The Sokoto State Government has officially announced a major policy shift aimed at strengthening documentation standards and ensuring consistency in identity verification across the state. The administration has confirmed that only the Unified Certificate of Origin/Indigene will now be accepted as the legitimate and authorised proof of origin throughout all 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Sokoto State. This new directive was made public through a formal statement endorsed by Aminu Bello Gwadabawa, the Permanent Secretary of the Careers and Counselling Department under the Cabinet Office. He issued the announcement on behalf of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), highlighting the government’s intention to bring uniformity and integrity to its record-keeping processes. According to the statement, the state government is deeply concerned about the continuous variations found in the certificates of origin issued by different local councils. These inconsistencies have created gaps in documentation, making verification processes unreliable.Gwadabawa explained that the irregularities found in the previous format of certificates “distort the government’s efforts toward having a unified documentation process and ultimately weaken the integrity, credibility, and authenticity of official records used for indigene and citizenship verification.” He emphasised that adopting a single, standardised indigene certificate will help eliminate discrepancies, discourage fraudulent claims of origin, and enhance trust in government-issued documents. The move is also designed to support administrative efficiency, simplify screening exercises, and ensure that all local governments adhere to a consistent verification standard. The announcement further indicates that all government institutions, departments, private organisations, and educational bodies within Sokoto State are expected to comply strictly with this new rule. Any certificate of origin issued outside the approved unified format will no longer be recognised as valid for official purposes.
The Human Rights Watchdog in Africa (HRWA) has issued a strong warning to the Federal Government, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately declare a state of emergency in Zamfara State. This urgent call follows disturbing reports that a large number of inmates sentenced for banditry-related crimes were recently freed from the Gusau Correctional Centre. According to the group, this situation has intensified public fear and raised deep concerns among already traumatised residents who continuously endure armed attacks, kidnappings, rural invasions, and deadly communal clashes across various parts of Zamfara. HRWA alleges that Governor Dauda Lawal oversaw the controversial release of 69 convicted bandits sometime in September. The organisation described the exercise as a “secret state pardon”, which was allegedly executed through the Zamfara State Zakat and Endowment Board under a programme referred to as “Religious Amnesty.” In a statement published on Friday, the Executive Director of HRWA, Samson Adamu, condemned the development, stressing that the release of individuals previously convicted for serious violent offences has generated deep anxiety among communities still struggling to recover from years of insecurity. Adamu noted that residents feel even more unsafe because banditry remains a daily threat. He emphasised that freeing known offenders—especially without transparent procedures and without the involvement of security stakeholders—could worsen the security situation and undermine ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in the state. The rights organisation also expressed worry that such actions may embolden criminal groups who already see the state as a vulnerable ground. According to HRWA, the government at the federal level must intervene to prevent further deterioration of the fragile security landscape. The group urged President Tinubu to deploy additional security forces, intensify intelligence operations, and implement a comprehensive emergency strategy to restore stability. HRWA further warned that failing to act quickly could erode public trust and expose innocent citizens to even greater danger.
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The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, has called on the newly inaugurated Permanent Secretaries to uphold the highest ethical principles, strengthen administrative integrity, and drive reforms with renewed vision across the Federal Civil Service. Speaking during her keynote presentation at the two-day Induction Programme in Abuja, Mrs. Walson-Jack emphasized that the new Permanent Secretaries are stepping into office at a highly significant period for national development. She stressed that they carry the strategic obligation of shaping and directing the administrative engine of government to support the country’s overarching development objectives. According to her, this leadership transition represents an essential opportunity for the Federal Civil Service to enhance professionalism, transparency, and accountability while ensuring that public institutions deliver efficient and citizen-focused services. She highlighted that the ongoing reforms within the civil service require leaders who can demonstrate discipline, foresight, and unwavering commitment to public interest. Mrs. Walson-Jack further encouraged the new appointees to embrace innovation, adopt global best practices, and maintain a strong dedication to ethical conduct. She noted that their roles demand intentional action, responsible governance, and effective coordination to ensure that government policies are implemented with measurable results. She also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening institutional processes, improving workforce productivity, and ensuring that the civil service operates with integrity, excellence, and transparency. The induction programme, she said, provides the foundation that will help the new leaders navigate their responsibilities with clarity and competence.
