Author: gqSbgCfmna

Award-Winning Tv personality, multidisciplinary creative director and producer, Ochuko Derek Omiragwa, popularly known as Chief Ochuko has taken his craft to greater heights.

As part of the organizing committee for the forthcoming edition of Afrokings of Comedy: Okey Bakassi UK Tour 2026, scheduled for 29 May through 7 June, Omiragwa is deploying his creativity and experience in making the event a grand success. While also making arrangements for the Rhythm of Return UK Tour as creative director and host, billed for September 2026.

Renowned for his work in festival and carnival float design, large-scale event production, and set design and with over a decade shaping television, film, and live entertainment, he has earned multiple accolades while building a reputation for visually striking cultural productions.

He directed and served as Master of Ceremony for the Legend Concert UK Tour across London, Birmingham, Bedford, Sunderland, and Newcastle, and is currently leading creative direction for upcoming UK concerts this summer-continuing to bridge African creativity with global audiences.

Rising tensions in the Middle East are shaking oil markets, slowing renewable momentum, and exposing the fragile balance between energy security and climate goals

As conflict intensifies between Iran, the United States and Israel, global attention has focused on security risks and geopolitical tensions. But beyond the battlefield, another consequence is unfolding; one that could reshape the future of climate action: the disruption of the global energy transition. At the heart of the issue is oil. The Middle East remains one of the world’s most critical energy hubs, and any instability in the region sends shockwaves through global markets. With tensions threatening key supply routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil passes, fears of supply disruption have driven up crude prices and heightened uncertainty.

‘When war threatens oil supply, the world often retreats to fossil fuels instead of accelerating the shift away from them.’

This dynamic presents a major challenge to climate goals. As energy prices rise, governments often prioritise immediate energy security over long-term sustainability, leading to increased reliance on fossil fuels.

A Setback for Clean Energy Momentum: In recent years, there has been growing global momentum toward renewable energy. Solar and wind power have expanded rapidly, electric vehicles are gaining traction, and many countries have pledged to achieve net-zero emissions. However, conflicts like the current Iran crisis risk slowing this progress. When oil and gas supplies become uncertain, countries may respond by increasing domestic fossil fuel production or securing alternative sources of crude oil and liquefied natural gas. Such measures, while understandable in the short term, can delay investments in renewable energy. In Europe, for instance, previous energy shocks have led to temporary returns to coal and increased gas imports. Similar patterns could emerge globally if the Middle East crisis deepens.

Price Volatility and Its Ripple Effects: Rising oil prices affect more than just fuel costs. They influence electricity generation, transportation, food production and overall inflation. For developing countries like Nigeria, the impact is particularly complex. On one hand, higher oil prices can boost government revenues in oil-exporting economies. On the other hand, they increase the cost of imported goods, strain household incomes, and complicate economic planning. More importantly, price volatility creates uncertainty that can discourage long-term investment in clean energy. Investors may hesitate to commit resources to renewable projects if policy directions shift in response to short-term crises.

‘Energy instability does not just raise prices-it delays the decisions needed for a sustainable future.’

The Fragility of the Energy Transition: The current situation highlights a fundamental weakness in the global energy transition: its vulnerability to geopolitical shocks. While renewable energy is growing, the world remains heavily dependent on fossil fuels. This dependence means that any disruption, whether from war, sanctions, or political instability, can quickly derail progress toward cleaner energy systems. The transition to renewables requires stable policies, long-term investment and international cooperation. Yet conflict undermines all three, diverting attention and resources toward immediate security concerns.

Nigeria’s Dilemma: For Nigeria, the unfolding crisis presents both opportunity and risk. As an oil-producing nation, higher global prices may provide short-term fiscal relief. However, this reliance on oil revenue also exposes the economy to global volatility. At the same time, Nigeria faces pressing climate challenges, including flooding, desertification and rising temperatures. Transitioning to renewable energy is not just an environmental goal; it is an economic and developmental necessity. The current global situation raises a critical question: will countries use this moment to accelerate the shift to cleaner energy, or will they double down on fossil fuels?

Energy Security vs Climate Responsibility: One of the central tensions highlighted by the Iran conflict is the balance between energy security and climate responsibility. Governments must ensure reliable energy supply for their populations, but they must also reduce emissions to avoid long-term climate catastrophe. In times of crisis, short-term priorities often take precedence. However, experts warn that repeatedly delaying climate action will only increase future costs; both economic and environmental. The challenge, therefore, is to design energy policies that can withstand shocks. Diversifying energy sources, investing in renewables, and improving energy efficiency are key strategies for achieving both security and sustainability.

