In a notable political realignment, former federal legislator Ben Murray-Bruce, who once represented Bayelsa East Senatorial District, has formally left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to embrace the All Progressives Congress (APC). His defection is seen as part of a broader trend of power shifting in Bayelsa State. In a statement personally signed and published on his Facebook page on Wednesday, Murray-Bruce declared his departure from the PDP and entrance into the ruling party. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, citing its bold reforms and direction for Nigeria’s future. Murray-Bruce said he has known Tinubu since 1998 and appealed to Nigerians to be patient with the “painful but necessary” steps being taken by the government, affirming that he is joining the APC “not for politics, but for progress.” He lauded the current government for its deregulation of the fuel sector, restructuring of the Central Bank, and infrastructure projects across roads, ports, housing, and airports. These, he argued, are the building blocks of Nigeria’s renewed growth and credibility. Murray-Bruce further emphasized that although reforms may inflict short-term hardships, they are essential for long-term prosperity. He concluded by predicting that Nigeria will record “phenomenal growth” if President Tinubu’s full eight-year vision is realized. His defection aligns with similar moves in the state. Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri has reportedly also resigned from the PDP.
Supporters of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, say that individuals who have accused him of undermining the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) are themselves now members of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Wike argues that rather than criticize, these people ought to recognize his efforts in facilitating the current administration under President Bola Tinubu. Wike claims that those who previously charged him with destabilizing the PDP have since jumped ship and joined the APC. He frames this transition not as betrayal, but as a confirmation of his earlier warnings, and an indication that his critics were less invested in the party’s welfare than in political opportunism. He further states that his work for the Tinubu government should be seen as clearing the path—ensuring a stability necessary for governance—despite claims to the contrary. To Wike, the critics’ defection to APC strengthens his contention that his actions were always aligned with what he sees as the inevitable political direction. There is deep frustration in PDP circles, according to Wike, because internal party agreements have been breached by certain governors and party stakeholders. He says that despite many years of loyalty — since the party’s early days in 1998 in his case — some leaders have followed ambitions rather than have adhered to collective decisions. He insists that his involvement with Tinubu’s camp does not represent disloyalty, but rather that the accusations leveled against him reflect the shifting allegiances in Nigerian politics.
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Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has reaffirmed his firm stance against negotiating with bandits who have been terrorizing certain areas of the state. The governor emphasized that his administration remains committed to restoring peace and security through proactive measures rather than entering into any form of dialogue or compromise with criminal elements. The Katsina State Governor made this declaration on Wednesday during the official inauguration of 100 newly recruited members of the Community Watch Corps (C-Watch), an initiative designed to enhance grassroots security across the state. According to Radda, the state government’s top priority is to secure lives and property by strengthening local intelligence networks and empowering security volunteers to collaborate effectively with law enforcement agencies. Speaking at the event, Governor Radda stated that while his administration is open to achieving peace through lawful and moral means, it will never succumb to the pressure of negotiating with those who have chosen to disrupt the lives of innocent citizens. He noted that engaging with bandits often emboldens them and prolongs the cycle of violence that has plagued rural communities in Katsina and other northern states. Radda further explained that the recruitment of 100 additional C-Watch officers was part of his broader strategy to complement the efforts of conventional security forces such as the police, army, and civil defense. He praised the existing corps for their dedication and urged the new recruits to discharge their duties with courage, integrity, and a deep sense of patriotism. He also assured citizens of Katsina that his administration will continue to provide the necessary support, logistics, and training to ensure that the Community Watch Corps operates efficiently and effectively. The governor emphasized that peace and stability can only be achieved when citizens and the government work hand in hand to combat insecurity from the grassroots level. Radda’s statement comes amid growing concerns over the persistence of bandit attacks in northwestern Nigeria, where villages and farming communities have suffered significant losses. The Katsina State Government, under his leadership, has launched several community-based initiatives to enhance surveillance, intelligence sharing, and rapid response to security threats. He urged the people of Katsina to remain vigilant, support security operations, and avoid giving in to fear or misinformation. Radda reiterated that the fight against insecurity is a collective effort that requires the active participation of every citizen to make Katsina State safe for all. For context, Katsina State has been one of the states severely affected by banditry and related crimes. However, recent efforts by the government to bolster local defense structures are gradually showing positive results, with reduced attacks in some regions. Governor Dikko Radda’s administration continues to prioritize rural security and youth empowerment programs aimed at addressing the root causes of insecurity, such as unemployment and poverty. His firm stance against negotiation with bandits reflects a commitment to upholding justice and ensuring lasting peace in the state.
