Zenith Bank Plc has reinforced its commitment to Nigeria’s fast-growing technology ecosystem by committing a total of ₦140 million to innovation-driven startups through the Zecathon 5.0 initiative. The landmark event attracted thousands of applications from aspiring innovators across the country, reflecting the increasing appetite for technology-led solutions in Nigeria. The gathering also drew notable dignitaries, including the Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Mr. Jim Ovia, CFR, alongside the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, highlighting strong public and private sector collaboration in driving indigenous innovation. The presence of government leadership at the event underscored a growing recognition of locally developed technology as a powerful catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and digital transformation. Zecathon 5.0 Raises the Bar for Startup Development The 2025 edition of Zecathon further cemented its reputation as a high-impact launchpad for early-stage startups, introducing a more structured and demanding Innovation Hackathon track. This strategic addition emphasized hands-on execution, scalability, and real-world problem solving. From hundreds of submitted entries, twenty carefully selected teams made up of developers and designers advanced to the final stage. These teams engaged in an intensive three-day innovation sprint, where they worked under pressure to design and deploy functional solutions addressing key challenges across essential sectors of the economy. Zenith Bank Positions Innovation as a Strategic Priority Speaking at the event, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, described Zecathon as a deliberate long-term investment rather than a one-off initiative. According to her, the goal is to equip innovators with the right tools, mentorship, and funding needed to build sustainable ventures capable of solving real-life problems. She emphasized that Zecathon remains a vital platform where ambitious ideas are refined into viable, market-ready products capable of accelerating Africa’s digital and economic development. Hackathon Winners Share ₦140 Million Prize Pool At the Innovation Hackathon segment, TrustLoop, a digital Know-Your-Customer (KYC) and liveness verification solution, emerged as the overall winner and received the top prize of ₦30 million. Other finalist teams — Konfam, The Very Hacked Men, Zenith IntelliScore, and ZeraX — were each awarded ₦10 million in recognition of their innovative solutions and technical execution. Startup Pitch Competition Showcases Sectoral Innovation The Startup Pitch Competition, which featured early-stage founders operating in fintech, edtech, and healthcare, delivered a strong display of creativity and market relevance. An education-focused startup, Cubbes, stood out as the overall winner, securing ₦30 million to support product development and growth. Four other promising startups — Venille, Sowota, Invopay, and Flow — were rewarded with ₦10 million each as runners-up. Industry Experts Applaud the Impact of Zecathon Commenting on the success of the initiative, Fikun Aluko, Head of Tech & Entrepreneurship Programs at Beyond Limits Global, noted that the event demonstrated the value of platforms that unite visionary institutions with emerging entrepreneurs. He highlighted that the solutions presented during the competition showed strong potential to advance digital transformation and innovation across the African continent, reinforcing the importance of sustained investment in technology ecosystems.
Ibadan — The Oyo State Government has announced the suspension of a traditional ruler in Atisbo Local Government Area following allegations connected to unlawful mining operations within his domain. The monarch affected by the decision is the Sobaloju of Ofiki, Jacob Adefabi, who was reportedly sanctioned over actions believed to contravene established mining regulations in the state. According to an official statement released by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media, Mr. Moses Alao, the suspension followed alleged violations of Executive Order 001 of 2023, a directive enacted to regulate mining activities across Oyo State. The statement explained that the traditional ruler was accused of encouraging unauthorised access to government-designated assets, including protected forest reserves under state control. It was further alleged that consent letters were issued to mining firms without the required approvals, thereby enabling mining operations in restricted areas. Executive Order 001/2023 specifically outlines procedures and approvals required before any form of mineral exploration or extraction can take place within the state. The government maintained that the alleged actions undermined these regulations and posed potential risks to environmental protection and community welfare. Authorities stated that the suspension was implemented as a safeguard aimed at protecting public interest and ensuring due process during investigations. A separate letter issued by the Director of Chieftaincy Matters in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, A.M. Olajire, confirmed that the monarch was directed to vacate the palace of the Onito of Ito with effect from January 5, pending the conclusion of an ongoing probe. The letter clarified that the measure was precautionary and intended to preserve the credibility of the investigation process. It also instructed the suspended chief to completely disengage from all mining-related dealings and avoid any actions that could obstruct investigative efforts. In addition, the monarch was ordered to remain accessible to authorities and cooperate fully with the investigation team assigned to examine the allegations.
