The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), under the strategic leadership of Commandant General, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has officially broadened its mining sector enforcement operations. In a decisive move to intensify the fight against illegal mining across the country, the Corps has decentralized its approach and dispatched specially trained Mining Marshals across seven distinct operational zones in Nigeria. This significant announcement was conveyed by CSC Babawale Afolabi, the National Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC Headquarters in Abuja, through an official statement. Afolabi emphasized that the initiative is designed to fortify enforcement measures within the solid minerals sector while significantly boosting the Corps’ presence across all regions of the country. “In alignment with this strategic initiative, the Corps has commissioned a fleet of ten (10) operational vehicles tailored for rough terrains and swift mobilization. These vehicles are equipped to facilitate surveillance, intelligence-driven patrols, and tactical enforcement operations aimed directly at disrupting illegal mining activities across Nigeria,” the statement detailed. During the official commissioning event held at the NSCDC National Headquarters, Abuja, Professor Audi characterized the decentralization strategy as a bold and transformative operational reform. He asserted that the move is specifically designed to bring enforcement mechanisms closer to critical mining hotspots identified nationwide, thereby empowering regional response teams for enhanced operational efficiency. “By deploying Mining Marshals across all seven operational zones, we are elevating our capacity to decisively tackle illegal mining operations. These dedicated officers are not only trained but also well-equipped to engage in a manner that is both professional and lawful, ensuring the protection of Nigeria’s solid mineral resources from the grip of economic saboteurs,” said Professor Audi. The Commandant General further articulated that this strategic effort is in direct alignment with the Federal Government’s economic diversification policy. Additionally, it upholds the NSCDC’s statutory mandate to protect critical national assets and infrastructure, reflecting a robust commitment to safeguarding the country’s mineral wealth against exploitation by unauthorized operators.
Abubakar Malami, the former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, has strongly defended the tenure of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, asserting that corruption did not flourish during his administration. Speaking during an appearance on Arise TV on Tuesday night, Malami emphasized that the Buhari-led government was unwavering in its fight against corruption. He maintained that the administration remained steadfast in its anti-corruption stance, leading to numerous convictions, especially in cases involving high-profile individuals. In Malami’s words: “During the period of President Muhammadu Buhari, corruption was not thriving at all. If you talk of convictions associated with high-profile corruption cases, the government recorded convictions in thousands.” Highlighting the administration’s achievements, Malami disclosed that the government successfully recovered approximately $2 billion in looted funds within Buhari’s time in office. He further emphasized the significant policy reforms introduced under Buhari, particularly the Single Treasury Account (STA) initiative. According to Malami, the STA helped establish comprehensive transparency and accountability across the financial operations of the government. “He brought about the Single Treasury Account, which created a governance-wide visibility associated with funding the finances of the government,” Malami affirmed. Malami’s remarks reflect a consistent defense of Buhari’s anti-corruption legacy, especially amidst widespread debates over the true extent of corruption during his administration.
The burial of Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari took place in Daura, Katsina State, marking the end of an era in Nigerian politics. The ceremony, witnessed by national and international dignitaries, signified not just a personal loss for many but also a political vacuum within the All Progressives Congress (APC). Buhari’s dual legacy as both military Head of State and later a democratically elected president under the APC is now a historical chapter. While tributes continue to pour in, the APC, under President Bola Tinubu, faces the daunting task of navigating the 2027 general elections without Buhari’s significant political influence. Simultaneously, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is positioning itself as a formidable force through a coalition led by notable figures including Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, Nasir El-Rufai, and Peter Obi. This opposition coalition is determined to dethrone Tinubu’s presidency in 2027. Historically, Buhari contested five presidential elections between 2003 and 2019, losing thrice before clinching victories in 2015 and 2019. In each contest, he consistently amassed approximately 12 million votes, a testament to his entrenched support base. Political analysts predict that Buhari’s absence will erode the APC’s dominance, given that he served as the party’s political anchor. Wahab Owokoniran, an APC chieftain and Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University of Transportation in Daura, acknowledged this imminent challenge. However, he expressed confidence in Tinubu’s strategic prowess, citing his nearly four decades of political bridge-building across Nigeria. During a Channels Television broadcast covering Buhari’s burial, Owokoniran remarked that although the APC might experience some losses, it would also gain new alliances, thereby maintaining its electoral strength. He emphasized that while Buhari’s political shoes are enormous to fill, nature abhors a vacuum, hinting that another influential northern leader could emerge to fill the gap. Supporting this perspective, Salihu Lukman, a member of the ADC coalition and former APC stalwart, stressed the need for northern politicians to adopt humility and direct engagement with citizens. Speaking