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Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has formally withdrawn his membership from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His decision came with the support of 23 members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, signaling a major shift in the state’s political alignment. According to Arise TV, the governor, alongside the defected lawmakers, announced the move during a session at the Government House’s executive council chamber. The timing of Governor Diri’s exit is notable: it comes exactly 24 hours after Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, officially left the PDP to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). At the moment of the announcement, Diri did not publicly disclose the new party he would join, though multiple credible sources assert he is now defecting to the APC. Political Implications & Reactions This development marks another blow to the PDP’s hold in the South-South geopolitical zone. The defections of governors in Delta and Akwa Ibom earlier this year had already weakened the party’s regional strength. Within Bayelsa, some internal dissent emerged. A few assembly members were reported to have resisted the move, arguing that the timing may not be ideal. At the national level, Bode George, former PDP deputy national chairman, publicly criticized both Diri and Mbah, calling the defections “shameless” especially in a time when many Nigerians are facing hunger and economic hardships. For now, one of the key unanswered questions is how this will reshape the PDP Governors’ Forum and alter power dynamics across the federation. Background on Douye Diri Before becoming governor, Douye Diri served as Senator for Bayelsa Central from 2019 to 2020. He assumed the governorship on 14 February 2020 after a Supreme Court judgment invalidated the original election results on grounds relating to the qualifications of a running mate. Diri has since been a prominent PDP figure in the South. Over recent months, rumors of his possible defection had circulated, some of which he denied in earlier statements. Political pressure groups within Bayelsa had also publicly urged the governor to realign with the federal ruling party. Given this context, his exit from the PDP may not be entirely abrupt—but its timing, accompaniment by the legislative bloc, and regional implications make it a significant turning point. What Comes Next?
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Federal workers across Nigeria, operating under the umbrella of the Federal Workers Forum (FWF), have called on the Federal Government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to fulfill its promise by paying the pending three-month wage award owed to civil servants. In a statement officially signed by the National Coordinator of the Federal Workers Forum, Comrade Andrew Emelieze, the group expressed deep concern over the prolonged delay in the disbursement of these payments. The workers emphasized that despite multiple assurances from the government, their wage award arrears and promotion arrears remain unpaid, causing financial hardship and frustration among federal employees nationwide. According to the Forum, the delay has placed many civil servants under immense financial pressure, especially at a time when inflation and the rising cost of living have severely eroded purchasing power. The statement urged the Tinubu-led administration to demonstrate sincerity by promptly fulfilling its promise, ensuring that federal workers receive their deserved entitlements. The FWF further reminded the government that the three-month wage award was introduced to cushion the effects of the removal of fuel subsidies and other economic reforms that have impacted the livelihoods of Nigerian workers. However, the continuous delay in payment, they said, contradicts the spirit of the policy and undermines workers’ morale across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Comrade Emelieze also noted that the forum has been patient and understanding with the administration but warned that the patience of Nigerian workers is wearing thin. He stated that the Federal Workers Forum might be forced to consider stronger actions if the government continues to neglect their demands. The Forum’s statement concluded with an appeal to President Tinubu to prioritize the welfare of federal workers, adding that fulfilling these obligations will not only restore trust but also strengthen industrial harmony across the country.
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Nigeria’s inflation rate has continued its downward trend for the sixth consecutive month, reflecting a steady improvement in the country’s economic indicators. According to recent data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the headline inflation rate dropped to 18.02% in September 2025, compared to 20.12% recorded in August 2025. This consistent decline signals positive progress in Nigeria’s fight against rising prices of goods and services, marking the longest stretch of disinflation since early 2021. Economic analysts attribute this reduction to improved agricultural output, stronger naira performance, and government fiscal policies aimed at stabilizing the economy. Experts also believe that sustained monetary tightening by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), alongside improved foreign exchange inflows, may have contributed to easing inflationary pressures across major sectors, particularly in food and transportation. However, despite the decline, the inflation rate still remains a key concern for households as living costs continue to rise faster than wage growth. Economists urge the government to maintain strategic policies that strengthen domestic production and reduce dependency on imports to ensure long-term price stability.
