can investigate conduct and prosecute fraud, faith communities can influence character and cultivate honesty to prevent crime,” he said.

Olukoyede also criticised worship centres that celebrated unexplained wealth, questioning the message conveyed when religious institutions honoured wealthy individuals without examining the sources of their wealth.

“A public servant says he has built a mosque that is worth more than his earnings in the next 500 years. And you go there to dedicate it. You are dedicating the process of crime,” he said.

He urged religious communities not to provide moral shelter for corruption, stressing that neither religious, ethnic nor charitable considerations should be used to legitimise or cleanse proceeds allegedly obtained through the suffering of others.

The post “There Are Pastors, Imams Involved In Fraud” – EFCC appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Pyongyang has legally enshrined its status as a nuclear-armed state, with its leadership repeatedly declaring the country’s atomic arsenal permanent and irreversible.

The foreign minister’s remarks came a day after South Korean President Lee Jae Myung told the UN General Assembly he wanted to halt further growth in Pyongyang’s weapons capabilities and eventually achieve a Korean Peninsula “free from nuclear weapons”

“I reaffirm and reconfirm in the strongest tone of voice the steadfast will of our state to keep nuclear weapons through all ages,” North Korea’s Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

The country’s nuclear status was “irreversible in any case and will remain unchanged forever”, she added.

“The coexistence of confrontation and dialogue may be workable for anyone, but they can never be a considerable one for the DPRK,” Choe said, using the country’s official acronym.

North Korea’s status as a nuclear weapons state was “everlasting” regardless of what hostile forces said, she added.

At the UN, Lee — who has repeatedly sought to revive dialogue with the North — also said South Korea would “lay the groundwork” for the resumption of long-stalled dialogue between Pyongyang and Washington.

The South Korean president said last week that US President Donald Trump “clearly wants dialogue” with Pyongyang.

Trump, who met the North Korean leader three times during his first term, said last month that he planned to meet Kim Jong Un later this year.

Separately on Thursday, Pyongyang said it had tested “updated 240-millimetre controlled multiple-launch rockets” on September 22.

KCNA said the weapons were capable of striking targets up to 115 kilometres (71 miles) away.
North Korea’s vice foreign minister is expected to address the UN General Assembly next week.

The post “North Korea Vows To Keep Nuclear Weapons ‘Forever’” – Foreign Minister appeared first on Information Nigeria.

“As for any injustice, ingratitude or injury done to me, I seek neither revenge nor retribution. Ultimate accountability belongs to Almighty Allah, and I leave that judgment to Him, in this world and in the Hereafter,” Mr El-Rufai, who has been held in detention for 218 days, said in a statement posted on social media.

According to the former Kaduna governor, though he stood by people based on his convictions, he does not expect friends he stood by to stand by him.

“Over the years, I have stood by people and for causes I believed in, sometimes in difficult circumstances and at considerable personal cost. I did so not in expectation of praise, gratitude or reciprocity, but because I believed it was right. Those were choices I made freely, and I remain answerable for them,” Mr El-Rufai said.

He added, “Adversity has a way of illuminating relationships. What I learn in difficult times like the past few months may lead me, quietly and without regret, to reconsider the nature of certain relationships and what those that look up to me expect of them. That is neither reproach nor condemnation; it is simply part of seeing people, and life, more clearly.”

Mr El-Rufai has remained in detention since February 18 following a probe by the anti-graft agency into alleged N432 billion money laundering based on a petition by the Kaduna State House of Assembly.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) said it was keeping the former governor in detention under a court remand order. He was briefly released in March to attend his late mother’s burial.

Mr El-Rufai admitted in an interview to tapping the telephone of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

The post “I’ve Been Abandoned By Close Allies To Languish In Detention” – El-Rufai Cries Out appeared first on Information Nigeria.

This is just as the security agencies in the country, including the Nigerian Immigration Service, were put on high alert, saying Maina should be arrested anywhere he’s seen.

It was learnt that operatives of the commission have also been urged to go after the former government official following his failure to honour a series of invitation letters extended to him.

Dele Oyewale, the spokesman of the anti-graft agency, in a telephone interview with our correspondent, confirmed the development.

“Yes, he has been declared wanted. It is today (Wednesday) we declared him wanted,” Oyewale simply said.

Maina, alongside his son, Faisal, was arraigned on October 25, 2019, on 12-count charges bordering on money laundering and concealment of proceeds of unlawful act.

Justice Okon Abang, who was a Federal High Court judge in Abuja before his promotion to the Court of Appeal, convicted Maina for allegedly stealing N2 billion.

The money, according to findings of the prosecutors and the court, was meant for pensioners.

The former pension reform task team boss was found guilty of concealing his true identity as a signatory to accounts opened in UBA and Fidelity Bank.

Maina was said to have used the identity of his family members without their knowledge.

The accounts had cash deposits of N300 million, N500 million, and N1.5 billion.

The court added that Maina could not prove that the money in the accounts was not stolen.
He was subsequently sentenced to 61 years in prison.

However, in a fresh declaration, the anti-graft agency explained that Maina, an indigene of Biu in Borno State, is wanted for an alleged case of receiving stolen properties.

“The public is hereby notified that Abdulrasheed Abdulllahi Maina, whose photograph appears above, is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in an alleged case of Receiving Stolen Properties. Maina, 61, is an indigene of Biu in Borno State.

“Anybody with useful information as to his whereabouts should please contact the Commission in its Ibadan, Uyo, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Benin, Makurdi, Kaduna, Ilorin, Enugu, Kano, Lagos, Gombe, Port Harcourt or Abuja offices or through 08093322644; its e-mail address: info@efcc.gov.ng or the nearest Police Station and other security agencies,” the latest public notice by the EFCC read.

The post EFCC Declares Ex-Pension Boss Maina Wanted, Launches His Manhunt For Ignoring Invitations appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Troost-Ekong was said to have recited the Shahadah in Doha, Qatar, where he plays for Qatar Stars League club Al-Ahli, as reported by a Qatari press, “Al-Arab” on Wednesday.

A respected Islamic cleric, Dr Muhammad Salah, also shared a video on his verified Facebook account wherein the defender recited the testimonies.

The 33-year-old defender first moved to the Arab region in the summer of 2024, when he signed for Saudi Arabia’s Al-Khaleej.

He joined Qatari side, Al-Ahli in January 2026 on a one-and-a-half-year contract and has since played 14 matches across all competitions, including a single appearance in the current season.

On the international stage, Ekong won 83 caps for Nigeria between 2015 and 2025, scoring 8 goals.
He reached the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire and was named best player of that edition.

Troost-Ekong also represented Nigeria at the FIFA World Cup and Olympic Games, establishing himself as one of the country’s most experienced defenders of the past decade.

He enjoyed a distinguished international career with Super Eagles, making more than 70 appearances for the Super Eagles.

Watch video here: https://x.com/FotoNugget/status/2102688827861262438

The post Ex-Super Eagles Captain William Troost-Ekong Converts To Islam appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The 74-year-old, who was part of Nigeria’s first Afcon-winning team in 1980, told BBC Sport Africa that the country’s recent struggles represent a “tectonic shift” for one of Africa’s traditional football powers.

Over the past 12 months, both the Super Eagles and Super Falcons have failed to qualify for their respective FIFA World Cups, while Nigeria’s age-group teams and clubs have also endured disappointing results.

“Our girls (the Super Falcons), who were African champions, failed to win a competition (the 2025 Women’s Afcon) that was just there for their taking. All our junior teams are not doing well,” Odegbami said.

“Our local league is not bringing in money. Something is definitely wrong.”

The former striker said the failure to qualify for the men’s 2022 and 2026 World Cups highlighted how far Nigerian football has fallen.

“It has never been this bad in our entire history that we didn’t qualify for the World Cup,” he said.

The situation has also led to major changes within the Nigeria Football Federation, with NFF president Ibrahim Gusau, general secretary Mohammed Sanusi and several members of the federation’s executive committee resigning last month amid criticism.

Odegbami said Nigerian football had not been represented by its “first XI administrators” and called for a restructuring that could provide a foundation for long-term development.

“The outcry by Nigerians was total. Everybody wanted them out, to the extent that the President of the country himself (Bola Tinubu) made the pronouncement that he wanted reforms,” he said.

“Everything came together like a jigsaw puzzle and is working now for us to produce a blueprint that will cover every aspect of our football development.”

A joint FIFA and CAF delegation has been involved in discussions with the National Sports Commission over the future structure of Nigerian football, with the parties working towards a roadmap for reforms.

The NFF elections scheduled for September 27 have been suspended, while Emmanuel Ikpeme and Ademola Olajire have been appointed interim general secretary and deputy general secretary respectively.

Nigerian sports journalist Fisayo Dairo, also speaking to BBC Sport Africa, said reforms should go beyond simply changing the leadership of the federation.

“The reform should be the setting up of a proper framework and structure that our football can thrive on,” Dairo said.

He said Nigeria needed to develop its national teams, harness talent from the grassroots and establish governance that represented different stakeholders, including the corporate sector, which could help generate funding.

Furthermore, Odegbami said the current decline was a stark contrast to the period when he and his teammates helped establish Nigeria as a major force in African football.

Nicknamed “Mathematical” for his precision and skill, Odegbami scored 23 goals in 47 appearances for Nigeria and was part of the team that won the country’s first Afcon title in 1980 after beating Algeria 3-0 in the final in Lagos.

“We had unprecedented support and fortunately the stars aligned with us,” he said.

“It was an indescribable atmosphere during that period.”
Nigeria have since won the Afcon in 1994 and 2013, while the Super Eagles finished runners-up in 2023 and third in 2019 and at this year’s tournament in Morocco.