on Channels Television’s “Politics Today,” Lukman pointed out that Buhari’s popularity, especially in the north, was pivotal in forming the APC merger and securing electoral victories. He criticized the complacency of politicians who relied solely on Buhari’s endorsements instead of genuine voter engagement. Public Affairs Analyst Nduka Odo from Peaceland University, Enugu, highlighted the potential downfall of the APC with key figures like Atiku, Amaechi, and El-Rufai now in the ADC. Odo contended that the APC’s internal fractures, exacerbated by past betrayals and unresolved grievances, have weakened the party’s cohesion. Odo noted that Buhari’s alliance with Tinubu, which brought together CPC, ACN, and factions of the newPDP to form APC, is now a shadow of its former self. The CPC and newPDP contingents have largely migrated to the ADC, leaving Tinubu to rely on his ACN roots. Odo warned that sustaining the legacy of Buhari’s political followership posthumously is fraught with challenges, notably the economic hardships Buhari’s administration inflicted on millions of Nigerians. The disenchantment among Buharists, worsened by Tinubu’s policies, threatens APC’s future electoral prospects. Additionally, Odo pointed to the jostling among northern political elites like El-Rufai and Atiku to become the region’s new political torchbearers. Complicating matters further, speculations abound that Vice President Shettima is being marginalized within the presidency, with rumors suggesting Tinubu might replace him ahead of the 2027 elections. The discord was evident during the APC North East convention, where Shettima’s sidelining was fiercely opposed. Moreover, Odo disputed the notion that Buhari’s consistent 12 million votes were solely his doing, attributing his victories to strategic alliances rather than personal popularity alone. The controversy deepened when Bayo Onanuga released a video crediting Tinubu and the ACN for Buhari’s presidential success, coinciding with Buhari’s burial day, sparking further debates about APC’s internal dynamics. In conclusion, the APC’s path to the 2027 elections is riddled with uncertainties. Unless deftly managed, Buhari’s demise could significantly diminish the party’s influence, creating an opening for the ADC coalition to capitalize on. READ ALSO:
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God (Mark 15:39). The death of Jesus was extraordinary and filled with supernatural events that also confirmed His deity. After being falsely accused, arrested, and crucified, Jesus hung on the Cross while the chief priests, scribes, and elders mocked Him (Matthew 27:42-43). Even the two thieves crucified alongside Him joined in the mockery (Matthew 27:44, Mark 15:32). Then, from the sixth hour (noon) to the ninth hour (3 p.m.), darkness covered the whole earth. This supernatural darkness lasted for three hours, signifying something beyond the natural realm. At about the ninth hour, Jesus cried out with a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” which means, “…My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). This was the moment when the sins of the whole world were laid upon Jesus. The Father, who is too holy to behold sin (Habakkuk 1:13), turned His back, and Jesus, who had never been separated from the Father, cried out in anguish. This separation was the cup Jesus prayed about in the Garden of Gethsemane when He said, “…O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me…” (Matthew 26:39). It was not death He dreaded but separation from the Father, which was a result of Him becoming sin for humanity. The Bible says, “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him” (2 Corinthians 5:21). Then, with a loud voice, He said, “…Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit…” (Luke 23:46). Jesus commanded His own death. He consciously and deliberately handed over His spirit to the Father. Jesus had earlier declared, “Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again…I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again…” (John 10:17-18). When Jesus yielded up the ghost, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom, signifying the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, granting us access to the Father’s presence. Even the centurion overseeing the crucifixion, upon witnessing how Jesus died, declared, “…Truly this man was the Son of God” (Mark 15:39). The manner of His death testified of His divinity. Jesus’ death was no ordinary death. It was the ultimate sacrifice that brought salvation to all mankind. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the death of Jesus whose blood was the propitiation for sins. I rejoice in the finished work of Christ, knowing that He laid down His life for me and took it up again in victory. I live triumphantly, enjoying the benefits of His sacrificial love, now and always. Amen. FURTHER STUDYJohn 10:17-18Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. 18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father. Luke 23:46-49And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost. 47 Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man. 48 And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned. 49 And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things. Matthew 27:50-54Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. 51 And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; 52 And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, 53 And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many. 54 Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 24:1-27 & Psalms 1-6 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 9:10-17 & Joshua 12 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I am empowered me to do great wonders and miracles and to effect positive changes in my world and in my health, family, and finances. I enjoy God’s boundless grace; it is at work in me continuously. No weapon of evil, disease, sickness, or death fashioned against me can prosper because I am favored and graced. Poverty isn’t a part of my life, for I’m an heir of God; therefore, the silver is mine, and the gold is mine; the world belongs to me. The ability of God is at work in me today, and I’m conscious of it! I don’t function in my own ability or strength, for God’s inherent ability is in me. The joy of the Lord is my strength. I will never be weak. I recognize and affirm who the Lord has made me to be. I am one spirit with the Lord; therefore, Satan and his minions have no right to run rampage or perpetrate evil in my life or my environment. I refuse every symptom of sickness or disease from my body. I rejoice because the Lord Jesus has overcome this world for me. Divine life is working in my body! From the crown of my head to the soles of my feet, my entire being is energized by the Holy Spirit who lives in me and invigorates me through and through. Everything connected
