Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has refuted claims circulating on social media alleging that Nigerian nationals have been left stranded in Iran. In a formal statement issued in Abuja on Saturday by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Mr. Kimiebi Ebienfa, Tuggar described the rumors as “deceptive,” “inaccurate,” and “unsubstantiated.” He emphasized that the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran remains operational and fully committed to safeguarding the welfare of all Nigerian residents in the country. Contrary to allegations that the embassy had been closed due to the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict, the Minister clarified that although regular embassy operations have been disrupted due to persistent threats and explosions within Tehran, the diplomatic mission remains functional remotely. Embassy staff continue to provide essential assistance to Nigerian citizens. Ambassador Tuggar also revealed that discussions are underway with the Armenian government regarding potential evacuation routes through Yerevan, should the situation become critical. He advised Nigerians currently residing in Iran to maintain communication with their designated community leaders, stay updated via the Eitaa messaging platform, and utilize the embassy’s emergency contact numbers and official email channels for all inquiries and support. The Minister concluded by assuring that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively observing the developments and remains committed to taking proactive steps to protect the interests and lives of Nigerian citizens globally.
Pakistan has put forth a formal nomination for former U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, recognizing his involvement in de-escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The South Asian country attributed Trump’s involvement to a significant reduction in conflict earlier in the year when violence surged between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. In an official release issued on Saturday, the Pakistani government praised what it called Trump’s “decisive diplomatic efforts” during the crisis period in May. The conflict, which centered on the disputed Kashmir region, had resulted in multiple casualties and sparked fears of an all-out war. As per Islamabad, Trump’s mediation was key to establishing a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. The agreement, which halted days of heavy artillery fire and airstrikes, officially began on May 8. “In a period of extreme regional instability, President Trump showed remarkable strategic judgment and statesmanship, engaging diplomatically with both Islamabad and New Delhi,” the statement declared. Pakistan emphasized that the ceasefire mediated by the U.S. helped avert a larger conflict, describing Trump’s role as proof of his dedication to peaceful diplomatic solutions. However, the Indian government offered a contrasting version of events. According to New Delhi, the ceasefire came through direct talks between India and Pakistan, minimizing the notion of foreign intervention.
Kindly Share:
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD And thou shalt make holy garments for Aaron thy brother for glory and for beauty (Exodus 28:2). The Lord is wonderful; everything about Him drips glory, beauty, splendour, excellence, and imperial majesty. Consider the instruction He gave to Moses concerning Aaron’s garments—what the priest should wear to minister to Him—special garments for glory and for beauty. He didn’t want Aaron appearing before Him in tatters or like an ordinary man. He had to be excellently dressed. Even those to make the garments had to be filled with the Spirit of wisdom; they had to be anointed: “And thou shalt speak unto all that are wise hearted, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, that they may make Aaron’s garments to consecrate him, that he may minister unto me in the priest’s office” (Exodus 28:3). This tells us something about God: He cares about how you dress and what you wear. He also cares about who the “designers” or tailors of your outfits are. As a Christian, you can’t just wear anything designed by just anyone. You might ask, “Does it really matter?” It sure does! It matters to God. Read again what He said to Moses about those to make the priest’s garment. You’re a priest; Revelation 1:6 says He has “…made us kings and priests unto God and his Father….” So, ensure your tailors or designers aren’t those with antichrist tendencies who hate the Church. This is important if you must continue to patronize them. Read again what God said, “And thou shall make holy garments for Aaron…” (Exodus 28:2). What does He mean by holy garments? It means consecrated garments. And it’ll take only those who are consecrated to produce something that’s consecrated. Take this seriously; always dress decently and excellently, knowing that you represent God and His Kingdom. You may say, “It’s the spirit that matters; I can wear what I like on my body.” Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit; remember that. Yes, it’s the spirit that matters, but the spirit is clothed! Therefore, dress well. Dress neatly. Dressing decently doesn’t mean you must wear expensive things, for it doesn’t have to be expensive to be good, and that’s a fact. PRAYERDear Father, I thank you for the excellence and glory you’ve bestowed upon me as your priest and king. I walk in your wisdom, dressing in a manner that reflects your decency. I yield myself to the Holy Spirit, ensuring that every detail of my life, including my appearance, brings honour to you. I manifest your beauty and excellence in all that I do, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY1 Peter 2:9But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Exodus 28:2-3 NKJVAnd you shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother, for glory and for beauty. 3 So you shall speak to all [who are] gifted artisans, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, that they may make Aaron’s garments, to consecrate him, that he may minister to Me as priest. Revelation 1:6 AMPCAnd formed us into a kingdom (a royal race), priests to His God and Father–to Him be the glory and the power and the majesty and the dominion throughout the ages and forever and ever. Amen (so be it). DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 10:1-23 & Ezra 4-6 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 3:1-11 & Deuteronomy 20 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: Blessed be the Lord who daily loads me with benefits, even the God of my salvation! Today, there’s an overflow of favor and abundance for me, and I take possession. I’ll never be broke in my life, for the Lord has supplied all that I require for life and godliness according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus. I’ve been granted unrestricted access to the unending, boundless, fathomless, incalculable and exhaustless riches of Christ, wealth which no human being could have searched out. 