Odegbami, however, said sport had “not been a priority” for successive governments and blamed football administrators since the mid-1990s for failing to properly guide the game.

“The pilots are not guiding us well, they haven’t guided us well,” he said.

“And that has affected every aspect of our football development: the grassroots, the discovery of players, the development of the players, the establishment of the institutions that will take care of them, the academies, the clubs that they will go into both locally and internationally.”

He also questioned Nigeria’s coaching methodology and football philosophy, asking what the country’s football culture and style had become.

Odegbami further lamented the state of Nigeria’s football infrastructure, saying several stadiums that once hosted major international competitions had been allowed to deteriorate.

He specifically mentioned the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, which hosted matches at the 1980 and 2000 Afcons, as well as the Liberty Stadium, now Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, in Ibadan, Kaduna’s Ahmadu Bello Stadium and the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar.

“I weep when I think of the amount of damage they have done to Nigerian football – the infrastructure that we had in the country, some of the historic monuments that were facilities for football in this country,” Odegbami said.

“Whether it was wilful, whether it was ignorance, they did irreparable damage to what was Nigeria’s heritage.”

Odegbami said the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, where the Super Eagles currently play their home matches, is the best stadium Nigeria has, but argued that it does not compare with the facilities the country had between the 1960s and 1990s.

“Uyo is the best we have in Nigeria, but it is not half as good as what we had from the 1960s to the 90s,” he said.

The Super Eagles will begin their Afcon 2027 qualifying campaign against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday before travelling to Guinea-Bissau on September 29.

Former African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen has been ruled out of Eric Chelle’s squad through injury.

The post “Nigerian Football Enduring ‘Worst Time In History’ – Odegbami appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Abdulsalam is the only Nigerian among the 81 match officials appointed for the tournament, which will run from November 19 to December 13.

The 34-year-old referee, who has been a FIFA-licensed official since 2022, is one of four centre referees selected from Africa. Eight assistant referees from the continent are also part of the officiating team.

His appointment comes four years after Nigerian match official Mimisen Iyorhe Calvin Onwuka served as an assistant referee at the 2022 FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup.

Abdulsalam has previously officiated at two Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, including the 2023 and 2026 editions.

FIFA chief refereeing officer and chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, Pierluigi Collina, said the selected officials were among the most promising referees from their respective confederations.

“For this year’s edition, we have again brought together some of the most promising officials from every confederation,” Collina said.

“They have been selected not only for their performances, but also for their ability to work as part of an international team and meet the demands of a major FIFA tournament.”

While Abdulsalam will represent Nigeria among the match officials, the country’s Golden Eaglets will not feature at the tournament after failing to progress beyond the West Africa Football Union stage of the qualifiers.

The post Abdulsalam Makes History As Nigeria’s Lone Referee At U-17 World Cup appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Lula made the remarks in an exclusive interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour ahead of the ongoing United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

The Brazilian president said Trump’s approach to international relations appeared to be based on the idea that the strongest country should dictate terms to others.

“President Trump was elected to be the US president. He has the right to govern the US, but he doesn’t have the right to govern other countries,” Lula said.
“He doesn’t have the right to impose his will. He has to have the willingness to negotiate.”

Lula said every country had the right to determine its own affairs, adding that the United States should not impose its rules on other nations.

“We just want to say that every country has their own sovereignty. They take care of their own interests and the US cannot impose their rules over the others,” he said.

The post “You Have No Right To Govern Other Countries” – Brazilian President Tells Trump appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Former National President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Prof. Ukachukwu Awuzie, made the call while speaking with newsmen in Owerri.

Awuzie specifically urged Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo and the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, to focus on their respective responsibilities rather than attacking Obi’s record.

He also expressed concern over what he described as the continued silence or apparent indifference of Igbo leaders to the exchanges involving the politicians.

His words: “The patriotic Igbo man is known for speaking out. So, what are our Elders-in-Council in the South-East doing? What about those in Ohanaeze Ndigbo and those in Imeobi of Ohanaeze?

“Why can’t they call Governor Soludo and Engr. Umahi to order? They should tell the duo to leave Obi alone.”

Awuzie advised Soludo and Umahi to concentrate on their public responsibilities, saying attempts to discredit Obi’s record as governor would not succeed.

“There should be a limit to greed, envy and jealousy. They should face governance; govern well and minister well. They can’t be a match to Obi, no matter how they try to rubbish his credibility. Igbo elders should rise and show leadership,” he said.

The former ASUU president further described Obi as the kind of leader he believes Nigeria needs at the present time.

“Obi is a kind of leader Nigeria wants at this point in time. He is a different breed of politician. So, if Nigerians know what is good for them, they should bank on Mr. Peter Obi,” he said.

Awuzie also dismissed suggestions that comments by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his supporters could damage Obi’s reputation.

“No matter what President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his stooges do or say, they will not succeed in putting a dent on the integrity, character and personality of Mr. Peter Obi,” he said.

He described Obi as a model and said he believed many Nigerians, beyond the South-East, were proud of him.

“Obi is a model and somebody Ndigbo are proud of and I believe that other Nigerians are also proud of him. This is because, wherever he goes across the country, people troop out to welcome him,” Awuzie added.

The post “You”re No Match For Peter Obi, Leave Him Alone” – Awuzie Teĺls Umahi, Soludo appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Umahi stated this on Tuesday, September 22, in Abuja while receiving a report from the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, on its nationwide tour of federal roads.

In  his speech, he praised Governor Soludo for supporting Tinubu and asked Nigerians to stop insulting any Igbo leader who is backing the re-election of the Tinubu administration.

He said, “The more we educate our people, the less votes Peter Obi will get. Peter Obi cannot win in 2027. It is important for the leaders of the South-East to be bold, vocal and speak to our people, the Igbos, about what President Tinubu has done and is doing for the Igbos.

“I support the Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, for his boldness in supporting the President. People should stop insulting supporters of the President; people should be allowed to support him,” he said

The post “Peter Obi Can’t Win 2027 Election” – Dave Umahi Insist appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Lokpobiri stated this on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday while defending the Federal Government’s deregulation of the downstream petroleum sector amid concerns over high petrol prices.

His comments came as the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and other marketers began reducing their depot prices following a decline in international crude oil prices.

Dangote Refinery cut its petrol depot price from N1,350 to N1,325 per litre, while other marketers also reduced their prices in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Calabar and Warri.

Despite the reductions, petrol was still selling at between N1,370 and N1,450 per litre in some locations.
Speaking on Politics Today, Lokpobiri said petrol in Nigeria was cheaper than in the United States, Cameroon, Ghana and South Africa.

“In the US, the average, you know, liter of fuel is N1,633. In Nigeria, it’s on the average of N1,430. If you go to Cameroon, it’s N1,959. If you go to Ghana, it’s N2,070. If you go to South Africa, it’s N2,070. So Nigeria’s average cost of fuel per litre is still lower than,” he said.

The minister argued that Nigeria’s status as an oil-producing country and the presence of the Dangote Refinery did not automatically translate to lower petrol prices.

“As at today, the records available show that USA is the highest producer of oil and gas in the world. The United States is the highest producer of oil and gas in the entire world. They also have the highest refining capacity, but the fuel price per liter is higher than that of Nigeria.

“So despite the fact that Dangote Refinery is here, that doesn’t mean that the fuel price will be lower because Dangote Refinery is available. But what is important is that the regulation has also created a new economy.”

Lokpobiri said deregulation had encouraged private investment in the oil and gas sector, arguing that the Dangote Refinery would not have been able to survive if the government had continued importing petrol and selling it below the market price.

“But for the policy of deregulation, Dangote Refinery wouldn’t have been the most attractive IPO in the continent. If government was continuously importing, as NNPC was doing, and selling at a lower price than the market price, Dangote wouldn’t have been able to survive.”

He said deregulation was intended to create opportunities for private-sector investment in the midstream and downstream sectors.

“Deregulation all over the world is to enable private sector businesses to thrive and all the businesses that are associated with with the oil and gas sector.”

The minister also defended the removal of petrol subsidy, saying the savings were being distributed to the three tiers of government through the Federation Account Allocation Committee.

“These days we get 2.1 trillion being shared. This is the first time it is happening. You’ll recall that before this government came, about 27 states had no capacity to pay even salaries. Today, states are doing gigantic projects. It’s because of the savings that we made from this subsidy.”

Lokpobiri said the impact of high energy prices was not peculiar to Nigeria, noting that consumers in the United States and Europe were also affected.

“Oil and gas is a global commodity. What is sold in New York is what is also sold here. So, no matter what you may think, America, or Saudi Arabia, or anywhere in the world, energy prices will always be the same.”

The minister said the government would not reverse the deregulation policy despite the pressure on consumers, arguing that the policy was necessary to encourage investment.

He also cited the Dangote Refinery’s supply of aviation fuel and rising foreign reserves as evidence of gains from the oil and gas sector.

Lokpobiri further said the Central Bank of Nigeria had recently stated that 85 per cent of Nigeria’s foreign reserves came from the oil and gas sector.

The post “Petrol Cheaper In Nigeria Than U.S., Many African Countries” — Minister appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday, Lokpobiri said petrol pricing is determined by global market forces, not by the federal government.

According to him, “The Bola Tinubu government doesn’t have any power to reduce or increase the price of petrol. It is completely deregulated in line with global best standards.”

He explained that crude oil and refined petroleum products are traded globally, meaning Nigeria cannot fix prices without returning to the fuel subsidy regime.

“Crude oil and refined products are a global business. Nigeria doesn’t exist in isolation. You cannot arbitrarily reduce prices unless you want to roll back to subsidy,” he said.

Lokpobiri made the comments while responding to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s call for a production subsidy that would make locally refined petrol cheaper for Nigerians.

