The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has strongly urged the Bauchi State Government to establish a clear policy mandating six months of maternity leave for nursing mothers in paid employment. This appeal is intended to enhance exclusive breastfeeding practices, which UNICEF emphasizes are vital for ensuring the proper growth and development of infants. This call was made by Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, the Chief of Field Office for UNICEF in Bauchi, during a press briefing in celebration of World Breastfeeding Week 2025. Dr. Rafique highlighted the alarming number of malnourished children in the state, stressing that tackling malnutrition must begin with exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life. She warned that unless infants are breastfed adequately from birth, the cycle of malnutrition will persist. In her words, “Combating child malnutrition must start from the earliest days. Breastfeeding from birth, continued exclusively for six months, followed by adequate complementary feeding until 24 months, is the foundation of a child’s nutrition and survival.” Dr. Rafique stated that early initiation of breastfeeding, coupled with family and community support, plays a crucial role in preventing both acute and chronic malnutrition. She expressed concern over the widespread stunting and undernutrition among children in Bauchi due to poor feeding practices. “We face a dire nutrition crisis in Bauchi State. Over 50% of children suffer from malnourishment, and many experience stunted growth that could impact them for life,” she noted. She introduced the “1-6-24 formula” for optimal infant feeding: initiate breastfeeding within the first hour after birth to deliver vital antibodies, maintain exclusive breastfeeding for six months, and then continue with complementary feeding up to 24 months. “This information must reach every household. Mothers, grandmothers, and even community influencers must understand the importance of these early nutritional steps,” she added. According to LMSINT MEDIA, this year’s World Breastfeeding Week is centered on the theme: ‘System Support for the Woman’, highlighting the need for robust institutional and societal structures that empower mothers. Dr. Rafique emphasized that without sufficient support from families, trained healthcare workers, and governmental systems, it becomes difficult for nursing mothers to implement the best feeding practices for their babies. She pointed out that with the help of skilled birth attendants and qualified health professionals, mothers are better equipped to start breastfeeding right after childbirth and continue without unnecessary disruption. Also speaking at the event was UNICEF Nutrition Specialist, Philomina Irene, who fully endorsed the proposal for a six-month paid maternity leave, stating it would ease the physical and emotional demands on working mothers. Philomina disclosed a troubling statistic — only 20% of infants in Bauchi are exclusively breastfed, far below the standard recommended by global health authorities. She called for increased public awareness and better policies that encourage breastfeeding. She also tasked media professionals with the responsibility of educating the public about the long-term benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, while also advocating for breastfeeding-friendly environments in workplaces and public facilities. Adding to the conversation, Alhaji Abubakar Sale Sabo Bara, the State Nutrition Officer, reaffirmed the Bauchi State Government’s commitment to improving child nutrition through sustained behavioral change strategies. He explained that the Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Development Board is actively engaging with parents, religious leaders, and traditional authorities to increase awareness about the importance of breastfeeding. He concluded by asserting that promoting proper feeding practices remains one of the government’s top priorities and assured continued collaboration with stakeholders to support child health across the state.
The International Press Centre (IPC), through its Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) Hub, has strongly criticized what it termed the illegal closure of Badegi 90.1FM, a radio station based in Niger State. The closure, according to reports monitored by LMSINT MEDIA, was allegedly carried out under the directive of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago. The controversial decision reportedly stemmed from the outcome of an enlarged All Progressives Congress (APC) meeting held on Friday, August 1, during which Governor Bago is said to have ordered the station’s shutdown. This move followed Badegi FM’s broadcast of a programme that was perceived as critical of the state government, raising serious concerns over press suppression. In a strongly worded statement released over the weekend, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, the Executive Director of IPC, labeled the action as “an outright misuse of executive authority”, and described it as “a disgraceful show of disregard for journalistic institutions.” Arogundade added, “Even if—without admitting—that the radio station committed any professional error, the correct legal path would have been to file a formal complaint to the appropriate media regulatory agencies such as the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).” He went on to highlight the dangers of such actions, asserting that no democratic society should allow the silencing of media voices under any pretext. He warned that such behavior mirrors the oppressive tendencies of military dictatorships, where fear, threats, and media clampdowns were rampant. The IPC reiterated that only a court of law is empowered to rule on the legality or otherwise of any alleged media infraction, emphasizing the judiciary’s role in safeguarding freedom of expression. The centre also demanded the immediate and unconditional reopening of Badegi 90.1FM, cautioning all public figures against engaging in acts that threaten press freedom and constitutional rights. The IPC’s statement concluded: “This is a democratic nation where the freedom of expression, speech, and thought is enshrined in the Constitution. No official, regardless of rank, has the right to override these fundamental rights.”
