President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given official approval for the appointment of Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, as the new Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) within the Federal Ministry of Justice. The confirmation of this appointment was conveyed through a formal correspondence dated December 23, which was signed by Omolabake Mafe on behalf of the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission. The letter clarified that Oyedepo’s movement from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into the mainstream Federal Civil Service was executed strictly in the interest of the public. A separate disclosure released on Tuesday by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the State House, Abiodun Oladunjoye, stated that Oyedepo will officially take over from Abubakar Babadoko. Babadoko is scheduled to retire on December 31, 2025, having completed the compulsory eight-year tenure permitted for directors within the federal service structure. Rotimi Oyedepo’s academic background reveals that he earned his law degree in 2007 from the University of Ilorin, after which he proceeded to the Nigerian Law School in 2008. His educational foundation laid the groundwork for what later became an extensive legal career in public prosecution and financial crime litigation. According to the State House statement, Oyedepo is expected to apply his vast legal knowledge to minimise the Federal Government’s dependence on external legal practitioners, especially in sensitive and high-profile prosecutions. His appointment is also aimed at achieving better coordination, uniformity, and clarity in the government’s overall legal approach. Before assuming this new role, Oyedepo served at the EFCC for more than 15 years, where he focused heavily on complex economic and financial crime prosecutions. During his time at the commission, he held several strategic positions, including his role as Head of the Monitoring Unit, where he oversaw critical legal and compliance processes. His professional experience also includes being part of the Federal Government’s legal team in the internationally significant Process and Industrial Developments (P&ID) versus Federal Republic of Nigeria arbitration case. That case remains one of the most consequential legal disputes involving Nigeria on the global stage. Oyedepo’s contributions to public service have earned him notable recognition. He was awarded EFCC Outstanding Staff of the Year in 2014, followed by being named Best Financial Crimes Prosecutor in 2019, highlighting his consistency, diligence, and expertise within the legal enforcement system. With this appointment, the Federal Government signals a renewed commitment to strengthening internal legal capacity and improving prosecution efficiency across ministries and agencies
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has instituted a fresh set of criminal charges against Yakubu Adamu, who currently serves as the Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, alongside several other individuals, over allegations connected to terrorism financing amounting to 9.7 million United States dollars. According to court filings submitted on Tuesday, the anti-graft agency accused Adamu and three other defendants of involvement in financial transactions allegedly linked to the funding of terrorist activities. Those listed as co-defendants include Balarabe Abdullahi Ilelah, Aminu Mohammed Bose, and Kabiru Yahaya Mohammed, identified as the second to fourth defendants in the matter. The defendants are expected to appear before Justice Emeka Nwite at the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, where they will be formally arraigned on ten separate counts related to the alleged offence. The court scheduled the arraignment for Wednesday, following procedural developments during earlier proceedings. During a previous court session, counsel to the EFCC, Samuel Chime, had requested that the accused persons be allowed to immediately enter their pleas while a related matter was being heard. However, Justice Nwite declined the request and instead fixed a new date, explaining that the updated charge document had not yet been properly included in the court’s official records at the time. The charge, identified with suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/705/2025, was dated and filed on December 30, according to court documentation. The judge noted that the absence of the charge in the case file made it procedurally impossible to proceed with arraignment on the earlier date. Details contained in count one of the charge allege that the accused individuals, along with others currently declared at large, committed the offence between January 2024 and May 2024. Those named but not currently in custody include Sirajo Jaja, who was reportedly serving as the Accountant-General of Bauchi State at the time, and Samaila Irmiya Liman, both of whom remain unavailable for prosecution. The EFCC alleged that all the named individuals were civil servants and authorized signatories to Bauchi State Government accounts or payment instruments. The commission further claimed that the defendants collectively conspired to provide cash funds totaling 2.3 million U.S. dollars to Bello Bodejo and other persons allegedly associated with him. According to the prosecution, the financial transactions were carried out based on approvals reportedly granted by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State. The funds, the EFCC alleged, were subsequently utilized either wholly or partially to support the activities of a terrorist group or individual linked to terrorism. The alleged offence, as stated in the charge sheet, is said to contravene Section 26(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and is punishable under Section 21(2)(a) of the same legislation. The court is expected to formally read the charges to the defendants when proceedings resume. Legal observers are closely watching the case due to its implications for public finance management, counter-terrorism enforcement, and accountability within government institutions. Further developments are anticipated following the scheduled arraignment.