‘True energy security lies not in more fossil fuels, but in reducing dependence on them.’

A Turning Point or a Detour?: The Iran-U.S./Israel conflict could become a turning point in global energy policy, or a setback. Much depends on how governments respond. If countries interpret the crisis as a reason to accelerate renewable energy adoption, it could strengthen the global transition. Renewable energy, after all, offers greater stability by reducing dependence on volatile fossil fuel markets. However, if the response is to expand fossil fuel production and delay climate commitments, the world risks moving further away from its climate targets.

The Road Ahead: As the world navigates this complex moment, the need for clear, consistent climate policy is more important than ever. Governments must resist the temptation to sacrifice long-term sustainability for short-term stability. For Nigeria and other developing nations, the focus should be on building resilient energy systems that can support economic growth while reducing environmental impact. Investments in solar power, clean cooking solutions, and grid modernisation can help reduce dependence on imported fuels and improve energy access. The intersection of conflict and climate change presents a difficult but unavoidable reality. Wars may be temporary, but their impact on energy systems and climate progress can be long-lasting.

‘The true cost of war is not only measured in barrels of oil, but in the future of a planet struggling to transition.’

As tensions persist in the Middle East, the world faces a choice: allow conflict to derail climate action, or use the crisis as a catalyst for building a more resilient, sustainable energy future. The path chosen will shape not only global energy markets, but the trajectory of climate change itself.

President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for attaining the age of 74.

Akpabio, in a congratulatory message personally signed by him, described President Tinubu as an audacious and visionary leader with the midas touch to reset Nigeria.

‘On behalf of my family, the wonderful people of Akwa Ibom North West, the Senate and indeed the 10th National Assembly, I wish to heartily rejoice and dutifully felicitate the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria – Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR on the occasion of his 74th birthday.

‘Your Excellency, it is a thing of joy to see you reach this age in good health in mind and in body.

‘I pray that the Almighty God will continue to bless you with good health, the desired strength and wisdom to effectively navigate and deliver on the Renewed Hope Agenda for the benefit of all Nigerians.

‘Mr. President, I must admit that you are an audacious and visionary leader, whose quest to set the nation on a transformational pedestal is never in doubt.

‘Your leadership, vision, and dedication to our great nation are truly inspiring. As Senate President, I have had the privilege of working closely with you, and I must say that your passion for Nigeria’s progress is contagious.

‘You have demonstrated astute leadership, advocating for democratic values and bold economic reforms. Although the reforms came at a cost, there is certainly light at the end of the tunnel as they have already started yielding dividends.

‘At the National Assembly, we will continue to collaborate with and complement your efforts to bequeath an organic and indelible legacies for the future generations.

‘Congratulations, Your Excellency and may God bless your new age.’

Ten states are participating in the ongoing National Darts Trial Competition aimed at ranking players and selecting the best talents for a national camp.

The Darts National Competition holding in Ikeja Club, Lagos, rounds off Saturday.

The states include Abia, Kwara, Imo, Delta, Bayelsa, Lagos, Oyo, Osun, Rivers and Edo, with each state represented by two teams – the Police team and an Academy side.

A total of 62 players are taking part in the competition, made up of 38 males and 24 females, with selections determined through a chart system progressing from the quarter-finals to the semi-finals.

The competition is played using the 501 format, where the first player to reduce their score to zero emerges the winner.

In the men’s category, players who progressed to the quarter-finals include Pius Israel (Delta), Evans Oninikpo (Abia), Amadon Denyefa (Edo), Miracle Nwakobi(Abia), Lawal Sunday(Rivers), Mohammed Abdurauf(Edo), Jacob Chinecherem (Abia) and Nnamdi Ukaegbu (Abia).

In the women’s category, Conscience Ikponwobsa(Edo), Adodo Victoria (Police), Mayowa Ogunremi(Police), Favour Okehie (Imo), Bukola Hussein (Kwara), Grace Williams (Police), Felicia Idu (Bayelsa) and Osasu Ogbomwan (Edo) also made it to the quarter-finals.

Results from the quarter-final matches in the women’s category saw Adodo defeat Conscience 3-0, Favour beat Mayowa 3-0, and Grace overcame Bukola 3-1, while Felicia narrowly edged Osasu 3-2.

In the men’s category, Pius defeated Evans 3-0 and Amadon overcame Miracle 3-0, while Lawal beat Mohammed 3-1 and Nnamdi saw off Jacob 3-0.