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has clarified that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is unlikely to prolong the state of emergency in Rivers State, which was declared in recent months due to political unrest and the suspension of local government leadership. Wike made this known during his monthly press conference held in Abuja on Monday. He elaborated on the constitutional implications of the emergency declaration, especially concerning the scheduled local government elections in Rivers State, which are expected to take place on August 30, 2025. According to Wike, prolonging the emergency rule would not sit well with the people of Rivers, indicating that President Tinubu supports a swift return to democratic governance, particularly at the grassroots level. “From what I understand, the President does not wish to extend the emergency rule. In his wisdom, he introduced another regulation in July mandating that the local government elections must be conducted within 30 days,” Wike stated. He emphasized that this new directive from the President was aimed at restoring democratic structures in local councils as part of a broader peace initiative. Recall that President Tinubu had earlier imposed a six-month suspension on Governor Siminalayi Fubara, placing Rivers State under a temporary emergency administration. Wike questioned the sustainability of an emergency rule without an elected local government council: “If the elections are not held and the emergency continues, how will local governments gain access to their constitutionally allocated funds? The Supreme Court has ruled that governors cannot appoint caretaker committees. Without elections, and with no access to funds, are we not inviting another crisis?” He explained that the President’s directive for local elections is intended to eliminate the constitutional vacuum created by the emergency, ensuring that both the State Assembly and Governor can resume full responsibility after the rule is lifted. Wike further pointed out that failure to conduct the elections now would allow the incoming governor to issue a one-year notice, as mandated by the Supreme Court, before conducting new elections. This delay would also prevent the appointment of temporary administrative committees and freeze Federation Account access for local councils. “That would leave the local government structure in limbo. So the President’s regulation under the emergency law has allowed for modification of the 2022 Electoral Act, which is within his legal authority,” Wike emphasized. Addressing concerns that the local elections may be manipulated to favor his political loyalists, Wike dismissed such claims outright. “People keep talking about my loyalists. But who are they? It’s a shame that some people prefer television advocacy instead of taking legal action in court. When the emergency rule was declared, many said it was illegal. But how many actually filed lawsuits to challenge it?” He criticized political commentators for misinterpreting Supreme Court judgments and choosing to debate judicial matters on television instead of pursuing them in court. Wike recounted how his own legal team was responsible for the court action that resulted in a past ruling against a flawed election process. “After we secured the judgment, these same people went on air to insult the judiciary, accusing judges of bribery, rather than respecting the legal process.” The minister reiterated the necessity of legal modifications and emergency governance to allow for the smooth operation of local governments in the absence of elections. “Don’t forget, local government is the only tier of government without a consistent democratic structure due to these legal and political issues. The Supreme Court has ruled that without an elected local government in place, such councils cannot receive funds from the Federation Account, nor can governors legally install caretaker committees.” “Because of the emergency rule, the judgment was temporarily set aside, allowing for the appointment of sole administrators, ensuring that local governments were not starved of funds.” He concluded by emphasizing that the emergency rule was critical to maintain functionality in Rivers State’s local governance system during the crisis period. “Let’s be honest, without the President’s intervention and declaration of emergency rule, would any local government have access to funds today? Certainly not. The emergency became necessary and timely.”