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Petroleum products marketers in Nigeria have signaled the possibility of another reduction in the pump price of premium motor spirit, raising expectations of relief for motorists across the country. Industry stakeholders disclosed that petrol prices could fall to around ₦739 per litre nationwide, depending on the next move by Dangote Refinery. This development follows ongoing competition within Nigeria’s downstream oil sector, which has already triggered multiple price adjustments. The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) revealed that its members have received assurances of direct petrol supply from Dangote Refinery at ₦699 per litre, with the arrangement expected to take effect in January 2026. Speaking in an exclusive interview, the President of IPMAN, Abubakar Maigandi, explained that the promised direct sales would significantly reduce logistics costs and enable independent marketers to sell petrol at a more affordable rate. According to information gathered by LMSINT MEDIA, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) recently adjusted its pump price to ₦815 per litre at its retail outlets in Abuja. This price change occurred amid intense competition among key players in the oil marketing space. Despite the reduction, the NNPCL price still remains ₦76 higher than the ₦739 per litre currently offered by Dangote Refinery-supported MRS filling stations, highlighting a clear disparity in fuel pricing across the market. Toward the end of the previous year, Dangote Refinery announced a substantial reduction in its petrol prices as part of a strategy aimed at gaining market dominance and outcompeting rival marketers. This decision effectively sparked a broader price war that has continued into 2026. Market observations show that petrol prices presently range between ₦739 and ₦900 per litre across different filling stations nationwide. The wide variation underscores the uneven impact of price reductions, with many Nigerians still unable to access cheaper fuel. While Dangote-backed outlets offer lower prices, several stations—including some operated by major marketers—continue to sell petrol at much higher rates, particularly in Abuja and other urban centers. As a result, the majority of consumers have yet to experience the full benefit of recent price cuts. Addressing the situation, Maigandi stated that IPMAN members are prepared to cap petrol prices at ₦750 per litre once Dangote Refinery commences direct distribution to independent marketers. He explained that Dangote had assured marketers that direct supply would begin in January 2026, eliminating the need for middlemen and significantly reducing transportation expenses. According to Maigandi, once petrol is sold at ₦699 per litre from the refinery, transportation costs—estimated at around ₦15 per litre—would bring the final landing cost to approximately ₦750 per litre at filling stations. He noted that once direct deliveries begin, fuel queues would ease, supply would stabilize, and marketers would be able to immediately reduce prices at the pump. Maigandi emphasized that the anticipated development would encourage more marketers to purchase directly from the refinery, resulting in increased competition and further price moderation. It will be recalled that in December, Dangote Refinery slashed its gantry price from ₦838 to ₦699 per litre, a move that reshaped pricing dynamics across the downstream sector. Subsequently, Aliko Dangote, President of the 650,000-barrel-per-day refinery, approved a pump price of ₦739 per litre for MRS filling stations nationwide. However, despite these reductions, the price adjustment has not been uniformly adopted across the sector, with petrol still retailing for as much as ₦900 per litre in parts of Abuja and other regions. Market watchers believe that the commencement of direct sales to independent marketers could serve as a turning point, potentially closing the existing price gap and extending the benefits of cheaper petrol to a larger segment of the population.
