Maiduguri witnessed visible anger and discontent on Monday following an incident at the North-East Zonal Public Hearing on the amendment of the All Progressives Congress (APC) constitution, where the image of Vice-President Kashim Shettima was noticeably absent from the official event banner. The development immediately sparked outrage among party delegates and stakeholders in attendance, many of whom viewed the omission as a deliberate and disrespectful act against the Vice-President. The situation escalated when the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, openly challenged the organisers during the event, describing the action as unacceptable and capable of creating internal division within the party. The banner displayed at the venue carried the photographs of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the five APC governors from the North-East geopolitical zone, and the party’s National Legal Adviser. However, Vice-President Shettima’s image was conspicuously missing, despite his position as Nigeria’s second-highest-ranking official and one of the most prominent APC figures from the North-East. Observers at the event pointed out that the controversy echoed a previous occurrence in Gombe State last year, where a similar exclusion of Shettima’s photograph at an APC function reportedly led to a heated confrontation that eventually disrupted and prematurely ended the meeting. Speaking to the gathering, Speaker Lawan—recognized as the longest-serving Speaker in Nigeria—expressed deep concern over the omission. He warned that repeating such actions could reignite tensions that the party had previously struggled to contain. He questioned the rationale behind the decision, stating that the absence of the Vice-President’s image was the same issue that caused unrest in Gombe and was now resurfacing in Borno. While acknowledging that he could not determine the intent of the organisers, Lawan emphasized that such an oversight was inappropriate and damaging. Lawan further questioned how the image of a sitting Vice-President, who hails from Borno State and represents the North-East zone at the highest level of government, could be excluded from an official party banner at a regional event. His comments were greeted with loud applause from delegates and party members present, signaling broad dissatisfaction and shared concern over the incident. The reaction underscored the depth of frustration among stakeholders, many of whom viewed the omission as an affront not only to the Vice-President but also to the North-East region as a whole.
A tragic incident has been recorded in Rivers State following a shooting involving officers of the Nigeria Police Force. A Police Inspector identified as Victor Okus reportedly opened fire on two fellow officers after a confrontation in Port Harcourt. Details surrounding the disagreement that led to the shooting remain unclear at this time. However, preliminary information indicates that all officers involved were personnel attached to the 17 Police Mobile Force (PMF) and were deployed on special assignment at Intels, Onne, before the unfortunate event occurred. Following the shooting, Inspector Okus was swiftly apprehended and has since been placed under Police detention pending further investigations. Confirming the development, the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, described the occurrence as deeply unfortunate and distressing. She disclosed that the incident took place on Sunday, noting that one officer lost his life instantly, while the second victim sustained serious injuries and was rushed for medical care. According to her official statement, the deceased officer has been identified as Inspector Ibrahim Sani. She explained that Inspector Okus, who was attached to 17 PMF but deployed on special duty at Intels, Onne, allegedly carried out the attack during an operational assignment. Further clarification from the Unit Commander of 14 PMF, Turaki Hassan, revealed that the shooting occurred at approximately 1:20 pm at Next Cash and Carry Supermart, located in Trans-Amadi, Port Harcourt. At the time, Inspector Ibrahim Sani and Inspector Daniel Dauda, both attached to 14 PMF, Yola, were on joint security duty alongside military personnel. Inspector Okus was accused of firing shots that struck his colleagues in sensitive areas, including the head and neck. The injured officers were immediately transported to Nopsam Hospital for urgent medical attention. Sadly, Inspector Sani later succumbed to his injuries, while Inspector Dauda remains under medical supervision. The remains of the deceased officer have been deposited at the Military Hospital Mortuary in Port Harcourt for preservation and post-mortem examination. Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, ordered a comprehensive investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting. He further stated that the suspect would undergo an Orderly Room Trial before being formally arraigned in court. The Police Commissioner emphasized that firearm handling is a critical responsibility and warned officers against negligence or misconduct while on duty. He stressed the importance of prioritizing safety at all times to prevent avoidable tragedies within the Force.