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Imagine turning a neglected corner behind your house, a shaded alleyway, or an old metal drum into a thriving patch of edible mushrooms. That’s the essence of guerrilla mushroom farming in small spaces — an unorthodox yet deeply rewarding approach to growing edible fungi in forgotten or under-utilised locations. It combines creativity, resourcefulness and fungal biology to unlock a food-production potential lurking in urban and suburban crevices. In this detailed, step-by-step article I’ll walk you through everything: why this works, where you can do it, what materials you’ll need, how to select species and substrates, how to maintain your mini-farm, and how to harvest and maybe even scale it. You’ll also find best-practice tips, caveats, and some real-life inspiration. Let’s dig in. 1. Why Guerrilla Mushroom Farming Makes Sense 1.1 Space Efficiency & Low Footprint Mushrooms don’t need hectares of land or bright sunshine. Many edible fungi thrive in dark, cool, humid spaces and feed on organic material rather than photosynthesis. For example, an urban agricultural factsheet from Cornell University explains that mushrooms “can consume organic wastes often abundant in urban areas such as coffee, sawdust, woodchips, compost” and can grow in small, indoor/outdoor niches.So, converting a forgotten space — under stairs, a shaded corner of a compound, even a repurposed barrel — becomes realistic. 1.2 Utilising Waste Materials & Forgotten Resources Many substrates suitable for edible fungi are by-products or waste materials: coffee grounds, straw, sawdust, woodchips, old logs. Urban mushroom-farm case studies highlight this: one city farm used spent coffee grounds from cafés and turned them into oyster mushrooms in containers.By tapping into these overlooked resources you reduce cost, reuse materials, and create a circular system in your micro-space. 1.3 Rapid Cycles & High Yield in Small Area Mushrooms often fruit quickly if conditions are right. Some species can be ready to harvest in just a few weeks after colonisation. For urban growers this means you can get edible yield without waiting months for seasonal crops. 1.4 Market & Food Security Benefits Especially in a place like Nigeria: fresh produce, local supply, lower transport cost, value add. You could grow mushrooms for yourself (improving nutrition) or for micro-selling (extra income). With your background in online selling, lighting products etc, you might find fungi farming a complementary side-business. 1.5 Hidden Potential in Forgotten Spaces Think of basement corners, under stair‐cases, abandoned sheds, backyards with Shade, garages, unused containers: These “forgotten spaces” often have the consistent humidity and darkness mushrooms love. With minimal conversion you can turn them into productive growing zones. 2. Key Considerations Before You Start 2.1 Selecting the Right Space 2.2 Choosing Fungi Species For guerrilla / small-space set-ups choose species that are: easy to grow, tolerant of simple conditions, high demand. Some good ones: 2.3 Substrates / Materials Choose what’s locally available: coffee grounds, straw, bagasse, woodchips, logs, sawdust. 2.4 Setup & Hygiene Mushrooms are sensitive to contamination (moulds, bacteria). Even in guerrilla settings you need basic cleanliness: disinfect tools, use fresh spawn, avoid contaminated substrate. Maintain good humidity, monitor for mold or unwanted growth. 2.5 Legal / Environmental / Safety Considerations 3. Step-by-Step Guide to Guerrilla Mushroom Farming 3.1 Preparation & Planning Step A: Choose your spot.E.g., a shaded backyard corner, an old wooden shed with roof, under stairs in a compound, a stack of wood in shade. Make sure you can maintain moisture and access it. Step B: Source substrate & spawn. Step C: Clean & set up space. 3.2 Inoculation / Colonisation If using logs: If using bags or buckets (for small spaces): 3.3 Fruiting & Maintenance Once colonised: 3.4 Harvesting 3.5 Post-Harvest & Substrate Reuse 4. Real-Life Examples & Inspiration Here are some inspiring real cases of this concept in action: 6 These examples reinforce that you don’t need large farmland — just creativity, good materials and consistent effort. 5. Troubleshooting & Tips for Success Common Mistakes & How to Fix Key Tips 6. Specifics for Nigeria / West Africa Context Given you’re based in Lagos, Nigeria — here are tailored considerations: 7. Why This Can Be a Smart Side-Business or Add-on Given your profile: you already sell products online in Nigeria, you have a blog, you know how to run Facebook/Instagram ads for other businesses — mushroom farming in a small scale could be another product line with low land cost, potentially high yield, niche value. 8. Recap: Step-by-Step Checklist 9. Final Thoughts Guerrilla mushroom farming in small and forgotten spaces is not only a smart way to grow food in minimal footprint, but also an exciting, almost rebellious slice of urban agriculture. It taps into wasted spaces, reused materials, and the invisible potential of fungi to transform matter. For someone with your digital presence and entrepreneurial drive, this project could be both personally rewarding and commercially fruitful. Start small, learn, document each step on your blog (which also helps with SEO and building your authority in this niche). Over time, you may scale up into larger operations, or carve out a new business line around fresh local mushrooms.