Renowned Nigerian actress and celebrated media personality, Lolo 1, has officially introduced her new romantic partner to the public. On Tuesday, the charismatic entertainer proudly showcased her lover, who has been identified as Emmanuel Lawrence, by sharing a heartfelt birthday tribute on her verified Instagram account. This affectionate revelation by the actress has caught the attention of fans and the general public, particularly because it comes just four months after Emmanuel Lawrence publicly celebrated Lolo 1 during International Women’s Day.At the time, Lawrence had taken to his Instagram handle to honor the vibrant actress, posting: “Happy International Women’s Day my lady. Thank you for always being a good woman.” In response to his affectionate message, Lolo 1 affectionately replied in the comment section with: “Mine. Thank you for being so dependable.” Their public exchange of warm messages months ago had already triggered curiosity and speculation among netizens about the nature of their relationship. However, with her recent birthday post dedicated to Lawrence, Lolo 1 has put all rumors to rest by making their relationship public. In her latest post, the 48-year-old actress posted cozy and romantic photos of herself and Emmanuel Lawrence, clearly showing the bond they share. She fondly referred to him as her “sweet gentleman,” further expressing admiration by writing: “Happy birthday to my sweet gentleman. A complex beautiful piece of God’s unique creation.” This open declaration of affection has sparked numerous reactions across social media platforms, with many fans expressing joy for the beloved media figure. It is worth recalling that barely seven months ago, Lolo 1 candidly revealed that she was single and ready to explore new relationships, preferably with a younger man. She made this disclosure during an interview, where she humorously expressed her openness to dating someone who is younger, as long as they possess maturity and respect. Now, with this new development, it seems that Lolo 1 has finally found companionship in Emmanuel Lawrence, much to the delight of her supporters and admirers.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has shared a significant conversation he once had with the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, reflecting on Nigeria’s challenging fuel subsidy policy and its removal under the current administration led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Governor Radda recounted that during a private discussion with Buhari, the former leader openly expressed sympathy for Tinubu, describing him as “brave” for daring to eliminate the longstanding fuel subsidy. Buhari reportedly told Radda that he pitied President Tinubu for boldly taking such a politically risky step, a move he personally found difficult to implement while in office. Buhari’s Words on Tinubu’s Bold Decision Speaking to a group of journalists during the funeral events in Daura, the governor narrated the exact words Buhari used: “Let me use his words: ‘I pity Bola (President Tinubu) for what he is doing. He is a brave man for removing the fuel subsidy.When I was president, whenever I made an attempt to remove the subsidy, a lot of people would give me too many reasons not to do so.But Bola did it immediately. If he had consulted people, he could not have removed the fuel subsidy now.’” This statement highlights the deeply entrenched challenges and political sensitivities surrounding the removal of the fuel subsidy in Nigeria, a policy that has long drained the country’s financial resources yet remained a volatile issue among the populace. Buhari’s Passing Leaves a Leadership Vacuum Governor Radda also lamented that Buhari’s death has left a significant vacuum in Nigerian leadership, particularly within the northern political landscape and the All Progressives Congress (APC). The late president, who passed away on Sunday in a London medical facility at the age of 82, was laid to rest on Tuesday in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, amidst full military honours. His burial was attended by top political figures, dignitaries, and leaders from across Nigeria who came to pay their last respects. Buhari’s influence in shaping Nigeria’s political discourse, especially on national economic policies like fuel subsidy and governance reforms, remains undeniable. The Impact of Fuel Subsidy Removal on Nigeria’s Economy President Tinubu’s removal of the fuel subsidy has stirred both commendations and criticisms nationwide. While some experts and international observers, such as the World Bank, have applauded the policy as necessary for economic recovery and fiscal balance (World Bank Analysis), many Nigerians continue to face the harsh economic realities that followed the decision. The subsidy removal is projected to save Nigeria billions of dollars annually, funds which the government claims will be redirected towards infrastructure, health, and education. However, the immediate effects have seen a sharp rise in fuel prices, inflation, and general cost of living, making life more difficult for many ordinary citizens. Conclusion Governor Radda’s revelation of his conversation with Buhari adds a new perspective to the ongoing national debate on the fuel subsidy issue. It underscores both the political courage and the heavy burden President Tinubu carries in implementing deeply unpopular but economically essential policies. As Nigeria navigates these turbulent economic reforms, the nation watches closely how Tinubu’s administration manages the socio-economic consequences, striving to balance fiscal sustainability with public welfare.