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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has restated its commitment to youth empowerment, with a renewed pledge to stimulate growth within Nigeria’s sports economy. This assurance was given by the National Chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, according to an official statement released on Monday by his media aide, Abimbola Tooki. The statement followed the conclusion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which ended on Sunday. Nigeria finished the tournament in third position, while Senegal defeated host nation Morocco in the final to emerge champions. Beyond the competitive results, the APC chairman reportedly used the continental football event as an opportunity to extend Nigeria’s sports diplomacy beyond the pitch. While in Morocco, Professor Yilwatda led high-level strategic engagements focused on redefining the future of Nigerian football and positioning it as a driver of employment, national cohesion, and long-term development. According to the statement, Yilwatda was part of the Federal Government’s official delegation to Morocco during the AFCON tournament. While supporting the Super Eagles alongside Nigerians at home and abroad, he also engaged in discussions aimed at reshaping Nigeria’s football ecosystem into a sustainable economic sector. The APC chairman’s involvement went beyond symbolic presence. On the sidelines of AFCON activities in Rabat, a landmark strategy session was convened to examine how Nigeria could intentionally deploy football as a tool for job creation, youth inclusion, and infrastructure development across the country. The statement explained that the strategy meeting was facilitated by the Director-General of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Silas Agara. It brought together political leadership, football diplomacy stakeholders, and technical experts with a shared objective. That objective, according to the APC, was to study and adapt lessons from Morocco’s widely acknowledged sports development framework into a practical Nigerian model capable of producing measurable and sustainable outcomes. Central to the discussions was the understanding that Morocco’s football achievements did not occur by chance. Instead, they were the result of long-term planning, coherent policy alignment, and consistent investment in sports infrastructure and talent development. Drawing from these lessons, participants agreed that Nigeria’s approach must extend beyond match results and tournament success. The focus, they noted, should be on the broader sports economy, which includes employment opportunities in stadium construction and maintenance, facility management, coaching education, sports administration, technology solutions, and other related sectors with the capacity to absorb thousands of young Nigerians. The statement further disclosed that Professor Yilwatda would provide the required political leadership and policy guidance to drive the proposed vision. Meanwhile, Silas Agara would oversee implementation, ensuring that the strategy results in tangible employment opportunities and structured skills development for Nigerian youths. In addition, Amaju Pinnick, a FIFA Council member and leader within the Confederation of African Football (CAF), is expected to contribute international perspective and facilitate access to global technical support. Policy and technology expert Esebamen Clement will lead the development of a data-driven and implementable framework designed to guide the initiative and ensure accountability in execution. Another major outcome of the Rabat engagement was the emphasis on collaboration with state governments, particularly through the Progressive Governors Forum, to ensure nationwide alignment and decentralised execution. Professor Yilwatda reaffirmed that football, when properly structured and supported, has the capacity to function as a powerful vehicle for national unity, youth empowerment, and economic growth, reinforcing the APC’s broader development agenda
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In a significant cultural event in Lagos, the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, officially installed and capped six distinguished individuals as new White Cap Chiefs of the state. This traditional ceremony, steeped in centuries-old rites, underscores the importance of indigenous leadership and preservation of cultural heritage in Nigeria’s most populous city. The investiture took place at the royal palace in the Lagos Island district, where the monarch presided over the sacred proceedings. A large gathering of traditional rulers, respected chiefs, cultural custodians, and local residents witnessed the elevation of these community leaders into the revered White Cap Chieftaincy Institution. Distinguished Chiefs Installed The newly elevated chiefs included: Each of these leaders has longstanding ties to community development and cultural advocacy, reflecting the deep roots of the White Cap tradition in local governance and social cohesion. Traditional Rites and Procession According to an official statement acquired on Monday, the ceremony included a series of sacred rituals that marked the transition of these figures into their new positions. Following the completion of the traditional rites, members of the Ògbóni fraternity led a solemn procession from Isale Eko to the palace of the Oba of Lagos. The newly installed chiefs joined this dignified march through historic quarters, symbolizing unity and continuity. Upon reaching the palace, the chiefs rendered homage to the Oba and were blessed with traditional charms and prayers. Oba Akiolu performed the blessing using sacred items such as water, kolanut, and dry gin — elements deeply symbolic in Yoruba tradition. In his charge to the new chiefs, the monarch urged them to remain humble in service, uphold the rich customs of Lagos, and safeguard the unity that binds the state’s diverse communities. Escort to Palaces and Broader Attendance Once the palace rituals concluded, the Ògbóni procession, flanked by other White Cap chiefs and led by High Chief Opeluwa Onido, escorted the newly installed leaders to their respective palaces across Isale Eko. This part of the ceremony reinforced communal respect and affirmed each chief’s role within the intricate cultural tapestry of Lagos Island. The event drew notable attendance from key figures within the Lagos traditional and civic landscape. Among those present were: Their presence reflected the broad significance of the occasion, uniting political, cultural, and community leadership in recognition of these new custodians of tradition.