The grand finale will hold on Saturday, with the semi-finalists battling for the title of the best darts player in the country.

Over 2,000 members of the Ondo State Chapter of the Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle, Tricycle, Repairers, and Riders Association of Nigeria (ACOMORON) have endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the next year’s presidential election.

ACOMORON expressed their readiness to work for the second term of President Tinubu.

The state Chairman of the transport union, Comrade Akinlolu Olumonrin, said they decided to support Tinubu because of the development he has brought to the state through the construction of roads and the appointments of prominent indigenes of the state into his government.

Speaking at a rally organised by the Asiwaju Mandate Group (AMG), Olumorin said the union members believe that once Tinubu is reelected, the good jobs he has embarked upon in the state would not be abandoned.

According to him, ‘We look into everything. All he did in Nigeria, in every state, we discovered he is the only person who can continue the job so that the programme will continue. On our own ends in ACOMORAN, we tried a lot to make ACOMORAN visible in Ondo State. We wrote many letters and even sued the government, but we did not achieve anything. We discovered that if we go through the President, our union may come to reality.’

Socialite Cubana Chief Priest has expressed his backing for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party, saying ‘APC is taking care of me’ at the party’s National Convention in Abuja.

Chief Priest is part of the City Boy Movement, championed by Seyi Tinubu, President Bola Tinubu’s son, which aims to mobilize young Nigerians behind the president’s agenda.

Cubana Chief Priest’s involvement came as the movement gains traction, with influential figures like Obi Cubana joining forces to promote the Renewed Hope agenda.

Chief Priest was appointed Imo State Director of the City Boy Movement, reflecting his growing influence in Nigerian politics.

He warned that it’s either people join the movement or ‘watch us win’ as he referenced President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, saying ‘It’s either you win with us or you watch us win’.

The National Caretaker Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), backed by Nyesom Wike, on Saturday said it was unaware of any appeal filed by the Tanimu Turaki group challenging the Court of Appeal judgment on the party’s crisis.

Addressing a pre-convention news conference, the committee’s National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, also stated that there was no knowledge of any court order halting the planned convention. He described reports suggesting otherwise as social media fabrications.

Mohammed affirmed that the convention would proceed as scheduled and would be inclusive. He added that several party members who had not aligned with any faction had expressed readiness to participate in the exercise.

He said, ‘As you have heard, the convention will go ahead tomorrow, and all arrangements have been concluded. Any reports or insinuations you refer to are, for now, things we are only seeing on social media. By the grace of God, on 29 March, the convention will be held as scheduled.

Responding to questions, Mohammed said ‘we are not aware of any court order or appeal filed anywhere. If anything exists, it may well be in the realm of social media. We have not been served, and we cannot comment on what we do not know.

‘Regarding the concern that we may end up like the other convention, the difference is clear: that gathering was not backed by law and was, in fact, restricted by a competent court. In our case, we have the full backing of the courts, the law, and the members of the party.

‘On inclusivity, even within an extended family, you do not expect everyone to be on the same page. However, it may interest you to know that we currently have the largest following within the party. Individuals such as Bukola Saraki, who had not initially aligned with any bloc, will be present tomorrow, along with Sule Lamido and many others.

‘Several senators, National Assembly members, and key stakeholders who had not previously identified with us will attend the convention.

‘The party has taken a direction. Anyone who feels aggrieved and chooses not to align with us is within their constitutional rights.

‘As for the issue of forms, if you are reporting for a media organisation that is unaware of the process, then perhaps the organisation is not well informed. Other media outlets carried our activities live during the screening process.

‘Some of you even contacted me directly to ask where forms were being sold, and I directed you to the office of the National Organising Secretary. So I am surprised by that assertion.

‘We have complied with all party regulations and processes. We are fully compliant, 100 per cent compliant. By the grace of God, the convention will hold tomorrow’.

Speaking earlier on preparation for the convention, he said ‘as we stand on the threshold of the 2026 National Convention of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), we address you today with a deep sense of responsibility, confidence, and commitment to the unity and progress of our party and our dear nation.

‘Tomorrow’s convention marks yet another defining moment in the life of the PDP.

A moment that reaffirms our democratic ideals, our respect for due process, and our unwavering dedication to the will of the people.

‘The National Caretaker Working Committee (NCWC) has worked tirelessly to ensure that this convention is not only credible and transparent but also inclusive and reflective of the collective aspirations of our members across the country. All necessary arrangements have been concluded to guarantee a smooth, peaceful, and successful exercise.