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 Word of God is life and health to my flesh; therefore, no infirmity can thrive in my body. I am the light of the world; there is no darkness or death in my life. I’ve passed from death to life, from sin to righteousness, from sickness to health and from poverty to wealth. I decree peace with prosperity and perfect health in every area of my life. I live above the limitations of the human body and this physical realm through the ability of God’s Spirit. Health, peace, joy, and the glorious life are my present-hour inheritance. The Word of God is life to me and medicine to my body. It rejuvenates and refreshes me daily! I’m divinely immunized against all forms of sicknesses, diseases, and infections because God’s Word of life dwells richly. 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. I’ve put on the new man, which is created in righteousness and true holiness. I am a member of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones. I am an heir of God and a joint heir with Christ. In Him, I live, move, and have my being. Sin and death have no power over me. The Lord has given His angels charge over me; thus, no evil shall befall me. I testify of the goodness of God and the victories He has wrought in my life through Christ Jesus! The infallible power of His Word has brought me into a place of health, strength, power, rest, and dominion in the Name of Jesus Christ.
Kindly Share:
Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has praised U.S. President Donald Trump for authorizing airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, calling it a historic move. Netanyahu hailed the assault on Iran’s three nuclear locations as a courageous and history-shaping decision by the United States. Trump had earlier revealed that U.S. military forces launched successful airstrikes against three key Iranian nuclear sites — Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan — during the night. Responding to the development, Netanyahu remarked that Trump would be remembered as a leader who confronted one of the most dangerous regimes in the world. In a video shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, Netanyahu stated:“Congratulations to Trump. Your strong choice to hit Iran’s nuclear infrastructures using U.S. military power is truly a game-changer.” Referring to the Operation Rising Line, Netanyahu continued:“Israel has made significant contributions, but America’s actions tonight against Iran’s nuclear operations are unmatched. “No nation on the globe could achieve this feat. History will acknowledge that President Trump took a firm stand to prevent Iran, the world’s most threatening regime, from acquiring nuclear arms. “His leadership today has paved the way for a historical shift — one that can drive the Middle East toward a more peaceful and prosperous future. “Trump demonstrated tremendous strength in his actions.”
Kindly Share:
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has strongly denounced the United States’ recent airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. In a firm response, Iran cautioned that the military actions would bring “everlasting consequences.” This sharp warning came following an announcement by former US President Donald Trump, who confirmed that the US military had launched successful operations on Iran’s nuclear sites. On Sunday, Abbas Araghchi took to his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, expressing fury over the attacks. He labeled the strikes “outrageous,” asserting Iran’s readiness to protect its sovereignty at all costs. According to the Iranian Foreign Minister, “The events this morning are outrageous and will have everlasting consequences.” He continued, emphasizing that Iran “reserves all options to defend its sovereignty, interests, and people.” LMSINT MEDIA notes that Iran has invested decades into developing its nuclear program, continuously maintaining that the program is strictly for peaceful energy purposes.
Kindly Share:
More than 50 individuals allegedly masquerading as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) have been apprehended at the Makurdi Ultra Modern International Market, which has temporarily been converted into a shelter for victims of the deadly June 13 attack by suspected armed herders on Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. This revelation was made public over the weekend by the Benue State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Aondowase Kunde, during a press briefing with journalists at the IDP camp. Kunde, who took personal charge of verifying the identities of the supposed IDPs, noted that the action was taken in response to a sudden and suspicious surge in the camp’s population. According to him, he led a discreet inspection operation at around 4:00 a.m. on Saturday and found that numerous residents from the host community had infiltrated the camp and were accessing resources meant solely for genuine IDPs. “Only 219 individuals displaced from Yelewata are officially registered in this camp, but the current population here is far beyond that,” Kunde explained. He added that investigations conducted over a two-day period revealed that individuals from nearby communities and even IDPs from the larger Mega Camp were relocating to the Makurdi camp, which he stressed was highly inappropriate. The commissioner also reported instances of criminal behavior, including theft and acts of intimidation. He narrated a specific case involving a young man who, while wearing an official IDP identification tag, allegedly led a group to steal mattresses after threatening some of the traumatized women residing in the shelter. Kunde also revealed that some women had been borrowing children from the host community in order to receive additional food rations during aid distributions. He further condemned the actions of individuals with ulterior motives who were instigating unrest and triggering protests, thereby putting the safety and mental wellbeing of authentic IDPs at risk. “We know there are elements trying to destabilize the camp. Host community residents and intruders are stirring trouble, but we’re taking decisive actions to restore peace and order,” Kunde concluded.