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The Lagos State Government has called on councillors representing the state’s 377 wards to actively discharge their oversight responsibilities and play a stronger role in advancing governance at the grassroots level. This charge was delivered by the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, during an onboarding and retreat programme organised for councillors in the state. The event took place at Novotel Hotels, Lekki, Lagos. The governor, who was represented at the programme by the Special Adviser on Environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, emphasised that local government remains the closest tier of administration to the people. According to him, it is at this level that citizens develop their most lasting perceptions of leadership, governance, and democratic values. He explained that residents of Lagos State expect councillors to contribute meaningfully to building a local government system that is people-focused, inclusive, transparent, accountable, and driven by sustainable development goals. He added that such expectations align with the T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda of the current administration and reflect the broader aspirations of Lagos residents. The governor further advised councillors to measure the success of their tenure not merely by the duration of service, but by the positive impact they make in their communities. He urged them to focus on improving lives and leaving behind enduring legacies that would benefit future generations within their wards. Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Bolaji Robert, expressed appreciation to the governor for approving the retreat programme. He described the initiative as clear evidence of the administration’s commitment to reinforcing local government structures and enhancing the capacity of elected officials at the grassroots level. In a goodwill message, the Chairman of the House Committee on Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Sanni Okanlawon, who was represented by the Chairman of the House Committee on Information and Strategy, Stephen Ogundipe, also praised the ministry for organising the programme. He noted that the retreat demonstrated the resolve of the Lagos State Government to promote strong leadership practices and deepen effective governance across local councils. Additionally, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Kikelomo Bolarinwa, encouraged participating councillors to fully apply the knowledge and skills gained during the programme. She stressed that doing so would help foster sustainable development and improve service delivery at the community level.
