Tolu Arokodare has expressed excitement after scoring his debut goal for the Nigerian national team, according to a report from LMSINT MEDIA. The forward netted Nigeria’s only goal in their 1-1 stalemate with Russia at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on Friday evening. The KRC Genk attacker found the back of the net in the 71st minute, taking full advantage of a costly error by Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov to draw the Super Eagles level. Following the match, the 24-year-old celebrated the achievement via social media. “First international goal, the journey has only just started. We thank God,” Arokodare shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle. So far, Arokodare has earned five caps under the management of Éric Chelle.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway (Acts 10:1-2). God is plainly against selfishness. Conversely, He’ll seize any opportunity to save, bless, and uplift a giver. Notice the word “save”; even non-Christians who are givers—who are liberal and generous—get God’s attention, and He seeks to save them. If He can find someone to pray for them, He will exercise His legal right to act and guide them into salvation. The story of Cornelius in Acts 10 beautifully illustrates this truth. Cornelius was a Roman centurion, a Gentile and not part of the Jewish community. Yet, he was a devout man who feared God and was known for his generosity. He gave alms to the people and prayed continually. His giving and prayers did not go unnoticed; they ascended as a memorial before God. As a result of his generosity, God sent an angel to Cornelius with a divine instruction to send for Peter who would bring him the message of salvation. Think about it; an angel appeared to Cornelius because of his giving! God orchestrated an entire salvation plan for Cornelius, his family, and his household because of his generosity. As Peter preached about Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit fell upon everyone present. They began speaking in tongues and praising God. This moment was a pivotal point in the Early Church, highlighting the universal vision of the Gospel. God despises stinginess; it is contrary to His nature and reflects the nature of the devil. So, every time God looks at a stingy person, He sees the enemy. But when He sees a giver, He sees something of Himself in that person and He’s drawn to that one in love. 2 Corinthians 9:7 AMPC says, “…God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, “prompt to do it”) giver [whose heart is in his giving].” Let this be your description and your experience of God’s love will be overwhelming. CONFESSIONI’m a cheerful giver, and through my giving, I position myself in alignment with God’s divine purpose, experiencing His abundant grace. I function in supernatural blessings, favours and increase. Thank you Lord for making me a channel of blessings to my world, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY2 Corinthians 9:6-7 AMPC[Remember] this: he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who SOWS generously [that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings. 7 Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, “prompt to do it”) giver [whose heart is in his giving]. Proverbs 11:24-25There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and [there is] that withholdeth more than is meet, but [it tendeth] to poverty. 25 The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself. Acts 10:3-4He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. 4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. Hebrews 13:16 AMPCDo not forget or neglect to do kindness and good, to be generous and distribute and contribute to the needy [of the church as embodiment and proof of fellowship], for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 20:19-31 & 1 Chronicles 23-25 2-Year Bible Reading PlanMark 15:25-32 & Deuteronomy 5 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: Christ is made unto me wisdom. In him, I have access to all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Therefore, I have limitless wisdom. I am prudent. I have uncommon insight; a clear, deep and sudden understanding of concepts, subjects, situations and mysteries. I yield myself to the guidance of your Spirit, I function with an increased manifestation of practical wisdom—the mindset of the righteous. I am immune to satanic attacks. I’m disease-proof! I am without blemish. I have special favour! Great things are coming to me by free course. The Spirit of God draws men, women, resources and all kinds of good things towards me. My gates are open continually and good things are ministered to me, now. There’s beauty, favour, grace, and open doors for me everywhere. God has made divine prosperity, and a life of endless victories and blessings my portion. I have been brought from humanity to eternity; therefore, I have dominion over failure, lack, and poverty. As I demonstrate my faith today, circumstances bow to me; obstacles are eliminated, and I walk in supernatural success and prosperity. I am walking in wisdom, and manifesting the glory of God everywhere. There’s life in my body! There’s life in my family! There’s life in my job! There’s life in my business and in everything that concerns me! I live triumphantly in, and by the power of the Holy Ghost. I see differently; for the eyes of my understanding are enlightened to see God’s goodness on everything. Even now, I see God’s boundless blessings on everything that concerns me. My life is full of the glory of God and I succeed in all endeavours because the Holy Spirit who is the essence of life, beauty, and glory has taken His abode in me. Today, I go forth confidently knowing that I am backed by deity. I walk in prosperity, victory, and health because I live in God’s Word.