He dismissed the proposal.

According to him, Atiku had no legal basis, no fiscal basis, no financial basis.

The minister also rejected the argument that petrol should be significantly cheaper because it is refined locally at the Dangote Refinery.

He said locally produced crude is still sold to refineries at international market prices, making global pricing unavoidable.

“They sell crude to the refinery at the same global price,” he said.

However, he argued that Nigerians are still benefiting from local refining through improved fuel availability and lower prices compared to some other countries.

“We already benefit. That’s why our price is lower than that of the U.S.,” Lokpobiri said.

He noted that even the United States, one of the world’s largest oil producers with extensive refining capacity, sells fuel at prices higher than Nigeria’s average pump price.

The post “Hiking Fuel Prices Beyond Tinubu’s Control” – Petroleum Minister, Heineken Lokpobiri appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Olawepo-Hashim made the remarks during an interview in Abuja, where he spoke about the spread of terrorism and banditry, particularly across parts of northern Nigeria. He described
Tinubu as a “national security risk” and argued that the country’s security challenges have evolved beyond isolated attacks into a broader threat to the authority of the Nigerian state.
“Nigeria is at risk of falling into the hands of ISIS if Tinubu returns to office,” he warned.

The Accord candidate claimed that more than 30,000 people had been killed by terrorism under the Tinubu administration. He also alleged that terrorists and bandits had extended their influence into rural communities across 17 of the 19 northern states. Arise News

According to Olawepo-Hashim, the situation has become even more concerning because some armed groups are allegedly operating forms of parallel authority in certain communities, including collecting taxes from residents. He said such developments pose a serious challenge to Nigeria’s territorial integrity and national sovereignty.

He argued that the crisis should no longer be viewed simply as a conventional security problem, saying the government must prevent armed groups from developing into alternative centres of authority within communities.

As part of his proposed solution, Olawepo-Hashim said he would establish a National Guard if elected president. He explained that the proposed force would form part of a wider restructuring of Nigeria’s internal security system and would focus on insurgency and other major threats beyond the capacity of the regular police. LEADERSHIP Newspapers

The politician has previously advocated for such a force, including in a 2019 policy proposal, describing it as an intermediate security structure between the military and police.

For Olawepo-Hashim, the bigger question is not simply how many terrorists security forces can eliminate, but whether the Nigerian government can maintain effective authority and protect citizens across every part of the country.

“Tinubu continuing in office is a national security risk.” — Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim shares his assessment of President Bola Tinubu and his administration.

📺: @seun_okin pic.twitter.com/kwJzBqpfYC

— parrotmouthblog (@ParrotmouthBlog) September 21, 2026

The post “Nigeria Risks Falling Into Hands Of ISIS If Tinubu Returns To Office” – Olawepo-Hashim appeared first on Information Nigeria.

PUBG MOBILE is bringing a fresh wave of action, African music, and competitive gaming to Nigeria with the launch of Version 4.6, the official PUBG MOBILE × Magixx collaboration, and the conclusion of the PUBG MOBILE National Championship (PMNC) Nigeria 2026.

From vampire hunting to national championship glory, PUBG MOBILE is giving Nigerian players more reasons to jump into the action.

Enter the World of Vampire Hunters

The latest Version 4.6 takes players into a darker battleground with the arrival of the Vampire Hunters theme, adding a supernatural twist to the popular PUBG MOBILE battle royale experience. Alongside the new theme, the update brings exciting new features and gameplay experiences designed to give players more ways to explore, compete and survive on the battlefield

But the excitement does not stop at gaming: this update also puts African music and style in the spotlight through Nigerian Afro-pop star Magixx, the official music collaborator for the Version 4.6 Africa campaign.

Built around the theme “BE THE ONE,” the collaboration celebrates confidence, teamwork, and the determination to stand until the end.

From September 24 to October 23, players can participate in the limited-time Unlock Magixx Style event. By logging in, completing missions and playing matches, players can unlock Magixx poster pieces and claim free rewards, including a Magixx Avatar Frame, Voice Pack, Lobby Music, and an exclusive outfit/skin.

Players can also set Magixx’s “Be The One” as their lobby music, bringing the collaboration directly into their PUBG MOBILE experience every time they enter the game.

With the Vampire Hunters experience, new features, and the Magixx collaboration, players can download the latest version of PUBG MOBILE and jump into the action.

Team Pride Crowned PMNC Nigeria 2026 Champions

The competitive energy peaked at the PMNC Nigeria 2026 Finals, held on September 13, where Nigeria’s top PUBG MOBILE teams battled for national glory, prize money and the opportunity to represent the country at PMGO Africa.

Team Pride emerged victorious, with Begho (Oluwadamilola Oladele), Kwila Obadiah, Chico (Maude Usman) and Finish (Farid Mahri) taking home the $3,000 cash prize, while Begho was also named the tournament’s most valuable player (MVP)

The competition was closely contested; Neon Outlaws finished as first runners-up while Tribe Warriors secured the second runner-up position, rounding out the top three teams in the national championship.

With the victory, Team Pride now has its sights set on the PMGO Africa stage, taking Nigeria’s competitive gaming ambitions beyond its borders.

Beyond the action on the battleground, PMNC Nigeria 2026 also highlighted the growing ecosystem around gaming in Nigeria, with Infinix, oraimo and itel supporting the tournament and bringing technology, lifestyle products and rewards closer to the gaming community.

Representing Infinix, Nosa Stephen Ekaghe, highlighted the brand’s sponsorship of the tournament through the Infinix GT 50 Pro, which players used during the competition. Designed with gamers, creators and professionals in mind, the device features gaming-focused technologies including Hydro-Cooling and GT Triggers.

Bella Ibrahim, Content Creation Manager at oraimo, reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to supporting gamers with products and accessories designed to complement their everyday lifestyles.

Meanwhile, David Chuks Obikwame, ATL Marketing Manager at itel, celebrated Team Pride’s victory by presenting the champions with new itel air conditioners.

Together, the tournament partnerships highlight how gaming in Nigeria is evolving beyond entertainment into a vibrant intersection of technology, music, lifestyle and youth culture.

As PUBG MOBILE takes players from the supernatural battleground of Vampire Hunters to the international competitive stage of PMGO Africa, the message is clear:

BE THE ONE.

Download the game and play for free on the App Store and Google Play Store

The post Magixx Enters PUBG MOBILE as Version 4.6 Levels Up Nigeria appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The suspect was rescued from an angry mob and re-arrested by Police operatives attached to Awkunanaw Division on September 21, 2026, at about 6:30 p.m., after receiving information about the alleged murder.

Preliminary investigation by the police indicates that the suspect allegedly k!lled the victim on September 19, wrapped her remains in a nylon and locked them inside the toilet of his apartment.

The offensive odour of the decomposing body subsequently attracted neighbours, who forced the door open and apprehended him before the arrival of the Police. The putrefying remains were evacuated to a mortuary for preservation and autopsy, while efforts are ongoing to trace and notify her relatives.

During preliminary interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime, stating that the incident followed an argument between him and the deceased over allegations of who infected the other with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). He further told the police that, during the argument, he struck the deceased on the head with a pestle, resulting in her death, and subsequently wrapped and dumped her remains inside the toilet.

The state Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has ordered the State CID to conduct a discreet and thorough investigation to establish the circumstances of the incident and ensure the suspect is arraigned in court upon conclusion of investigations.

The post Enugu Police Arrest Man For Killing Girlfriend, Hiding Body In Toilet After Argument Over Who Infected The Other With HIV appeared first on Information Nigeria.

US prosecutors said Shanu made more than $2.5 million from the schemes, which caused millions of dollars in losses to victims.

According to court documents, Olamide Shanu and his co-conspirators targeted male victims in sextortion scams, persuading them to send sexual images before threatening to share the images with their friends and family unless they paid money.

In separate romance scams, the group allegedly used fake identities on social media to establish relationships with victims, often older men and women, before persuading them to send money for supposedly urgent needs.

The proceeds were allegedly laundered through peer-to-peer payment applications and cryptocurrency wallets before being transferred to co-conspirators in Nigeria.

“This case exposes a sophisticated international scheme that exploited Americans through sextortion and romance fraud, laundering millions in criminal proceeds,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division.

“This prosecution demonstrates our unwavering commitment to holding cybercriminals accountable, no matter where they operate in the world,” said U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis for the District of Idaho.

Shanu was extradited from Nigeria to the United States and is scheduled to be sentenced on December 15. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.

“This guilty plea is an important step toward justice for the victims harmed by this international scheme and reflects the Secret Service’s commitment to working with our law enforcement partners to identify, investigate, and hold accountable those who use cyber-enabled fraud to target Americans,” said Assistant Director Brent Daniels of the U.S. Secret Service’s Office of Field Operations.

The U.S. Secret Service and Boise Police Department are investigating the case.

The post Nigerian Pleads Guilty To Defrauding 150 Americans In $2.5m Romance Scheme appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Masari made the remarks in a video published Tuesday on Facebook by HM Arewa, a media platform that reports in Hausa.

In the video, Masari, who was addressing a group of women at a recent public function reportedly held in Kaduna, expressed strong support for Tinubu’s administration and his 2027 re-election bid.

“Even if I were asked to swear, on my age and my political involvement for almost 40 years, I can confidently say I have never seen a president with better plans to make Nigeria great than Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I have simply never seen anyone like him,” he said.

The former Katsina governor dismissed criticisms that the Tinubu administration had achieved little, arguing that similar criticisms had been directed at previous administrations.

He cited former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, saying critics raised allegations of sectionalism and tribalism after his first four years in office.

Masari said similar criticisms were made against the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan and were now being directed at Tinubu.