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In a rapidly urbanizing world, where space and freshwater resources are becoming increasingly scarce, innovative agricultural systems are redefining how we grow food. One of the most groundbreaking solutions transforming cityscapes is the Floating Urban Garden, powered by rainwater collection and hydroponic farming technology. This system is not only eco-friendly but also a sustainable solution for food security in flood-prone and water-stressed regions. The Concept Behind Floating Urban Gardens Floating urban gardens are man-made platforms that rest on water bodies such as lakes, rivers, or reservoirs. They are designed to cultivate crops hydroponically—that is, without soil—by using nutrient-rich rainwater as the growth medium. Unlike traditional soil-based farming, hydroponics uses water infused with essential minerals that plants need for growth. By integrating rainwater harvesting systems, these floating farms create a closed-loop ecosystem, reducing dependence on municipal water and increasing resilience against droughts and climate variability. Reference: According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), hydroponics can use up to 90% less water than conventional farming systems How Rainwater Collection Powers Hydroponic Systems Rainwater harvesting is at the core of this innovative farming technique. The process involves collecting and storing rainfall from rooftops, greenhouse coverings, or the floating structures themselves. Here’s how it works: This eco-smart integration ensures that even in dense urban environments, food can be produced efficiently with minimal resource waste. Reference: Learn more about rainwater harvesting standards from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at Why Cities Are Turning to Floating Hydroponics Urban areas face challenges like land scarcity, water pollution, and rising temperatures. Floating hydroponic farms address these issues through adaptable design and sustainable performance: 1. Maximizing Space in Crowded Cities Floating platforms transform unused or polluted waterways into productive zones. Cities such as Bangkok, Lagos, and Rotterdam are experimenting with floating farms that produce vegetables, herbs, and fruits right in the heart of urban centers. 2. Climate-Resilient Agriculture With climate change intensifying floods and droughts, floating gardens are designed to rise and fall with changing water levels, making them flood-resilient and adaptable. 3. Eco-friendly Food Production Hydroponic systems drastically reduce the use of pesticides and herbicides. Combined with rainwater harvesting, they create zero-waste, carbon-light food systems that help reduce the urban heat island effect. 4. Boosting Urban Food Security These systems enable cities to grow local produce, cutting down on long-distance food transportation and improving urban food independence. Reference: The World Bank highlights that urban agriculture could feed up to 20% of the world’s population by 2050 if supported with technologies like hydroponics and aquaponics (source). Technological Innovations Driving Floating Gardens Modern floating farms integrate IoT (Internet of Things) and AI-driven monitoring tools to track water quality, nutrient balance, and plant health in real time.Drones and smart sensors analyze growth rates and automate the nutrient delivery process, ensuring high yields with minimal human effort. Cities like Singapore and Amsterdam are already investing in smart floating farms that use solar panels to power hydroponic systems sustainably. Case Study: The Floating Farm in Rotterdam One of the world’s most successful examples is the Floating Farm Rotterdam in the Netherlands.This pioneering initiative operates on the city’s harbor, using rainwater collection, solar energy, and circular farming methods to produce fresh food for local communities. It’s a living example of how innovation, sustainability, and urban design can harmonize to solve global food challenges. The Future of Floating Urban Farming Floating hydroponic gardens could soon become essential parts of climate-smart cities. As urban planners and environmental engineers explore modular farming systems, these gardens offer a promising vision where: By combining rainwater harvesting with hydroponic technology, we are not just creating gardens—we are building floating ecosystems of the future. Conclusion Floating urban gardens that use rainwater collection for hydroponic farming represent the next frontier in urban agriculture. They combine innovation, sustainability, and environmental stewardship into a model that cities around the world can adopt. From enhancing food security to reducing water wastage, these floating ecosystems hold the power to transform urban living into a green revolution—one drop of rain at a time.
