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UCL: Harry Kane Describes Chelsea’s Palmer Goal Against Bayern Munich as ‘A Shame’

Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has expressed disappointment over the goal his team conceded against Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League clash on Wednesday night, describing it as “a shame.” The high-intensity game at the Allianz Arena saw Bayern Munich take an early advantage. England international Kane opened the scoring, followed by an unfortunate own goal from Chelsea defender Trevor Chalobah, giving the hosts a commanding 2-0 lead in the first half. However, Chelsea’s young star Cole Palmer responded quickly, finding the back of the net to reduce the deficit. Despite the setback, Bayern Munich kept pushing forward with strong momentum. Kane later doubled his tally, sealing his brace and extending Bayern’s lead in the second half. Reflecting on the match during his post-game interview, Harry Kane praised his team’s overall display but admitted frustration at conceding immediately after going two goals ahead. “A top performance. They are a really good team. We said before the game that we’re playing against the Club World Cup champions. We had to be on it from the start, which we were. We started really well and went 2-0 up. It’s a shame we conceded straight after that, but we had the better chances in the second half,” Kane said. The forward emphasized Bayern Munich’s preparedness for the clash, acknowledging Chelsea’s strength and determination. The match not only highlighted Kane’s striking brilliance but also reinforced the competitive nature of the UEFA Champions League, where momentum can swing within minutes. This encounter adds another chapter to Harry Kane’s impressive performances since joining Bayern Munich. While Palmer’s goal temporarily shifted the mood, the Bavarian giants managed to maintain control and secure a significant result on their home turf.

Rivers State Emergency Rule: Atiku, Adeyanju, and Others Criticize Tinubu and Wike After Fubara’s Reinstatement

The decision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reinstate Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has sparked heated reactions from political leaders, human rights activists, and legal practitioners across Nigeria. On March 18, 2025, President Tinubu imposed a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. During this period, Tinubu appointed retired military officer Ibok Ibas as the sole administrator of the state. However, in a national broadcast on September 17, 2025, Tinubu lifted the emergency and reinstated all suspended officials. He declared: “It therefore gives me great pleasure to declare that the emergency in Rivers State of Nigeria shall end with effect from midnight today. Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and Speaker Martins Amaewhule with other Assembly members will resume work in their respective offices from September 18, 2025.” This reinstatement has drawn mixed reactions from stakeholders across the country. Wike Praises Tinubu’s Move as a Commitment to Democracy The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, lauded President Tinubu for restoring democratic governance in Rivers State. According to Wike, the president’s intervention reflects his dedication to peace, stability, and democratic values. Through his aide, Lere Olayinka, Wike noted that Tinubu’s decision restored the confidence of Rivers people in his leadership. He urged political stakeholders to work together for the collective progress of the state, cautioning fifth columnists and political opportunists against destabilizing the peace. “From Rivers State going forward, the only news that will emanate will be that of peace, progress, and development,” Wike assured. Atiku’s Camp Condemns Tinubu: “This is an Assault on Democracy” Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, through his media aide Paul Ibe, strongly criticized Tinubu’s suspension of Fubara, describing it as illegal and unconstitutional. Ibe argued that the president lacked the authority to suspend a democratically elected governor, adding that the action was part of a larger plot to weaken the opposition and force political alignment with the All Progressives Congress (APC). “The president does not have that power and should not have arrogated it to himself. What he did was unconstitutional, and reinstating the governor does not change the illegality,” Ibe stated. He further alleged that Tinubu’s administration is systematically shrinking Nigeria’s democratic space, using state institutions to suppress dissent. Human Rights Lawyer: “Fubara Has Been Neutralized” Legal activist Maduabuchi Idam described the suspension and reinstatement of Fubara as a calculated political move to weaken the Rivers governor. According to Idam, Tinubu’s decision exposed dictatorial tendencies, as the president failed to address the real reasons behind the declaration of the emergency rule. “Fubara has been decimated and neutralized. He is now a puppet of the powers that control him. A local government chairman may even wield more influence,” Idam argued. The lawyer added that Fubara should have rejected his reinstatement to preserve his integrity and uphold democratic principles. Adeyanju: “Tinubu Has Dragged Nigeria Back to the Military Era” Prominent activist Deji Adeyanju also condemned Tinubu’s suspension of Fubara, calling it a dangerous precedent that undermines democracy. Adeyanju argued that Tinubu, once a leading voice against military dictatorship, has ironically adopted the same authoritarian style he fought against. “This is a sad throwback to military rule. The judiciary and opposition parties failed Nigerians by allowing this illegality to stand,” he lamented. Adeyanju also criticized the judiciary for failing to act decisively, insisting that the courts should have nullified the suspension immediately to protect Nigeria’s democracy. CUPP Welcomes Reinstatement but Condemns Emergency Rule The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) welcomed the end of the emergency but described its declaration as an unconstitutional overreach. CUPP maintained that suspending an elected governor, deputy governor, and state assembly members over political disagreements was a direct assault on democracy. According to the group, democracy can only thrive when the will of the people and the independence of institutions are respected. Conclusion The reinstatement of Governor Sim Fubara has further exposed the deep political divides within Nigeria. While some see Tinubu’s decision as a step toward peace, others describe it as evidence of authoritarian governance. The controversy surrounding Rivers State is a reminder of the fragile state of Nigeria’s democracy and the urgent need for stronger institutions to protect the people’s mandate.