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Fatima Buhari, a daughter of the late former Nigerian president Muhammadu Buhari, has publicly claimed that her father’s private secretary, Tunde Sabiu, wielded excessive authority during Buhari’s time in office. In a post shared on her verified X (formerly Twitter) account early Tuesday, Fatima stated that Sabiu exercised undue influence within presidential operations, suggesting that his role extended far beyond normal secretarial duties. According to Fatima’s message, Sabiu’s influence was so significant that it shaped key decisions inside the presidency — a revelation that has stirred public debate, particularly among Nigerians who still closely follow the legacy of Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. Online Reaction and Criticism The comments from Fatima Buhari quickly sparked responses online. One X user, Ahmad Sadeeq, criticized her statement strongly. In his reaction, Sadeeq accused Fatima of leveraging her father’s name and legacy for attention. “You are using Buhari’s family name to chase clout. Let him and his family rest abeg,” he wrote, urging her to refrain from revisiting her father’s political era through controversial claims. Context of Buhari’s Presidency To better understand the backdrop of this discussion, it’s important to note who Muhammadu Buhari was and what his tenure represented. Buhari served as Nigeria’s president from 2015 until 2023, following a long career in public service that included military leadership and multiple presidential campaigns. His administration was well‑known for its declared commitment to anti‑corruption and security policies. However, it faced both praise and criticism: some praised efforts to curb corruption, while others faulted the government for perceived economic mismanagement and uneven enforcement of its policies. The Debate Over Power and Legacy Fatima Buhari’s comments have reignited ongoing discussions about internal governance dynamics during her father’s occupation of the presidency. Observers point out that the Nigerian presidency, like many high‑level political offices, can involve key aides and officials who wield substantial influence behind the scenes. Whether such influence is appropriate or excessive often becomes a matter of public opinion and political interpretation. Even with mixed views on his leadership, Buhari’s influence in Nigerian politics remains substantial. His presidency marked Nigeria’s democratic landscape at a time of deep national conversations about governance, corruption, and institutional accountability.
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In a strategic move aimed at strengthening security in Zamfara State, Governor Dauda Lawal has officially approved the appointment of retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Dr. Muhammad Shehu Dalijan, as the new State Commandant of the Community Protection Guards (CPG). The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Malam Abubakar Mohammad Nakwada, confirmed the appointment, emphasizing that it takes effect immediately. Alongside this appointment, Governor Lawal has instructed a comprehensive restructuring of the Community Protection Guards, targeting operational and administrative reforms to enhance the agency’s efficiency and service delivery across the state. Experienced Leadership at the Helm According to a statement by Suleman Ahmad Tudu, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the SSG, Dr. Dalijan brings over 30 years of experience in policing, security management, and leadership. His expertise spans community engagement, counter-terrorism operations, and strategic security planning, making him highly qualified to lead the CPG. Dr. Dalijan previously served as Commissioner of Police in Zamfara State from 2023 to 2025, where he played a crucial role in tackling security challenges within the state. His extensive career also includes significant national appointments, such as: Before his retirement in June 2025, Dr. Dalijan served as Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Counter-Terrorism at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, contributing significantly to national security strategy and counter-terrorism operations. Governor Lawal’s Vision for Security Reform Governor Lawal expressed confidence in Dr. Dalijan’s deep knowledge of Zamfara’s security landscape and terrain, highlighting that this appointment will reposition the Community Protection Guards to effectively fulfill their mandate. This aligns with the administration’s broader security and rescue agenda, aimed at curbing insecurity and enhancing community safety. The governor also commended the outgoing commandant for his dedicated service, wishing him a speedy recovery and reaffirming the government’s continued support for all personnel within the Community Protection Guards. This strategic appointment is expected to strengthen local security structures, improve coordination with law enforcement agencies, and enhance public trust in community-based policing initiatives.