“The people who claim that Bola Ahmed Tinubu has done nothing are the kind of people who never appreciate when someone is doing well,” he said.

The former governor also criticised the use of ethnic and religious sentiments in political discourse.

“What surprises me about our people when they talk about religion is this, is religion exclusive to the Hausa, the Yoruba, or even the Igbo?” he asked.

Masari appealed to women preachers to use their influence to discourage divisive rhetoric ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Each and every one of you knows how to talk to her husband or children better than anyone else can,” he said.

“This divisive talk is only being pushed by people who are deeply selfish.”

Masari served as Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2003 to 2007 and was governor of Katsina State from 2015 to 2023.

He was appointed Deputy Director-General, Parliamentary Mobilisation, of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Presidential Campaign Council for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid in August.

The 2027 presidential election is scheduled for January 16, 2027, according to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

The post “Tinubu Has Best Plan For Nigeria” – Masari appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Open your email or banking app and you are likely to find an invitation to subscribe. Take a leisurely scroll through social media and you will be hit with a barrage of posts on the subject, with some content creators even making funny videos calling board meetings and demanding explanations from Aliko Dangote about how “our refinery” is being run, after buying a few shares.

The posts may be light-hearted, but the interest is real. Dangote Petroleum Refinery is seeking to raise about N2.15 trillion from the public through the sale of 4.1 billion shares at N525 each. With a minimum subscription of just 10 shares, or N5,250, the offer has opened the door to retail investors on an unusually broad scale. Some digital investment platforms reportedly struggled with the volume of traffic from prospective subscribers.

Understandably, there have been debates about whether the shares represent good value, including comparisons with more established stocks with longer histories of paying dividends. There have also been commentaries about Dangote himself, his record as an industrialist and the ambition behind the refinery. These conversations have been interesting to watch, leading me to a broader question: what makes people willing to hand over their hard-earned money to a business today in the expectation that it will create value for them tomorrow?

Think about it: every organisation makes a promise. A bank promises that your money will be safe and accessible; a telecommunications company promises connectivity; a hospital promises competent care. Even outside business, governments, NGOs, religious organisations and other institutions make promises, explicit or implied.

The answer, at its simplest, is trust. Every time a customer buys, an investor invests, an employee accepts a job, a supplier extends credit or a partner signs an agreement, somebody is effectively saying: I trust you to keep your promise. Building that trust is difficult. Maintaining it is harder still, especially when things go wrong. This is where the difference between being successful and having staying power begins to matter.

And things do go wrong, often in ways nobody anticipated. Some crises arise internally, while others come from outside. A defective product can erode customer confidence; an industrial accident can put lives and reputation at risk; an allegation against a senior executive can engulf an entire organisation; a cyberattack can disrupt operations; and a regulatory decision can alter the economics of a business. Each, in its own way, can put an organisation’s promise to the test. No leader can predict every eventuality. The more important concern is whether the organisation has developed the capacity to respond effectively when the unexpected happens.

Yet organisations tend to prepare far better for the future they want than for the one they do not. Think of the management time devoted to budgets, revenue targets, expansion plans, product launches, market-entry strategies and five-year growth plans. None of this is wrong; it is essential. The Dangote Refinery IPO itself is ultimately about the future. Investors are being asked to look beyond what the refinery is today and make a judgement about what it could become tomorrow. But if organisations devote so much attention to the future they want, how much attention do they devote to the events that could prevent them from reaching it?

Preparing for crisis is not pessimism, nor does it mean expecting disaster around every corner. It is an acknowledgement that building for the future must also include preparing for the disruptions that could threaten it. When everything is going well, communication is relatively easy. The real test comes when an organisation is under pressure and management itself may not yet have all the facts. It is then that organisations discover that many of the capabilities required in a crisis cannot be created after the crisis has begun.

This is also where those light-hearted references to “our refinery” take on a more serious meaning. People who put their money into a business acquire a stake in its future, however small, and with that stake come expectations. But the principle extends far beyond listed companies or investors. Customers expect organisations to deliver value; employees expect fair compensation and working conditions; suppliers expect their obligations to be honoured; and communities expect responsible conduct. When something goes wrong, they want to know the facts, what is being done and the next steps. That is what happens when a promise is tested: people stop relying on what they were told and start watching what the organisation does.

This is why crisis communication begins before the crisis. Organisations do not discover their stakeholders for the first time when trouble comes; the relationships, credibility and capabilities they will draw upon under pressure are largely built in calmer times.

There are some basic questions worth asking before an organisation finds itself in the full glare of public scrutiny. Do we have a tested system in place for responding to a crisis? Do people know what they are expected to do? Can we establish the facts quickly? Can we make decisions and communicate in time? And, perhaps most importantly, will we be believed? The last question cannot be answered on the day something goes wrong. Credibility is built over time.

Trust ultimately rests on what an organisation does, reinforced by what it says. That is why crisis preparedness cannot belong to Communications alone. Other functions will have responsibilities depending on the circumstances, while major decisions rest with leadership. For boards and executives, therefore, preparedness should be seen as part of stewardship. Leadership is not only about creating value when circumstances are favourable; it is also about protecting the organisation’s capacity to continue creating value when circumstances are not.

Every investor weighing the Dangote offer is making a judgement about the future, knowing there are no guarantees. Markets change, strategies succeed and fail, competitors emerge and unexpected events intervene. Investors therefore consider risk alongside potential return.

Perhaps organisational leaders should approach their own future in much the same way. As they invest in new markets, products, technology, people and expansion, they should also ask what they are investing in their organisation’s ability to keep its promises when they are tested. You do not prepare for storms because you expect your organisation to fail. You prepare because you intend it to last.

Tony Usidamen advises organisations on strategic communications and public affairs.

The post Beyond the Dangote IPO: What Happens When the Promise Is Tested appeared first on Information Nigeria.

FAAN said the country’s passenger traffic increased by 11.9 per cent year-on-year in 2025, adding that the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos recorded the fastest growth in scheduled seat capacity among Africa’s 10 largest airports in September, with 24.1 per cent increase.

Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Onabanjo-Kuku, disclosed this at the 2026 Airports Council International, ACI, Africa Regional Conference and Exhibition, themed: ‘Next-Gen Airports: Driving Performance and Resilience,’ in Abuja.

Her words: “According to the latest data from the International Air Transport Association, IATA, African airlines recorded a 6.4 per cent year-on-year increase in international passenger demand in July 2026. Let me put that in perspective: while global international demand actually declined by 0.1 per cent during the same period, Africa was expanding. We are not just participating in global aviation recovery, we are leading it. And I am proud to be standing in the same room with the men and women moving Africans and their visitors safely and in comfort.

“Our continent’s overall passenger demand grew by 5.2 per cent, second only to Latin America and the Caribbean, and substantially ahead of the global average of 0.2 per cent. This is not a marginal improvement. This continent is on the move. Nigeria, my home and the host nation for this conference, is proud to be at the forefront of this growth story.

“Our aviation market now ranks as the fourth-largest in Africa, with over 18.8 million domestic and international passengers recorded in 2025, representing a year-on-year increase of 11.9 per cent. The Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, whose oldest terminal is being rehabilitated and upgraded as we speak, recorded the fastest growth in scheduled seat capacity among Africa’s ten largest airports in September, with a remarkable 24.1 per cent increase.

“And the momentum is building. According to OAG data, Nigeria’s total scheduled airline capacity for September 2026 reached 1.19 million seats, a 37.4 per cent increase from the same period last year, the fastest growth among Africa’s top 10 aviation markets.

but in the systems that make airports work: predictive maintenance, reliable power, digital operational systems, and data analytics that inform decision-making.

The less visible investments often deliver the greatest returns. Third, operational resilience. Resilience is not an emergency plan, it is an organisational capability. We must build redundancy, agility, intelligence, and communication discipline into everything we do. The objective is not to eliminate uncertainty, but to reduce the time between disruption and effective response. Fourth, human capital. Infrastructure depreciates; technology becomes obsolete; but a competent, accountable, and continuously learning workforce multiplies every investment.

“We must build a culture of continuous learning and develop aviation professionals who can manage the increasingly complex airport ecosystem. Fifth, partnerships. Government resources alone cannot meet the scale of investment, technology, and expertise required. We must build commercially viable partnerships with private investors, airlines, technology providers, logistics companies, and development finance institutions.”

The post Nigeria’s Aviation Market Ranks Fourth In Africa – FAAN appeared first on Information Nigeria.

“I have a big decision to make — will a deal be made with Iran that lets them rebuild and create a far greater country than it ever was before, maybe one of the greatest in the Middle East or even the world?” Trump said.

“Or do I annihilate the Islamic Republic and do it quickly, never giving them a chance to kill and destroy people and countries again? Do I drive them into hell with no chance of survival and no hope of future greatness or generations?”

But Trump reiterated that he thought an agreement was possible before US midterm elections in November — in which his Republican party faces losing control of Congress at least partly due to high fuel prices caused by the war.

“I believe we’ll make a deal right after the election because it doesn’t make sense for them not to,” Trump said.

“They’re waiting to see how I do in the midterm election. What they don’t realize is that I’m not running. I did that already, and won in a landslide.”

The post Trump Says Deciding Between Deal Or Driving Iran ‘Into Hell’ appeared first on Information Nigeria.

It also ordered filling stations nationwide to immediately calibrate and verify their fuel dispensers and totalisers, warning that outlets caught under-dispensing petroleum products risk sanctions, including licence revocation.

The regulator described the practice as a serious breach of consumer trust. The NMDPRA gave the directive in an industry circular issued in Abuja on Tuesday and posted on its official X handle.