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The fertile farmlands, expansive red-soil terrain, and well-paved roads painted a picturesque arrival as our team landed in Northern Nigeria. These unique features, along with the arid climate, were unmistakable signs that we had reached this distinct region of the country. Although our Aero Contractors flight landed at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) in Kano, our final destination was Zaria, located in Kaduna State. The journey was for the annual training organized by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in collaboration with the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC). The host institution, Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), provided shuttle buses that ensured smooth movement. By 11:30 am on Sunday, May 25, we had arrived in Zaria, where vibrant activities welcomed us, and we quickly settled into our lodging. Thanks to well-prepared facilitators and in-depth materials, the week-long programme, which began the following day, greatly enhanced my insights into Nigeria’s aviation landscape. Insight Beyond Training Halls Apart from the formal sessions, journalists had the chance to speak with Dr. Danjuma Ismail, NCAT’s rector, who candidly addressed the pressing challenges facing the institution. Mission Versus Reality Dr. Ismail emphasized the infrastructural shortcomings that limit the college’s ability to serve the growing demand from local and international aviation professionals. He expressed frustration that despite being tasked with making the institution self-sustaining and revenue-generating, inadequate classrooms and subpar accommodation facilities present major hurdles to achieving those goals. According to him, “Our infrastructure limitations are a major concern. My mandate is to reposition NCAT to be revenue-driven, self-reliant, and impactful both nationally and across Africa. With ICAO-backed courses, we have the potential to earn foreign currency and train participants globally. Once our flight simulation units go live, we expect interest from countries like Egypt and even Asian nations, where similar training options are limited.” Infrastructural Deficiencies Impacting Growth He further explained that without quality facilities, it’s difficult to attract foreign trainees. NCAT’s fees are comparatively affordable—especially considering international alternatives—yet poor accommodation and outdated training halls are deterring prospects. “Unlike other regions where hotel costs are high, our packages remain cost-effective,” he noted. “However, poor accommodation has become a bottleneck. Previous administrations may not have prioritized this, but we are determined to reverse the trend. It’s not a technical issue—it’s about urgency and investment in critical infrastructure such as modern lodging and technologically equipped classrooms.” Client Dissatisfaction Dr. Ismail revealed that clients are voicing disappointment with the institution’s current capabilities. “Some of our buildings date back to the 1960s. This makes it difficult to meet global expectations. International students will only respect our institution when they see world-class standards. Our efforts are underway to upgrade classrooms and procure modern teaching aids. In fact, we’re working on a 3D simulator that will accommodate more air traffic control trainees—many of whom need this training to qualify for promotions.” Staff Retention and Workforce Crisis Another significant challenge is NCAT’s inability to retain its highly trained workforce due to low salaries. Dr. Ismail lamented, “We have the lowest salary structure among aviation agencies. Consequently, many skilled employees are leaving for better-paying opportunities, especially in the private sector. We plan to implement a policy where trained staff must sign bonds to serve the institution post-training. This will prevent them from taking NCAT-sponsored certifications elsewhere.” He added that discussions are ongoing with the Salaries and Wages Commission to create a competitive remuneration package, similar to what exists at the Petroleum Training Institute. “That model has successfully minimized salary disparities between the training institute and the oil industry. We deserve a similar arrangement.” Uncertain Future Without Government Backing Looking ahead to 2025–2026, Dr. Ismail admitted it’s difficult to make concrete projections without financial support from the federal government. “If we secure funding for equipment and facilities, then we can confidently plan for the future. But until then, we are lobbying hard for the resources needed to expand our training capacity.” Global Airlines Join Forces for Intercontinental Expansion IndiGo, Delta Air Lines, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic have announced a strategic partnership aimed at creating an unmatched global travel network connecting India with Europe and North America. This alliance will link numerous cities across these continents to meet rising global travel demand and establish a new benchmark in aviation collaboration. IndiGo’s CEO, Pieter Elbers, noted, “By 2030, IndiGo aims to become a global airline. This alliance brings operational efficiency, innovation, and market synergy.” Delta Air Lines CEO, Ed Bastian, added, “This deal exemplifies our commitment to connected, inclusive, and reliable travel. Together, we will redefine the travel experience across continents.” Benjamin Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM, also expressed optimism, saying, “India remains a vital market. With this collaboration, we are expanding our long-standing footprint while providing customers greater access and convenience.”