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On Christmas Day, buildings in Nukuru village suffered significant damage as missiles struck approximately 10 kilometers away, igniting fear across the region. For years, residents of north-western Nigeria’s arid savannah plains and highlands have lived under the shadow of militant threats, a fear now intensified by recent US airstrikes targeting Islamist militants in the area. The militants, heavily armed and recognizable by their camouflage attire and bright turbans, have established camps in Tangaza, a remote part of Sokoto State near Nigeria’s border with Niger. Known as Lakurawa, this group traces its origins to the Sahel regions north of Nigeria, with many believed to come from Niger and Mali. The local population, largely composed of moderate Muslims, lives in constant fear of these fighters. Authorities in both the US and Nigeria have identified Lakurawa as being affiliated with Islamic State (IS) groups operating in the Sahel. However, unlike other groups supported by IS, there has been no public acknowledgment or claim of connection between IS and Lakurawa. During a recent visit by the BBC to Nukuru—one of several remote villages in Tangaza, located about 10 kilometers from the missile strikes—locals were reluctant to discuss the militants. Many feared retaliation, speaking only after assurances of anonymity. The interviews revealed the depth of the terror these communities endure daily. Our reporting team traveled into this high-risk area, approximately 12 kilometers from the Niger border, under police escort and with additional security personnel. Local authorities explained that they typically avoid venturing into Tangaza, citing inadequate firepower to safely confront the militants if attacked. Due to ongoing threats, our team could not access the exact missile strike sites and was advised to limit time in the area to prevent militants from planting landmines along our exit routes. A local farmer near Nukuru recounted that, shortly after the airstrikes on Thursday night, militants fleeing from the attacks temporarily converged on his community. Residents continue to face uncertainty as the militant threat remains persistent and security measures remain limited. The situation in Tangaza highlights the broader challenge of combating militant groups in remote areas of Nigeria while protecting civilians caught in the crossfire. The recent US strikes underscore international concern about the spread of extremist networks in West Africa, particularly those operating along the Sahel corridor.
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Donald Trump, the former President of the United States, has expressed his desire to see phase two of the Gaza ceasefire implemented “very quickly,” while warning that the militant group Hamas would face severe consequences if it failed to disarm promptly. Trump’s comments came during a high-profile meeting in Florida with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, where both leaders discussed the ongoing efforts to stabilize Gaza and implement a 20-point peace framework that requires Hamas to relinquish its weapons. US President Stresses Disarmament for Peace At a joint press conference with Netanyahu following their discussions, Trump emphasized that Israel has complied fully with the ceasefire plan, despite continuing military operations in Gaza. He stated that the success of the plan depends largely on the swift disarmament of Hamas. Trump said, “As quickly as we can. But there has to be disarmament. If Hamas does not disarm as agreed, there will be consequences. They have to disarm in a fairly short period of time.” He also highlighted that the reconstruction of Gaza could commence shortly, signaling optimism for a recovery phase once the peace conditions are fully met. Tensions With Iran Remain High In addition to Gaza, Trump addressed the potential threat from Iran, warning that the US could support another major strike if Tehran resumed its ballistic missile or nuclear weapons programs. In response, Ali Shamkhani, the top political adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, posted on X (formerly Twitter) that any aggression towards Iran would provoke an “immediate harsh response,” raising concerns about regional escalation. Phase Two: Key Details and Controversies The Gaza peace plan, which was activated in October, outlines a multi-phase approach aimed at stabilizing the territory. Under phase two, several critical steps are planned: However, critics have suggested that Prime Minister Netanyahu might seek to delay the implementation of the plan, insisting that Hamas disarm completely before any Israeli troop withdrawal. Netanyahu has also faced accusations of resisting serious engagement regarding the political future of Palestinians. Meanwhile, Hamas officials argue that full disarmament should occur alongside measurable progress toward an independent Palestinian state, ensuring that Palestinian governance and security are addressed in tandem. Trump Remains Optimistic on Implementation When asked if he was concerned about Israel’s pace in moving to phase two, Trump reassured the public, stating that Israel has adhered fully to the plan. He added, “I’m not concerned about Israel’s actions; my concern is with other parties who may or may not be fulfilling their commitments.” Trump’s remarks underscore the US’s continued engagement in Middle East peace efforts and the strategic emphasis on disarmament as a prerequisite for lasting peace in Gaza.