In a decisive move to restore order on Lagos roads, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has begun an aggressive enforcement operation targeting event centres, nightclubs, lounges, and organisers of large social events that obstruct traffic and disrupt public order across the state. This directive was issued by the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, during a series of unscheduled surveillance exercises along traffic-prone zones in the Lagos metropolis. Road Obstruction by Events: A Growing Concern in Lagos The LASTMA chief expressed grave concern over the increasing trend of public road encroachment during social events, especially on weekends and festive periods. According to him, improper parking and crowd overflow onto public roadways are causing: “No one — regardless of their influence or status — is allowed to convert public roads into private parking spaces,” – Olalekan Bakare-Oki, LASTMA GM Government’s Position on Public Infrastructure Misuse The Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward the misuse of public infrastructure, particularly roadways. According to Mr. Bakare-Oki, any event venue — whether a nightclub, wedding hall, or lounge — found guilty of causing traffic disruption through illegal parking or road blockage will be sanctioned and possibly prosecuted under existing traffic laws. ✅ Related Post: Understanding Lagos Traffic Laws and penalties Immediate Actions Being Taken by LASTMA To ensure effective compliance, the LASTMA GM has directed all zonal commanders and field operatives to: Public Involvement and Reporting Channels Citizens are strongly encouraged to report any traffic obstruction caused by events via LASTMA’s toll-free emergency line. Community participation is key to ensuring a safe and accessible city for all road users. You can also find information on how to report via their official website. What Event Organizers Must Do Going Forward Event hosts and hospitality venue owners are advised to: This is not just a compliance issue, but a civic duty toward ensuring public safety and order in Lagos. A Shared Responsibility Bakare-Oki emphasized that managing traffic during events is a shared responsibility between organisers, venue owners, and state authorities. Ignoring traffic protocols during events reflects poor planning and disregard for public safety. “We must all work together. The streets of Lagos are not private spaces for events,” he concluded. Why This Matters to You Whether you’re an event organizer, a commuter, or a concerned Lagosian, understanding these new rules can help: Final Thoughts The ongoing crackdown by LASTMA is a timely intervention aimed at curbing urban chaos and improving the daily experiences of millions navigating Lagos roads. As public infrastructure continues to be overstretched, it’s crucial that every stakeholder does their part to support the vision of a more organized, mobile, and livable Lagos. If you found this update helpful, check out our Lagos Governance and Civic Compliance section for more actionable insights and updates.
In 2025, obtaining a United States visa appointment has become more competitive than ever due to skyrocketing demand and significant delays across most U.S. embassies and consulates. Whether your goal is to study in America, explore tourism opportunities, or pursue a new job in the U.S., locking down a prompt appointment slot can dramatically influence your travel timeline and visa approval process. If you’re currently navigating the complicated U.S. visa scheduling system, here are seven tried-and-true strategies—based on insights shared by Travelbiz—to help you get a US visa appointment faster in 2025. 1. Reserve Any Available Date Immediately After Fee Payment As soon as you complete your DS-160 form and pay the mandatory visa fee, do not hesitate to book the first available appointment—even if the date is months away. This proactive step ensures your application enters the queue and qualifies you for future rescheduling. Having a scheduled slot, no matter how distant, is far better than endlessly waiting for a preferred date that might never open. It gives you flexibility and a better chance of grabbing earlier dates if they become available later. 2. Leverage the Interview Waiver Program (Also Known as Dropbox) If you’re renewing a visa—especially in categories such as B1/B2 (Business/Tourist), F (Student), or H (Work)—you might be eligible for the Interview Waiver Program, popularly known as the “Dropbox” option. This special pathway lets you submit your documents without undergoing an in-person interview, which significantly reduces processing time. Always check the official U.S. visa website to confirm if you meet the eligibility requirements. 3. Refresh the Portal Frequently to Catch Cancellations Applicants sometimes cancel or reschedule their visa interviews, leading to unexpected availability. You can take advantage of this by checking the appointment scheduling portal multiple times a day, especially during odd hours—early mornings, late nights, or weekends. Persistence is critical. Several successful applicants have reported securing faster appointments just by consistently refreshing the page until a better date popped up. 4. Choose Less Busy Consulates for Shorter Wait Times Not all U.S. consulates have the same appointment delays. Opting for consulates in cities with lower demand—such as Hyderabad instead of Delhi or Mumbai—could significantly reduce your wait time. Before booking, compare processing timelines across different consulate locations on the U.S. Department of State’s official visa wait time page. 5. Apply for Expedited Appointment Slots If You Qualify In cases of legitimate emergencies—such as medical conditions, urgent academic deadlines, or a denied ESTA—you might qualify for an expedited visa interview. You must first book a regular appointment. Afterward, submit an expedited request via the official portal, along with the necessary documentation. Keep in mind that approval is solely at the discretion of the U.S. consulate and not guaranteed. 6. Stay Alert for Bulk Slot Releases by Embassies U.S. consulates often release large batches of appointment slots in advance of student travel seasons, holiday periods, or international events. Monitoring consulate websites and official social media accounts, such as Twitter or Facebook, will keep you informed. When such slot drops are announced, act quickly—these slots often fill within minutes. 7. Use Trusted Technology Tools—But Beware of Scams There are browser extensions and Telegram alert groups that can notify you when slots open. While these tools can be useful, be cautious—avoid giving out your login credentials or using bots that charge suspicious fees. Using unverified third-party agents can get your account locked or compromise your application. Instead, rely on reputable tech tools and updates from verified embassy sources or digital visa communities with a track record of reliability. By applying these seven strategic steps, you significantly improve your chances of getting a US visa appointment faster in 2025, even amidst high demand and systemic delays.