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Workers under the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) on Monday began an indefinite industrial action, effectively bringing government operations across Abuja to a halt. The strike action led to the complete shutdown of government offices, including the FCTA Secretariat, where a noticeable security deployment was recorded early in the morning. A visit to the secretariat around 8:10 a.m. revealed that operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) alongside officers of the Nigeria Police Force were positioned at the main entrance, restricting access to the premises. A security officer at the scene, who requested anonymity, confirmed that workers were barred from entering the complex due to the ongoing strike, stating that staff of both FCDA and FCTA were not permitted into the offices as part of the industrial action. The work stoppage disrupted official activities across all FCTA secretariats, departments, agencies, area councils, and parastatals operating within the Federal Capital Territory. This development followed a prior warning issued by the workers on Friday, in which they announced their intention to shut down government offices throughout the FCT and its area councils if their demands were not addressed. The decision to withdraw services was taken by the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC), which instructed workers across all levels and cadres to down tools. The union cited the continued neglect of long-standing labour and welfare concerns by the authorities as the reason for the action. Information gathered indicated that the strike commenced after the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to the FCTA management. According to the unions, the ultimatum elapsed without meaningful response, despite several engagements held within the period. The ultimatum, which took effect on January 7, 2026, was outlined in a statement dated January 8, jointly signed by JUAC President, Rifkatu Iortyer, and Secretary, Abdullahi Saleh. Copies of the notice were forwarded to the Minister of State for the FCT, the Chief of Staff, the Head of Service, and the Director of Security Services. Addressing journalists at the FCT Secretariat on Monday, JUAC Vice President, Musa Istifanus, explained that the industrial action became inevitable after repeated efforts to engage the FCTA leadership and the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, yielded no results. According to him, the unions had resolved to shut the gates of the FCTA, FCDA, and all affiliated agencies, stressing that workers’ welfare remained the core issue. Istifanus stated that since the beginning of the current administration, labour relations between workers and the FCTA management had been strained, adding that the minister had consistently declined meetings with union representatives, despite the union being a critical stakeholder in the system. He noted that employees were battling multiple unresolved welfare challenges, including promotion-related concerns. Recalling earlier developments, Istifanus said workers staged a protest in June of the previous year, after which the management engaged them and reached certain resolutions. However, he lamented that none of the agreed actions had been implemented since that engagement. The JUAC vice president also criticised the 2024 promotion exercise conducted by the FCT Civil Service Commission, describing the process as poorly handled and unfair to staff. He explained that the promotion examination, held in November 2024, was conducted using computer-based testing (CBT) for the first time in the FCT administration. The union had earlier appealed for adequate training of staff before the examination, but the request was allegedly ignored. Istifanus further alleged that the examination was plagued by technical failures, including malfunctioning computer systems, which were reported during the exercise but not addressed by the commission. He accused the leadership of the FCT Civil Service Commission of disregarding complaints raised by affected staff during the examination process. On the results of the exercise, he disclosed that when the outcomes were eventually released—about one to two weeks prior—approximately 75 percent of candidates failed, a development he described as unacceptable and one of the major triggers of the strike. Beyond promotions, Istifanus also accused the administration of failing to fully implement an approved wage award for FCT workers and neglecting statutory deductions. He stated that although the minister had approved a wage award for staff and promised immediate payment from September of the previous year, only one month’s payment out of five months owed was released recently, allegedly after management became aware of union mobilisation. Additionally, he alleged that pension contributions, including contributory pension deductions and National Housing Fund payments, had not been remitted since May of the previous year, alongside other statutory deductions. According to him, all attempts by the union to secure a direct meeting with the FCT Minister to resolve these matters had so far been unsuccessful.
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Reports alleging that more than 100 worshippers were abducted during attacks on two churches in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have been firmly rejected by the Kaduna State Government and the Kaduna State Police Command. Authorities described the claims as inaccurate, misleading, and capable of triggering unnecessary panic. The denial followed widespread reports that suspected bandits allegedly invaded Cherubim and Seraphim Church 1 and Cherubim and Seraphim Church 2 in the Kurmin Wali community on Sunday, during church services, and kidnapped a large number of worshippers. Reacting to the reports, the Chairman of the Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Reverend John Hayab, earlier disclosed that he received an emergency call from the CAN chairman in the affected area. According to him, the information relayed suggested that residents of Kurmin Wali were taken from both Cherubim