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Sorrow continues to hang heavily over the Omatu family following the tragic loss of three siblings in a deadly fire incident that occurred on Lagos Island during the Christmas period. The three brothers were among the eight people who lost their lives when a fierce blaze swept through the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building located on Martins Street, Lagos Island, on December 24, 2025. The incident has left relatives, friends, and the wider community in deep mourning. The deceased have been identified as Stephen Onyeka Omatu (50), Casmir Nnabuike Omatu (39), and Collins Kenechukwu Omatu (37). They hailed from Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State and were residing in Lagos in search of improved economic prospects. According to information made available by family sources, the brothers were actively engaged in business activities within the Great Nigeria House before the incident. The commercial facility is known to accommodate multiple offices, retail outlets, and storage spaces, making it one of the busiest business hubs on Lagos Island. Eyewitness accounts revealed that the fire erupted without warning and rapidly spread across different sections of the building. Thick smoke reportedly engulfed the premises, creating panic and severely limiting escape routes for occupants. Several individuals attempted to flee as the fire intensified, but the three brothers were unfortunately trapped within the structure. Their bodies were later recovered after emergency responders succeeded in containing the inferno. The heartbreaking event has once again brought public attention to long-standing issues surrounding fire safety measures, emergency response systems, and building regulation compliance in Lagos’ crowded commercial areas. Over the years, similar incidents in such locations have resulted in repeated losses of both lives and valuable property. People familiar with the Omatu brothers described them as industrious, united, and deeply committed to supporting both their nuclear and extended family members. Since news of their passing became public, condolences have continued to pour in from different quarters, including Anambra State and beyond. In their hometown of Ihiala, various community associations, youth groups, and religious organisations have organised prayer gatherings in honour of the deceased. These groups have also used the occasion to renew calls for stronger enforcement of safety regulations in business premises to prevent future tragedies. A service of songs was held on January 7, 2026, at Jesus the Saviour Catholic Church, Bucknor Ejigbo, Lagos, where mourners gathered to pay tribute to the departed brothers. The family has officially announced that the final burial ceremony will take place on January 14, 2026, in Ihiala, Anambra State. Preparations for the burial are currently underway, with family members arriving from various parts of Nigeria to participate in the funeral rites. Traditional rulers, community leaders, and representatives of several associations are also expected to be present as the brothers are laid to rest in their ancestral home.
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The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has confidently declared that Plateau State will produce more than one million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections. The APC chairman attributed this projection to what he described as the party’s increasing political strength in the state, alongside the weakening and near-total collapse of opposition political structures. Professor Yilwatda made this statement while addressing party members and leaders during an APC stakeholders’ meeting held for the Pankshin, Kanke, and Kanam (PKK) Federal Constituency. The meeting took place in Pankshin, Plateau State, and was attended by party faithful and local stakeholders. According to him, the political landscape in Plateau State has changed significantly since the 2023 general elections. He emphasized that the APC has grown stronger than it was during the last election cycle, noting that several political actors who previously stood against the party have now aligned themselves with it. He explained that the challenges and internal resistance the party faced in 2023 no longer exist, as influential figures who once opposed the APC have since moved into its fold. Among those mentioned were the Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, alongside commissioners, local government chairmen, and other political appointees within the state. Professor Yilwatda stressed that this realignment has greatly strengthened the APC’s structure across Plateau State, positioning the party for a dominant showing in the next general elections. With the current level of unity and support, he expressed confidence that the state would overwhelmingly support President Tinubu in 2027. He further described the PKK Federal Constituency as a long-standing strong base for the APC. Recalling past election results, Yilwatda noted that President Tinubu recorded some of his highest vote counts in the area during the 2023 presidential election, reinforcing the constituency’s strategic importance to the party’s future electoral success.
