An Ibadan-based cleric, Pastor Biodun Oladele, has revealed a prophetic insight indicating that a former Nigerian Head of State is expected to pass away in the year 2026. This declaration was made as part of his annual spiritual message ahead of the new year. The prophecy was included in his yearly address titled “Prophecies for the Year 2026,” a message in which the cleric shared spiritual observations relating to Nigeria’s political atmosphere, leadership structure, economic direction, and broader global occurrences. While speaking during the official release of the prophecies, Pastor Oladele explained that the death of a former national leader would stand out as one of the most significant political events expected to unfold in 2026. He emphasized that the occurrence would carry historical weight and provoke national reflection. The cleric, however, refrained from mentioning any specific individual, stressing that the message was not directed at targeting any person. Instead, he encouraged Nigerians to approach the coming year with sobriety, prayerfulness, and spiritual alertness, noting that such a development would mark an important chapter in the country’s political journey. According to him, this particular prophecy is part of a broader collection of revelations touching on governance, national security, leadership changes, and institutional responsibility. Pastor Oladele described the year 2026 as a period filled with intense developments that could influence Nigeria’s long-term direction beyond the immediate future. He further clarified that the prophetic message was not intended to instill fear or panic among citizens. Rather, he explained that it should be viewed as a spiritual alert designed to prompt prayer, reflection, and responsible action from both leaders and the general public. The pastor urged those in authority and ordinary Nigerians alike to respond to the message with wisdom, unity, and vigilance, especially as the nation prepares for a future that may involve critical political and leadership moments. As expected, the prophecy has sparked widespread conversations across religious circles, media platforms, and public spaces, adding to ongoing national discussions about leadership legacy, political transitions, and Nigeria’s evolving identity.
Nigeria’s major seaports in Lagos are set to experience heightened maritime activity as dozens of cargo vessels are expected to arrive within the first few days of January. A total of 41 ships carrying petroleum products, food supplies, and other essential goods are scheduled to dock at Apapa Port, Tin Can Island Port, and the Lekki Deep Sea Port between January 2 and January 5. This development was made known by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) through its most recent Shipping Position report, which was obtained by journalists in Lagos on Friday. The report provides an overview of inbound vessels and the types of cargo expected to be discharged across the Lagos port terminals. Wide Range of Cargoes Expected at Lagos Ports According to details contained in the NPA document, the incoming ships are expected to deliver a broad mix of commodities considered vital to Nigeria’s economic and industrial activities. These cargoes include crude oil and condensate, as well as refined petroleum products such as aviation fuel, diesel, and petrol. In addition to fuel-related imports, the vessels are also conveying bulk bitumen, bulk salt, soya beans, fresh fish, wall pallets, containerized goods, and other forms of general cargo. These supplies are essential for sectors such as construction, manufacturing, food distribution, and energy. The steady inflow of these materials highlights the strategic importance of Lagos ports as Nigeria’s primary maritime gateway, supporting domestic consumption and commercial operations nationwide. Vessels Awaiting Berthing Clearance The Nigerian Ports Authority further disclosed that 10 vessels, including several tankers, have already arrived at the Lagos ports but are currently waiting for berthing approval. These ships are anchored within port limits and are expected to discharge their consignments once clearance procedures are completed. The cargo aboard these vessels includes diesel, crude oil, aviation fuel, bulk urea, fresh fish, crude palm olein, bulk sugar, containers, and assorted general merchandise. The presence of these ships signals ongoing port congestion management and coordinated scheduling by port authorities. Economic Importance of the Influx The arrival of these vessels within a short time frame underscores the continued reliance on maritime trade to meet Nigeria’s energy and food needs. Efficient handling of these shipments will play a crucial role in stabilizing supply chains, supporting industrial output, and ensuring the availability of essential commodities across the country. With Apapa, Tin Can Island, and Lekki Deep Sea Port collectively handling the expected traffic, port stakeholders are anticipated to intensify operational measures to ensure smooth berthing, discharge, and cargo evacuation.