and Seraphim churches during worship sessions. Hayab explained that the attackers reportedly arrived while services were ongoing, secured the church premises by locking the gates, and compelled worshippers to move with them into nearby bush areas. He further claimed that as many as 163 worshippers were allegedly being held, while noting that eight individuals reportedly managed to escape from captivity. Describing the alleged incident as a deliberate effort to spread fear and fuel religious division, the CAN leader stated that such actions would not weaken the determination of Christian bodies to pursue peace and cooperation with government institutions. He emphasized that despite the disturbing nature of the report, religious leaders remained committed to working alongside security agencies and public authorities to halt criminal activities in the region. Hayab also appealed to the Federal Government, the Kaduna State Government, and all relevant security agencies to urgently scale up rescue operations aimed at securing the freedom of those allegedly abducted. He assured that Christian groups would remain united and willing to share credible intelligence that could help expose criminal networks behind such acts. According to him, security operatives had already begun responding to the report, expressing appreciation for their efforts while urging them to intensify actions to ensure the safe return of the alleged victims without harm. However, the Kaduna State Police Commissioner, Alhaji Muhammad Rabiu, publicly refuted the abduction narrative, stating that investigations did not support the claims being circulated. Speaking to journalists after a State Security Council meeting held at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House on Monday, Rabiu described the report as the handiwork of “conflict entrepreneurs” whose aim was to disrupt peace and stability within the state. The police commissioner challenged individuals spreading the information to present verifiable details, including names and identities of the supposed victims, to substantiate their claims. He further cautioned against the circulation of unconfirmed stories, warning that those deliberately spreading false information would face legal consequences, as such actions could undermine the relative calm currently enjoyed in Kaduna State. In the same vein, the Chairman of Kajuru Local Government Area, Dauda Madaki, also dismissed the reports after conducting independent checks. Madaki explained that immediately after receiving information about the alleged incident, he deployed police officers and other security personnel to Kurmin Wali to assess the situation firsthand. According to him, a physical inspection of the churches mentioned in the reports revealed no signs of an attack or abduction. He added that consultations with the village head, Mai Dan Zaria, confirmed that no such incident occurred within the community. Madaki further stated that the local youth leader, Bernard Bona, who spoke to journalists during the visit, also affirmed that there was no record or evidence of a church attack or mass kidnapping. He therefore urged anyone insisting that an abduction took place to come forward with concrete information, including the identities of the alleged abducted individuals, to support their assertions.
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Nigeria’s Super Eagles have surged to 26th position in the latest FIFA Men’s World Rankings, marking their highest global placement in 16 years, after an impressive showing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, according to LMSINT MEDIA. The significant rise highlights the growing competitiveness of African football, with tournament hosts Morocco also achieving a historic milestone by entering the world’s top 10 for the first time since 1998. Under the leadership of head coach Eric Chelle, Nigeria emerged as one of the most improved teams in the January 2026 FIFA ranking update, climbing 12 places following their bronze medal finish at the continental tournament. The Super Eagles had not reached such a high ranking since May 2010, when they were placed 21st globally, making the latest development a major moment in the nation’s football history. During the ranking assessment period, Nigeria played seven matches, securing six victories and one defeat, a run that significantly boosted their ranking score. Their AFCON journey began strongly with a commanding 4–0 win over Mozambique in the round of 16, followed by a solid 2–0 victory against Algeria in the quarter-finals. In the semi-finals, Nigeria faced tournament hosts Morocco, where the match ended goalless before the Eagles narrowly lost on penalties. Despite the setback, the team responded with resilience in the third-place playoff, holding Egypt to another scoreless draw before clinching a 4–2 penalty shootout victory, securing the bronze medal. FIFA confirmed that Nigeria earned 79.09 ranking points, the highest point increase recorded by any country in the latest update, underscoring the strong impact of their AFCON performances. Morocco, although beaten by Senegal in extra time in the final, moved up three places to eighth, achieving their highest ranking ever and returning to the top 10 for the first time since April 1998. Senegal’s AFCON triumph also delivered historic rewards, as they climbed seven places to 12th, their best ranking to date. At the summit of the global standings, Spain retained the number one position, followed by world champions Argentina in second place and France in third. Morocco’s entry into the top 10 pushed Croatia, Belgium, and Germany down the rankings, reflecting the competitive shifts caused by recent international fixtures. Across Africa, Cameroon and Nigeria recorded the joint highest positional climb, each moving up 12 places, while other notable improvements saw Algeria rise to 28th, Egypt to 31st, and Ivory Coast to 37th. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) now boasts nine national teams inside the world’s top 50, an increase of two compared to the end of 2025. FIFA has confirmed that the next edition of the Men’s World Rankings will be published on April 1, 2026.