Kindly Share:
Trial of Gospel Artist Mercy Chinwo’s Former Manager, Eezee Tee, Postponed to September 2025 Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has postponed further hearing in the ongoing legal case involving popular gospel music promoter and ex-manager of Mercy Chinwo, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu ThankGod, also known as Eezee Tee, to September 26, 2025. Eezee Tee, alongside his entertainment firm, Eezee Global Concepts Limited, is currently facing a seven-count amended charge brought forward by Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges centre around serious allegations of money laundering and foreign exchange violations, with the financial sums involved reportedly amounting to several hundred thousand US dollars. This case initially commenced before Justice Owoeye at the same Federal High Court before being reassigned to Justice Aneke for further judicial proceedings. One of the prominent allegations claims that Eezee Tee, who is not licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as a foreign exchange operator, carried out an unauthorized forex transaction with a private individual, allegedly contravening the Foreign Exchange (Monitoring and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act. At the latest court session on Friday, the EFCC, represented by Bilkisu Buhari-Bala, presented its first witness, Mohammed Timta, to testify in the matter. Meanwhile, Chikaosolu Ojukwu, SAN, who serves as lead counsel for the defense, informed the court that both parties are currently in the process of negotiating a settlement. He further mentioned that if these talks break down, the prosecution would resume full trial proceedings. After reviewing the submissions, Justice Aneke accepted the defense’s plea and scheduled the next hearing for September 26, 2025, to allow for possible resolution or trial continuation.
Kindly Share:
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has suggested that Rivers and Bayelsa States may soon align politically with the All Progressives Congress (APC), signaling potential shifts in the South-South geopolitical zone ahead of the 2027 general elections. Akpabio made this known during a large-scale reception in honor of Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, who was officially welcomed into the APC. The event, held in Uyo, was attended by several notable figures within the party, including members of the Progressive Governors Forum. During his speech, Akpabio acknowledged and appreciated the recent political alignment in the region and projected future transitions. “Governor Sheriff of Delta State, thank you for joining the progressive movement and helping steer the South-South in a progressive path,” he remarked. Akpabio further predicted: “Governor Umo Eno has made the leap, and up next will be Rivers State. Following closely behind, Bayelsa State is also expected to come on board. We already secured victory in Edo State through Governor Otu and have successfully presented Monday Okpebholo. Congratulations once more on your win.” Earlier in April, Governor Eno had hinted at exiting the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) due to internal disputes. Citing unresolved party crises, he disclosed his intentions to defect to APC. The move was formalized on June 6, when he officially announced his defection during a well-attended event in Uyo. The gathering saw attendance from various APC leaders and key stakeholders.
Kindly Share:
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has strongly denounced the recent suicide bombing executed by Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents in Konduga Local Government Area. In an official statement released to the press by his media aide, Dauda Iliya, the governor expressed his deep concern over the latest assault targeting innocent civilians. The tragic incident, which unfolded late yesterday around 10 p.m., occurred at a night fish market in Konduga. The attack resulted in the loss of 12 lives, while 18 other individuals sustained injuries. Governor Zulum described the atrocity as a grave violation of humanity. “These savage actions carried out by the insurgents are not only cruel but represent a direct affront to our collective humanity,” he stated. He further emphasized, “This brutal and cowardly attempt to instill fear in the community will not succeed. The spirit of Borno’s people remains unbroken and will never yield to terrorism.” The governor urged citizens across Borno to stay alert and promptly report any unusual behavior or movement to security operatives, noting that collaboration between the community and law enforcement remains essential in curbing insurgency. Governor Zulum also extended heartfelt sympathies to the affected families, asserting that all compassionate citizens in the state share in their grief and loss. He concluded by assuring residents that the state government continues to work hand-in-hand with security agencies to enhance public safety and thwart further attacks.
