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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will shock Nigerians in 2027.

Wike said efforts to reconcile with aggrieved members will continue after the national convention.

He said the PDP National Convention, scheduled for March 29 and 30, will proceed as planned.

The Minister, who said the PDP will use the 2027 general elections to show its strength, dismissed the appeal filed at the Supreme Court by the Tanimu Turaki group, noting that it does not affect the convention.

Speaking after inspecting the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome, the convention venue in Abuja, Wike explained that reconciliation is a continuous process.

He was accompanied by the Chairman of the National Convention Planning Committee, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, PDP Board of Trustees Chairman, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, the Chairman of the National Caretaker Working Committee (NCWC), Mohammed Abdulrahman, the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and other members of the NCWC, as well as the Chairman of the Rivers State Elders Council, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chibudom Nwuche, and others.

The Minister emphasized that the convention will proceed, while efforts to resolve internal disputes will continue afterwards.

‘There is room for accommodation. The PDP is a very large party. Look at the umbrella, it is wide enough to accommodate everyone.

‘I have always said that in any group, there will be grievances. You cannot expect everyone to be satisfied in a family of two or three people, let alone a party with millions of members. There will always be a few who are not happy. We have agreed to sit down with them, understand their concerns, and see how we can accommodate them. What is most important is the overall interest of the party’.

On the zoning arrangement, the Minister confirmed that positions have already been allocated across regions.

‘We have already zoned our positions. Every zone has its own slots. The presidency has been zoned to the South, while the chairmanship is zoned to the North. We believe this consensus arrangement will make the process easier.

‘For the first time, the PDP is presenting a unified front, rather than the usual ‘unity list’ that often reflects internal divisions. There are no factions, everyone has agreed on the direction we are taking’.

The Minister also addressed the level of preparedness for the convention, saying, ‘We are fully prepared. This visit is to assess final arrangements. As I said, we are about 95 percent ready, and by Saturday, everything will be set.

‘Seating arrangements for all states have been completed, and the VIP section is ready. We do not expect more than 2,500 delegates.’

The convention is scheduled to be held on Sunday, March 29, and Monday, March 30.

Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Ltd (PINL), the surveillance contractor for the Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP), has cautioned that any team found involved in sabotage risks contract termination and legal action.

Dr Akpos Mezeh, PINL’s General Manager for Community and Stakeholder Relations, gave the warning during a meeting with host communities in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. He highlighted a rise in vandalism and crude oil theft along the pipeline.

Mezeh noted that preliminary investigations into two recent oil theft incidents indicate a ‘coordinated conspiracy,’ and emphasized that all responsible parties will be held accountable once the investigation concludes.

His words, ‘we’re currently faced with an unpleasant situation, and I must use this opportunity to sound a strong warning to all our contractors and surveillance teams. Recently, at Atali axis – zone 4, two tankers were intercepted while attempting to load crude. It was only through the effectiveness of our backup intelligence system that this operation was foiled, otherwise, those trucks would have successfully loaded.

‘Preliminary findings point to a possible coordinated conspiracy. Let me be clear, once investigations are concluded, everyone found culpable will be brought to justice, and no one will be spared.

‘Furthermore, in Bayelsa State, at Otukpoti axis zone 9, we recorded yet another case of sabotage arising from negligence on the part of our surveillance guards. This is unacceptable. Let this serve as a clear and firm warning to all contractors and operatives that, any act of negligence, compromise, or collusion will not be tolerated.

Continuing, ‘ Going forward, any contractor found wanting will not only lose their contract but will also face full prosecution under the law. At the same time, we must continue to strengthen collaboration. The community intelligence systems have significantly enhanced information flow and improved response times’.

He promised to sustain advocacy for the provision of floating petrol and gas stations in riverine communities in Bayelsa state.

He called for enhanced collaboration between host communities, security agencies, government institutions, and pipeline operators to ensure success of securing critical national assets.

He said, ‘At PINL, we hold firmly to one guiding principle-Community Partnership is National Security. When Communities Protect Infrastructure, they Protect Livelihoods, National Revenue, and the Future of our Country’.

Mezeh highlighted the role of the nation’s energy sector in national development and economic stability.