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Popular Nigerian disc jockey and media personality, DJ Cuppy, has announced that she is temporarily stepping away from social media platforms to focus on personal reflection and spiritual renewal. The award-winning entertainer made this revelation on X (formerly Twitter) while sharing her intentions and goals for the new year with her followers. According to her message, the decision was not influenced by any external pressure, but rather a personal choice to slow down and reconnect with herself. Explaining the reason behind her absence, DJ Cuppy disclosed that she needs time away from online distractions in order to regain clarity and inner balance. She emphasized the importance of silence, self-awareness, and spiritual focus during this period of withdrawal. In her words, she revealed that the break is meant to help her reset emotionally and mentally, while also deepening her relationship with God. She reassured fans that she is doing well and that the break is intentional and beneficial. DJ Cuppy further stated that as part of her personal commitment for the year 2026, she has decided to embark on a 21-day fasting period. According to her, this spiritual exercise is necessary to help her address certain personal matters and set a strong foundation for the new year ahead. The celebrity DJ concluded by assuring her supporters that the break is only temporary and that she will return to social media once she has completed her period of reflection and fasting.
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Former Big Brother Naija winner, Phyna, has publicly expressed her willingness to make peace with Nigerian music superstar Davido, nearly two years after their heated online disagreement stirred reactions across social media. The tension between the reality TV star and the award-winning singer dates back to October 2023, when Davido reportedly liked a post on X (formerly Twitter) that described Phyna’s fanbase as “useless.” The action quickly caught attention online, triggering backlash and widespread discussion among fans of both public figures. At the time, the situation escalated when Phyna reacted while congratulating Davido on the birth of his twins with his wife, Chioma. In her reaction, she questioned whether she had personally offended the singer or done something to deserve what she interpreted as hostility from him. Davido, however, responded by stating that he did not know who Phyna was. The statement further intensified the online exchange, prompting Phyna to reply with the now-viral phrase, “God knows me,” before unfollowing Davido on Instagram. Fast forward to the present, Phyna appears ready to put the issue behind her. During a recent livestream, the reality star openly spoke about her desire to reconcile with Davido and even expressed interest in hosting him on a live session. “I would like to stream with Davido,” she said during the broadcast. Revisiting the incident, Phyna revealed that she is prepared to publicly apologise to the singer. However, she stressed the importance of understanding what truly caused the disagreement in the first place. According to her, clarity and communication are necessary before any apology can be properly made. Speaking in Nigerian Pidgin, Phyna acknowledged Davido’s seniority and influence in the entertainment industry, noting that respect should be given where it is due. She explained that she wants Davido to clarify whether liking the controversial post was intentional or simply a mistake, as that action was what triggered the misunderstanding. She further explained that Davido’s comment about not knowing her might have been misinterpreted, suggesting that the statement could have been taken differently from how it was originally intended. Phyna’s remarks signal a shift toward peace and maturity, showing her openness to dialogue and reconciliation rather than prolonged conflict. As fans continue to react, many see her move as a positive step toward resolving misunderstandings within Nigeria’s entertainment space.
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In a remarkable development, a man has been pulled out alive from the wreckage of the Great Nigeria House located on Lagos Island, Lagos State, eleven days after the building collapsed. Information gathered revealed that the survivor was discovered on Tuesday afternoon, shocking both emergency officials and residents who had feared that no one remained alive beneath the debris. The incident traces back to Christmas Eve, when the multi-storey structure was engulfed by a severe fire outbreak. The blaze weakened the building’s integrity, and it later collapsed, raising serious safety concerns across the area. Following an assessment of the situation, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, directed that the damaged structure be demolished to prevent further danger to lives and surrounding properties. Even as public attention faded and doubts grew over the possibility of survival, rescue teams refused to abandon the operation. Emergency responders, supported by relevant state agencies, continued methodical search-and-rescue activities at the site, carefully combing through the rubble day after day. Their persistence paid off when movement was detected beneath the debris, leading to the dramatic rescue of the trapped individual more than a week after the collapse. The discovery has been described as extraordinary, considering the length of time spent under the rubble without external assistance. At the time of reporting, officials have not disclosed the rescued man’s identity or medical condition. However, authorities confirmed that rescue operations are still ongoing, as teams continue to examine the site to rule out the possibility of additional survivors. The incident has reignited discussions around building safety standards, fire prevention, and emergency response systems in Lagos, particularly within densely populated commercial districts such as Lagos Island.