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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revealed that a fresh fleet of buses and cars dedicated to the long-awaited operation of the Mabushi and Kugbo Bus Terminals—as well as the nearly completed Central Business District (CBD) Bus Terminal—will begin arriving shortly. This new development signifies a major advancement toward the official launch of the modern transport facilities designed to upgrade Abuja’s public transportation system. While speaking during an inspection visit to the ongoing construction of the CBD Bus Terminal on Saturday, Wike emphasized that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is working closely with reputable private-sector organizations to supply both buses and taxis. All vehicles, he explained, will carry the distinctive Abuja identity and uniform colour scheme to align with the city’s transportation brand and ensure easy public recognition. According to the minister, the new fleet forms a crucial component of the renewed Abuja transportation project aimed at reducing congestion, improving mobility, enhancing commuter convenience, and providing safer and more organized transport options across the FCT. He added that the government’s strategy includes building state-of-the-art terminals and partnering with experienced transportation companies to guarantee reliable services once the terminals become fully operational. Wike further noted that the collaboration with private companies is intended to speed up the rollout process, reduce public spending, and ensure high-quality service delivery. The vehicles—both buses and taxis—are expected to operate under strict standards that match the modern infrastructure being developed across the terminals. The FCT Minister also highlighted that the CBD terminal, which is currently at an advanced stage, will serve as one of the major hubs connecting several strategic routes within Abuja. Upon completion and commissioning, commuters will enjoy improved scheduling, dedicated waiting areas, ticketing systems, and better traffic coordination. This initiative aligns with the broader vision of transforming Abuja into a smart, organized, and commuter-friendly capital city. Residents and visitors can expect smoother movement, reduced waiting time, and a more structured transport experience once the new buses and cars begin operations across the three terminals.
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Popular Nigerian comedian, Emmanuel Ejekwu, widely recognized as Sabinus, has opened up about a personal family experience involving his career journey. According to him, his father was far from pleased when he eventually dropped the dream his family had for him and embraced comedy full-time. During a sincere conversation with media personality VJ Adams, Sabinus shared that his father had always pictured him as a future lawyer. Growing up, the expectation was clear—he was meant to pursue a professional, traditional career path. However, things did not unfold the way his father planned. Sabinus revealed that after multiple attempts to gain admission into the Faculty of Law, he was unable to secure the required placement. As a result, he settled for a different field, Linguistics and Communication Studies, at the University of Port Harcourt. Though it wasn’t his father’s preferred course, it became the turning point for his entire career. While studying at UNIPORT, Sabinus discovered his natural ability to make people laugh. What seemed like a casual hobby gradually transformed into a creative journey. He began crafting skits, sharing them online, and slowly building an audience. Over time, his passion became a profession—one that changed his life entirely. The comedian admitted that his father, at one point, regretted spending money on his education because it didn’t lead to the legal career he desired for his son. But despite the initial disappointment, Sabinus continued pursuing his creative dreams until comedy became his breakthrough. Today, Sabinus is one of Nigeria’s most celebrated content creators, proving that unconventional career paths can still lead to fulfillment and success.