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The Hidden World Beneath Our Feet Have you ever imagined turning your basement or an unused tunnel into a lush green paradise? Welcome to underground gardening, a revolutionary approach that transforms dark, neglected spaces into thriving ecosystems. As the world faces rising temperatures and shrinking urban spaces, more gardeners are discovering how to grow thriving plants in basements and tunnels — using innovative lighting, temperature control, and hydroponic systems. This concept isn’t just fascinating — it’s the future of sustainable living. Let’s dive deep into the world of underground gardening and explore how you can cultivate a flourishing garden even without sunlight. 1. Understanding the Concept of Underground Gardening Underground gardening involves cultivating plants below the earth’s surface, often in basements, tunnels, or underground bunkers. The main goal is to create a controlled environment where light, air, and water are optimized to support plant growth. This method is inspired by hydroponic and aeroponic farming systems — agricultural technologies that allow plants to grow without soil, using nutrient-rich water instead. According to a study by National Geographic, hydroponic systems reduce water usage by up to 90% compared to traditional farming, making underground gardening both efficient and eco-friendly. By mimicking natural sunlight with LED grow lights and controlling humidity levels, underground gardeners can grow vegetables, herbs, and even fruits all year round. 2. Why Choose Underground Gardening? If you’re short on outdoor space or want to cultivate crops regardless of the weather, underground gardening offers multiple benefits: Tip: Start small by setting up a test garden in your basement using microgreens or herbs like basil, parsley, and mint — which adapt easily to low-light environments. 3. Key Requirements for an Underground Garden To successfully grow plants underground, you’ll need to replicate the natural conditions of outdoor growth: a. Lighting Plants require light for photosynthesis, so LED grow lights are essential. Choose full-spectrum LEDs that mimic sunlight wavelengths — ideal for all growth stages.For reference, red and blue lights encourage leaf and stem development, while white light supports balanced growth. b. Ventilation and Air Circulation Since underground spaces lack natural airflow, use exhaust fans, air purifiers, and vents to prevent mold growth and maintain oxygen flow. Fresh air circulation keeps plants strong and prevents diseases. c. Temperature and Humidity Keep the temperature between 18°C – 25°C (64°F – 77°F) and humidity levels around 50–70%, depending on your plant type. You can install a simple thermostat or humidity sensor for automatic regulation. d. Nutrient-Rich Medium Instead of soil, use hydroponic systems or nutrient-rich substrates like coco peat or perlite. These alternatives retain moisture while allowing roots to breathe. e. Power Source LED lights and water pumps require power — so ensure you have a reliable power backup or consider renewable energy options like solar panels for sustainability. 4. Plants That Thrive Underground Not all plants are suitable for underground gardening. Here are some that perform exceptionally well in controlled, low-light environments: For instance, urban farmers in London have successfully cultivated greens beneath the city streets through the Growing Underground Project, which uses advanced hydroponic technology to supply fresh produce to restaurants and supermarkets. 5. How to Start Your Underground Garden Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you start: 6. Overcoming Challenges in Underground Gardening While underground gardening offers immense potential, it does come with challenges like: By addressing these challenges strategically, you can build a highly productive and eco-friendly underground garden that runs efficiently year-round. Conclusion: The Future of Urban Farming Lies Underground As cities expand and arable land decreases, underground gardening stands out as an innovative and sustainable solution. With the right tools and knowledge, anyone can grow nutritious food from the comfort of their basement. Whether you’re a hobbyist or an aspiring urban farmer, underground gardening allows you to take control of your food supply — and perhaps even turn it into a profitable venture.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ (Colossians 3:23–24). A lot of people allow themselves to be distracted. They get caught up in the busyness of life, petty worries, and worldly pursuits. Before they realize it, they’ve veered off course from God’s divine purpose. Distractions can cause you to lose sight of what truly matters. They pull you away from your God-given assignment. So, stay alert and refuse to be distracted. God has planned a specific work for you to do. There’s a divine assignment with your name on it. If you neglect it, you will have to give account to Him. So stay focused on your purpose. The Lord Jesus said, “…My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work” (John 4:34). “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work” (John 9:4). Are you about the Father’s work? Is it your goal to finish your assignment, to fulfil your ministry in the Gospel? The Apostle Paul had the same mindset as the Lord Jesus; he refused every form of distraction and stayed focused on His assignment. In Philippians 3:13-14, he said, “…this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” In Hebrews 12:1, he gave an important admonition which, apparently, was a hallmark of his own life. He said, “…let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.” At the end, he said, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). That’s what truly matters. Be mindful of your divine purpose and responsibilities. Be faithful and diligent in the things God has asked you to do. We have a clear mandate to complete the full preaching of the Gospel to the whole world. You have a role in this. Set your eyes on the goal, run your race with perseverance and finish your course with joy. Praise God! PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the