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Dr. Olugbemisola Titilayo Odusote as the new Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, marking a historic milestone in the institution’s long-standing history. The development was officially announced by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, through a formal statement released on Tuesday. According to the disclosure, Dr. Odusote’s appointment will take effect from January 10, 2026, and she is expected to serve a four-year tenure. Dr. Odusote, who is 54 years old, currently serves as the Deputy Director-General of the Nigerian Law School and also heads the Lagos Campus, one of the institution’s most prominent branches. With this appointment, she becomes the first woman ever to occupy the position of Director-General since the Nigerian Law School was established in 1962. She is set to take over from Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma, whose leadership term concludes on January 9, 2026, after completing eight years of service at the helm of the institution. Strong Academic and Professional Background Dr. Titilayo Odusote holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree from Obafemi Awolowo University and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1988. She later earned a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree from the same university, with specialization in Company and Commercial Law. Further advancing her academic pursuits, she obtained a Doctorate degree (PhD) in Law from the University of Surrey in the United Kingdom. Her research interests span Public Law and Justice Administration, areas that directly align with legal education and institutional governance. Career Journey at the Nigerian Law School Dr. Odusote joined the Nigerian Law School in 2001 as a lecturer and steadily rose through the ranks due to her dedication and expertise. Over the years, she has served in several critical leadership roles, including Head of Academic Department, Director of Academics, and Head of Campus. Her professional exposure also includes a brief period as a Visiting Scholar at Nottingham Trent University, United Kingdom, where she engaged in academic exchange and research collaboration. Contributions to Legal Scholarship and Professional Bodies Throughout her career, Dr. Odusote has made significant contributions to legal scholarship. She has authored and co-authored numerous academic publications featured in reputable local and international law journals. In addition, she has presented scholarly papers at various legal education and professional conferences. Beyond academia, she has actively participated in policy and governance matters, serving on several committees under the Council of Legal Education and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). Responsibilities as Director-General In her new role as Director-General, Dr. Odusote will oversee the academic direction, administrative operations, and strategic planning of the Nigerian Law School across all campuses nationwide. She will also act as the principal link between the institution and key legal bodies, including the Council of Legal Education, the Body of Benchers, and the Nigerian Bar Association. Her appointment is widely seen as a progressive step that reflects evolving leadership dynamics within Nigeria’s legal education system.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ (Ephesians 4:7). There’s a vital distinction between grace and the anointing. Many use both terms interchangeably, yet the Word of God shows they’re not the same. The anointing refers to the consecration and indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, the empowerment that sets you apart for God’s purpose. Grace, on the other hand, refers to the divine enablement and favour granted you according to your specific calling and responsibility in the body of Christ. Every Christian has received the same anointing, for it’s the same Holy Spirit that dwells in us all. That anointing abides in you, never diminishes and brings special grace into your life “But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it” (Ephesians 4:7 NIV). However, grace operates differently. You can grow in grace (2 Peter 3:18), the grace on your life can be multiplied (2 Peter 1:2), and you can receive more grace, as the Bible says, “…he giveth more grace…” (James 4:6). Yes, He gives more grace, but He doesn’t give more anointing. You can grow in grace as you grow in faith, in the knowledge of God and revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace determines your scope of influence and effectiveness in the calling God has given you. Recognise, therefore, that while your grace can increase, your anointing is complete. You already have the fullness of the Spirit. Live with this understanding and allow the grace of God in your life to multiply through your knowledge of God and fellowship with the Word. Hallelujah! PRAYERDear Father, I thank you for giving me your Spirit without measure and for the grace to fulfil my divine calling. I walk in the understanding that I’m fully anointed and empowered by the Holy Spirit to accomplish your purpose for my life. As I grow in grace and knowledge, I have greater results in my life, impact and fruitfulness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY2 Peter 1:2 KJVGrace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord 1 John 2:27 KJVBut the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. 