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The Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has strongly advised the Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, to stop politicizing insecurity and instead concentrate on providing effective solutions to the growing security challenges confronting the state. Senator Barau’s response followed statements released by the Kano State Government after its 34th Executive Council Meeting, where government officials accused him of making comments that could allegedly undermine ongoing security interventions. According to the government, his remark was capable of weakening law-enforcement operations and creating unnecessary tension across communities. However, Senator Barau firmly dismissed those accusations as baseless. He stressed that the allegations were unfounded and only distract attention from the real efforts required to safeguard lives and property. The lawmaker emphasized that fighting insecurity is not a political contest but a collective responsibility that demands cooperation from every stakeholder, regardless of political affiliation. He further explained that Nigeria is still battling serious security threats in several regions, including bandit activities affecting rural settlements in parts of Kano State. Because of this, Senator Barau noted that it is vital for government officials, security agencies, traditional rulers, and community leaders to work together instead of dragging sensitive security matters into political arguments. Senator Barau reiterated that genuine collaboration and transparent engagement are essential for restoring peace. He urged the state leadership to direct its energy toward strengthening local security structures, improving intelligence gathering, and supporting federal efforts to combat violent attacks, rather than blaming political opponents. He maintained that every comment he made was aimed at encouraging solutions that protect citizens, not create instability. According to him, any attempt to politicize security challenges will only hinder progress and expose innocent people to greater risks. The Senator insisted that the lives of residents must always come before politics.
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Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reaffirmed that his administration remains firmly committed to fairness, inclusion, and equal treatment for every resident, regardless of religious affiliation. The governor emphasized that the current leadership structure in the state is intentionally designed to reflect neutrality, ensuring that no religious community is marginalized or treated unfairly. Governor Otti made this assurance on Friday while hosting members of the Judaism Fellowship Initiative, who were accompanied by Mr. Clive Obe, President of the Commonwealth Jewish Council in London. The delegation visited the governor at his office to discuss issues surrounding religious freedom and peaceful coexistence in Abia State. During the meeting, the group expressed concerns about the scheduling of national elections in Nigeria, which often fall on Saturdays — a sacred day of worship for the Jewish community. In response, Governor Otti explained that adjusting the national election calendar is a complicated issue because Nigeria is home to diverse religions, each with unique worship days and practices. He noted that decisions regarding election dates fall under federal jurisdiction and involve broad considerations to ensure they do not conflict with the cultural and spiritual obligations of various religious groups across the country. While acknowledging their concerns, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s openness to dialogue, assuring them that Abia State will continue to protect the rights and freedoms of every religious community. Governor Otti further emphasized that his government remains focused on promoting unity, strengthening interfaith relationships, and fostering an atmosphere where citizens from all religious backgrounds can thrive without fear of discrimination. He reiterated that Abia is a state built on respect, tolerance, and the shared vision of progress, assuring the delegation that his administration will always support initiatives aimed at enhancing peaceful religious coexistence.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD …he that winneth souls is wise (Proverbs 11:30). In our previous study, part of what we learnt was the importance of the right strategies in soul winning. Don’t continue with the same activities that yield no results. Adjust your approach from time to time, following the guidance of the Spirit. At times, the venue of the meetings could even be the problem. A simple shift in location or format of your meetings could make a significant difference. Also, evangelism may sometimes cost money, and that’s okay. So plan your outreaches like they’re important events. Imagine you were planning a professional or business dinner or breakfast meeting; you’d likely not leave anything to chance. Likewise, ensure all the fine details are captured when planning your outreach programs. Dress well. Create a joyful atmosphere and make everything inspiring. And here’s a vital key: invite the right people, people who are prospects for salvation and discipleship, not those who are already Christians and deeply committed in other churches. Also, avoid reciprocal invitations that may likely pull you out of your place of worship. Just because someone attended your program doesn’t mean you must attend theirs. It’s best to stay rooted in your church and be committed. There’s no glory in being unstable or hopping from place to place. Soul winning is not just about the act; there’s also the wisdom behind it. That’s why the Bible says he that wins souls is wise (Proverbs 11:30). So, be discerning. Be led by the Spirit. And most importantly, be committed to your church family and its evangelistic missions. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the wisdom and divine strategies to reach the lost. I’m effective in soul winning, wise in my approach, and fruitful in results. I follow the guidance of the Spirit at all times. I’m committed, fervent and full of joy as I reach out with the Gospel, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYEcclesiastes 10:10 KJVIf the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom [is] profitable to direct. 1 Corinthians 9:21-23 KJVTo them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. 22 To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all [men], that I might by all means save some. 23 And this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I might be partaker thereof with [you]. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading Plan2 Peter 3 & Ezekiel 41-42 2-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 16:1-11 & 1 Chronicles 29 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: My life is full of glory and excellence. I’m a living testimony of God’s manifold wisdom. I am supremely and graciously blessed; no curse can work against me. I am seated together with Christ in heavenly places, far above all principality and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named not only in this world, but also in that which is to come. I am a partaker of God’s divine nature and I walk in abundant grace and divine favour. I am preserved from the machinations of wicked and unreasonable men. I have peace on every side. I completely reject anything that hurts or binds. I live above the decadence and flawed systems of this world. My strength is renewed daily, and I’m divinely energized at all times for victory. Everything I require for life and godliness has been made available to me. God’s Word is my light and my life! It’s the nourishment for my spirit, food for my soul, and health to my flesh! I live by the Word always and declare that its mighty power is at work in me as I meditate on it and observe to do what it says. In me abides all the grace, wisdom, prosperity, strength and courage I need to fulfill my glorious destiny in Christ! I have everything I require for life and godliness; therefore, I walk in the fullness of the blessings of the Gospel, today and always. I’m what God says I am, I have all He says I have, and I can do all things in His Name. I reign as a king in this life, changing situations and circumstances in my favour. I make decrees and they’re established, for the Word of God on my lips is God talking! I’ll never be discouraged or subject to the crippling principles of this world, because I reign and rule by the Word. Christ has brought perfection and excellence into my life. I am prospering exceedingly, manifesting the righteousness and dominion of Christ everywhere. I’m continually filled with the Spirit of God. I have the life and nature of God in me; therefore, I’m an overcomer and more than a conqueror. I live in Christ, where divinity reigns. I reign in prosperity with peace, health, and an abundance of wealth. I enjoy the supernatural life that God has given me, in Jesus’ Mighty Name. Amen. Speak in tongues.
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Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has weighed in on the club’s potential midfield acquisitions, highlighting a player he believes could significantly strengthen the Red Devils’ squad. Amid growing speculation surrounding Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, Scholes has suggested that Manchester United should instead target Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace. While Baleba, the 21-year-old Cameroonian, has attracted attention for his dynamic performances in the Premier League, Scholes believes Wharton possesses superior technical qualities and composure that could better fit Manchester United’s midfield strategy. Drawing a comparison, Scholes likened Baleba to Chelsea’s talented Moises Caicedo, noting that although Baleba shows promise, Wharton’s skillset makes him the more desirable option for long-term impact at Old Trafford. Scholes emphasized that Manchester United should focus on players who can adapt quickly to high-pressure situations and consistently perform against top-tier competition. He pointed out that Wharton’s vision, passing accuracy, and tactical awareness make him an ideal candidate for the Premier League giants as they aim to regain dominance both domestically and in European competitions. With the transfer window approaching, Manchester United’s management is expected to evaluate several midfield prospects. Signing a player like Wharton could provide the Red Devils with the necessary depth and creativity in the middle of the park, complementing existing stars and enhancing the team’s overall attacking dynamics. Football analysts have noted that investing in young, technically gifted players is crucial for Manchester United’s long-term success. As the club continues to rebuild under its current management, securing talents like Wharton could be pivotal in maintaining competitiveness in both the Premier League and UEFA competitions.
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When it comes to squad strength heading into the big clash between Chelsea and Arsenal, former Premier League legend Alan Shearer has no doubts — he says Arsenal’s roster stands head and shoulders above the rest. According to Shearer, the Gunners are “without question” the strongest side in the league right now, based on consistency and overall stability. Shearer, who remains the Premier League’s all-time record goalscorer, argued that while other clubs have experienced fluctuating form and varying performances, Arsenal have shown remarkable steadiness week in, week out. Where many teams oscillate between highs and lows, Arsenal have maintained a level of performance that — in his view — no other club currently matches. In his recent comments, Shearer suggested that Arsenal’s strength lies not only in the quality of individual players but also in the depth and balance of the squad — players across all lines, from defence to midfield to attack, contributing to a unified team effort. That collective consistency, he believes, makes them “strongest by miles,” particularly ahead of high-stakes fixtures such as Chelsea vs Arsenal.