The Commander of the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, has expressed strong commendation for the officers and soldiers of the 114 Battalion (Rear), Jimilari, citing their outstanding professionalism, resilience, and unwavering loyalty in the execution of their constitutional duties. Brigadier General Uwa gave this commendation on Friday during a New Year luncheon organized in honour of the troops. The event was held at the battalion’s location in Jimilari, within Lau Local Government Council, and was aimed at appreciating the dedication, sacrifices, and commitment consistently demonstrated by the personnel, particularly in the course of ongoing military operations across the brigade’s area of responsibility. While addressing the soldiers, the Brigade Commander emphasized that their collective efforts have continued to play a vital role in strengthening peace and security, as well as safeguarding lives and property within the region. He noted that their discipline and professionalism have significantly contributed to operational effectiveness and public confidence in the Nigerian Army. The Commander further acknowledged the immense personal sacrifices made by the troops, including extended operational deployments and long periods spent away from their families. He described these sacrifices as fundamental to the strength and effectiveness of the Nigerian Army, stressing that the commitment of personnel remains the backbone of the force. Brigadier General Uwa reassured the officers and soldiers of the command’s continued dedication to improving their welfare, sustaining high morale, and enhancing overall operational readiness. According to him, the well-being of troops remains a top priority, as it directly influences mission success and service delivery. As the New Year begins, the Brigade Commander urged the personnel to remain disciplined, loyal, and professional in the discharge of their duties. He encouraged them to consistently uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army while maintaining vigilance and teamwork in all operational engagements. He also expressed confidence that the brigade would record even greater operational achievements through unity, renewed dedication, and sustained commitment to service. In a clear demonstration of his “Soldiers First” leadership philosophy, Brigadier General Uwa was personally observed serving meals to the troops during the luncheon, an act that further reinforced his commitment to leading by example and fostering a strong bond between command and personnel.
Nigerian social media sensation, Peller, has officially confirmed his breakup with Jarvis, his girlfriend and fellow content creator. The announcement comes amid recent personal struggles that captured the attention of fans across TikTok and other social media platforms. The revelation follows a dramatic period in Peller’s life. Two weeks prior, the influencer was involved in a deliberate car accident, an act that raised serious concerns among his followers. Reports suggest that the accident was linked to emotional distress caused by threats related to his relationship with Jarvis. Following the incident, Peller was hospitalized for treatment and subsequently detained by local authorities “in accordance with extant traffic laws.” On Thursday, January 1st, 2026, Peller addressed the public directly during a TikTok Livestream. During the session, he provided clarity on his current relationship status and urged followers to respect his personal decisions. Peller stated: “Jarvis and I have officially broken up. For now, we are just friends. We kindly ask everyone to respect our decisions. She remains my friend, and I would appreciate it if nobody bullied or harassed her. I have also spoken to her family and sincerely begged them for forgiveness. Understandably, they were upset initially, but they have now forgiven me. While we continue to maintain a friendship, she has asked that I give her some space for the time being.” This announcement marks the end of a tumultuous chapter for Peller, who has been widely recognized for his creative content and engaging personality on TikTok. Fans have expressed mixed emotions about the breakup, with many offering messages of support and encouragement for both parties. Peller’s openness about his struggles has sparked important conversations around mental health and the pressures of public life, especially for young content creators. His candid acknowledgment of seeking forgiveness from Jarvis’s family highlights his commitment to personal accountability and reconciliation. As the situation develops, fans are encouraged to continue following Peller’s content while respecting the boundaries he and Jarvis have set.
US President Donald Trump has once again sparked conversations about his health, claiming that he maintains “perfect” health, takes a higher daily dose of aspirin than typically advised by medical professionals, uses makeup to conceal bruising on his hands, and avoids regular exercise because he finds it “boring.” In an extensive interview with The Wall Street Journal, Trump shared new details about his health regimen, including undergoing a medical scan in October. He clarified that he had a CT scan, contrary to earlier reports in which he mistakenly described it as a more detailed MRI scan. At 79 years old, Trump holds the record as the oldest US president to be inaugurated, and some have noticed signs of aging. Observers have pointed out that he has occasionally appeared to doze off during meetings and sometimes struggles to hear questions. The Wall Street Journal noted that Trump seemed “irritated” by ongoing public discussions surrounding his health. “Let’s talk about health again for the 25th time,” he said during an impromptu call to the newspaper, ahead of the article’s publication. Trump revealed that he has been taking aspirin in doses higher than recommended for more than two decades, despite the fact that it sometimes causes him to bruise easily. “They say aspirin is good for thinning out the blood, and I don’t want thick blood pouring through my heart,” he explained. The president takes 325mg of aspirin daily, significantly more than the 81mg dose often advised by doctors for cardiovascular health. “Doctors would rather have me take the smaller dose,” Trump said, “but after 25 years, I prefer to stick with what I know. I’m a little superstitious.” Regarding his recent medical imaging at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Trump emphasized that the procedure was a CT scan rather than the MRI he had mentioned previously. “It wasn’t an MRI,” he told the Journal. “It was less than that. It was a scan.” According to Navy Capt. Sean Barbaella, one of Trump’s doctors, the CT scan was performed to definitively rule out cardiovascular issues, and the results showed no abnormalities. In addition, after Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition commonly affecting older adults, he was advised to wear compression socks. However, he declined: “I didn’t like them,” he admitted. “Instead, I now get up from my desk more regularly, which has helped reduce swelling in my legs.” Trump also disclosed that he avoids formal exercise routines, aside from playing golf. “I just don’t like it. It’s boring,” he said. “Walking or running on a treadmill for hours is not for me.” He defended himself against accusations of dozing off during public meetings, claiming that closing his eyes occasionally is merely “relaxing.” “Sometimes they’ll catch a photo of me blinking, and they think I’m asleep,” he said. Addressing visible bruising on his hands, Trump revealed that he now carries makeup to conceal marks quickly. “I have makeup that’s easy to apply, takes about 10 seconds,” he noted. Trump insisted that he does not experience hearing problems, contrary to some reports suggesting otherwise. Barbaella reinforced the president’s health status in a statement to the Journal, emphasizing that Trump remains in “exceptional health and perfectly suited to execute his duties as Commander in Chief.”