The latest move places the accuracy of fuel dispensing equipment at filling stations under renewed regulatory scrutiny, with the Authority saying consumers must receive the quantity of petroleum products for which they have paid.

The regulator directed all retail outlet operators to immediately check and calibrate their dispensing equipment to ensure accurate measurement.

It said, “The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority has observed incidents of under-dispensing of petroleum products at retail outlets nationwide. The Authority views this as a serious breach of consumer trust that will not be tolerated.

“To safeguard the interests of consumers, all retail outlet operators are hereby directed to carry out immediate calibration and verification of all dispensers and totalizers. This is intended to guarantee accurate measurement and ensure that consumers receive the full value of the product they pay for.”

The Authority warned that it had intensified inspections and enforcement operations nationwide and would take action against stations found to be short-changing consumers.

“NMDPRA has intensified inspections and enforcement activities nationwide. Outlets found to be under-dispensing, operating with improperly calibrated equipment, or otherwise compromising dispensing accuracy will be required to take immediate corrective action,” it stated.

The regulator added that repeated or serious violations could lead to the withdrawal of operating licences.

“Persistent or serious violations will be subject to appropriate sanctions, up to and including revocation of the outlet’s licence, in line with NMDPRA’s regulations,” the Authority warned.

The directive comes against the backdrop of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight of the downstream petroleum sector following the removal of petrol subsidy and the transition to a market-based pricing regime.

With petrol now sold at prices determined largely by market conditions, accurate dispensing has become an important part of consumer protection, particularly as motorists and other users pay varying pump prices across locations.

Under-dispensing occurs when a retail outlet’s dispensing equipment delivers less product than the quantity displayed or paid for by the consumer. Faulty or improperly calibrated pumps can therefore result in consumers paying for a volume of petrol that they do not receive.

The NMDPRA said its latest enforcement action was aimed at preventing such practices and improving confidence in petroleum product transactions.
The Authority also directed major industry associations to ensure that their members comply with the directive.

It specifically called on the Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria, the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria and the Petroleum Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria to communicate the directive to their members.

“MEMAN, DAPPMAN, IPMAN and PETROAN are kindly requested to promptly notify their members of this directive and to support full compliance across the industry,” the regulator stated.

The NMDPRA stressed that consumer protection remained a key part of its regulatory responsibility, particularly in ensuring that petroleum transactions were transparent and accurately measured.

It said, “NMDPRA remains committed to protecting consumers, promoting transparency, and upholding the integrity of petroleum product transactions nationwide.”

The directive means filling stations now face closer scrutiny of their dispensing equipment, while operators will be expected to correct any identified defects promptly or risk regulatory sanctions.

The post NMDPRA Uncovers Fuel Under-Dispensing At Filling Stations Nationwide appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The appointments were contained in a public announcement issued on Monday by the Secretary to the Enugu State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia.

Mbah approved the appointment of 101 aides across three categories comprising seven Special Advisers, six Senior Special Assistants and 88 Special Assistants.

Okonkwo, popularly known as Nkoli Nwa Nsukka, was appointed Senior Special Assistant on Film and Creative Industry Development.

Okonkwo, whose full name is Nnenna Rachael Okonkwo, is a Nigerian actress best known for her leading role in the Nkoli Nwa Nsukka film series.

She hails from Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State and has established a career in the Nigerian film industry.

Meanwhile, veteran actress Eucharia Anunobi was appointed Special Assistant on Women Mobilisation for Enugu-North Zone.

Anunobi rose to prominence in Nollywood in the 1990s and has featured in more than 90 films. She later became an evangelist.

The appointments bring the two actresses into the Enugu State Government, with Okonkwo assigned a role focused on the film and creative industry, while Anunobi will be responsible for women mobilisation in the Enugu-North zone.

The post Governor Mbah Appoints Nollywood’s Eucharia Anunobi, Rachael Okonkwo As Aides appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Charly Boy made the revelation in a post shared on X on Monday while reflecting on Obasanjo’s appearance on the viral YouTube show.

He said the interview demonstrated the importance of giving young people opportunities and encouraging older generations to engage with their ideas and platforms.

“Sometimes, the greatest thing you fit give a young person no be money. Na opportunity. Look at wetin happen when Baba entered Bae U’s world,” Charly Boy wrote.

He noted that Obasanjo, despite his age and experience, embraced the unconventional format of the show and matched Isbae U’s energy.

“A man of his age and experience sat down with a young man whose style dey completely different from wetin he is used to. Baba no just sit there looking serious. He matched the energy, played along and showed Nigerians another side of himself,” he said.

Charly Boy then disclosed his role in making the connection between the former president and the young content creator.

“And who helped make that connection happen? CharlyBoy. Fada believed in the young people behind that show enough to pull Baba into their space,” he said.

Obasanjo’s appearance on Curiosity Made Me Ask attracted attention after the former president engaged in the show’s trademark humour and banter with Isbae U.

The host jokingly introduced Obasanjo as his former employee, claiming that he had paid his salary, provided his food and paid his rent at Aso Rock between 1999 and 2007.

Obasanjo played along with the joke and responded to Isbae U’s questions about contemporary Nigerian pop culture, including whether he knew music producer Don Jazzy, dancer Poco Lee and content creator Carter Efe.

The former president said he did not know them, prompting further banter from the host.

Reflecting on the wider lesson from the interview, Charly Boy urged older people to create opportunities for younger Nigerians rather than simply encouraging them to succeed.

“To the older generation: don’t only tell young people to succeed. Give them room. Open doors. Recommend them. Trust them with opportunities,” he wrote.

He also encouraged young people to prepare themselves to take advantage of opportunities when they arise.

“To the younger generation: don’t wait for somebody to hand you a future. Build something worth believing in. When opportunity comes, be ready,” he said.

Charly Boy concluded by calling for greater collaboration between generations.

“When generations support each other, everybody gets to grow. Na so legacy suppose work,” he wrote.

The post Why I Linked Isbae U With Obasanjo For His Show Interview — Charly Boy appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, announced the decision on Tuesday at the end of the committee’s 307th meeting in Abuja.

Cardoso said, “The Committee decided as follows: reset the monetary policy rate to 23 per cent.”

The move follows a hold at the two previous MPC briefings, and a 50-basis-point cut announced in February 2026.

The PUNCH observed that the MPC’s decision to cut rates occurred amid consecutive decreases in Nigeria’s inflation rates.

According to the most recent Consumer Price Index report released by the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria’s headline inflation rate eased marginally to 15.39 per cent in August 2026 from 15.43 per cent recorded in July.

The post CBN Cuts Interest Rate To 23% At MPC Meeting appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Lawal announced his defection to the NDC in Abuja on Tuesday, declaring his support for the party’s presidential ticket of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking after he was received into the opposition party, the former SGF said Nigerians concerned about insecurity, hunger and other challenges facing the country should support the NDC.

He said, “Anybody in Nigeria who has the interest of our country at heart and sympathy for the suffering that is ongoing in our country, along with insecurity, hunger, ignorance and disease, will have no choice but to join a party that represents the future and have Peter and Kwankwaso as their candidates.

“Every sensible and patriotic Nigerian ought to understand this. It is now convincing to partner with the NDC to see to the fulfilment of the very noble objective of installing Obi as the president and Kwankwaso as vice president. So, by the grace of God, we look forward to May 29, 2027, to celebrate the feat properly for the good of the country, and future of generations yet unborn.”

Receiving Lawal into the party, NDC National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, described him as a political mobiliser and activist with extensive experience in Nigerian politics.

He said, “Babachir Lawal does not need any introduction. He was the former secretary to the government of our country, who did well. But behind the official designations that are known, what is not known is that he’s a great mobiliser. He’s actually some sort of political activist also.

“He has seen it all and seen parties that were promising but failed to deliver on the promised change. These are parties that have taken our country from top to bottom, and now they are even digging the ground to bury the country. On behalf of the national working committee and our candidates, Peter Obi and his running mate, Dr Rabiu Kwankwaso, we welcome you.

“We are pleased to have you play a leadership role that only you can play at those levels. You will oversee the activities of the NDC and our campaigns in the North Eastern part of Nigeria. We count on you, therefore, to help resolve issues, give guidance and direction to the activities of all our candidates and our campaigns in those zones.”

Lawal’s defection came about three months after he resigned from the ADC, alleging that the party’s presidential primary had been manipulated to favour former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

In his resignation statement, shared on his official Facebook page, Lawal said he could no longer remain in a party whose primary process he described as fundamentally flawed.

The former SGF alleged that results were altered to favour Atiku and his supporters, adding that even in areas where voting was conducted, declared winners were allegedly replaced.

The post Babachir Lawal Joins NDC Three Months After ADC Exit appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The new service, dubbed “TRUMP TV: The Essentials Station,” began streaming on Monday through the White House website and YouTube, offering viewers access to presidential speeches, administration announcements, videos and previously recorded highlights.

According to the White House, the channel is designed to provide real-time updates and bring together the administration’s “biggest moments” in a single platform.

The launch came as the traditional White House television press pool was suspended following the administration’s decision to bar CNN, MS NOW and Politico from access to the White House.

The television pool is traditionally operated on a rotating basis by major US networks, with CNN, ABC, CBS, Fox News and NBC taking turns to provide video coverage of presidential events for distribution to other news organisations.

CNN was scheduled to provide the pooled television coverage on Monday but was prevented from carrying out the assignment.

Following CNN’s exclusion, ABC, CBS, Fox News and NBC declined to provide a replacement crew, effectively bringing the traditional pooled television coverage of Trump’s events to a halt.

The dispute has also reached the courts, with CNN, MS NOW and Politico challenging the administration’s decision to restrict their journalists’ access to the White House.