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The planned upgrade of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja is projected to absorb ₦24,642,000,000 from the total ₦203,602,968,852 budget allocated to the National Sports Commission (NSC) in the 2026 appropriation bill, according to reports by LMSINT MEDIA. This allocation forms part of Nigeria’s broader fiscal plan following the presentation of a ₦58.18 trillion “Budget of Restoration” by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to a joint sitting of the National Assembly last year. Within this framework, the sports sector has experienced a notable financial boost, as the proposed 2026 allocation represents a 300 percent rise compared to the ₦78 billion approved for sports development in 2025. The increase reflects the commission’s focus on infrastructure renewal, athlete development, and participation in major international sporting events. The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, had earlier disclosed plans to begin rehabilitation work on the Abuja stadium before the end of 2025. This move is part of a wider strategy aimed at restoring Nigeria’s deteriorating sports facilities and repositioning them to meet international standards. The Moshood Abiola National Stadium, officially opened in 2003 during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, has long struggled with operational and maintenance challenges. Despite undergoing renovation works between 2020 and 2022, the stadium has been adjudged unsuitable for hosting senior national teams and high-profile competitions. During the tenure of former Sports Minister Sunday Dare, Africa’s richest man and Nigerian industrialist, Aliko Dangote, contributed $1 million towards refurbishing the stadium’s main bowl. That renovation, carried out by indigenous contractors, involved laying Pure Dynasty Paspalum grass, installing two digital scoreboards, setting up 24 irrigation sprinklers, establishing nursery beds, and implementing a two-year maintenance programme. These upgrades were executed under a Public-Private Partnership arrangement designed to ensure sustainability. However, the improvements failed to endure. Within a year after the facility was handed back to the Federal Government, the pitch deteriorated significantly. This decline forced the Super Eagles to relocate their home fixtures to the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. The national team last played on the Abuja pitch on March 24, 2023, when they suffered a 1–0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau. Following that match, former head coach José Peseiro and several players openly criticized the poor state of the playing surface. Under the 2026 budget proposal, the NSC has allocated ₦18,775,000,000 for the first phase of rehabilitation and upgrading of the stadium’s main bowl. An additional ₦5,800,000,000 has been earmarked for completing a high-performance training centre intended to support elite athletes. Furthermore, ₦65,000,000 has been set aside for the provision of internet bandwidth, including fibre-optic connectivity and LAN/WAN infrastructure, across the stadium complex and other critical national sports facilities managed by the commission. Separate from these figures, the budget also includes ₦15,500,000,000 for the construction of a dedicated sports secretariat within the stadium premises, aimed at improving administrative efficiency and coordination. Originally constructed at a cost of $360 million between 2000 and 2003 to host the 8th African Games held in October 2003, the Moshood Abiola National Stadium was designed to seat 60,491 spectators. The structure features a lightweight roof system intended to provide coverage and comfort for fans. Beyond infrastructure spending, the NSC has proposed ₦4,222,800,000 to support Nigeria’s participation in the 2026 Commonwealth Games scheduled to take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2. In preparation for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, the commission plans to invest ₦5,105,337,650 in intensified training and preparatory programmes. Participation in the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Italy is also expected to cost ₦1,000,000,000. Football-related expenditures remain a significant component of the budget. Nigeria’s participation in the recently concluded 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the forthcoming 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, and other FIFA-sanctioned competitions involving both the men’s and women’s national teams is projected to cost the NSC ₦14,200,000,000.