At least seven individuals have tragically lost their lives, while dozens more are unaccounted for after a boat carrying approximately 200 migrants capsized off the coast of The Gambia, according to official reports. The vessel, attempting to reach Europe, overturned around midnight on Wednesday near Jinack Village in the North Bank Region. The Gambian Defence Ministry later confirmed that the ship was “grounded on a sandbank” after the accident. Authorities have successfully rescued 96 people so far, while search operations continue for the remaining passengers who were aboard the ill-fated boat en route to Spain’s Canary Islands. This dangerous Atlantic crossing has become a recurring and increasingly perilous path for African migrants attempting to reach European shores. In 2024 alone, nearly 47,000 migrants successfully arrived in the Canary Islands. However, the Spanish non-governmental organization Caminando Fronteras warns that over 9,000 individuals have died attempting the treacherous journey in recent years. Following Wednesday’s accident, the Gambian Navy launched an urgent search-and-rescue mission. Several naval vessels, supported by a local fishing boat, were deployed to assist in the operation. The Defence Ministry noted that many victims are not Gambian nationals, and authorities are still working to verify the identities of those involved. The bodies of the seven individuals who drowned have been recovered, while ten of the rescued passengers remain in critical condition and are receiving urgent medical attention. The Gambia has become an increasingly significant departure point for West African migrants and asylum seekers aiming for Spain’s Canary Islands before continuing to mainland Europe. In recent years, the European Union has entered agreements with several North African nations to curb irregular migration. However, these measures have inadvertently forced many migrants to undertake longer and more hazardous Atlantic Ocean crossings. This tragic incident underscores the growing risks associated with irregular migration routes and the urgent need for stronger international cooperation to ensure migrant safety.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and ex-Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, alongside his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, and another co-defendant, are set to commence a legal battle for bail over an alleged ₦9 billion corruption case filed against them by the Federal Government. The bail hearing is scheduled to take place today, December 2, before the Federal High Court in Abuja, where the defendants are expected to be brought from custody to continue proceedings related to the case. Also standing trial alongside Malami and his son is Hajia Bashir Asabe, an employee of Ramadiya Property Limited, who is currently being held at the Kuje Correctional Centre following a remand order. The trio remains in custody pending the court’s determination on their bail applications. The case is being handled by Justice Emeka Nwite, who had earlier fixed today’s date to consider arguments on bail following the defendants’ arraignment on 16 counts of alleged money laundering offences. During their arraignment, Malami and the two other accused persons pleaded not guilty to all charges filed against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), acting on behalf of the Federal Government. At the earlier court session held on Tuesday, legal counsel to the defendants, Joseph Daudu, SAN, presented an oral application requesting bail for the accused persons. He argued that, having reviewed both the charges and relevant legal provisions, the defendants were entitled to bail under Nigerian law. According to Daudu, money laundering offences are not capital offences, and as such, do not require a written bail application. He maintained that written bail submissions are only mandatory in cases involving capital punishment. He further emphasized that the charges against his clients were straightforward, bailable, and that the defendants remained innocent until proven guilty by a competent court. Daudu therefore urged the court to exercise its discretion in favour of granting bail to the defendants, stressing that there were no compelling reasons to keep them in custody. However, the EFCC strongly opposed the oral bail request. Counsel to the commission, Ekele Iheanacho, SAN, argued that the law requires specific considerations before bail can be granted. He referenced Section 162 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), which outlines factors a court must evaluate when deciding bail applications. Iheanacho submitted that such factors can only be properly placed before the court through affidavit evidence, insisting that both the prosecution and the defence must be allowed to present factual materials to support their positions. He added that these facts often relate to issues that may involve witnesses, making a written application necessary. In his ruling, Justice Emeka Nwite declined the oral bail request, agreeing with the prosecution that the court required formal documentation to properly exercise its discretion. The judge subsequently directed both parties to return to court today to argue written bail applications. The EFCC had earlier formally arraigned the former Attorney General and the other defendants before the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court on a 16-count charge bordering on money laundering, marking the beginning of what is expected to be a closely watched legal process.