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U.S. President Donald Trump addressed reporters regarding a recent US strike on a site reportedly linked to Venezuelan drug trafficking activities. During a press briefing, Trump stated that the United States carried out an operation targeting a “dock area” where, according to him, illicit drug shipments are loaded onto boats. The president confirmed that the strike resulted in a “major explosion,” but he did not provide the exact location of the dock. As of now, the Venezuelan government has not issued any official statement regarding the incident. Details on the Drone Strike Multiple media outlets, including CNN and The New York Times, reported, citing anonymous sources close to the matter, that the explosion was caused by a CIA-operated drone strike. If verified, this would mark the first publicly known US military operation conducted inside Venezuelan territory. Since September, the United States has intensified operations targeting alleged drug-smuggling vessels in the Pacific and Caribbean regions, reportedly striking over 20 boats and resulting in at least 100 casualties. The latest strike occurred on Monday, with the US Southern Command posting on social media that two individuals labeled as “narco-terrorists” were killed in a “lethal kinetic strike” in the eastern Pacific. Trump’s Approach Toward Venezuela President Trump has consistently maintained a hardline stance on Venezuela, previously threatening land strikes and authorizing covert operations by the CIA against the regime of President Nicolás Maduro. When asked about the CIA’s involvement in the recent attack, Trump responded: “I don’t want to say that. I know exactly who it was, but I don’t want to say who it was.” He further explained: “We hit all the boats, and now we hit the area… it’s the implementation area. That’s where they implement, and that is no longer around.” This marks the second time Trump has publicly referenced the strike on the dock facility. Last week, in a radio interview, he spoke about an operation targeting a “big facility” but provided minimal details. Official Statements and Confirmation The Pentagon has directed questions regarding the operation to the White House, which has not yet released a formal statement. In previous operations targeting drug trafficking vessels, the Pentagon shared images and videos via social media to confirm the strikes. So far, there are no publicly available visuals or confirmations regarding the dock incident. The escalation underscores the US administration’s continued efforts to curb drug trafficking from Venezuela, highlighting both the covert and overt strategies employed.
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Osogbo, Abeokuta, Akure – Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, yesterday, officially signed the state’s 2026 appropriation bill totaling N705 billion into law, pledging to ensure its full implementation across all sectors. The signing ceremony, held at the Governor’s Office in Abere, Osogbo, was attended by Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly Adewale Egbedun, Chief of Staff Kazeem Akinleye, Head of Service Ayanleye Aina, and members of the state cabinet. According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke emphasized that the signing of the 2026 appropriation bill is aimed at consolidating governance achievements and expanding service delivery in line with his administration’s five-point agenda. The governor highlighted that this marks the beginning of “the final year of our first term, with heightened ambitions to complete ongoing projects and initiate new development programs for the welfare of Osun residents.” He reaffirmed that the administration’s performance continues to gain widespread public recognition. Ondo State Budget 2026: Budget of Economic Consolidation Signed into Law In a parallel development, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has given his assent to the 2026 Appropriation Bill, titled the “Budget of Economic Consolidation”, amounting to N524,410,590,939. The budget comprises N220,830,941,200 for recurrent expenditure and N303,579,649,739 for capital expenditure, with key allocations focused on infrastructure, health, and education. Governor Aiyedatiwa, speaking at the Executive Council Chamber of the Governor’s Office in Akure, described the budget as a strategic blueprint designed to address prevailing national economic realities. He detailed the sectoral allocations, which include: Aiyedatiwa urged all ministries, extra-ministerial departments, and agencies to strictly align their programs with the budget provisions, ensuring timely, prudent, and efficient execution of projects. He reiterated that the budget is a covenant between the government and the citizens, symbolizing responsible governance and shared prosperity. The