The White House has defended its decision to impose the restrictions, while the affected news organisations have maintained that the measures interfere with their ability to independently cover the administration.

The impact of the dispute became particularly visible on Monday during Trump’s appearance at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new White House helipad.

Although television viewers were able to see footage of the event, they could not hear Trump’s remarks through the normal pooled television feed, highlighting the consequences of the suspension of the traditional arrangement.

Against this backdrop, the launch of TRUMP TV gives the White House a direct platform for distributing video of Trump and official administration events without relying on the established television pool operated by news organisations.

The channel’s initial programming consisted largely of previously recorded footage, presidential highlights and other material rather than functioning exclusively as a live feed of events taking place at the White House.

The White House has described the service as a 24-hour stream featuring major presidential remarks, administration videos and highlights, providing viewers with a centralised source for footage of Trump and his administration.

The launch therefore represents a new avenue for the White House to distribute its own video coverage at a time when the traditional system for providing pooled television access to presidential events has been disrupted by the ongoing dispute with several major news organisations.

The post White House Launches ‘Trump TV’ As U.S. Media Protests Ban On CNN, Others appeared first on Information Nigeria.

According to Wike, Peter Obi’s strong performance in parts of the South in 2023 was not entirely unexpected. He claimed that political calculations by members of the then-G5 governors were deliberately designed to reduce Atiku Abubakar’s support, particularly in areas considered important to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Wike said the strategy involved allowing Obi to gain support in the South-East, thereby weakening Atiku’s chances.

“Do you know what we did in 2023? Let me tell you now to shock you. We knew that the man who was controlling the election was Atiku,” Wike was quoted as saying. He added that supporting Obi in the South-East was part of the plan to block Atiku.

The former Rivers State governor has now turned his attention to 2027, where he has publicly declared his support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

Wike has also said he intends to mobilise support for Tinubu in Rivers State, while maintaining that the PDP can still field candidates for other elective positions.

His latest comments have therefore raised questions about the political battle ahead, particularly in the South-South, South-East, South-West and Rivers State.

Wike appears confident that the political calculations that shaped the 2023 election will not necessarily be repeated in 2027. But with the election still ahead, the actual voting pattern across the regions will ultimately depend on the candidates, alliances, campaigns and choices made by voters.

For now, Wike’s message is clear: he is backing Tinubu for 2027 and believes the political landscape in the South will be different from what Nigerians witnessed in 2023.

Watch video here: https://twitter.com/i/status/2102128527130693944

The post “We Allowed Peter Obi Win South-South In 2023, Won’t Happen In 2027” – Wike appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Makinde made the declaration on Monday in Ibadan while receiving members of the All Progressives Congress who defected to the APM.

The APC members came from different parts of the state.

He said God, the people of Oyo and Nigerians in general are behind his party, so victory is certain.

Makinde also addressed Senator Sharafadeen Alli, the APC’s gubernatorial candidate.

He told Alli to stop criticizing his administration and instead focus on competing against the APM’s gubernatorial candidate, Bimbo Adekanmbi.

“God has signed off on what we are doing, and that is why it is raining,” Makinde said.

“Today, we are welcoming thousands of APC members into the APM.

This shows our victory is only a matter of time.

We will win massively in all elections in 2027.”

The post 2027 Election: Governor Makinde Vows To Defeat Tinubu appeared first on Information Nigeria.

In a letter addressed to the President, the workers urged the Federal Government to stabilise the price of petrol at N500 per litre, approve an immediate Wage Award and upwardly review salaries and allowances across the public service.

The workers equally demanded the immediate constitution of a committee to negotiate a new National Minimum Wage ahead of January 2027.

According to the workers, the recent increase in fuel prices to N1,430 per litre and above in some locations had further worsened the cost-of-living crisis.

They gave the Federal Government until Wednesday, September 30, 2026, to take action on their demands, warning that the prevailing hardship was creating palpable tension among workers and Nigerians.

The workers added that the removal of fuel subsidy three years ago had triggered an astronomical increase in fuel prices and produced multiplier effects on the prices of essential commodities across the economy.

According to the JNPSNC, the situation had made life increasingly unbearable for workers, adding that the provision of food palliatives was not a sustainable solution to the economic crisis.

“It has dawned on Nigerian workers that the provision of palliatives such as bags of rice, Indomie, vegetable oil, garri, among other edible foods, is as good as weaponising Nigerians with poverty because it is a Pyrrhic intervention which is unsustainable, inaccessible to the majority of Nigeria’s population and also limited to political cronies,” the workers said.

They further stressed that a more sustainable intervention would be to reduce the cost of fuel to N500 per litre, stating that the measure would have a multiplier effect across the economy.

The post ‘N500/litre Fuel Or N500,000 Minimum Wage’ – Workers Makes Fresh Demands To Tinubu appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The landmark procedure, described as a major milestone in the country’s healthcare and medical technology sector, involved a robot-assisted right radical nephrectomy to remove a cancerous tumour from the patient’s kidney.

The surgery was conducted by Redeemer’s Health Village in collaboration with RoboMed Global.

According to details of the procedure, the surgeon operated the robotic system in real time from a Toumai surgical console at the Redeemer’s Health Village facility in Mowe, while the patient was undergoing the operation at Nisa Premier Hospital in Abuja, about 500 kilometres away.

The development marks a significant shift in the application of advanced robotic technology to surgical care in Nigeria, demonstrating that complex procedures can potentially be carried out remotely across long distances.

The tele-robotic system enabled the surgeon to control the surgical instruments from Ogun State while receiving real-time visual and operational feedback from the operating theatre in Abuja.

The successful procedure could open new possibilities for specialist medical care in Nigeria, particularly by allowing highly trained surgeons to provide expertise to patients in locations where such specialists may not be physically available.

It also highlights the growing role of robotics, high-speed connectivity and digital health technology in expanding access to complex surgical procedures.

The development is expected to generate further interest in the use of telemedicine and robotic surgery to bridge geographical barriers in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

The post Nigeria Records First Tele-Robotic Surgery As Surgeon Operates On Abuja Patient From Ogun appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, Olufemi Dare, issued the warning on Monday while addressing journalists during an inspection tour of the highway.

Dare said the decision followed a directive from the Minister of Works, David Umahi, amid persistent safety breaches, vandalism and other illegal activities along the road.

He said, “Within two weeks, if there’s no improvement on all these issues, then we have no option than to come back and shutdown this road.”

The controller said the government had an alternative in the Lekki-Epe Expressway, adding that the coastal highway was still under construction and should ordinarily not have been opened to traffic before the completion of its bridges.

The Lagos section of the coastal highway comprises two sections spanning about 103km, with Section 1 covering about 47km and Section 2 extending for about 56km.

Dare said there were 20 major bridges across the two sections in Lagos, with 10 in each section, several of which were still under construction.

He expressed concern over motorists driving at high speeds on a road where construction work was ongoing, despite the prescribed speed limit of 30km per hour.

“People who come to coastal road and get to a speed of 120 kilometres per hour on the coastal road, and where constructions are going on, bridges, construction are going on,” he said.

“We have said your speed on the coastal road must not be more than 30 kilometres per hour.”

Dare said lives were being lost on the highway “almost every other day”, warning that the government could no longer allow the situation to continue.

The controller also warned articulated vehicle operators against parking along the highway, saying some trucks and trailers were being used as temporary parking spaces by drivers.

He said the government had reached an agreement with the Lagos State Police Command to increase police deployment along the highway.

According to Dare, the increased security presence followed meetings between Umahi and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani.

“Beginning from this morning, we’ve started to see the improvement in deployment of police. And we are going to have more,” he said.

Dare also warned against illegal U-turns created along the highway, saying anyone arrested for the offence would be prosecuted.

He said Okada motorcycles, tricycles, hawking and animal grazing had also been banned along the highway.

“We don’t want Okada motorcycles, tricycles. We don’t want them on the coastal road,” he said.

He added that authorities would also move against people living in shanties and other illegal structures along the highway.

Dare identified vandalism of safety infrastructure as another major challenge, saying sections of the protective fencing and other installations were being removed at night.

He said at least five kilometres of ClearVu fencing had been removed, while about 18km of concrete covers had also been vandalised and taken away.

“They come in the night, they remove the ClearVu fence that was used to barricade the communities from the coastal highway,” he said.

Dare said the government was considering replacing the steel ClearVu fencing with concrete barriers in vulnerable areas because the existing fencing could be easily removed by vandals.

“We have to change the strategy,” he said. “In areas where we have block work today, we do not have any problem with them.”

He added that the government was also working on the deployment of CCTV cameras to improve surveillance along the route.

The controller said the government had approved the recruitment of 40 members of a coastal guard for the first section of the highway, with four expected to be drawn from each community along the route.

According to him, the guards would work directly with the police and provide community-level surveillance, while additional personnel would be recruited for Section 2.

Dare said some previously engaged coastal guards had been attacked by vandals, making stronger police protection necessary.

He added that authorities were planning to reorganise and train the coastal guards under the direct supervision of the Lagos State Police Command.

The post FG Threatens To Shut Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway In Two Weeks appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, disclosed this on Monday at a media parley in Abuja, marking his first 100 days in office, covering June 8 to September 16.

“Let me categorically state, and this is not a political statement, we have no plan to increase electricity tariffs,” he said.

Tegbe said the government was focused on improving electricity supply and strengthening the financial and physical foundations of the power sector, rather than imposing additional costs on consumers.

The minister’s statement comes amid concerns over the financial sustainability of the electricity market and the future of government support to the sector.

He said the sector was constrained across the entire value chain, with interconnected problems that could not be solved by simply adding new generation capacity.