Rising Tensions in Yola as Adamawa Government Pulls Down Over 2,000 Illegal Shops in Jimeta Market

The demolition exercise carried out by the Adamawa State Government at the Jimeta Ultra-Modern Market in Yola has sparked widespread tension and mixed reactions among traders and residents of the area. The action, which commenced on Tuesday, was a direct implementation of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s directive. The directive, contained in an official letter dated September 12, 2025, was issued by the Adamawa State Urban and Regional Planning Development Authority (ASUPDA). Authorities explained that several traders had erected unauthorized “temporary shops” within the market, blocking access roads, creating congestion, and distorting the approved master plan of the ultra-modern market. During the demolition, many traders and customers were seen expressing visible distress. While some residents commended the initiative, others condemned it, leaving opinions sharply divided. Traders Decry Harsh Impact Some traders such as Abubakar Sa’ad and Salomi Charles strongly criticized the government’s action. According to them, the demolition was carried out without granting them sufficient time to secure alternative spaces for their businesses. They stressed that the move came at a period when most Nigerians are already struggling with the economic downturn. They described the government’s decision as “harsh and inconsiderate” and appealed for intervention, urging the administration to provide alternative trading spaces for displaced shop owners. Government Defends the Action Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry, Dr. Ishaya John Dabari, defended the demolition exercise. He explained that the enforcement was necessary to restore the market’s original structural design and ensure sanity within the commercial hub. Dabari emphasized that only traders who illegally constructed shops outside the master plan were affected. He added that no form of compensation was offered, as the shops were erected illegally. However, he admitted that both the government and traders had suffered short-term revenue losses due to the operation. “Although there is an immediate loss of revenue for both parties, the demolition exercise will help restore order and ultimately boost sustainable revenue generation in the long run,” Dabari stated. Over 2,000 Shops Demolished Also weighing in, the Chairman of the Restoration Committee and Director of the State Urban and Regional Planning Board, T.P. John Zutuwa, disclosed that more than 2,000 illegal shops and structures had already been demolished at the market, with additional structures yet to be removed. He firmly stressed that: “All developments not in line with the approved master plan must go.” The development continues to generate heated debates in Yola, with displaced traders demanding urgent intervention, while the government insists that the exercise is critical to bringing back order and ensuring the structural integrity of the Jimeta Ultra-Modern Market.

BBNajia 10: Tracy Explains Why She Rejected Kuture’s Proposal

Former Big Brother Naija Season 10 housemate, Tracy Ekwe, has opened up on why she declined fellow contestant Kuture’s romantic advances during their time in the house. In her post-eviction interview with Classic FM Lagos, Tracy revealed that although Kuture wanted their friendship to evolve into a deeper relationship, she did not feel comfortable taking things further because their personalities were not a match. According to her, while Kuture is energetic and outspoken, she does not see him as her ideal partner. Tracy emphasized that her decision was not about dislike but rather incompatibility. “Kuture is my friend, but he wanted more than that. I couldn’t go further because he isn’t the type of person I connect with on that level. He’s great in his own way, but we are very different,” Tracy explained. She went on to highlight that part of Kuture’s charm in the house came from his lively and talkative nature, which she described as “being a parrot.” Tracy believed that this quality made him likable to the viewers. “There are things about him I wasn’t okay with, but I didn’t want to change him because that’s part of what makes him stand out. People love him for being a parrot. If he became quiet, he might have been evicted earlier. But as for me, I knew he wasn’t my type, and our personalities just don’t blend,” she added. Tracy’s candid explanation gives fans deeper insight into her choices inside the BBNaija 10 house, showing that compatibility matters more to her than fan expectations or housemate pressure.