governor also commended the Ondo State House of Assembly for their meticulous and prompt consideration of the 2026 Appropriation Bill, noting that their collaboration demonstrates a strong partnership in the service of the people. Earlier, Speaker Olamide Oladiji praised Aiyedatiwa for transforming Akure into a modern capital with enhanced urban infrastructure. Ogun State Approves N1.668 Trillion 2026 Budget Meanwhile, the Ogun State House of Assembly, yesterday, passed the 2026 Appropriation Bill valued at N1,668,997,993,125.44, presented by Governor Dapo Abiodun. The process followed the report of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, presented by its chairman, Musefiu Lamidi. The adoption of the bill was moved by Lamidi, seconded by Folawewo Salami, and supported by the entire House through a voice vote during a plenary session presided over by Speaker Oludaisi Elemide at the Assembly Complex in Abeokuta. The bill was read and adopted clause by clause before the Committee of the Whole House, and the motion for the third reading was successfully carried by Majority Leader Yusuf Sheriff, seconded by Minority Leader Lukman Adeleye, and unanimously approved by all lawmakers. Clerk/Head of the Legislative Service, Mr. Sakiru Adebakin, oversaw the third reading, after which the Speaker instructed that the final copy be transmitted to the governor for assent. During the presentation of the bill titled “H.B. No. 028/OG/2025 – Year 2026 Appropriation Bill”, Lamidi explained that the Assembly made adjustments to the budgets of three ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). This led to a slight upward revision of the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) by N2.193 billion, offset by reductions in capital receipts, while maintaining the total actual expenditure at N1.668 trillion as initially proposed by the governor. Previously, the Ogun Assembly had passed the Year 2025 Revised Appropriation Bill and the Revised Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) for 2026–2028, reflecting the state’s commitment to prudent fiscal management and strategic development planning.
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As Nigeria prepares for the implementation of new tax reforms on January 1, 2026, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has pledged to oppose any tax framework it deems unjust, biased, or misleading. The labour body has warned that workers will resist policies that exclude their input during the formulation and enactment of tax laws. The NLC emphasized that a tax system that fails to involve workers in decision-making processes is inherently inequitable and risks aggravating social inequality and unrest. Speaking on the upcoming reforms, NLC President, Joe Ajaero, urged the Federal Government to avoid rushing into the enforcement of tax laws that appear politically manipulated or technically flawed, advocating instead for a transparent and consultative approach that includes all stakeholders. “It is far better to patiently design tax policies that are co-created and embraced by all stakeholders than to hurriedly implement laws that could erode public confidence,” Ajaero stated. He further highlighted the importance of social justice in taxation, asserting that all citizens are entitled to dignity, access to quality healthcare and education, and a fair economic system. The NLC president reiterated that any tax law excluding workers from the legislative process is fundamentally unfair. Ajaero called for tax justice, emphasizing the need for equitable distribution of the tax burden. According to him, wealthy individuals and corporations should contribute fairly, while all regressive taxes that disproportionately affect lower-income earners must be removed. “During this festive season and beyond, we must demand tax fairness where the affluent shoulder their responsibilities and regressive taxes are eliminated,” he remarked. Beyond taxation, Ajaero stressed the necessity of workers’ rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions, calling for greater equity across all sectors of employment. He also underscored the role of national security, noting that Nigerians must be able to carry out lawful activities without fear or intimidation. In a broader perspective, Ajaero encouraged citizens to practice collective self-empowerment, which he described as a form of strategic ‘self-love.’ According to him, national progress requires confronting corruption, exploitation, injustice, insecurity, and poor governance. “This self-love is not selfish; it is strategic. It is expressed through our commitment to collectively protect our wages, pensions, rights, and dignity,” he explained. Ajaero concluded that Nigeria can only achieve a society rooted in justice, equity, and shared prosperity through collective determination.