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Security Personnel Among the Dead as Attacks Continue Unchecked Benue State has witnessed a tragic escalation of violence, with more than 160 people—including two soldiers and a well-known police officer—losing their lives over the past month due to coordinated attacks by armed herdsmen. These deadly incursions have devastated multiple communities and sparked nationwide condemnation. In response, women from the affected areas took to the streets, demanding that the government take swift and decisive action. Their cries echoed the sentiments of the Tiv academic community, who are now calling for self-defense mechanisms should the state fail to provide adequate protection. Chronology of Attacks A detailed timeline underscores the severity of the situation: Women Demand Action Amid the rising violence, women in Apa LGA, under the banner “The Voice of the Voiceless Women in Apa,” staged protests. Bearing signs like “Apa is not Fulani land” and “Government has failed us,” they decried the carnage and warned that their communities were becoming “villages of widows.” In a public letter titled Notification of a Peaceful Demonstration, the women described how attackers entered homes and farms to commit murder and destruction. One anonymous leader highlighted the government’s “golden silence” and warned of the psychological toll on children and families. Humanitarian Groups Sound the Alarm The humanitarian coalition BENUE-RESPONSE (comprising ActionAid Nigeria, Cordaid, Jireh Doo Foundation, and Plan International) emphasized that the crisis in Benue is not just sporadic violence but a sustained terror campaign. The Country Director of ActionAid, Andrew Mamedu, expressed grave concern about the scale of devastation during a press briefing in Makurdi. “Children now grow up to the sound of gunfire,” said David Habba, who represented the organization. “Fathers are unable to provide safety, and entire futures are left in uncertainty.” Tiv Professors Call for Self-Defense The Forum of Ayatutu Professors, a body of Tiv academics, issued a statement urging the community to adopt a localized approach to security. Citing the failure of governmental protection, they called for self-help within legal frameworks, particularly as they believe these attacks are aimed at land grabs, economic sabotage, and religious displacement. They stressed the importance of mobilizing community resources to protect land, culture, and livelihoods from both herdsmen and their alleged political allies. Catholic Priests Condemn Security Failures The Nigerian Catholic Diocesan Priests Association (NCDPA) of Makurdi Diocese condemned the complicity of military personnel in the continued violence. According to Revd. Fr. Joseph Beba, over 50 lives were lost, and 15 parishes were shut down due to the ongoing attacks. The Governor’s Chief of Staff, accompanied by security officials, visited affected LGAs to assess the destruction, with promises of bringing the culprits to justice. Police Commissioner Ifeanyi Emenari vowed immediate action against the perpetrators. Army Chief’s Visit Sparks Renewed Hope The relocation of Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oloyede to Makurdi raised hopes among residents. He held private talks with Governor Alia and visited some of the devastated areas in preparation for strategic military action. Call for Enforcement of Grazing Law Francis Odiir, Secretary of the Campaign for Equal Rights and Opportunities for all Nigerians (CERON), criticized the relaxation of the Benue Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law of 2017. He argued that lax enforcement led to increased herder invasions and emphasized the need for military backing to implement the law effectively.
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Nigerian dancehall singer Cynthia Morgan, widely known as Madrina, has responded directly to comments made by Peter Okoye of the iconic music duo P-Square. According to LMSINT MEDIA, Peter Okoye had earlier posted on his Instagram page, leveling serious accusations against his twin brother Paul Okoye and their older sibling Jude Okoye, who also served as their former manager. Peter accused the two of betrayal and misappropriation of funds. While venting his frustration amid an ongoing legal confrontation with his brothers, Peter referenced past disagreements involving their ex-signee, Cynthia Morgan. In his post, Peter said: “Exactly what I was talking about: their publicist doing everything to make me look like a liar. I’m not MayD or Cynthia Morgan. I’m PETER OKOYE, the one and only ROCK/OKWUTE of the Okoyes. The truth shall prevail.#UnaThiefAbiUnaNoThief#FamilyDoesNotStealFromFamily.” Reacting to this statement via her Instagram story, Cynthia Morgan expressed dismay over her name being dragged into the public exchange. She wrote: “I have a mixed feeling about my name popping up like this. I’m not a weak person. Certain family members made it look so. @peterpsquare included. Until you found out what they were doing to you too. Na me listen to una sha.” LMSINT MEDIA also remembers that Cynthia Morgan’s fallout with the Northside Entertainment label—owned by Paul, Peter, and Jude Okoye—was highly publicized, with the singer detailing her experiences of industry manipulation and alleged contractual disputes.