The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has stressed that the success of Nigeria’s newly enacted Tax Reform Act will depend largely on how transparently and effectively it is implemented. According to the Chamber, proper execution of the law is vital to easing compliance processes, lowering pressure on productive businesses, and expanding the country’s tax base without discouraging economic activity. The business advocacy group made this position known while reviewing Nigeria’s economic performance in 2025 and outlining expectations and priorities for 2026. In its assessment, the Chamber urged the Federal Government to ensure that the tax reforms are applied in a manner that supports growth rather than constrains enterprise development. Speaking on the matter, LCCI President, Leye Kupoluyi, explained that fiscal reform efforts gained significant traction following the signing of the Tax Reform Act in June 2025. The legislation harmonised several existing tax laws into a single, streamlined framework scheduled to come into force on 1 January 2026. Kupoluyi noted that the reform presents an opportunity to modernise Nigeria’s tax administration, but warned that poor implementation could undermine its benefits. He emphasised that clarity, openness, and fairness in enforcement are essential to encouraging voluntary compliance and maintaining investor confidence. The Chamber’s remarks came shortly after public concerns arose regarding the new tax regime, particularly fears that the government would automatically deduct taxes from personal bank accounts. These concerns were addressed by the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, during a televised interview. Oyedele clarified that the revised tax system is based on self-assessment and declaration, not direct debits from bank accounts. He explained that individuals would not be charged automatically for funds transferred or received during the year. Instead, taxpayers are expected to declare their income at the end of the fiscal year in line with existing tax principles. Reflecting on the broader economic environment, the LCCI observed that Nigeria entered 2026 after navigating a challenging year characterised by difficult reforms, economic resilience, and cautious signs of stabilisation. While 2025 recorded modest growth, the Chamber noted that fiscal implementation remained constrained, alongside growing concerns over public debt sustainability. The group acknowledged that policies such as the removal of fuel subsidies, liberalisation of the foreign exchange market, and tight monetary conditions imposed substantial short-term hardship on households and businesses. However, it maintained that these measures were necessary steps toward restoring macroeconomic stability, rebuilding credibility, and improving Nigeria’s appeal to investors. In terms of economic performance, the LCCI reported that Gross Domestic Product growth improved slightly in 2025. Output expanded by 3.98 per cent in the third quarter, driven primarily by the services sector, which now contributes more than half of total economic output. The Chamber also highlighted Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list as a significant reputational milestone. This development improved the country’s access to international capital markets, evidenced by strong investor demand for Nigeria’s Eurobond issuance and favourable assessments from global rating agencies. Despite these positives, the LCCI cautioned that current growth levels remain inadequate to significantly raise living standards or reduce poverty. It pointed out that economic expansion continues to trail population growth, indicating that the benefits of recovery are not yet widely shared. Turning to fiscal performance, the Chamber criticised the execution of the 2025 federal budget, stating that it fell short of delivering the stimulus required to support recovery. By the third quarter of the year, government revenue reached ₦18.6 trillion, representing about 61 per cent of the target, while expenditure stood at ₦24.66 trillion, or roughly 60 per cent of the budgeted figure. Particular concern was raised over capital spending, which remained weak. Only ₦3.10 trillion, equivalent to 17.7 per cent, had been released for capital projects by the third quarter, limiting progress on infrastructure and dampening private sector confidence. On public finance, the LCCI described Nigeria’s debt profile as increasingly worrying. Total public debt rose to approximately ₦152.39 trillion by June 2025, with debt servicing consuming more than 65 per cent of government revenue. According to the Chamber, this level of debt servicing significantly restricts the government’s ability to invest in infrastructure, social services, and long-term growth initiatives. The group stressed that expanding revenue sources and exercising discipline in borrowing are no longer optional, but essential for fiscal sustainability. From a business perspective, the LCCI noted that companies continued to face multiple challenges throughout 2025. These included persistent inflationary pressures, exchange rate instability, insecurity in key agricultural regions, unreliable power supply, and the burden of multiple taxation across different levels of government. Looking ahead to 2026, the Chamber called for improved coordination between fiscal and monetary authorities to consolidate disinflation gains and gradually reduce interest rates. Such measures, it said, would help unlock private sector credit and stimulate investment. The LCCI also advocated for stronger confidence in the foreign exchange market, faster infrastructure development through public-private partnerships, and policies deliberately designed to promote inclusive economic growth. In conclusion, the Chamber described 2025 as a transition period from crisis management to cautious stability. It warned, however, that the central task for 2026 is to move beyond stabilisation and ensure that macroeconomic reforms translate into tangible improvements in productivity, employment, and overall prosperity.