Renowned Afrobeat artist, Seun Kuti, has once again voiced his frustration and deep pain over the impact of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari on his family. According to Seun, Buhari’s actions while in power caused significant harm to the Kuti family, even more than to any other family in Nigeria. Seun Kuti, the youngest son of the legendary Afrobeat originator, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, alleged that Buhari’s leadership tenure brought about an unparalleled level of hardship and suffering for his family. He made these statements in reaction to the recent demise of the former Nigerian leader, who served as a military Head of State from 1983 to 1985 and later as the democratically elected President of Nigeria. However, the Afrobeat star made it clear that Buhari’s death does not amount to any form of justice for the alleged wrongs committed against his family. He emphasized that despite the personal pain, the death of the former president is far from a victory or reparation for the injustices his family endured. Seun expressed regret that his iconic father Fela Kuti, alongside his uncles Koye and Beko Ransome-Kuti, who were all subjected to persecution and oppression under Buhari’s regime, did not live long enough to see Buhari’s passing. He lamented that these men, whom he regards as better human beings than Buhari, passed away before the former military ruler. Speaking candidly in a video shared on his verified Instagram page, Seun Kuti stated: “There is nobody that Buhari has hurt or destroyed as much as my family. Buhari brutally dealt with us, but his death isn’t a form of justice or triumph for us. My biggest sorrow remains that my father, Fela, and my uncles Koye and Beko, all died before Buhari. They were far better individuals than he could ever be. If there is an afterlife, the only comfort I can draw from Buhari’s death is that they will unite and confront him over what he did to them and the family.” According to verified reports, Muhammadu Buhari died in a medical facility in London on Sunday. His remains were subsequently laid to rest in his ancestral home in Daura, Katsina State, on Tuesday, in accordance with Islamic rites. Watch Seun Kuti’s Reaction Video Here: Watch Video on X (formerly Twitter)
Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, has landed in Katsina State to participate in the funeral rites (Jana’iza) of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away recently. Governor Idris made his way to Daura, the native home of the late president, joining numerous prominent figures, political stalwarts, and concerned citizens from different parts of Nigeria. These dignitaries are gathering to honour the life and legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, who served the nation in various capacities, notably as a two-term democratically elected president. According to credible reports, Buhari succumbed to a long-term illness in a London hospital on Sunday, triggering a wave of national mourning. His burial is scheduled to take place today in Daura with full state honours, reflecting his significant contribution to Nigeria’s governance and public service. The atmosphere in Daura has become solemn yet dignified, as security operatives and family members prepare for the high-profile burial event. In addition to Governor Idris, several governors, senators, traditional rulers, and other political leaders have either arrived or are en route to the ancient town to bid their final farewells. This historic event draws attention not only to Buhari’s political journey but also to the unity displayed by leaders and citizens in commemorating a national figure. As Daura welcomes streams of visitors, the local community is witnessing an influx of supporters and sympathisers paying homage to the former president
Fatima Muhammadu Buhari, daughter of Nigeria’s late former President Muhammadu Buhari, has touched down in Daura, Katsina State, ahead of her father’s funeral rites. Fatima arrived at the Buhari family residence in Daura, accompanied by close friends, family members, and other well-wishers, all gathered to pay their final respects. Similarly, Nigeria’s former Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, alongside Senator Kabiru Ibrahim Gaya, has landed at the Katsina State Airport. Both dignitaries are present to partake in the burial proceedings of the ex-leader. In addition, the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, have also arrived in Katsina to join other notable figures. Prominent Nigerian billionaire and industrialist, Aliko Dangote, is also among the top personalities present to honor the former President. Recall that Buhari passed away in a medical facility in London on Sunday. His body is expected to be flown back to Nigeria today, Tuesday, for the final burial rites in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State. The immediate past President of Nigeria will be laid to rest today within his family residence in accordance with Islamic burial traditions.