Newly appointed Manchester United head coach, Ruben Amorim, has issued a stern warning to his team, promising to expose and embarrass any player who fails to perform adequately during training sessions—right in front of the entire squad. The 40-year-old Portuguese tactician, who succeeded Erik ten Hag midway through last season, is now preparing for his first full campaign as manager of the Premier League giants. Amorim’s tenure began in November 2024, and he managed only seven wins out of the 27 matches he oversaw, marking a disappointing period for the club. Manchester United concluded the 2024/2025 English Premier League season in a dismal 15th position and were defeated by Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Europa League final, further compounding the woes of their loyal fan base. As part of a rebuilding strategy, Amorim has already made strategic moves to strengthen United’s attacking force. The Red Devils secured Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford, indicating the manager’s intent to transform the squad’s dynamics. Speaking during Manchester United’s pre-season tour in the United States, Amorim revealed his no-nonsense approach to discipline and training. He made it clear that the squad now functions under a new set of rules that every player must strictly adhere to. “Now they understand when I say something, I will do it,” Amorim said in a press briefing. “I don’t treat the players as babies. But they have rules now and that can change the way you train. I’m always on top. If you don’t train in the right way, I have footage to show you. And I show you in front of everybody.” This approach underscores Amorim’s commitment to building a disciplined, focused, and high-performance team culture. The manager is determined to raise the standards at Old Trafford and eliminate the complacency that many fans and pundits believe has plagued the club in recent years. By openly addressing performance lapses and enforcing accountability through visual evidence, Amorim is sending a strong message: professionalism and effort during training are non-negotiable under his leadership. The coming 2025/2026 season could mark a crucial turning point in Manchester United’s revival journey. With firm leadership, squad reinforcements, and a renewed tactical direction, supporters are hopeful for a fresh era of success.
Promise Awosanmi has officially completed a season-long loan switch to Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) club Shooting Stars, also known as the Oluyole Warriors. The forward, who made his name in the Nigeria National League (NNL), has moved from Sunshine Stars to bolster the attack of the Ibadan-based side ahead of the upcoming season. The deal, finalized ahead of the new NPFL campaign, sees Awosanmi temporarily leave Sunshine Stars, where he had established himself as a key figure in the club’s forward line. Last season, Awosanmi emerged as Sunshine Stars’ top scorer, finding the back of the net five times. His performance was instrumental in keeping the team competitive in the domestic league. The talented striker’s goal-scoring instincts and work rate made him a fan favorite at the Akure-based club. Since his promotion to the senior team, Promise Awosanmi has accumulated an impressive 62 appearances in the NPFL for the Owena Waves. His experience at the top level of Nigerian football is expected to be a vital asset for Shooting Stars as they look to challenge for a stronger finish this season. Awosanmi’s addition to Shooting Stars is part of the club’s broader recruitment strategy aimed at enhancing their squad depth and attacking options. His move is expected to bring energy, versatility, and a consistent goal threat to the team’s offensive play. As the new season draws near, Promise Awosanmi is widely expected to play a prominent role in the Ibadan club’s setup. Fans of the Oluyole Warriors will be looking forward to seeing how the striker adapts to his new environment and contributes to the team’s ambitions.