“When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu entrusted me with the responsibility of serving as Minister of Power, I made four promises to Nigerians. I promised a disciplined approach to solving the sector’s problems. I promised to pursue grid stability through structured, strategic reforms. I promised visible incremental improvements.

“Upon assuming office, the diagnosis we undertook at the onset revealed constraints at every segment of the electricity value chain. Gas supply to power stations was limited by damaged pipelines and commercial terms that discouraged investment.

“Our generation fleet was heavily dependent on thermal plants, with ageing equipment, deferred maintenance, stalled projects and capacity unable to reach consumers. The sector diagnosis revealed payment of only 27 per cent of generation companies’ bills, undermining their ability to maintain plants and pay gas suppliers,” Tegbe stated.

The minister said transmission infrastructure was similarly under pressure from vandalised towers and lines, overstretched equipment and frequent system tripping. He added that distribution companies were recording aggregate technical, commercial and collection losses of between 30 and 40 per cent.

“Across the market, inflation and foreign exchange pressures raised costs. Arrears owed by ministries, departments and agencies exceeded 100 billion naira. Debts continued to accumulate, regulatory uncertainty weakened confidence, and inconsistent data made it difficult to establish a common factual basis for decisions.

“Substantial development-finance commitments also required better coordination to translate funding opportunities into electricity delivered,” he said.

Tegbe said the challenges reinforced one another, creating a cycle of unpaid bills, weak supply and rising debt.

“These problems reinforce one another. Unpaid bills weaken gas supply and maintenance; unreliable supply depresses collections; poor collections deepen debt. A new power station cannot, by itself, resolve that cycle.

“Sustainable improvement requires us to repair the physical system and the commercial relationships that keep it functioning,” Tegbe said.

He said the government therefore spent the first 100 days on diagnosis and stabilisation, rather than concentrating solely on new projects.

According to him, the 375MW Alaoji open-cycle power plant was restored to the national grid after three years offline, while transformers commissioned at Apapa, Ijora, Alausa and Lekki in Lagos unlocked 672MW of transmission capacity. He added that a new 300MVA transformer at Katampe, Abuja, unlocked another 240MW.

Tegbe said operational records showed generation and transmission rising above 5,000MW in the weeks preceding the media parley, compared with between 3,700MW and 4,700MW before June. Generation peaked at 5,330MW in August and September.

He, however, acknowledged that national generation figures did not necessarily reflect the experience of individual communities.

“National progress can coexist with an unreliable feeder in a particular community. So, when we say that there are improvements in certain places, we do not categorically deny the experiences of those that are yet to benefit,” he said.

On the financial side, Tegbe said the government had raised an estimated N1.23tn to address part of the N3.3tn power-sector debt backlog.

He also disclosed that about 350,000 electricity meters were installed during the first 100 days, taking cumulative installations to 1,004,260 as of August 2026. He said the resolution of litigation involving the AMMON metering programme had unlocked procurement of about 1.4 million smart meters.

On the next phase of the reforms, the minister said the government would focus on stabilising the Lagos, Enugu-Port Harcourt and Abuja-Kaduna-Kano transmission corridors, while beginning work on a Transmission Super Grid. He said technical audits had commenced along the Lagos and Abuja corridors.

He said the government would report progress over the next six months based on supply reliability, billing accuracy and the resolution of faults and complaints.

“Our original commitment to visible, incremental improvements remains the benchmark. We will report progress against that benchmark, including changes in supply reliability, billing accuracy and the resolution of faults and complaints,” he stated.

The post “No Plan To Increase Electricity Tariff” – FG appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Wike stated this on Monday in Abuja while speaking to newsmen after inspecting some ongoing road projects across the FCT.

The minister also dismissed allegations that the cross-party Rainbow Coalition, which he is associated with, was established to destabilise existing political parties.

He described the allegations as “baseless”, insisting that the coalition was designed to bring together individuals from different political platforms who support Tinubu’s administration.

Wike said his immediate political concern was the 2027 presidential election and the continuation of Tinubu’s administration beyond 2027.

“My primary concern is whether Tinubu will be re-elected for a second term, and I have made it known from the onsets that I am going to support Mr President with all my might and strength,” he said.

He said he was not concerned about accusations being made against the rainbow coalition, but expressed disappointment over claims that the initiative would destabilise political parties.

“I am not bothered about what accusations people make, but it is very disappointing to hear some people say the rainbow coalition will destabilise the party,” Wike said.

The post Wike Says ‘Tinubu’s Re-election Is His My Priority appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Speaking on Toke Moments, Makinwa revealed that she got married at 30 and divorced at 31. Reflecting on relationships, she said, “I got married at 30 and divorced at 31. I don’t even think men have the balls to break up with women these days, they just frustrate you till you leave.”

She went on to explain that, rather than openly telling their partners that a relationship is no longer working, some men may become distant or behave differently in ways that make their intentions clear.

“That’s their new tactics, they will frustrate you till you leave. A man will never sit you down and tell you it’s not working out but everything about him tells you it’s not working out.”

The post “Men No Longer Have Courage To Break Up” — Toke Makinwa Claims appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The development follows an announcement by the Presidency that the President would return to Nigeria after his three-week vacation in Europe.

Stanley Nkwocha, spokesman to Vice President Kashim Shettima, announced the development in a statement on Sunday.

According to the statement, Tinubu had directed the Vice President to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the UNGA.

Tinubu’s absence was also confirmed after a provisional list of speakers obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) showed that Shettima would represent Nigeria at the high-level General Debate.

Tinubu had been listed as the 10th speaker during the morning session on the second day of the high-level General Debate scheduled for Wednesday, September 23.

The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly began on September 8, 2026, while the high-level week is scheduled to take place from September 22 to 29 in New York City.

The post Presidency Confirms Tinubu Won’t Attend UN General Assembly appeared first on Information Nigeria.

This was disclosed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Bologi Ibrahim, in a statement issued on Sunday, in which he said Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago gave the directive shortly after taking part in three days of special prayers held in honour of the deceased miners, who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

The curfew had been imposed by the governor on Friday following protests and the destruction of property linked to the miners’ deaths.

Announcing the restriction shortly after Friday congregational prayers, Bago explained that it was necessary to restore order after demonstrators vandalised government property, a commercial bank, political party offices and private businesses across the state.

He noted that vehicles belonging to the State Transport Company were destroyed, alongside the premises of Sterling Bank, several party secretariats and various private enterprises, adding that the unrest had allowed vandals to take control of the streets and that firm measures were required to restore calm to the society.

In the latest statement, Ibrahim said Governor Bago urged residents of Niger State to remain law-abiding and act as responsible citizens, assuring them that the administration would continue working to improve their welfare.

The unrest followed the deaths of the suspected illegal miners, who were arrested during an enforcement operation against illegal mining in the Wushishi/Lukoto axis of the state on 15th and 16th September.

The state government had earlier confirmed the deaths and stated that forensic and medical examinations, including autopsies, were underway to determine their cause.

The NSCDC has since set up an investigative panel to look into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, covering the condition of the suspects at the point of arrest, the length of their detention, the conditions under which they were held and the medical attention made available to them.

Separately, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, suspended the state’s NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, 20 others and ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident.

The post Niger Govt. Relaxes Curfew Monday Imposed In Minna After Miners’ Death In NSCDC Custody appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The officers were paraded at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Sauka, Abuja, on Sunday, as the Corps’ National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant Babawale Afolabi, briefed journalists on the preliminary findings into the incident.

The 37 detainees died on Thursday, after they were arrested during anti-illegal mining operations conducted by the NSCDC in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16.

The NSCDC had initially attributed the deaths to a suspected disease outbreak, saying the actual cause would be established through medical examination.

However, concerns over the circumstances surrounding the deaths have intensified, with survivors and relatives alleging overcrowding and poor detention conditions.

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, had disclosed that 67 artisanal and suspected illegal miners were detained in an NSCDC facility before 37 of them died. The governor said the exact cause of death had yet to be established, while possible suffocation arising from overcrowding and exposure to hazardous substances were among the issues being considered.

The Federal Government has since suspended the Niger State Commandant and 20 other NSCDC officers pending the outcome of an independent investigation.

The post NSCDC Parades Suspended Niger Commandant, Officers Over Miners’ Deaths appeared first on Information Nigeria.

“Coventry City striker Taiwo Awoniyi replaces Victor Osimhen in Nigeria’s squad for the AFCON 2027 qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau,” said a post on the Super Eagles’ official Instagram.

Head coach Eric Chelle called up 24 players last week for the two matches, including Osimhen, but it became clear that the Galatasaray striker would not recover in time to be fit for the fixtures.

“Victor Osimhen’s recovery from a muscle strain has been slower than expected. He was included in Nigeria’s squad for the AFCON qualifiers because Galatasaray and the Super Eagles technical crew were hopeful he would be fit for the Super Lig game versus Trabzonspor and ready for the international window.

“But his absence from tonight’s match confirms Galatasaray’s correspondence to Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle that the striker is still recovering and will not be ready for Nigeria’s matches,” a statement said on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Osimhen’s absence has allowed Awoniyi to return to the Super Eagles squad. The 29-year-old recently completed a move from Nottingham Forest to newly-promoted Premier League side Coventry.

Nigeria will host Madagascar in the first match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, on September 25 before travelling to Bissau to take on the Wild Dogs of Guinea-Bissau four days later.

Updated full AFCON 2027 qualifiers squad:

Goalkeepers: Arthur Okonkwo, Maduka Okoye, Stanley Nwabali.

Defenders: Bruno Onyemaechi, Isaac James, Benjamin Fredricks, Emmanuel Fernandez, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Olaoluwa Aina.

Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Raphael Onyedika, Frank Onyeka.