How My Song Helped a Patient in Psychiatric Care Overcome Depression – Vector

Nigerian rapper and songwriter, Vector Tha Viper, has shared a powerful testimony about the impact of his music. According to him, his collaboration with Goodgirl LA on the track “Early Momo” played a major role in helping a patient in a psychiatric home recover from depression. The “King Kong” crooner revealed this during a conversation on the recent episode of The Honest Bunch Podcast, where he emphasized the true essence of music and its ability to heal beyond commercial recognition. Vector explained that, for him, musical success is not defined only by chart positions or streaming numbers but also by the real-life changes it inspires in listeners. He described how his conscious music often aligns with people’s emotions during difficult times. “I can tell when people are experiencing struggles because certain tracks resurface heavily on streams. For instance, when my record with Seyi Vibez, ‘Mercy’, starts trending, it’s a signal that many listeners are dealing with deep thoughts and overthinking. That’s what music should represent – a companion for every phase of life,” he said. Vector further narrated how “Early Momo” unexpectedly brought hope to a psychiatric patient battling depression. “I dropped Early Momo, and later received a message from a psychiatric home explaining how the song played a role in someone’s recovery from depression. That’s a huge moment of success in another person’s life, even though I never set out with that intention. Success has different meanings, and this is one of them,” he explained. This heartfelt revelation highlights the transformative role of conscious music in mental health awareness. While many artistes pursue charts and awards, Vector insists that creating music that touches lives remains one of the most meaningful achievements an artiste can experience. For more Nigerian entertainment news, check out our article on how Burna Boy redefined Afrobeat with global influence.

Davido to Perform at Coachella for the First Time in 2026

Nigerian Afrobeats sensation David Adeleke, widely recognized by his stage name Davido, is officially set to grace the stage of the prestigious Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival for the very first time in 2026. The much-anticipated announcement came after the festival organizers revealed the official line-up of performers. Among the global superstars listed, Davido stood out as the only Nigerian artist scheduled to perform at the highly celebrated event. The multi-award-winning singer, best known for hits such as “With Me”, shared the exciting news that he will perform on April 11 and April 18, 2026, at the iconic Empire Polo Club located in Indio, California. Fans worldwide are already looking forward to seeing him bring his unique Afrobeats rhythms and electrifying stage presence to one of the world’s largest music festivals. While Davido’s inclusion has sparked excitement, the 2026 Coachella will also feature powerhouse headliners such as Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and Karol G. Other notable performers in the line-up include Young Thug, Major Lazer, Swae Lee, Teddy Swims, Giveon, and Central Cee, all of whom are expected to add extra energy to the international festival. According to LMSINT MEDIA, Davido’s upcoming appearance adds to the growing list of Nigerian stars who have showcased their talents at Coachella over the years. Icons like Seun Kuti, Burna Boy, Mr Eazi, Tems, Wizkid, and CKay have all previously delivered memorable performances on the global stage, solidifying Afrobeats’ dominance in international music culture. Davido’s Coachella debut is another testament to how Nigerian music continues to break boundaries, placing Africa firmly on the global entertainment map. With Afrobeats now influencing mainstream pop culture worldwide, his performance is expected to be one of the highlights of the 2026 festival.

Alleged $4 Billion Refinery Scandal: Lawyers and Activists Accuse EFCC of Concealment