2 Corinthians 9:8 KJVAnd God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanMatthew 5:21-48 & Genesis 15-17 2-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 7:22-32 & Nehemiah 10 DAILY AFFIRMATION: I have received an overflowing of God’s grace. This grace is working in me mightily. I have received great grace! It comes with the power of promotion, unending success, and an extraordinary life of excellence, victory, and dominion. I am loaded with good things, and my life is like a city that is set on a hill that can not be hidden. I am in the centre of God’s will for my life, and I am equipped with all things that pertain to life and godliness. I am filled with the fullness of God! The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yes, I have a goodly heritage. I do not struggle nor respond in fear because God has not given me the spirit of fear. I declare that there is money everywhere, especially around me. I do not need to look for money. Money is coming to me from everywhere. I don’t go after money; money comes to me by free course unhindered. Money comes to me in a continuous stream, never stopping, never-ending. Resources are locating me right now in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. God is supplying me with continuous stream of finances. Angels remember me. God remembers me. I do not worry about human beings remembering me, because the Lord causes men to bring the finances to me. I have entered a new financial level by the Holy Ghost. My finances are being multiplied. Angels are at work even now. I live in financial abundance now. I rejoice because the Lord Jesus has overcome this world for me. I have been made more than a conqueror in this life. I live in Christ’s victory; therefore, I am not afraid of sickness, for I reign in life through Christ Jesus. There’s no death in my path! Life, health, blessings, peace, and prosperity are in my path. I walk in supernatural strength, supernatural health, supernatural supply, and supernatural abilities every day. My progress is unstoppable because I cannot be limited by sickness, disease, or the negativities of the ordinary life. As Jesus is above all things, so am I. The Holy Spirit has beautified my life. He brings colour into my life. I live a wonderful, colourful, beautiful, and productive life in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Speak in tongues.
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Manchester United have officially parted ways with manager Ruben Amorim, handing him a pay-off of around £10 million following his dismissal on Monday, as reported by the Daily Mail. This decision marks the end of Amorim’s tenure at Old Trafford, which lasted just over 14 months. The 40-year-old Portuguese manager was called to an early morning meeting at the Carrington training facility with chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox, where he was informed of the club’s decision. This came shortly after a disappointing 1-1 draw against Leeds United, which intensified ongoing tensions between Amorim and the club’s leadership. Sources suggest that Amorim had disagreements with Manchester United’s hierarchy in the days leading up to the match at Elland Road, fueling speculation about his future at the club. The friction reportedly centered around transfer strategies, team selections, and long-term planning, which ultimately contributed to the club’s decision to terminate his contract prematurely. Financially, the cost of hiring and dismissing Amorim is substantial, totalling nearly £27 million. United initially paid a buyout fee of £8.3 million to Sporting Lisbon in October 2024 to secure his services. An additional £900,000 was paid so that Amorim could join the Red Devils immediately, ahead of schedule. His contract with Manchester United was valued at £6.5 million per year, running until June 2027, making his pay-off for the remaining period of his contract approximately £10.05 million. The abrupt exit of Amorim leaves United searching for a new manager as the club navigates the 2025 Premier League season. Discussions are already underway about potential candidates, with fans and pundits closely watching who will take the reins at one of England’s most storied football clubs. The departure also raises questions about the long-term strategy of Manchester United in building a cohesive coaching staff and balancing managerial expectations with club ambitions. With the costs of managerial changes skyrocketing in modern football, the Red Devils’ decision underscores the high stakes involved in maintaining top-level performance in the Premier League.