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In light of the persistent violence in Benue State and other regions, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has strongly criticized both the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Benue State Government for failing to uphold their essential duty of safeguarding lives and ensuring public security. In a statement issued by Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, President of the CBCN and Archbishop of Owerri, the bishops voiced profound sorrow and distress over what they called inhumane attacks on innocent communities throughout the state. The statement described the gruesome violence against helpless residents—where numerous lives have been brutally taken, properties ruined, and families shattered—as a direct insult to God, a deep wound to humanity, and a chilling example of the total collapse of the security system in Nigeria. The bishops emphasized that regardless of any infrastructural developments or salary payments by the government, a failure to secure human life undermines all other achievements. They reiterated that human life holds the highest value and must be treated as such. They further urged both state and federal governments to act promptly and decisively by restoring peace, arresting the attackers, and delivering justice to the victims. The statement read in part: “A government that cannot prioritize the safety and welfare of its citizens and their properties loses both its essential purpose and moral justification.”
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The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has affirmed that his administration is actively implementing strategic measures aimed at minimizing the impact of possible flooding within the state. During a stakeholders’ forum hosted by the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) in Umuahia, the Governor—represented by the Commissioner for Environment, Philemon Ogbonna—emphasized that the government is focusing on critical infrastructure such as road construction, drainage systems, clearing of blocked waterways, and erosion management to address the risk of flooding across Abia. Ogbonna underscored the importance of delivering early warning alerts to the public, noting that effective communication is key to reducing the destructive outcomes of seasonal floods. He encouraged participants at the forum to disseminate the knowledge and information shared at the meeting to communities at the grassroots level. According to him, the gathering was timely, considering the recent flood forecasts issued by relevant Federal Government agencies. He also stated that the forum would help enhance the preparedness and resilience of citizens should any flooding event occur in the coming season. Meanwhile, the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Zubaida Umar, represented by Director Mr. Walter Brandon, disclosed that the agency has introduced various disaster preparedness strategies. These include training programs for local emergency responders and the promotion of rainwater harvesting systems as part of a broader mitigation plan. In his opening remarks, the Executive Secretary of Abia SEMA, Sunny Jackson, reiterated that the purpose of the meeting was to formulate action plans to reduce the anticipated effects of potential flooding as previously projected.
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Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has alleged that some current politicians serving in Nigeria’s National Assembly are behind the recurring attacks across various communities in the state. During an interview on Politics Today, a programme aired by Channels Television, the governor described the situation as completely intolerable. According to Alia, a judicial panel he constituted to investigate the violent incidents has produced an interim report implicating several high-profile individuals—although he refrained from disclosing any names at this stage. The governor emphasized his determination to address the findings head-on as soon as he receives the panel’s comprehensive report within the coming week. “The situation is deeply disturbing. Senior political figures who are actively involved in legislative duties in Abuja are not only instigating these acts but are also harbouring the perpetrators. They are allegedly offering them shelter, sustaining them in the forests, and supplying necessary materials and tools,” Alia revealed. “This conduct is absolutely unacceptable. If their political ambition outweighs their concern for human lives, I will prioritize the welfare of the ordinary citizens, as it is both a duty and a responsibility I owe them.” Governor Alia further explained that the judicial panel was established specifically to uncover the root causes of the consistent and escalating violence in the state. He confirmed that an interim report had already been submitted and indicated that the final report would be in his hands by Tuesday or Wednesday of the following week. In a related development, tragedy struck again on Friday as numerous people were reported dead and several others sustained injuries following a fresh onslaught by armed herdsmen on the Makurdi–Naka road. Despite repeated assurances from security agencies, the Makurdi–Naka axis reportedly remains under the persistent threat of armed Fulani militia groups, who have held sway in the area for several weeks.