A coalition of civil rights advocates and legal professionals on Wednesday took their protest to the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja over the controversial $4 billion refinery rehabilitation scandal linked to the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari. The demonstrators, operating under the platform of the Concerned Lawyers and Citizens Network (CLCN), openly accused the anti-graft commission of orchestrating a cover-up. They condemned the alleged diversion of $4 billion meant for refinery rehabilitation, describing it as an act of “economic treason” that sabotages Nigeria’s national growth and long-term development. Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Barrister Theophilus Ojonugwa stressed that what transpired was far beyond a financial crime. According to him, it represents “a direct assault on human dignity and a deliberate setback to the nation’s progress.” He emphasized that the scandal has forced Nigeria to remain heavily dependent on imported petroleum products, worsening the burden on ordinary citizens. The activists highlighted that the alleged misused funds could have transformed critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and employment generation. They linked the missing billions to unconstructed schools, unequipped hospitals, and countless job opportunities denied to Nigerian youths. To them, the scandal represents a betrayal of intergenerational trust and a deliberate obstruction of Nigeria’s future. In a strongly worded statement, the CLCN criticized the EFCC for what it called a “romance with corruption” and selective justice. They noted that while young Nigerians face severe punishments for minor infractions, high-profile corruption cases are often handled with leniency. “Justice must remain blind and uncompromising,” Ojonugwa declared. “If the $4 billion refinery rehabilitation scandal is treated with kid gloves, Nigeria will be further seen as a haven for looters and economic saboteurs.” The group demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of those implicated in the scandal. They also called for the confiscation of all properties and assets connected to the misappropriated funds. In their view, only bold and transparent actions can restore confidence in Nigeria’s anti-corruption system. Furthermore, the Concerned Lawyers and Citizens Network urged the EFCC to commission an independent forensic audit to be carried out by internationally recognized firms. This, they believe, is the only way to guarantee transparency and credibility in unraveling the scandal. Turning to President Bola Tinubu, the group reminded him of his anti-corruption campaign promises. They challenged him to make this scandal a defining “watershed moment” in Nigeria’s war against impunity and graft. “If this $4 billion had been used as intended, Nigeria would not still be grappling with refining shortfalls today,” Ojonugwa lamented. “The tragedy lies not only in the looted funds but also in the continued cycle of energy poverty.” The lawyers and civil rights campaigners insisted that Nigerians are closely monitoring the EFCC’s response. They warned that the public will hold the anti-graft agency accountable for either taking decisive action or enabling impunity to thrive. “The future of Nigeria depends on the courage of its people,” Ojonugwa concluded, urging citizens to remain steadfast, reject silence, and continue demanding justice until transparency and accountability are upheld.

Insecurity: Civil Society Petitions US, UK, Demands Travel Ban on Zamfara Governor

A Nigerian civil society group, Concerned Citizens of Nigeria (CCN), has raised strong objections against Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, by petitioning the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK) governments to impose a travel ban on him. The organisation accused the governor of failing to end terrorism and persistent banditry in Zamfara, despite openly admitting he possesses credible intelligence on the activities and hideouts of armed groups in the state. CCN’s Petition Against Governor Dauda Lawal The petition, signed on September 16, 2025, by Dr. Emmanuel Agabi, Executive Secretary of CCN, alleged that the governor’s refusal to take decisive action has worsened insecurity, leaving innocent civilians at the mercy of violent attacks. According to the group, the failure of Governor Lawal to act demonstrates incompetence and incapacity to lead. They insisted that if he cannot address the ongoing bloodshed, he should resign from office immediately. Call for Travel Ban and Asset Freeze In its petition, CCN went further by demanding that all assets linked to the Zamfara governor in the United States and United Kingdom be frozen. The organisation stressed that effective sanctions would hold Governor Lawal accountable and send a clear message to leaders across the globe who condone or collaborate with terrorists. The petition partly read: “If Governor Dauda Lawal has an iota of shame and truly feels powerless, then honor should compel him to step down. What relevance does a leader hold when his legacy is built on incompetence?” The group also reminded the US that it has previously sanctioned leaders from Asia, Africa, and Latin America for similar complicity with terrorism, and failure to act on Lawal would devalue the lives of Nigerian citizens. Extension of Sanctions Beyond the US and UK CCN further urged the European Union and the Commonwealth to impose corresponding sanctions. They argued that democratic nations must not provide safe havens for leaders suspected of enabling terrorists or failing to combat insecurity. According to the group, the requested sanctions do not violate Nigeria’s sovereignty but rather reflect the sovereign rights of other nations to determine who is welcome within their borders. Allegations of Complicity in Terrorism The petition alleged that Governor Lawal’s own statements incriminate him. CCN stressed that his acknowledgment of knowing the locations, families, and leaders of terrorists, yet choosing inaction, amounts to confession of complicity. “Your Excellency, this case is not fabricated. It is Governor Dauda Lawal’s own testimony against himself. He admitted to knowing the bandits and their whereabouts, yet refused to act while lives continue to be lost. This is complicity and an admission of guilt.” Call to Action from the International Community The group urged the US government and its allies to treat the matter as urgent, stressing that silence would embolden other leaders to manipulate terrorism as a political tool. The petition concluded by appealing for justice on behalf of widows, orphans, and displaced persons across Zamfara, insisting that Governor Lawal should be declared persona non grata: “For the widows of Zamfara, the orphans in refugee camps, and the moral integrity of democracy, we urge you to act. Let Dauda Lawal be declared unwelcome in the free world. His name should serve as a deterrent to any leader seeking to use terrorism for personal or political gain.”