In a world where the lines between our digital and physical lives are increasingly blurred, a profound shift is taking place in how we design and experience workspaces. Gone are the days of lifeless cubicles, flickering fluorescent lights, and soul-draining grey walls. Today, a new concept is emerging—biophilic workspaces—where nature meets innovation, transforming how we feel, think, and work. What Are Biophilic Workspaces? The term “biophilia” refers to our innate human desire to connect with nature. Coined by biologist Edward O. Wilson, the idea suggests that people thrive in environments that reflect natural elements like greenery, natural light, water, and organic materials. Biophilic workspaces take this concept and blend it with smart technology, architecture, and design, creating office environments that promote wellbeing, creativity, and productivity. It’s not just about adding plants—it’s about designing immersive, responsive environments that stimulate the senses and support human health. Why Biophilic Design Matters in the Modern Workplace Modern work life has become increasingly sedentary, screen-heavy, and disconnected from the natural world. This has led to rising rates of: Biophilic design addresses these issues by mimicking nature to make workplaces feel more human, alive, and supportive of wellness. Key Benefits of Biophilic Workspaces: Core Elements of a Biophilic Workspace True biophilic design goes beyond potted plants. It weaves natural patterns, rhythms, and experiences into the very fabric of a workspace. 1. Natural Light Optimization Maximizing daylight exposure improves mood, energy, and sleep patterns. Smart lighting systems now adjust according to circadian rhythms, mimicking the rising and setting sun. 2. Indoor Plants and Living Walls Greenery purifies the air, absorbs sound, and provides a calming visual. Offices are now installing living walls (vertical gardens) to create striking natural focal points. 3. Natural Materials Wood, bamboo, clay, cork, and stone offer tactile richness and visual warmth. These materials also reduce the artificial, sterile feel common in traditional offices. 4. Water Features Soundscapes of flowing water add tranquility and reduce stress. Indoor fountains or digital simulations of water movement can enhance the calming environment. 5. Biomorphic Forms and Patterns Design elements that mimic nature’s geometry—like leaves, waves, or fractals—subconsciously create comfort and familiarity. 6. Multi-Sensory Experience Biophilic workspaces engage all senses—from natural aromas (e.g., essential oils) to soft nature sounds and textured surfaces. The Tech-Nature Balance: Smart Integration Biophilic design is not anti-technology—it’s tech-enhanced nature. The smartest workspaces of the future are not just green but also intelligent. Examples of Smart Biophilic Technology: Biophilic Workspaces Around the World: Real-World Examples ✅ Amazon Spheres, Seattle A stunning example of biophilic architecture, the Amazon Spheres house over 40,000 plants inside climate-controlled glass domes. Employees enjoy immersive greenery while collaborating and unwinding. ✅ Apple Park, Cupertino Apple’s headquarters is a 360-degree ring designed to blend with its natural surroundings, incorporating walking trails, fruit orchards, and expansive green spaces. ✅ Pasona Group, Tokyo This Japanese office features indoor rice paddies, vegetable gardens, and plant-covered walls—providing fresh food and a deeply relaxing atmosphere for staff. Challenges of Biophilic Design (and How to Overcome Them) While biophilic design is revolutionary, it does present practical challenges: How to Introduce Biophilic Elements to Your Workspace (Even on a Budget) You don’t need a million-dollar redesign to start integrating biophilic principles. Here’s how: The Future of Work is Human-Centric and Nature-Inspired As remote work, AI, and automation reshape industries, the human side of work must be reimagined. Biophilic workspaces represent a powerful response to this challenge, reminding us that technology should enhance—not replace—our connection to the natural world. By integrating nature with cutting-edge tools, we can build offices that heal, empower, and inspire. The future of work isn’t just more productive—it’s more alive.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it (Proverbs 8:11). Satan and his demons are very intelligent, but they’re not wise. There’s a huge difference between intelligence and wisdom. When you’re intelligent, you have a high-powered reasoning faculty. You’re smart. You can think in a flash; you’re calculative and analytical, and your brain works smart. But wisdom is different. Wisdom is a revelation; it’s got nothing to do with your brain. Wisdom is insight into reality. Being born again, Christ is your wisdom: “But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom…” (1 Corinthians 1:30). You don’t function with mere human intelligence but with divine wisdom. Intelligence, at its best, is grossly limited. 