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Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, has addressed the recent comments made by Bayern Munich midfielder, Joshua Kimmich, regarding the style of play employed by the Gunners. Kimmich had suggested that Arsenal’s approach lacks the traditional aspects of football, implying that the team’s gameplay is overly reliant on direct tactics rather than structured build-up. Responding to these remarks, Arteta emphasized that Arsenal’s strategy is consistent with modern football trends and that other teams also adopt a similar direct style when needed. “I know what he’s saying,” Arteta explained in his post-match interview, “but relying on direct play or set-pieces is part of the game, and it is not unique to us. Many successful teams in Europe use this approach effectively.” The comments come after Arsenal’s impressive 3-1 victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Wednesday. Despite the defeat, Kimmich criticized Arsenal for what he perceives as an over-reliance on set-pieces and long balls to create scoring opportunities. Arteta defended his team, highlighting that winning matches in the modern game requires flexibility and pragmatism. He pointed out that Arsenal adapts its style depending on the opponent, which sometimes involves fast transitions and strategic use of long passes. “Football has evolved, and it’s important to be versatile,” Arteta added. “We aim to balance possession with effectiveness, and our results reflect that philosophy.” Arsenal’s dynamic performance in Europe continues to attract attention, especially following their dominant display against one of the continent’s top clubs. Arteta’s response underscores his belief that criticism is part of football, but the team’s overall strategy remains sound and successful.
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Afrobeats star Burna Boy’s sister, Nissi Ogulu, has responded to online reports claiming that their mother, Bose Ogulu, was dismissed as the singer’s manager. The speculation intensified after a viral post circulating across social platforms suggested that Burna Boy allegedly shared an Instagram Story stating that his mother would no longer manage his music career. The report, initially pushed by ChaftsAfrica, quickly generated attention and triggered conversations among fans. Nissi, however, reacted to the trending claim, addressing the situation and clearing the air surrounding the supposed managerial change. Her response has sparked further discussions online as followers attempt to understand the truth behind the widespread rumors. The alleged announcement created a wave of mixed reactions, as many fans highlighted the longstanding professional relationship between Burna Boy and his mother, who has played a key role in shaping his global achievements. While the discussions continue, the family’s reaction remains at the center of social media conversations, with Nissi’s response serving as an important update to those following the development.
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Organizers have officially cancelled Burna Boy’s upcoming U.S. shows after fans reportedly failed to purchase enough tickets to sustain the tour. The Afrofusion star’s “No Sign of Weakness” U.S. tour, which included several major city stops, faced a major setback when insufficient ticket sales forced promoters to halt the events. One of the cancelled concerts was tonight’s highly anticipated performance scheduled for November 28, 2025, at The Armory in Minneapolis. The sudden announcement surprised many supporters who had expected the Grammy-winning singer to continue his North American run without disruption. According to information released by Ticketmaster, the show was abruptly cancelled at the last minute and removed from the platform’s active events list. Ticketmaster updated the event status on Thursday, confirming the cancellation and notifying fans who had purchased tickets about the next steps for refunds. In addition to tonight’s cancelled Minneapolis performance, another tour date set for December 1, 2025, in Chicago was also withdrawn from the schedule. This marks yet another halt in Burna Boy’s planned U.S. activities, creating discussions online about turnout, ticket prices, and overall tour interest. Fans across social platforms have reacted differently, with some expressing disappointment and others debating whether ticket pricing, promotion strategies, or the holiday season may have played a role in the tour’s low turnout. Promoters have not released further explanations regarding the cancellations, leaving many to speculate about the reasons behind the sudden changes. As updates continue to unfold, followers of the musician are monitoring official channels for new announcements regarding future tour plans, potential rescheduled dates, or additional modifications to his U.S. stops.