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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has reportedly commenced discussions aimed at selling stakes in several of its oil and gas holdings, according to a recent Reuters report. This strategic move comes as the state-owned energy corporation works to optimize its investment portfolio and attract fresh foreign and domestic investments into Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. An official invitation document released on Monday revealed that the national oil company has invited bids from interested investors. However, the company did not disclose the specific percentage of stakes available or the total funds it hopes to generate from this initiative. The document stated: “The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Nigeria’s state-owned energy company and a leading player in Africa’s oil industry, intends to sell stakes in select oil and gas assets and has officially called for investor bids.” NNPC’s portfolio includes interests in multiple oil and gas assets, with some wholly owned by the company and others operated in collaboration with global energy giants such as Shell, Chevron, Eni, and TotalEnergies. These partnerships are designed to leverage international expertise while enhancing production efficiency across the country’s hydrocarbon sector. The report further explained that prospective investors must register online by January 10 to participate in the bidding process. Following registration, there will be a pre-screening evaluation to assess bidder qualifications. Firms that successfully pass this stage will gain access to a secure virtual data room, where they can review comprehensive details about the assets on sale. This initiative aligns with broader government and industry efforts to increase foreign direct investment (FDI) in Nigeria’s energy sector while modernizing the operations of NNPC to meet international best practices. Experts suggest that the sale of stakes could also help the company raise capital for infrastructure development, production optimization, and expansion projects across the oil and gas value chain.
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Anthony Joshua pictured with close associates Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele. The Deputy Head of Mission at the British High Commission, Simon Field, recently visited world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua in a Lagos hospital following a tragic road accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. The visit underscores the close monitoring by British officials of the developments surrounding the incident. According to a statement from Kayode Akinmade, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Field not only met with Joshua but also engaged in discussions with both Governor Dapo Abiodun and his Lagos State counterpart, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as authorities coordinate responses and provide necessary support. “The British High Commission was formally notified about the accident. Officials from the Mission are actively monitoring the developments and are maintaining contact with the hospital and the Ogun State Government. The Deputy Head of Mission, Mr. Simon Field, personally visited the hospital, met with Anthony Joshua, and conferred with both governors. Families of the deceased have also been contacted through the High Commission,” the official statement said. The accident, which occurred around midday on Monday, involved a Toyota Lexus jeep transporting Anthony Joshua and three other passengers. Tragically, two passengers lost their lives in the crash. They were identified as Ayodele Kelvin Olu, a 36-year-old Nigerian-British national, and Gami Sina, a 36-year-old British citizen. In the aftermath of the incident, Governor Dapo Abiodun immediately visited the Lagos hospital where Joshua was receiving urgent medical care. He was subsequently joined by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Both governors stayed at the hospital for several hours to ensure Joshua received the highest level of medical attention. Speaking on the hospital visit, Governor Abiodun stated: “Upon receiving news of the accident, I immediately rushed to the hospital. I was later joined by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Together, we took charge of the situation, personally supervised Anthony Joshua’s medical care, and remained on-site for over seven hours to oversee his treatment.” This incident has drawn significant attention from both national and international media. For more updates on Anthony Joshua’s health and recovery, visit BBC Sports and follow official announcements from the British High Commission. The collaboration between Nigerian authorities and British officials highlights the importance of cross-national support in emergencies involving citizens of dual nationality and prominent public figures. For more coverage on road accidents in Lagos and Nigeria, check our related articles: Recent Lagos Road Accidents and Highway Safety Measures in Nigeria.