Kindly Share:
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, took to social media on Saturday to express deep affection and admiration for his wife, Hadiza, describing her as the person who gave his life true purpose. El-Rufai reflected that his journey gained true direction and significance when he married Hadiza nearly four decades ago. In his touching birthday tribute, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) leader praised Hadiza as a remarkable combination of intelligence and elegance. Sharing the heartfelt message via his official Facebook page, El-Rufai reminisced about their university days when he first met Hadiza, noting that she eventually became not just his partner but also his closest confidant. He described her as the ideal wife, a loving mother, and an exceptional grandmother. “Please join me and members of the El-Rufai Family in celebrating my best friend, university classmate, teenage sweetheart, and beloved wife, Hadiza Isma El-Rufai, on her birthday,” he wrote. El-Rufai went on to highlight Hadiza’s intellectual prowess and achievements, calling her a brilliant woman who holds three master’s degrees — in Architecture, Business Administration, and Creative Writing. He also praised her fluency in French and success as a published novelist. “My life began to take shape and meaning when we got married almost 40 years ago,” he added. He described Hadiza as a strong-willed and well-organized woman who diligently manages both their home and family affairs with remarkable discipline. “Happy birthday, Hadiza, and may God continue to bless you eternally,” El-Rufai concluded.
Kindly Share:
A fatal explosion involving a military-grade bomb has tragically claimed five lives and injured 15 individuals in Kano State, as confirmed by the Kano State Police Command. Incident Details The devastating event occurred on Saturday at a scrap metal yard situated along the Eastern Bypass in Kano. According to police reports, the explosive device detonated from a vehicle reportedly coming from Yobe State. Official Confirmation While addressing the press, Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, stated that he was alerted to an emergency blast incident in the vicinity. Upon reaching the scene, he confirmed witnessing the aftermath of a military-grade bomb explosion. “It was a military Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel-grade bomb. The explosion resulted in 15 injuries. All victims were rushed to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital for immediate treatment,” Bakori revealed. He further disclosed that five casualties were confirmed dead upon arrival at the hospital, while 10 others remained under medical care. Preliminary Findings Initial investigations revealed that the truck which carried the explosive had originated from Yobe State. Although a full investigation is ongoing, early findings suggest the bomb was inadvertently transported inside the vehicle. Commissioner Bakori emphasized that more details will be released as investigations progress.
Kindly Share:
Chef Naira Victor, popularly known for his Guinness World Record attempt titled ‘Cook-a-thon’, was reportedly attacked on Saturday morning by suspected political thugs at the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp situated within Makurdi International Market, Benue State. This camp is currently home to displaced residents affected by the Yelewata killings and is operated by the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA). Chef Victor explained that he was invited by the Federal lawmaker representing the Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency to cook for the displaced individuals for a full week, a humanitarian effort he had already commenced prior to the assault. According to his account, while he was busy preparing meals for the displaced families, a group of thugs reportedly stormed the site. He claimed these individuals were allegedly acting under the instruction of a serving commissioner in the Benue State Government. The assailants allegedly physically assaulted and harassed Chef Victor, demanding that he immediately stop cooking and exit the premises. Their reason? The state government had already appointed another chef to oversee the feeding of the camp’s residents. In his reaction following the incident, Chef Victor said the attack had clear political undertones, stressing that the core issue was not about his service but about the individual backing him. “I was not attacked because of the meals I was preparing,” he stated, “but because the person who sent me does not have a good relationship with the Governor.”
Kindly Share:
The Catholic Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Charles Hammawa, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian Federal Government to go beyond mere condolences and take immediate, firm action against those responsible for the horrific mass killings in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. Delivering a formal statement in Jalingo on Saturday, Bishop Hammawa decried the ongoing violence and loss of life in Benue State, emphasizing that these tragedies persist despite multiple interventions and high-level visits, including that of President Tinubu himself. “It is deeply troubling that despite repeated pleas and official visits by senior government figures, the bloodshed in Benue has not ceased. The people of Benue and the broader Middle Belt are not just numbers — they are citizens of Nigeria who deserve safety, respect, and peace,” the bishop lamented. He acknowledged President Tinubu’s condolence visit to Benue but emphasized that compassion expressed through words alone is insufficient in addressing the crisis. “While we welcome the President’s sympathy, the time for verbal assurances is over. We need tangible action — a defined, robust approach that ensures justice for the victims and long-term peace for the communities involved,” Bishop Hammawa stressed. The bishop condemned the brutal attack on Yelwata and neighboring communities, where reports indicate that over 100 individuals — including women, children, and the elderly — were mercilessly killed. He reaffirmed the Church’s unwavering support for those affected. “At this dark hour, we align ourselves with our grieving brothers and sisters in Benue. We offer sincere prayers for the deceased, healing for the wounded, and comfort for the families torn apart by this violence,” he added. Calling for urgent and courageous action from Nigeria’s security agencies and leadership, Bishop Hammawa insisted that justice must prevail. “The government must not shy away from its duty. The cycle of impunity must be broken. Those behind these acts — regardless of their status or affiliations — must be identified and prosecuted,” he declared firmly. The bishop further appealed to religious figures, traditional rulers, and local leaders to set aside differences and come together in a collective push for justice and sustainable peace across the region.