1 Corinthians 2:7-8 says, “But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.” Did you see that? Satan and his princes don’t know everything. They don’t know everything about you or your future. Satan may be able to observe and interpret patterns in human behaviour, but he doesn’t have insight into realities. He doesn’t possess the ability to foresee your every move unless you reveal it to him through your words or actions. By walking in divine wisdom, you can navigate your life in a way that blindsides Satan and his demons, keeping you secure and firmly rooted in God’s purpose. So, refuse to live by the intelligence, systems, structures, and economics of this world. Choose to walk in wisdom. Meditate on the Word and listen to the Holy Spirit within you, for the Word of God is the wisdom of God, and Christ is your wisdom. Hallelujah! PRAYERDear Father, thank you for granting me divine wisdom, insight into realities. I’m filled with the knowledge of your will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. I walk in victory and divine insight today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY:James 1:5If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. Colossians 1:9For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 1 Corinthians 2:6-8 NKJVHowever, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory, 8 which none of the rulers of this age knew; for had they known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanRomans 7:7-25 & Psalms 64-67 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 12:49-59 & Judges 9 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I live my days in health and prosperity. I do not suffer from headaches, colds, fevers, diabetes, stomach pain, or any such thing. The Holy Spirit in me keeps my spirit, soul, and body invigorated and ever alive. I have the life of God in its fullness. My life is sickness-proof, poverty-proof, and failure-proof. I’m full of joy, basking in the grace and glory of Christ. In Christ, I have everything that pertains to life and godliness. My body is perfected by the unfailing Word of God, and I flourish in health and strength today, like never before. Every fibre of my being is energized and infused with miracle -working power. I am seated with Christ, far above all principality, power, might, dominion and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come! I’m exalted with Him in glory; I know who I am: chosen, royal and peculiar! My life is the expression and manifestation of the glory and righteousness of Christ. Therefore, I am superhuman! I have the life of Christ at work in my spirit, soul, and body. God’s Word is the light of my life. No darkness, misery, infirmity, or pain is associated with me. I am strong in faith, giving glory to God at all times! No sickness, disease, or infirmity can thrive in my body because I am joined to the Lord, and I am one Spirit with Him. God loves me personally. I’m His peculiar treasure; my value to Him is the value of Jesus. I think, talk, walk, and live as someone special, for indeed I am someone special. I have the same life that Jesus has, in its fullness. My life is sickness-proof, disease-proof, poverty-proof and failure-proof. It’s a life of glory, victory, success and excellence. I’m strengthened and energized by the Holy Spirit who lives in me, and He’s made me an absolute victor. The power of the Holy Spirit touches everything in my body; thus, I am infused with divine strength. There is no situation I cannot change, for the inherent power to do exceeding abundantly above all that I could ask, think, or imagine is within me. I make the impossible happen, in Jesus’ name. Amen. Speak in tongues.
…Says move contradicts biblical doctrine, warns of deepening spiritual crisis ABUJA, Nigeria – The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has issued a stern rebuke against the recent appointment of Rt. Rev. Cherry Vann, a declared lesbian, as the new Archbishop of Wales. The Nigerian Anglican leadership labeled the development as a “major deviation from scriptural truth” and expressed grave concerns about the unity and doctrinal integrity of the global Anglican Church. In a formal statement released by the Primate, The Most Rev’d Henry Ndukuba, the Church described the election as a symbol of “spiritual corruption” and a departure from “the faith handed down to the saints.” This strong stance further highlights the widening rift within the Anglican Communion regarding theological beliefs, authority of scripture, and matters related to human sexuality. Archbishop Ndukuba cautioned that the appointment of Bishop Vann threatens the credibility and missionary effectiveness of the Anglican Church across the world. He drew a comparison to the earlier tenure of Most Rev. Katherine Jefferts Schori, the former Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church in the U.S. (2006–2015), who also drew sharp criticism from conservative circles due to her progressive stances. According to Ndukuba, Bishop Vann is now an active participant in the “crisis of doctrine” plaguing the Anglican Church regarding same-sex relationships. He cited 2 Timothy 4:3–4 to support his warning, saying the development reveals that “many self-identified Christians can no longer endure sound teachings.” He emphasized that if the Church in Wales fails to repent and realign itself with biblical truth, it faces the risk of becoming spiritually irrelevant. The statement urged believers across the Anglican world to dissociate from what the Nigerian Church referred to as “apostates and spiritual rebels” and to stand firm with conservative Anglican groups such as the Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON), which uphold traditional scriptural authority. “The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) categorically rejects and refuses to acknowledge the appointment of Rt. Rev. Cherry Vann as Archbishop of Wales,” Ndukuba asserted. He concluded by reaffirming faith in the authority of Christ over His Church: “We believe our Lord Jesus Christ will build His Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. We must keep these erring churches in our prayers, reminding them that genuine repentance and holiness are the only hope. Without this, the Church in Wales will lose all spiritual relevance, and compromised leaders will not escape divine judgment.”
Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has once again reiterated his firm commitment to serving only one term if elected as Nigeria’s president in the upcoming 2027 general elections. Speaking through a statement released on his verified X handle (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Obi declared that his four-year-only vow remains inviolable, emphasizing that it stems from a dedication to accountable and visionary leadership. “If I’m elected President, I will serve only one term of four years. This commitment is unshakable,” Obi stated firmly. Referencing Global Icons Who Served Brief, Impactful Terms To reinforce the depth of his pledge, Obi cited the examples of world-renowned historical leaders who made indelible impacts despite serving short terms. Among those mentioned were Abraham Lincoln, former President of the United States; John F. Kennedy, another notable American president; and Nelson Mandela, former South African president and global symbol of democratic transition. “Abraham Lincoln, one of America’s greatest Presidents, served for only four years, yet his legacy is immortal. Mandela, too, chose to serve a single term. His decision was intentional—an act of profound leadership,” Obi explained. Tackling Distrust in Nigeria’s Political Landscape Obi addressed the deep-rooted public skepticism that plagues Nigeria’s political system, noting that many citizens have lost trust in politicians and no longer believe in their words or promises. “Despite the cynicism that now defines Nigerian politics, there still exist individuals whose integrity is backed by actions, not just words. These are people whose public service history stands as proof,” he said. Responding to Criticism Over One-Term Promise Referring to recent backlash and sarcastic remarks questioning his sincerity, Obi recounted how two separate individuals dismissed his one-term vow. One allegedly claimed that even a sworn oath at a shrine wouldn’t be enough to convince them, while another went as far as to suggest that anyone pledging a single term should be mentally evaluated. Obi, however, stood his ground, pointing to his governance record in Anambra State as evidence of his consistency and credibility. “During my tenure as Governor of Anambra State, I made and kept several promises. I did not deviate. My word remains my bond,” he asserted. His Agenda for a One-Term Presidency Outlining his vision for Nigeria should he be elected in 2027, Obi listed core priority areas that include: “Forty-eight months is sufficient for any leader who is prepared and focused to make genuine, positive change,” Obi concluded confidently.
Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, has appealed to citizens across Nigeria—particularly those in the North—to support President Tinubu in continuing his current administration until its conclusion. The appeal comes as political conversations begin to intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections. Gbajabiamila made the statement during a strategic dialogue session organized by the Northern Caucus of the National Forum of Former Legislators, held on Saturday in Abuja. “President Tinubu is not just a leader of the South. He is a national figure who has demonstrated inclusive governance. From significant infrastructure projects to essential policy reforms, the North has been equally considered and is reaping the benefits of a government committed to fairness and national prosperity,” Gbajabiamila explained. He further emphasized the need to allow Tinubu to continue and complete the foundational reforms that have been introduced. “We are laying strong and lasting foundations today. It is only just and fair that the President be given the chance to complete what he has begun,” he added. Economic Backlash Amid Political Endorsement Gbajabiamila’s statement comes amid growing criticism surrounding the current economic climate under President Tinubu’s leadership. While he advocates for continuity in governance, discontent is escalating among citizens grappling with soaring inflation, food insecurity, and poverty. Dr. Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State and a senior member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), openly criticized the federal government over its economic mismanagement. In a viral video making rounds online, Fayemi stated: “Let’s not deceive ourselves; Nigerians are clearly dissatisfied with the Tinubu-led administration due to the persistent hunger and harsh economic conditions.” The root of the economic grievances can be traced to Tinubu’s removal of fuel subsidies and foreign exchange rate unification policy shortly after taking office in 2023. These decisions, while framed as reformative, have significantly contributed to: World Bank Flags Rising Poverty in Nigeria According to the World Bank’s Africa Pulse Report released in April 2025, Nigeria currently holds the highest number of people living in extreme poverty globally. The report warned that, if left unaddressed, millions more Nigerians may fall below the poverty line by 2027, directly challenging the promises of shared prosperity made by the Tinubu administration. Despite these challenges, Gbajabiamila remains confident in Tinubu’s leadership and vision. His endorsement highlights an ongoing political alignment within APC, though it stands in contrast to the deep economic dissatisfaction being voiced by citizens and even fellow party members.