Forwards: Moses Simon, Taiwo Awoniyi, Akor Adams, Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, Tolu Arokodare, George Ilhenikina, Moses Usor.

The post Chelle Replaces Injured Osimhen With Awoniyi In Super Eagles Squad For AFCON 2027 Qualifiers appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Duru made the allegation while releasing a purported nine-minute audio recording on social media, describing the recording as only a “sneak peek” of what she says will be a series of further revelations about her dealings with prominent Nigerian politicians.

The latest disclosure represents a dramatic shift from Duru’s earlier public account of the controversy.

In May 2025, Duru had accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of offering her ₦200 million to make damaging allegations against Akpabio. Akpoti-Uduaghan denied the allegations at the time, describing the materials presented by Duru as false and manipulated.

Duru is now presenting a different version of events, alleging that Akpabio himself engaged her to campaign against the Kogi Central senator.

Parts of the newly circulated recording contain a male voice which Duru identifies as that of Akpabio. In the excerpts, the speaker allegedly discusses political developments involving former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and Senator Ned Nwoko.

Among the statements attributed to the voice is an alleged comment that Okowa’s decision to join the All Progressives Congress was motivated by concerns over corruption cases rather than political conviction.

Another portion of the recording allegedly contains a discussion about Nwoko, with the speaker purportedly saying that the senator had never supported him but describing himself as a “very forgiving person.” Duru is also heard responding, “Yes Daddy,” according to reports on the recording.

However, the authenticity of the audio remains a major question. The recording has not been independently authenticated, and the identity of the voices, the circumstances in which the conversation took place, the date of the recording and whether the excerpts represent the full conversation have not been independently established.

Duru has also alleged that an aide to the Senate President is negotiating a dollar payment with her in an attempt to persuade her to stop making further disclosures about her alleged dealings with senior politicians.

She claims she was initially promised as much as $5 million by Akpabio but received approximately $800,000 instead. These financial allegations have not been independently verified.

The activist says she feels betrayed and has therefore decided to make public what she describes as previously secret dealings involving Akpabio and other political figures.

The fresh allegations have reopened a controversy that has continued for more than a year and has produced conflicting accounts from Duru, Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan.

As of the latest reports, neither Akpabio nor his office had publicly confirmed or denied the authenticity or contents of the new recording. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s aide also declined to comment on the latest development.

The controversy also has a legal dimension. In January 2026, an FCT High Court reportedly restrained Duru and Meta from further circulating certain materials concerning Akpoti-Uduaghan that the court proceedings characterized as potentially defamatory, pending determination of the substantive case.

Watch video here: https://twitter.com/i/status/2101221355303600247

The post “Akpabio Paid Me To Blackmail Sen. Natasha Akpoti” – Ex Ally, Prof. Mgbeke Confesses appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Mimiko, who is the younger brother of former Ondo State Governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, said Tinubu had done well in rescuing the economy from collapse, particularly with his decision to remove the fuel subsidy.

Mimiko stated this while speaking with journalists in Ondo Town, Ondo State, on Sunday.

He said, “I believe the President deserves a second term in office. Why do I say so? To address this issue, I want us to first of all situate the issues. Where are we coming from? Where are we now? And where do we intend to go with Nigeria?

“Yes, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu put himself out there that he wanted to be President. He announced that he wanted to run. He ran. He even said he wanted to be President and he became the President. So we can’t excuse anybody about what he meant. I give it to him, he hasn’t excused himself.

“He said, ‘Do not pity me. This is what I asked for. Just let me get my hands dirty and do the work for Nigeria.’

“Most people don’t know that by the time President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took over the reins of power, Nigeria was on the brink of absolute total economic collapse. Most people don’t look at that reality.

“When he took over from President Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria was already in serious debt. We had lost credibility in terms of our finances globally. Subsidy was consuming trillions of naira of our hard-earned money. People were selling and buying dollars as far as their influence could carry them. Insecurity was all over the country.

“He inherited from the previous administration an economy that was spending up to 98 per cent of its earnings to service debts alone. Not to pay them, to service debt. We had no budget for subsidy.

“So, I am of the firm opinion that if somebody has made the effort to bring us out of the pit of absolute failure to where we are talking about basic stability, even if we are not there yet, I think that person deserves to have his hands on the plough to now take that economy to prosperity.

“I think he’s done well. I think the state governors ought to be called to account.”

The ZLP chieftain said although he belonged to the opposition, his support for Tinubu was based on his belief that the President was determined to reposition the country.

He said, “When he (Tinubu) said, ‘I want to be President,’ and we voted for him and he came in, he met a broken system and he’s doing everything to fix it.

“So, do I think he deserves a second term? I’m a realist, I’m a pragmatist. I think he deserves a second term.”

Mimiko, however, urged Tinubu to find ways of ensuring that funds allocated to state governments were properly spent for the benefit of Nigerians.

“If I’m to advise the President, I will tell him, I don’t know how you go about it, but how do you make sure that the states grow food? If you take hunger away from the problem of Nigeria, a lot of things will be easier.

“The President said something recently. He said the governors are building overhead bridges all over the place instead of spending on things that are fundamentally important to the lives of their people.”

The post “Tinubu Deserves Second Term” – Mimiko appeared first on Information Nigeria.

NSCDC Spokesman, Assistant Commandant of Corps Babawale Afolabi, disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday.

The NSCDC had initially announced the detention of 21 personnel following the deaths of the miners, who died while in the custody of the Corps in Niger State.

The latest arrests came as the Corps ordered its flag to fly at half-mast across all its formations for three days from Sunday, as a mark of mourning over the incident.

The development came 24 hours after the Federal Government constituted a 10-member independent committee to investigate the reported deaths.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, had announced the committee on Saturday following President Bola Tinubu’s directive for a comprehensive, transparent and unhindered investigation into the incident, which occurred on Thursday, September 17, 2026.

Tunji-Ojo also ordered the suspension of all officers allegedly involved in the incident.

Reacting in a statement on Sunday, Afolabi said the three additional personnel identified in connection with the incident had been suspended, bringing the total number of personnel in custody to 24.

The spokesman noted that all the affected officers and men of the Niger State Command had been moved to the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja for interrogation and administrative disciplinary action.

He said, “As against the initial figure of 21 personnel, the Corps Public Relations Officer, three more personnel identified have also been placed on suspension, thereby bringing the total to 24 personnel.

“They are among the officers paraded at the Corps Headquarters.”

Afolabi added that the personnel would also be made available to the Presidential Independent Investigation Committee and other investigation panels for further investigation and possible prosecution.

He said, “In a swift and decisive joint operation conducted in conjunction with the Commandant General’s Special Investigation Squad, all officers and men of the Niger State Command linked to the gross misconduct have since 17th September 2026 been taken into protective custody at the National Headquarters, Abuja, where they are undergoing rigorous interrogation and administrative disciplinary action, to make them available for the Presidential Independent Investigation Committee and other investigation panels for further investigation and possible prosecution.”

Similarly, the NSCDC Commandant General, Ahmed Audi, said the Corps would ensure due process, transparency and accountability in the investigation.

He said every personnel found culpable would face the full weight of internal disciplinary measures and the law.

“As a Corps built on integrity, professionalism, discipline, and absolute respect for the rule of law, we do not condone unprofessional conduct, high-handedness, or any action that undermines the fundamental rights of citizens or the sacred trust reposed in us,” Audi said.

The Commandant General also directed that the NSCDC flag be flown at half-mast across all formations for three days beginning Sunday.

The officers currently held include the suspended Niger State Commandant, Commandant Subaru Siyaka Aniviye; Ajayi Philips, Head of Intelligence and Investigation; John Agrahau Chagwa, Head of Operations; Obafemi Elvis; Stephen Tsado, Officer-in-Charge of Legal; and other personnel.

The federal government’s 10-member panel is expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths and determine the responsibilities of any individuals or institutions found to have played a role in the incident.

The post NSCDC Nabs Three More Officers Over Niger Miners’ Deaths appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The movement also warned that it would not be intimidated or surrender its independence, insisting that it remained an independent political organisation with its own leadership, structure and internal processes.

The movement’s National Secretary, Saadatu Sani, gave the warning in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday.

The development followed the NDC’s decision to dissociate itself from the campaign council unveiled by the group on Thursday to mobilise support for the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso.

The NDC, in a statement by Cleopas on Saturday night, said the council did not emanate from the party and should be disregarded.

Cleopas also warned that no individual, candidate or support group was authorised to constitute or announce a campaign structure in the party’s name without prior approval from its National Working Committee.

But responding in a statement on Sunday, Sani described the position of the NDC chairman as unfortunate and said it reflected a misunderstanding of the movement’s character and independence.

Sani urged Cleopas to familiarise himself with the NDC constitution before making assertions about the rights and responsibilities of the movement.

She said, “The OK Movement does not engage in such politics. We will not be dragged into a politics of personal insults, intimidation or defamatory exchanges. We will continue to educate rather than abuse. We will continue to defend the principles upon which this movement was established.

“The NDC national chairman is therefore called upon to withdraw the statements considered defamatory and to tender an immediate apology to the OK Movement and to our Director General, Hon. John Ughulu.”

The movement said it recognised the supremacy of political parties within their constitutional and statutory spheres and would campaign for Obi and Kwankwaso as well as NDC candidates that it resolves to support across the country.

However, the group insisted that such support did not make it a subordinate structure of the party.

“We will campaign for the presidential and vice-presidential candidates of the party. We will campaign for candidates of the NDC Party across the country where the movement has resolved to support them.

“But we do not require the personal validation or approval of any individual before exercising our legitimate organisational functions,” Sani said.

The post OK Movement Demands Apology From NDC, Rejects Intimidation appeared first on Information Nigeria.