divine assignment you’ve given me. I refuse to be distracted by people, situations, or circumstances. I focus my heart and energy on fulfilling your purpose for my life. I run my race with determination and finish my course with joy, bringing glory to your Name, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY2 Timothy 4:7 KJVI have fought a good fight, I have finished [my] course, I have kept the faith: Acts 20:24 KJVBut none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. John 17:4 KJVI have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading Plan1 Thessalonians 5:1-28 & Isaiah 61-63 2-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 6:1-14 & 1 Kings 22 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I thank You, precious Father, for loving me, blessing me, and increasing my greatness on every side. You delight in me and take pleasure in my prosperity. I am preferred for promotion, opportunities, favour, and advantage. I have favour with God and with men. I am blessed in my going out and in my coming in. I’m blessed in my body, mind, and spirit, and everything connected to me bears fruit abundantly. The Lord my God orchestrates all things in my favour, causing me to walk continually in super-abundance. He liberally supplies all my needs and multiplies my resources a thousand times and more. The grace for quickness and speed is at work in me. My thoughts, plans, and initiatives are productive and prosperous. My gates are open continually, bringing in the wealth of the nations. I am loaded with good things, and my life is like a city set on a hill that cannot be hidden. I am visible, well-positioned, and the Spirit of God is amplifying my voice around the world. I can never be small because the anointing of God’s Spirit has set me apart for greatness, causing me to spread and make indescribable progress. I am vibrant and full of divine health every day, all year round. My strength is renewed daily like the eagle’s. I dwell in the zone of agelessness, deathlessness, and wantlessness. God’s divine nature has complete dominion over my spirit, soul, and body. I refuse to allow any sickness, lack, or failure to take root in me or affect anything that concerns me. Every day of my life is full of God’s glory, beauty, excellence, and grace. My life is for the glory of God, and I manifest His goodness, wisdom, and righteousness everywhere I go. Christ is my life—His peace, joy, and glory are expressed through me. I am superior to sickness and death because the divine life of God flows in every fibre of my being. The Lord is my refuge and my fortress. I am shielded and protected from every evil. My prosperity, greatness, and flourishing know no end. I have unlimited access to inexhaustible riches; the law of multiplication is working in me, and nothing diminishes in my hands. I make progress by the Spirit, and my prosperity is from glory to glory, in Jesus’ name. Amen. Speak in tongues.
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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has sounded the alarm on the growing incidence of illicit financial flows (IFFs) from Nigeria, warning that the phenomenon is intensifying the revenue shortfall the country already faces. At the ongoing 2025 Annual Meetings in Washington D.C., IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva reaffirmed the institution’s heightened focus on tracking these invisible flows, in an effort to halt fiscal leakages and bolster sustainable growth. Georgieva explained that for nations such as Nigeria, the IMF’s renewed emphasis on tracing illicit financial flows “could provide a blueprint for plugging the fiscal leakages that have long undermined revenue generation and sustainable growth”. She emphasized that IFFs are no longer a marginal or technical concern but a central threat: they include stolen public funds, proceeds from crime, and untraceable digital transactions, all of which are eroding governance, draining public resources and weakening development efforts—especially in developing economies like Nigeria’s. In response, the IMF has taken several strategic steps: the institution has embedded anti-money-laundering and combating financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) measures more deeply into its monitoring and consultation frameworks; it now treats tracing illicit flows as a core part of its annual Article IV consultations; and it is offering technical assistance and training to member countries to strengthen detection and response capabilities. Moreover, Nigeria’s economic prospects were revised upwards by the IMF: the country’s 2025 growth forecast was upgraded to 3.9 per cent, underpinned by stronger domestic fundamentals and improving investor sentiment — though the IMF cautioned that revenue mobilization remains vulnerable if the IFFs issue is not addressed. Why this matters Illicit financial flows represent a “silent” drain on a country like Nigeria in several ways: Given that Nigeria is seeking to deepen reforms, attract investment, and boost growth, tackling IFFs is not just a compliance matter—it is a strategic imperative. What can be done? To address this challenge, several interlinked steps emerge: Implications for Nigeria’s revenue and economy By failing to curb illicit financial flows, Nigeria risks eroding its revenue base even as economic growth ticks upward. The earlier the country plugs these leakages, the more it can harness its growth for public investment and development. Without action, the growth forecast may be undermined by persistent fiscal holes. And with inflation still elevated and the global economy weakening (the IMF’s global growth forecast was downgraded to 2.8 per cent) Nigeria needs to shore up its fundamentals and governance if it is to deliver on its potential. The bottom-line The message from the IMF is clear: growth alone will not solve Nigeria’s challenges unless it is supported by credible revenue mobilisation, strong governance and vigilance against illicit financial flows. For Nigeria to fully benefit from its growth opportunities, it must turn the spotlight on the hidden leaks in its fiscal system, adopt modern oversight tools and strengthen institutional integrity.