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Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized the importance of unwavering public support for the administration of President Bola Tinubu, underscoring its necessity for realizing enduring peace and economic growth across the nation. He appealed to citizens to embrace unity and collective responsibility, which he described as essential for national advancement. The Vice President urged Nigerians to rise above personal and societal divisions to discover common ground and collaborate in building a prosperous Nigeria. This appeal was made on Friday during the Eid al-Adha prayers held at the National Eid Ground along Airport Road in Abuja. Shettima highlighted the significance of Eid al-Adha, referencing the deep spiritual legacy of Prophet Ibrahim, whose values of obedience and sacrifice serve as moral foundations for a united and resilient nation. He reiterated that these virtues remain pivotal in shaping a stronger and more inclusive Nigeria. Describing Eid-el-Kabir as a time for reflection and compassion, Shettima called on citizens to extend kindness to the less privileged and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. In his words, “Life is not a sprint, but a marathon. While an individual may run faster, they can easily tire. However, as a collective family and nation, we can move further and reach our ultimate goals.” He further emphasized the importance of standing firmly with President Tinubu’s leadership, stressing that national cohesion and a spirit of shared commitment are vital to tackling societal challenges like poverty and insecurity. “What unites us is far greater than what sets us apart. I am grateful to all Nigerians for their empathy and support, and I call upon everyone to converge their efforts to confront the pressing issues of insecurity, poverty, and social hardship,” Shettima concluded.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19). As Christians, when we say Jesus Christ is Lord of our lives, it means more than He being our saviour. The Hebrew and Greek words for “Lord” carry the same meaning, which includes master, caretaker, bread provider, sustainer, boss, and teacher. This is the essence of what it means for Jesus to be Lord; it means He’s your sustainer, your master, your caretaker, your bread provider, and your teacher. If this is true, and thank God it is, then it means He’s more than capable of taking care of you. You don’t have to beg Him to take care of you or plead with Him to provide your needs with a sense of desperation as if He’s reluctant to do so. Such a disposition reflects a lack of understanding of who Jesus is as your Lord and Sustainer. Read His words in Matthew 7:11, “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?” Ponder this for a moment. You have to learn to trust the Lord and rely solely on His Word. Act on His Word. The world’s systems are failing. In the days of Joseph, the Bible records that money failed. Inflation was rampant and the currency became worthless. But in the midst of that crisis, God’s people experienced supernatural prosperity. Why? Their trust was in the Lord, their sustainer. The Lord Jesus is more than able to sustain you through every season of life. Read Matthew 6:25-34 where He stresses your value and then tells you what to do and what not to do. So, act on His Word today. The triumphant life is for those who act on God’s Word. PRAYERDear Father, I thank you for being my Lord and Sustainer. I refuse to be anxious about anything because you are my caretaker, provider, teacher, source and sustainer. My trust is in you, and I function in supernatural prosperity as I live by your Word, in victory every day, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYGenesis 47:15And when money failed in the land of Egypt, and in the land of Canaan, all the Egyptians came unto Joseph, and said, Give us bread: for why should we die in thy presence? for the money faileth. Psalm 37:25I have been young, and [now] am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. Matthew 6:25-34Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? 27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? 28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: 29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, [shall he] not much more [clothe] you, O ye of little faith? 31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day [is] the evil thereof. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 20:1-18 & 1 Chronicles 20-22 2-Year Bible Reading PlanMark 15:15-24 & Deuteronomy 4 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I hold fast to my confession of God’s Word. I refuse to give Satan a chance. It makes no difference the contrary evidences and adversities he may stir against me; “I’m a victor in Christ Jesus! Greater is He that’s in me than he that’s in the world.” No matter what happens, I refuse to waver. I refuse to allow any circumstance dictate the outcome of my life. I don’t stagger at the Word of God through unbelief; I’m ever strong in faith, giving glory to God! No sickness, disease or infirmity can thrive in my body because I’m joined to the Lord and I’m one spirit with Him. Divine life and unfailing health and strength are at work in every fibre of my being, in every cell of my blood, and in every bone of my body. Out of my belly flow rivers of living water; therefore, I dispense life and health to my world. The Holy Spirit makes intercession through me. I am one with the Lord, united with Him, one in spirit and purpose. I am joined unto the Lord. God has made me a fountain of living water and I overflow with the same life-giving spirit that flows from God, in perfect harmony. I am the effulgence of God’s glory. The glory of God infuses my being, keeping me strong and well every day. The joy of the Lord is my strength. I have all things that pertain to life and godliness. There is no trace of sickness, disease, or infirmity in my life. As a child of God, all I know and experience is divine health, righteousness, peace, and
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The number of journalists who have lost their lives in Gaza since October 2023 has climbed to 225, according to the Gaza government’s media office. “Since the onset of what is described as a war of extermination targeting the Palestinian population, the death toll of journalists has risen to 225 with the recent loss of four more individuals,” the official statement said. “We urge the International Federation of Journalists, the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate, and press organizations worldwide to denounce these systematic attacks on Palestinian journalists and media personnel within the Gaza Strip.” Yesterday, Tahseen al-Astal, deputy director of the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate, informed RIA Novosti that four media workers affiliated with Arab satellite TV channels were killed in an Israeli airstrike. The airstrike is reported to have targeted a tent close to the al-Ahli Arab Baptist Hospital in Gaza City. Both the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate (PJS) strongly condemned the killings and demanded an immediate inquiry into the circumstances surrounding these deaths. According to the Gaza Ministry of Health, over 4,400 Palestinians have died and more than 13,400 sustained injuries in the territory since March 18. Israel resumed its bombing campaign on Gaza on that date, citing Hamas’s refusal to accept a U.S.-brokered proposal to extend a ceasefire and facilitate the release of hostages. The ceasefire had ended on March 1. Additionally, in early March, Israel cut power to a major desalination plant in Gaza and blocked the delivery of humanitarian aid trucks.
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As Nigerian Muslims join their counterparts worldwide in celebrating Eid-el-Kabir, the festivities have been overshadowed by a significant surge in the prices of food items and transportation fares. Rising Costs Affect Festive Preparations In Ibadan, Oyo State, the escalating food prices have dampened the celebrations, prompting many to make last-minute purchases. At Bodija Market, several Muslim faithful and vendors shared their experiences amid the challenging circumstances. Alhaji Ganiyu, a ram seller, expressed his frustration with this year’s sales, stating, “My stall is usually busy at this time, but this year is different. Many can’t afford to buy even one ram.” A mother, Khadija, recounted her difficulties in preparing for Eid-el-Kabir. Despite saving for months, soaring prices have significantly reduced her budget. “I have kids who are looking forward to Eid-el-Kabir, but I’m concerned about letting them down. We’ll make do with what we can, but it’s a challenge.” Price Hikes in Lagos Markets In Lagos, the prices of perishable and non-perishable food items have soared in major markets. At the popular Oyingbo market, the price of Scotch Bonnet (Ata Rodo) ranges between N2,000 and N8,000, up from N200 and N500 last month. A bag of Rodo on the eve of Sallah celebration is N200,000, compared to N110,000 previously. Similarly, a bag of bell pepper (tatashe) is now N200,000, up from N130,000 last week. A bag of chilli pepper (bawa or shombo) costs N200,000, up from N120,000, and a basket of tomatoes is N220,000, up from N160,000. At Sabo, a pepper seller lamented that the cost of pepper has negatively affected their sales. “The changes in the prices started on Monday when Hausa traders started traveling back to the North. This situation has also rubbed off on people as they no longer patronize us as it used to be. I am also not happy the way things are going this year. Last year, it was a little better than what we are experiencing this year. Imagine that a lot of people want to celebrate Sallah without having food. Some people prefer to buy dried pepper because it is cheaper than the fresh ones.” In major markets including Mile 12, Oyingbo, Mushin, Lagos Island, Ajah, and Epe, prices of food items have jumped