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Nigerian-British heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua is currently receiving top-tier medical care in Nigeria following a serious accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway earlier this week. The accident occurred on Monday, leaving two of his associates dead, a tragedy that has sent shockwaves through the sporting community. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally reached out to the boxer and his family to express his condolences and ensure that Joshua is getting the best possible care. In a statement released by his spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the president confirmed that he had spoken directly with both Anthony Joshua and his mother. “I personally called AJ to convey my heartfelt condolences over the loss of his two companions. I also wished him a quick recovery and offered prayers for his well-being. AJ assured me that he is under excellent care at the hospital,” President Tinubu said. The Nigerian president also spoke with AJ’s mother, who expressed her gratitude for the call and support during this difficult time. Furthermore, President Tinubu contacted Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was present at the hospital with Joshua and his family. The governor reassured the president that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure Joshua receives optimal treatment and support. Earlier, while abroad, President Tinubu expressed his deep sympathy for the boxing champion in a message posted on X. He acknowledged the emotional burden Joshua and his family are experiencing and praised the boxer for his courage, discipline, and dedication to Nigeria. The statement emphasized the importance of unity and support during trying times: “I sympathise with you and your family as you bear the emotional weight of this unfortunate incident. As a sportsman, you have always demonstrated courage, discipline, and unwavering love for our country—qualities that make you a source of national pride. In moments like this, we must encourage one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny. I pray for strength, wisdom, and grace for you during this painful period. May God grant you a speedy recovery and eternal rest to the souls of the departed.” This incident has once again highlighted the importance of road safety on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, a major highway connecting Nigeria’s commercial hub with the southwestern region. Authorities have called for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to prevent similar accidents in the future. Fans, sports enthusiasts, and fellow athletes have taken to social media to send messages of support to Joshua, hoping for his swift recovery. Meanwhile, medical professionals are closely monitoring his condition, ensuring that he receives world-class treatment in line with international healthcare standards. For more updates on Anthony Joshua’s recovery and related sports news, visit our Sports News Section.
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World-renowned boxing champion Anthony Joshua is currently receiving medical attention after being involved in a serious road traffic accident along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway in Nigeria. The incident occurred around midday and involved a Toyota Lexus SUV conveying Joshua alongside three other occupants. According to confirmed reports, the crash resulted in the tragic loss of two lives. The victims were identified as Ayodele Kelvin Olu, aged 36, a Nigerian-British national, and Gami Sina, also 36, a British citizen. Their deaths have drawn widespread condolences from government authorities and the general public. The Ogun State Government officially acknowledged the incident through a statement released by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade. The statement expressed deep sympathy to the bereaved families while also providing clarity on the current health condition of the boxing star. Following the accident, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State promptly visited the medical facility where Anthony Joshua was admitted. The governor’s visit was aimed at personally assessing the situation and ensuring that the injured received immediate and adequate medical care. Shortly after, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, arrived at the hospital to lend support and collaborate in overseeing the response. Governor Abiodun later revealed that both state leaders remained at the hospital for several hours, closely monitoring the treatment process and liaising with medical professionals. He explained that once he received confirmation of the incident, he moved directly to the hospital without delay. “Immediately I was informed, I proceeded to the hospital and was later joined by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. We took responsibility for the situation, supervised Anthony Joshua’s treatment, and stayed at the hospital for more than seven hours to ensure everything was handled properly,” the governor stated. In addition to the governors, several high-ranking officials paid visits to the hospital. Among them were the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, and the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Mr. Bukola Olopade. Their presence underscored the national importance of the incident and the concern surrounding the welfare of the injured. The incident was also brought to the attention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was fully briefed by relevant authorities. Sources within government circles disclosed that the President personally reached out to Anthony Joshua, his mother, and Governor Abiodun in separate conversations. During these interactions, the President conveyed heartfelt condolences and words of encouragement. Furthermore, the British High Commission was formally notified due to the involvement of British citizens in the accident. The Deputy Head of Mission, Mr. Simon Field, visited the hospital, where he met with Anthony Joshua and the two governors. The Mission also ensured that the families of the deceased were contacted and supported through appropriate diplomatic channels. Providing reassurance to the public, the Ogun State Government confirmed that Anthony Joshua is in stable condition and responding well to treatment. Governor Abiodun commended the hospital’s medical team for their professionalism and dedication. “We are satisfied with the quality of care being provided and confident in the competence of the medical personnel handling the situation,” he said. Authorities have since ordered a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. The findings of the probe are expected to be released to the public once concluded. The state government assured Nigerians that further updates would be communicated as necessary. Reflecting on the broader impact of the incident, Governor Abiodun quoted President Tinubu, describing the event as a deeply painful tragedy that has cast a shadow over the season. He emphasized the need for unity, compassion, and collective support during such challenging moments.