‘We wish to assure all party faithful and the general public that this convention is being conducted in full compliance with the constitution of our party and in line with all relevant laws. The PDP remains a law-abiding institution, committed to strengthening democracy in Nigeria.

‘On recent developments, including attempts by certain individuals to disrupt this process, we urge all members to remain calm and focused. The party has consistently extended the hand of reconciliation, and that door remains open.

‘However, we will not allow the progress and stability of our great party to be undermined.

‘We call on all delegates, stakeholders, and observers to conduct themselves in an orderly and peaceful manner. This convention belongs to all of us, and its success depends on our collective discipline and unity.

‘To Nigerians, we reaffirm that the PDP remains the most credible platform for national development, good governance, and the protection of democratic values. Tomorrow’s convention will further strengthen our capacity to deliver on this mandate.

‘We wish to express our profound appreciation to the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister EzenwoNyesom Wike, for his support and cooperation in ensuring a conducive environment for the successful hosting of this convention in Abuja. His commitment to maintaining order and providing the necessary institutional support is commendable and deeply appreciated.’

The Egba people of Ogun State converged on the historic Ake Palace grounds in Abeokuta on Saturday for the grand finale of the 39th Lisabi Festival, bringing to a close a vibrant week-long celebration that kicked off on March 23.

The annual festival honours Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, the legendary Egba warrior who, in the 18th century, led a successful revolt against the Oyo Empire, securing independence and self-determination for his people.

Highlights of the event include traditional homage-paying rites, thrilling warrior-themed reenactments, pulsating drumming sessions, and colourful dance parades that showcase Egba heritage.

Under the authority of the Alake of Egbaland, the festival unites all Egba subgroups, Ake, Oke-Ona, Gbagura, and Owu in a powerful display of unity, cultural pride, and shared identity.

Saturday’s grand finale featured the Egbaliganza, a colourful cultural fashion showcase championed by the Aare of Egbaland, Chief Lai Labode.

The initiative spotlights traditional Egba attire and promotes local enterprise, with coordinated outfits dominated by Abeokuta’s iconic Adire fabric taking centre stage.

The Lisabi Festival Committee had earlier clarified in February that Egbaliganza is limited to a two-hour slot within the week-long programme and does not alter the festival’s core historical focus.

The occasion also served as a grand homecoming for Egba indigenes from the diaspora, drawing political leaders, prominent business figures, and cultural influencers.

Throughout the week, the city witnessed a surge in local trade and street activity, while security was beefed up around key venues to ensure a peaceful celebration.

In a bold, strategic and decisive move to position Delta State on the global football stage, Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Hon. Onos Oborevwori, has invited internationally licensed FIFA agent and sports brand strategist, Dr. Drew Uyi, to conduct a high-level inspection of the New Warri Stadium ahead of its official opening.

The official visit is aimed at evaluating the Warri Stadium’s readiness in line with international standards while developing strategies to market and brand the facility to attain, attract and retain worldwide audience.

According to officials of the Sports Commission, the initiative is part of a broader plan to transform the New Warri Stadium into a premier sports destination in West Africa, capable of attracting international matches, tournaments, and commercial partnerships.

Instructively, Drew Uyi’s inspection tour will cover key areas, comprising infrastructure compliance, pitch quality, media and broadcast readiness, safety systems, and VIP hospitality facilities.

A statement by the officials said, ‘The exercise will also assess opportunities for commercial growth such as sponsorship integration, naming rights, and enhanced fan experience.’

Continuing, the statement pointed out that Drew Uyi will also explore ways Warri Wolves can be retooled for global visibility and mileage acceleration..

‘Beyond the stadium itself, the visit will also focus on the revitalisation and repositioning of Warri Wolves F.C. as a modern and competitive football club. The proposed rebranding aims to align the club with global standards, strengthen its fan base, and create pathways for youth development and international talent exposure.’

Uyi said at the end of the visit, that he would deliver a comprehensive strategic report detailing compliance gaps, commercial opportunities, and a three-year roadmap for international positioning.

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has warned against attempts to disrupt the pipeline surveillance operations handled by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), urging the Federal Government to sustain the current security arrangement in the Niger Delta.

In a statement issued on March 27, 2026, and signed by its spokesman, Amb. Binebai Yerin Princewill, the group said no individual or group should be allowed to undermine what it described as the ‘measurable achievements’ of Tantita in combating oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

The council called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remain steadfast and resist pressures to alter the pipeline surveillance contract, warning against what it termed ‘orchestrated campaigns’ by vested interests.