by almost 300% in some cases within the space of one year. A trader at Mile 2 market stated, “A basket of tomatoes which was sold between N145,000 and N160,000 in 2024 had risen to N200,000 at Mile 12, N220,000 in Oyingbo market while places including Mushin, Lekki, Ajah, Epe, Iyana-Oba, Orile, cost as high as N16,000, N12,000, N10,000 and N8,000 per small measurement depending on the area.” Onions are relatively cheap, perhaps due to being in season, but still costly compared to 2024. Mohammed, an onions seller in Oyingbo, revealed that a 100kg basket of onions is now selling for N100,000, up from N70,000 in 2024. “Today, a bag of 50kg rice ranges between N50,000 and N65,000 depending on the product and quality,” he added. Prices of rams, goats, and cows in Lagos have also soared. A medium-sized cow ranges from N700,000 to as high as N1.5 million, a ram ranges from N250,000 to N700,000, and a goat from N100,000 to N150,000, depending on bargaining strength. Eggs and chickens have also increased in price, with a crate of eggs sold between N6,000 and N7,000, up from N4,500 in 2024. Transportation Fare Increases in Kwara State Transport fares from Ilorin to Lagos and vice versa have increased by 300%. It used to be N10,000 but is now N30,000. Transport fare from Ilorin to Abuja and vice versa is now N28,000, up from N25,000 before Sallah. Omu Aran to Ilorin was N2,500 before Sallah, but it’s now N4,000. Prices might increase till late in the evening and return to normalcy by tomorrow morning. The price of one bag of rice has remained stable or even lower, oscillating between N60,000 and N62,000 during this Sallah period, down from N68,000 before. Transport Fare Hike in Osogbo Although the prices of food items remain unchanged, the cost of transportation has almost doubled. There is a price hike in both intra and inter-state travels. Those traveling from Osogbo to Iwo, which was N2,000, now pay N3,000, while travelers to Ibadan from Osogbo now pay N4,000, up from N2,500. Travelers going to Lagos State paid N12,000, up from N7,000 before the Sallah season. Price Reductions in Sokoto In Sokoto, the current prices of foodstuffs are decreasing by the day. A 50kg bag of parboiled rice is being sold at N63,000, down from N90,000 in March and early April. A sack of local potatoes sold for N20,000 in April is now N12,000. Prices of beans and soya beans have also dropped significantly. Prices of tomatoes, onions, pepper, and other vegetables have also dropped. Many believe that the crash in prices of foodstuffs in the state is due to the economic downturn. Sokoto markets have been flooded with all kinds of foodstuffs, including yam, fresh maize, and Irish potatoes, which are common in many households. According to the Chairman, Sokoto Traders Association, Alhaji Bashir Gishiri, the crash in prices of foodstuffs in Sokoto and other parts of the North West is an act of God. “The security situation had forced many farmers to abandon farming for fear of bandits and other criminal gangs operating in the region. As God wants, the prices of farm produce are still falling. I am optimistic it will continue to crash as the security situation improves and many farmers go back to farms.” Price Surge in Ogun State In Abeokuta, Ogun State, prices of food commodities have increased compared to May. At the popular Olomore market, a basket of tomatoes that was sold for N45,000 is now N150,000, while pepper, which sold for N60,000 in May, is now between N150,000 and N170,000 per basket. Prices of rams have also increased compared to last year. Small rams sell for between N400,000 and N500,000, while big ones sell between N800,000 and N900,000. A
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Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has appealed to the citizens to stay vigilant and maintain heightened security awareness, particularly during festive periods. This call was part of the governor’s Eid-el-Kabir goodwill message. The announcement was conveyed through his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju. The statement was made available to LMSINT MEDIA on Thursday night. In the message, Governor Makinde encouraged the Muslim faithful to take advantage of the sacred occasion to offer intensified prayers for Oyo State, Nigeria, and the country’s leadership. He expressed his gratitude to the Muslim community within the state for their consistent support, prayers, and sacrifices towards the progress of the state. The governor further implored all Oyo State residents to be cautious and alert during the festive period. He stated, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to my Muslim brothers and sisters in Oyo State and around the globe for witnessing Eid-el-Kabir 2025. “Once again, I encourage all Muslims and the entire population of the state to remain security-conscious throughout the celebration. Ensuring safety is a shared responsibility. “If anyone notices anything unusual, they should report it immediately. The government will take the necessary action.”