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The Super Eagles of Nigeria will have to exercise a bit more patience before discovering who they’ll face in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoffs. The final list of opponents will only be confirmed after the next FIFA rankings update, which will determine the official seedings for the playoffs. Nigeria’s national team earned their playoff spot in style after securing an emphatic 4–0 victory over the Benin Republic, solidifying their position among the four best runners-up in Africa. This remarkable win showcased the Super Eagles’ determination to return to the global stage after narrowly missing out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. According to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the playoff phase will consist of two crucial semi-final clashes scheduled to take place on November 13, 2025, followed by the decisive final match on November 16, 2025, in Morocco. These games will determine which African teams secure the last available qualification slots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. What the Super Eagles Need to Know As the playoffs approach, the Super Eagles coaching crew is expected to continue scouting potential opponents while refining their tactical approach. The FIFA rankings will play a vital role in shaping the playoff fixtures, as teams with higher rankings will likely face supposedly weaker sides in the semi-final round. With CAF’s new playoff format, the stakes have never been higher. Nigeria’s solid attacking performance, midfield control, and defensive discipline will be key elements if they hope to progress to the global tournament. Recent Performance and Expectations Nigeria’s current squad, boasting top players competing in elite European leagues, has reignited hope among fans across the country. The comprehensive victory against Benin Republic has sent a strong message to their continental rivals. Analysts believe that if the team maintains this level of form, qualification for the 2026 World Cup is highly achievable. The Super Eagles have a rich history at the World Cup, having appeared in six editions since 1994. Supporters are eager to see them return to the tournament stronger than ever, especially given the growing competition among African teams such as Senegal, Morocco, and Egypt. For now, all eyes remain on the upcoming FIFA rankings, which will officially determine Nigeria’s opponents in the decisive playoff stage.
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As the October international break concludes, the excitement around the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to grow, with 28 nations already securing their places in the prestigious tournament. The next edition of the World Cup, which will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in football history. These three host nations were automatically granted qualification, giving them the privilege to focus on preparation rather than qualification rounds. However, beyond the hosts, 25 other national teams have officially booked their tickets for the global competition — including three debutant nations that will be making their first-ever appearance on football’s grandest stage: Cape Verde, Jordan, and Uzbekistan. ? List of 28 Qualified Countries for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Below is the complete list of countries that have secured their qualification so far: These nations have demonstrated strength, consistency, and resilience throughout their qualification campaigns. The emergence of debutants like Uzbekistan, Jordan, and Cape Verde showcases the global growth of football, especially in regions where the sport continues to expand in talent and recognition. ⚽ About the 2026 FIFA World Cup The 2026 World Cup will be the first edition to feature 48 teams, expanding from the traditional 32-team format. This change allows more nations across various confederations to participate, creating greater diversity and competitiveness. According to FIFA, the tournament will also be hosted across multiple cities in North America, offering fans a unique experience of football culture combined with modern stadium infrastructure and global tourism appeal. What to Expect Football fans around the world can expect thrilling matches, rising stars, and surprising performances. The inclusion of debutant nations adds unpredictability and excitement, signaling a shift in global football power. As preparations intensify, the world now watches closely to see which remaining nations will join the list before the final qualifying rounds conclude in 2025.