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Former Kano State Governor and prominent leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, recently celebrated the birthday of Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, while reflecting on their enduring political collaboration. In a heartfelt message, Kwankwaso offered prayers for wisdom, guidance, and continued clarity as Governor Yusuf embarks on another year of service. The former governor shared his thoughts on the occasion through a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday, highlighting the depth of their long-standing professional relationship. Kwankwaso’s tribute emphasizes the numerous roles Governor Yusuf held under his mentorship over the years. He recalled that Yusuf began his public service career as a Personal Assistant during Kwankwaso’s first term and ministerial tenure, before progressing to Principal Private Assistant, Commissioner, and eventually ascending to the office of Governor of Kano State. Through these positions, Kwankwaso noted, Governor Yusuf consistently contributed to the realization of various developmental programs and initiatives designed to advance the socio-economic growth of Kano State. “On this special day, I extend my heartfelt birthday wishes to the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf,” Kwankwaso wrote.“I reflect on the many years of our shared political journey, during which he served in diverse and significant capacities—starting as my Personal Assistant during my first term and ministerial period, then as Principal Private Assistant, followed by his tenure as Commissioner, and now as Governor—through which he contributed immensely to the vision and programmes we pursued for the progress and development of Kano State. I pray that this new year brings him wisdom, good health, and clarity of purpose.” Kwankwaso’s message not only underscores their professional bond but also reflects the philosophy of mentorship and leadership continuity within the Kwankwasiyya movement. Observers note that the strong alignment between the former governor and Governor Yusuf has played a crucial role in driving state policies, educational reforms, and infrastructure development across Kano. As the state continues to experience growth under Governor Yusuf’s administration, political analysts suggest that the relationship and shared vision between Kwankwaso and Yusuf serve as a foundation for policy consistency and long-term strategic planning in Kano State. The birthday tribute also highlights a broader narrative within Nigerian politics, where mentorship, succession planning, and collaborative governance are increasingly recognized as key elements for sustainable state development. Governor Yusuf, who has steadily advanced several initiatives in infrastructure, healthcare, and education, continues to receive support from political veterans like Kwankwaso, reinforcing public confidence in his administration.
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The Kano State Police Command has formally decorated 13 senior police officers who recently received promotions to higher ranks within the Nigeria Police Force. The decoration ceremony was conducted during a well-organized event held at the Police Officers’ Mess in Kano, where top-ranking officials of the command gathered to witness the symbolic recognition of the officers’ advancement. The development was made public in an official statement issued on Monday and signed by CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Command. Breakdown of Promoted Officers According to the statement, the promoted officers span multiple senior cadres of the police hierarchy. The list includes: CSP Kiyawa explained that DCP Muhammad Nuhu Digi was elevated from the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police to Deputy Commissioner of Police. Similarly, Musa Akawu, Ahmed Abdullahi, Abdullahi Usman, and Saleh Buba were promoted from Chief Superintendent of Police to Assistant Commissioner of Police. He further noted that seven officers advanced to the rank of Chief Superintendent of Police, while one officer rose from Deputy Superintendent of Police to Superintendent of Police, marking a significant milestone in their professional careers. Commissioner of Police Reacts Speaking during the ceremony, the Commissioner of Police in Kano State, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, congratulated the officers on their well-deserved promotions. He described the advancement as a reward for consistent dedication, hard work, discipline, and professional excellence demonstrated over the years. CP Bakori emphasized that promotion within the police force comes with increased expectations and responsibility. “This elevation represents a call to higher duty. You must continue to uphold integrity, discipline, and professionalism while serving the people with renewed commitment,” he stated. Commendation of Police Leadership The Kano Police Commissioner also commended the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for sustaining reforms aimed at strengthening the Nigeria Police Force. According to him, ongoing reforms and improved welfare initiatives under the current police leadership have contributed significantly to boosting morale and operational effectiveness across commands nationwide. The event concluded with words of encouragement, as the promoted officers were urged to see their new ranks as an opportunity to contribute more effectively to public safety and law enforcement in Kano State and beyond.