Yahaya Bello, the immediate past governor of Kogi State, has made his way to Daura in Katsina State ahead of the burial ceremonies of the late former Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari. This visit by the ex-Kogi State governor comes shortly after the remains of the late President Buhari were flown into Nigeria from the United Kingdom. Buhari’s body was transported via a Nigerian Air Force aircraft after it left London, where the former leader had been receiving treatment for a lingering illness that unfortunately led to his passing on Sunday. The final burial rites for the late Nigerian statesman are scheduled to take place later today. According to reports, the burial will be conducted in line with Islamic traditions, accompanied by full state honours. The ceremony will be held at Buhari’s private residence located in Daura, his hometown, where he will be laid to rest among his ancestors. The death of Muhammadu Buhari marks the end of an era in Nigeria’s political history. As news of his demise spreads, dignitaries, political leaders, and citizens alike have begun trooping to Daura to pay their last respects to the late former President. Yahaya Bello’s early arrival is part of the national outpouring of grief and solidarity with the Buhari family and the entire Daura community. For those interested in following live updates on the burial events, several national media outlets such as Channels Television and Premium Times are providing comprehensive coverage.
The United Nations (UN) has joined numerous global leaders and institutions in mourning the death of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in London at the age of 82. In an official statement delivered by Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson to the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, the global body expressed profound grief over Buhari’s demise. Guterres stated he was “deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari.” Guterres paid glowing tribute to Buhari’s enduring contributions to Nigeria’s national development, sovereignty, and his remarkable efforts in fostering regional peace and security across West Africa and the Lake Chad Basin. “President Buhari demonstrated an unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s sovereignty, stability, and growth during his leadership,” Guterres emphasized. Additionally, Buhari’s administration was distinguished by his relentless anti-corruption campaigns and vigorous support for regional counterterrorism alliances, particularly through multinational efforts designed to address insecurity within West Africa. The UN Secretary-General further described Buhari as a formidable advocate for multilateral and regional cooperation, a key trait that bolstered Nigeria’s leadership within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). His dedication not only fortified Nigeria’s influence but also contributed significantly to regional diplomatic cohesion. Meanwhile, in New York City, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed paid a personal visit to Nigeria House to extend her condolences. Mohammed, who previously served as Nigeria’s Minister of Environment under Buhari’s government, signed the condolence register and offered heartfelt prayers for the late president. “He was a genuine patriot, deeply devoted to Nigeria and its people, and did his utmost to serve the nation,” said Mohammed. She highlighted his “unflinching discipline, firm convictions, and resolute patriotism,” stressing that Buhari’s legacy will endure far beyond his presidency. Amina Mohammed further lauded Buhari’s commitment to representing Nigeria’s and Africa’s collective interests on the global stage. She cited his leadership in international discussions concerning climate change, anti-terrorism strategies, and economic reforms, where he ensured that Africa’s voice was prominently heard. For more insights into Nigeria’s regional diplomacy and leadership within ECOWAS, read this comprehensive analysis by the Brookings Institution.
Liverpool’s forward Darwin Nunez appears to be on the brink of exiting Anfield, as the club intensifies efforts to secure two promising strikers in the upcoming summer transfer window. Prominent football transfer journalist, David Ornstein, has revealed that Liverpool’s next strategic move in the transfer market focuses squarely on acquiring a new number nine to bolster their attacking options. According to Ornstein, the Reds have expressed keen interest in two standout strikers: Alexander Isak, currently with Newcastle United, and Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt. The anticipated departure of Nunez is set to accelerate these pursuits, with Liverpool’s management actively preparing for formal negotiations. Darwin Nunez initially joined Liverpool from Benfica in 2022, commanding a significant transfer fee of €85 million. Despite the hefty investment, the Uruguayan international has struggled to maintain form and consistency throughout his tenure at Anfield. Since his arrival, Nunez has accumulated 25 goals and 16 assists across 95 Premier League matches for Liverpool. Nevertheless, his contributions have not solidified his role as the club’s undisputed frontman, prompting the need for a possible squad overhaul under the stewardship of Arne Slot, Liverpool’s current manager. With the summer transfer window approaching, Liverpool is poised to make a decisive move in the market. However, reports suggest that any substantial investment in a new striker will only materialize once Nunez’s exit is finalized.