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The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a suspect in connection with the death of popular Nigerian singer, Adesina Afeez, widely known by his stage name, Destiny Boy. According to official police information, the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), specifically the Homicide Section, where a detailed and thorough investigation is currently underway. In a statement released on Monday, police authorities revealed that investigations had formally commenced into the circumstances surrounding the passing of the 22-year-old musician. The command confirmed that one individual is presently in custody as detectives intensify efforts to uncover the full details behind the incident. News of Destiny Boy’s death began circulating on Sunday, following the emergence of disturbing videos on social media. The footage showed the late singer’s body being conveyed to a mortuary, a development that quickly sparked grief among fans and fueled widespread speculation regarding the cause of his death. One of the viral clips captured the artiste lying motionless in the rear compartment of a vehicle, with cotton wool placed in both his ears and nostrils. The images caused emotional reactions online and led to various unverified claims across social platforms. Amid the growing rumours, an individual identified as a close associate of the singer later released a separate video to clarify the situation. In the recording, the associate stated that Destiny Boy had been managing an undisclosed medical condition before his death. The associate explained that the intention behind the video was to prevent the spread of misinformation surrounding the singer’s passing. He noted that Destiny Boy had struggled with health challenges for some time and that efforts were made to support his recovery, but unfortunately, he did not survive. He added prayers for the late singer’s peaceful rest. Destiny Boy, born Afeez Adeshina, began his musical journey at a young age and gradually carved a niche for himself by blending traditional Fuji sounds with modern musical elements. His early career took shape at T2 Boys Studios in Agege, Lagos, where he also worked as a backup dancer for prominent Fuji musician, Pasuma. His rise to national attention came in 2019 after he released a Fuji-inspired cover of Davido’s hit song If. The rendition gained massive traction online and introduced him to a wider audience. Building on that momentum, Destiny Boy went on to create Fuji-style covers of songs by well-known artistes including Tekno, 2Baba, 9ice, and Small Doctor. Beyond his music career, Destiny Boy also experienced significant milestones in his personal life. In November 2024, he welcomed his first child with his partner, Iremide. The Ogun State Police Command has reassured the public that further updates will be provided as investigations continue and more findings emerge from the ongoing probe.
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The political camp of Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has publicly declared its intention to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term ambition ahead of the 2027 general election. This position was disclosed by Munirudeen Raji, the Special Adviser on Politics to Governor Ademola Adeleke, who also holds a leadership position within the Accord Party in Osun State. Raji made the revelation while appearing on a current affairs programme, Lero Temi, which aired on Monday in Osogbo, the Osun State capital. During the programme, Raji openly acknowledged that Governor Adeleke’s political structure did not support Bola Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election. However, he emphasized that the political reality has since changed, assuring that President Tinubu’s chances in the 2027 presidential election are now firmly secured with the backing of Adeleke’s camp. According to Raji, President Bola Tinubu should be regarded as a leader for all Nigerians, regardless of past political alignments. He explained that when campaign activities commence, the Adeleke political machinery intends to visibly demonstrate this renewed alliance. He stated that future campaign materials, including posters produced for Governor Ademola Adeleke, would also feature President Bola Tinubu. This, he said, is to clearly communicate to voters that the Adeleke camp will simultaneously campaign for both the Osun governorship and the presidency. Raji further clarified that the voting pattern of the Adeleke camp in the 2027 elections would reflect this position. While the camp will mobilize voters to re-elect Governor Ademola Adeleke as governor of Osun State, it will also actively support President Bola Tinubu at the presidential level. He expressed confidence in the outcome of the next presidential election, insisting that Tinubu’s victory in 2027 is assured. Raji admitted that despite voting against Tinubu during the 2023 presidential contest, the camp has now resolved to back him, believing that this support will contribute significantly to his success at the polls. In addition, Raji addressed issues surrounding party affiliation within the Osun State government. He maintained that Governor Ademola Adeleke, alongside all appointed officials in the state, are members of the Accord Party. However, he acknowledged that elected officeholders within the state remain members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Responding to claims of internal division within the Accord Party in Osun State, Raji firmly dismissed such reports. He described them as deliberate attempts by opposition elements to cause confusion and discredit the party. He added that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has also confirmed that there is no factional crisis within the Accord Party in the state. Raji stressed that the continued support of Osun residents for Governor Adeleke gives the party confidence ahead of the forthcoming governorship election scheduled for August 8. According to him, the electorate’s satisfaction with Adeleke’s leadership makes his re-election highly probable. He further described Governor Adeleke as a leader who enjoys widespread acceptance among the people of Osun State. Raji argued that voters can now clearly distinguish between genuine leadership and political deception, noting that this awareness will play a crucial role in the election outcome. Reflecting on previous elections, Raji recalled that Adeleke emerged victorious during the 2018 governorship contest but was denied the mandate through an inconclusive election process. He noted that history took a different turn in 2022, when another election was conducted and Adeleke secured victory. Addressing criticisms often directed at the governor, Raji remarked that while some detractors once reduced Adeleke’s public image to his dancing, that same personality trait helped him connect with the people. He concluded that Adeleke’s approach to leadership has translated into tangible democratic benefits for Osun State.