Jigawa Government Endorses N85 Billion Supplementary Budget Proposal for 2025

The Jigawa State Executive Council, led by His Excellency Malam Umar A. Namadi, FCA, has officially approved a supplementary budget worth ₦85 billion for the 2025 fiscal year. This major decision was revealed by the State Commissioner of Information, Youth, Sports, and Culture, Hon. Sagir Musa Ahmad, during a media briefing after the council meeting held on Tuesday. According to the commissioner, the supplementary appropriation was endorsed to strengthen both the state government and the 27 Local Government Councils. The move reflects a strategic approach to respond to pressing financial demands and ensure that critical sectors receive adequate funding. Breakdown of the Supplementary Budget Hon. Sagir explained that the ₦85 billion supplementary budget was divided as follows: These funds cover both recurrent and capital expenditures, highlighting the government’s commitment to balanced spending across all levels. Purpose of the Budget Approval The commissioner emphasized that the supplementary budget was necessitated by additional revenue inflows. The extra funds will be directed toward tackling urgent state challenges while accelerating sustainable development initiatives. He stressed that the new allocation is designed to support ongoing and new projects in vital areas, including: Next Steps in the Process Hon. Sagir Musa Ahmad further disclosed that the supplementary budget proposal will be formally presented to the Jigawa State House of Assembly for legislative debate, scrutiny, and approval. This step ensures compliance with constitutional provisions and established budgetary processes. The approval of the supplementary budget underscores the administration’s determination to drive progress, enhance service delivery, and align with the state’s long-term development plan.

Why Governor Otu Removed Clan Head – Official Statement

The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has officially deposed Ntufam Linus Effiong Oben Tabi from his role as the village head of Mbot Akpa and Ekinta Clan, located in Akamkpa Local Government Area. According to the governor’s Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs, Otuekong Francis Edet, the decision was taken after a thorough review revealed that the traditional leader was involved in impersonation and obtaining recognition through misleading claims. Findings from Chieftaincy Affairs Investigation A detailed investigation conducted by the Department of Chieftaincy Affairs confirmed that Tabi secured a certificate of recognition for Mbot Akpa village. However, Mbot Akpa was not included under the Cross River State Edict No. 1 (Clan Creation) of 1996, raising serious concerns about the legitimacy of his claims. The official decertification letter also pointed out that Mbot Akpa is essentially the same as Esuk Effiom Iyaweh in Iko Eneyo Clan, Akpabuyo Local Government Area. Authorities concluded that this was a calculated attempt by Tabi to create legitimacy through deceptive means. Dual Leadership Across Two Local Government Areas Further findings uncovered that Ntufam Tabi was simultaneously occupying leadership positions in two separate clans located in different LGAs. Opponents described this as unlawful and destabilizing, insisting that such actions undermine community harmony and traditional authority structures. Petition by Traditional Rulers The disciplinary action came after a petition submitted by five traditional rulers under the Ekonganaku Traditional Rulers Council. The petition demanded his removal in order to restore peace, order, and respect for cultural institutions within the affected communities. Government’s Position Confirming the development, Special Adviser Francis Edet stated that the Cross River State Government would not tolerate misconduct from any traditional authority. He emphasized that peace, stability, and respect for the law must guide the recognition of all traditional rulers across the state. Reaction of the Dethroned Monarch When approached, the dethroned clan head, Ntufam Linus Effiong Oben Tabi, explained that he had not yet been served with an official notice of removal. In his words: “I have nothing to say for now because I am yet to be served. Once I am served, if the law says it’s right, no problem. If it says it’s wrong, I will know what to do.”