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Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo recently paid a quiet and undisclosed visit to former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), at his Hill Top residence in Minna, the capital of Niger State. According to information gathered, Obasanjo arrived in Minna and was formally received at the Ahmed Bola Tinubu International Airport. From there, he was escorted by Government House protocol officials, indicating that the visit followed official procedures despite being described as private. Sources confirmed that the former president proceeded directly to Babangida’s residence, where both leaders held a closed-door discussion. The meeting reportedly lasted approximately 30 minutes, with no members of the press or aides allowed into the session. After the brief but significant engagement, Obasanjo returned to the airport and departed Minna without addressing journalists or issuing any public remarks. Although no official explanation has been provided regarding the purpose of the visit, political observers believe the meeting may be linked to pressing national matters or strategic political consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, these remain speculative interpretations, as neither party has released a formal statement. This development comes shortly after Obasanjo was reported to have received prominent figures from opposition political parties at his residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State, a move that further fueled discussions about his ongoing political engagements and influence behind the scenes. As of the time of filing this report, no official communication has been issued to clarify the agenda, outcome, or implications of the Minna visit, leaving the public to rely on informed political analysis rather than confirmed details.
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The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially activated the application portal for the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE), which serves as the gateway for admission into Federal Technical Colleges across the country. This development reinforces the government’s ongoing commitment to free technical and vocational education nationwide. The announcement was disclosed in an official statement released on Monday in Abuja by Folasade Boriowo, the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education. According to the statement, the decision to open the portal followed the formal approval of the initiative by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, as part of broader education reforms targeted at skills development and youth empowerment. Dr. Alausa confirmed that registration for the National Common Entrance Examination will begin on January 26 and end on May 24, giving prospective candidates ample time to complete the application process. He further stated that the examination will be conducted nationwide on June 6, ensuring equal access for candidates across all regions of the country. He explained that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s strategy to widen access to quality technical and vocational education, with a focus on equipping young Nigerians with practical, employable, and industry-relevant skills. The goal, according to the minister, is to prepare students for self-reliance, workforce readiness, and long-term productivity. Prospective applicants were advised to complete their registration exclusively through the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) online portal, accessible via the official NABTEB student platform. This centralized process ensures transparency, accuracy, and efficient management of applications nationwide. The minister emphasized that possession of a valid National Identification Number (NIN) is mandatory for all applicants. He noted that the NIN requirement remains a non-negotiable prerequisite for successful registration and validation of candidate records. Dr. Alausa reiterated that technical education in all Federal Technical Colleges is fully funded by the Federal Government upon admission. This policy underscores the government’s dedication to human capital development, youth empowerment, and the enhancement of national productivity through skills-based education. He further stated that candidates between the ages of 13 and 20 years are eligible to apply, and urged parents, guardians, and prospective students to strictly adhere to all stipulated application guidelines to avoid disqualification. The minister concluded by reaffirming the ministry’s sustained focus on expanding access to free, high-quality technical education, empowering young people with relevant vocational skills, promoting self-reliance, and contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth and sustainable development.