Abia Government Joins Federal Efforts Against Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons

The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s ongoing campaign against the spread of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria. Governor Alex Otti emphasized this position while hosting a delegation led by Captain Chris Anusiem, the newly appointed South East Zonal Director of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), during their courtesy visit to his office. Governor Otti noted that the disturbing rise in crimes across the country is largely fueled by the unchecked circulation of illicit weapons. He pointed out that almost every violent act is executed with light arms, stressing the urgent need for collaborative measures to reduce such threats. “Virtually, all the crimes you see around are committed with light weapons and small arms.If we don’t eliminate them, or at least reduce them to the barest minimum, then we cannot have peace,” the Governor said. Security Commitment in Abia State Otti highlighted that his administration is actively working with relevant security agencies to ensure that criminals escaping from neighboring states do not find refuge in Abia. He assured that strategies are in place to reinforce security and maintain law and order across the state. The Governor also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for establishing the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons. He appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing DIG Johnson Babatunde Kukum, his close associate, as the Director General of the Centre. According to Otti, the appointment is a positive step, and he expressed confidence in Kukum’s ability to deliver excellent results. Familiarization Visit by NCCSALW In his remarks, Captain Chris Anusiem explained that his visit was part of a familiarization tour following his posting to Enugu to head the South East Zonal office of NCCSALW. He praised Governor Otti’s administration for its effective peace-keeping efforts in Abia State. Anusiem further reiterated that the vision of the National Centre is to promote an illicit arms-free society, aligning with global security best practices. According to him, reducing the proliferation of illegal arms is key to ensuring lasting peace and sustainable development in Nigeria. This collaboration between Abia State and the Federal Government represents a critical step in addressing insecurity, fostering community safety, and creating an environment that supports peace and progress.

Christian Youths Call on Governor Bago to Revoke “Anti-Religious and Retrogressive” Law

The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) has issued a strong appeal to the Governor of Niger State, Umar Bago, demanding the immediate withdrawal of a controversial policy that requires preachers to present their sermons to the government for approval before public delivery. In a detailed statement signed by the Convener, James Paul Adama, the CCYF described the law as oppressive, retrogressive, and a direct violation of fundamental human rights. According to the group, such a policy is not only unconstitutional but also dangerous for democracy and peaceful coexistence in the state. The Constitutional and Human Rights Argument The CCYF emphasized that the policy represents a form of religious censorship and violates Sections 38 and 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, which safeguard the rights to freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and expression. The group further highlighted international legal instruments that protect religious freedom, including: These international charters collectively affirm that individuals must have the right to freely practice and express their faith without government interference. Call to Address Poverty and Insecurity Instead The Christian youth body urged the Niger State government to redirect its attention toward addressing the pressing socio-economic challenges plaguing the state. They pointed out that Niger State has one of the highest poverty levels in Nigeria, with more than 64 percent of its population living below the poverty line. Rather than drafting laws that restrict religious expression, the group advised the government to concentrate on: A Stand for Responsible Preaching, Not Censorship The CCYF clarified that it remains firmly opposed to reckless, divisive, or inciteful preaching. However, they maintained that subjecting sermons to government approval is unjustifiable, discriminatory, and a threat to social harmony. They described the law as “obnoxious” and warned that implementing it would undermine religious freedom, further polarize communities, and damage the image of the state. Final Appeal to Governor Bago In conclusion, the Christian youth group urged Governor Umar Bago to reconsider and discard the policy immediately in the spirit of peace, justice, fairness, and adherence to both constitutional and international human rights provisions. They emphasized that good governance should focus on empowering citizens and building stronger institutions, not stifling religious liberty.

Dangote Reveals: Our Truck Drivers Earn Four Times the Minimum Wage, More Than Graduates

The President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has disclosed that truck drivers working for the company are earning salaries far higher than the Nigerian national minimum wage. Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, Dangote highlighted that their drivers not only receive competitive pay but also earn more than many university graduates in the country. He emphasized that joining the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) remains a voluntary choice, stressing that their new transport initiatives are designed to create more opportunities rather than eliminate existing jobs. According to Dangote: “The introduction of our trucks has not taken away anyone’s source of livelihood. There have been speculations about possible job losses, but let’s be clear—our tankers will not be driven by robots. Each truck accommodates around six individuals, which means the new trucks we are rolling out will generate about 24,000 jobs.” He further revealed the incentives provided for drivers, noting that after five years of accident-free service, they qualify to apply for housing loans, adding another layer of benefit to their employment package. Dangote added: “The salaries we pay our drivers are almost three to four times higher than what others in similar roles earn. If you carefully evaluate their monthly income, it is nearly four times the national minimum wage. This puts our drivers ahead of many graduates in terms of financial earnings.” This statement reinforces the Dangote Group’s position on creating sustainable jobs, offering attractive pay structures, and improving employee welfare in Nigeria’s logistics and petroleum distribution sectors.