‘According to the latest operational report released by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the national oil company recorded a profit after tax of N385 billion in January 2026, generating N2.571 trillion in revenue and remitting N726 billion to the Federation Account during the same period after 1.64 million barrels per day production.

‘These figures demonstrate renewed operational efficiency and improved performance across Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. This improvement was driven largely by the successful completion of maintenance operations at key onshore facilities.

‘Nigeria also recorded encouraging progress in natural gas production, which increased to 7,283 million standard cubic feet per day, compared to 6,914 million standard cubic feet per day recorded in December 2025. Gas sales strengthened as well, reaching approximately 4,978 million standard cubic feet per day, reflecting improved supply to power plants, industrial consumers, and export markets’.

Mezeh said the firm will remain committed to promoting initiatives that improve the welfare of host communities and foster inclusive participation, including capacity building training for community-based contractors, prioritizing collaboration just as he noted that security was a shared responsibility

‘We’ll have more youth participation in pipeline protection activities, women-focused economic empowerment programmes, educational support through scholarship schemes.

‘Several interventions have been implemented, including, Scholarship programmes for students, Women empowerment initiatives, Medical outreach programmes, Distribution of humanitarian support and palliatives, We recognize that young people remain critical stakeholders in the future of our communities and for this reason, PINL is proposing a comprehensive Youth Skills Acquisition Programme in 2026 across our states of operations.

‘We also acknowledge stakeholder feedback regarding the women empowerment programme, particularly the need for faster disbursement. And so we’ re currently working closely with Premium Trust Bank, and payments will commence as soon as possible’, Mezeh reiterated.

In a goodwill message, Chairman of the State’s Traditional Rulers Council, HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo(Agada IV), praised the firm on its relentless efforts in developing oil and gas host communities for the better.

He praised the firm for its various initiatives aimed at bringing succour and awareness to host communities, calling on other oil and gas companies to emulate PINL to give relief to communities within their catchment areas.

A 33-year-old suya seller, Abubakar Isiaka, has appealed to security agencies to help rescue his three-year-old daughter who was abducted in Ogwashi-Uku area of the Delta State.

The child, identified as Sheripha, aged three years and eight months, was reportedly abducted on March 7, 2026, during a burial ceremony in the Hausa quarters of the community.

Narrating the incident, Isiaka said a woman dressed in a hijab arrived at their compound in broad daylight and, speaking Hausa, asked his wife for directions to the residence of a known woman in the area.

His wife then asked their older daughter to guide the visitor, while the younger child followed them.

According to him, the suspect later gave the older sibling N200 to buy biscuits. By the time the girl returned, the woman had disappeared with Sheripha.

The family immediately raised the alarm and reported the case to community leaders, vigilante groups, and the police.

Despite a search effort by residents and attendees of the burial ceremony, the child has not been found.

‘We have not slept since this happened. We are pleading with the police and the government to help us bring our child back,’ the distraught father said.

Confirming the incident, the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, said the command was currently tracking the suspect and possible syndicate members involved in the abduction.

He also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and closely monitor their children to prevent similar incidents.

Fresh signs of renewed investor confidence in Nigeria’s financial system have emerged, with about 28 per cent of ongoing bank recapitalisation investments sourced from foreign investors, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has disclosed.

The development, unveiled during the CBN Special Day at the 37th Enugu International Trade Fair, highlights a growing international vote of confidence in Nigeria’s reform-driven financial sector.

Speaking at the event, the Acting Director of Corporate Communications and Investor Relations at the apex bank, Mrs. Sidi Ali Hakama, said the recapitalisation exercise due to close March 31, 2026, is progressing steadily, with 34 banks already meeting the new capital thresholds.

She stressed that the level of foreign participation is a strong endorsement of ongoing reforms. ‘About 28 per cent of recapitalisation investments are coming from foreign sources, reflecting renewed confidence in Nigeria’s financial system,’ she said.

Hakama attributed the renewed confidence to sweeping reforms under the leadership of Olayemi Cardoso, particularly in the foreign exchange market.

According to her, ‘the reforms have increased transparency and liquidity in the FX market, with a new FX manual removing many restrictive capital controls and simplifying trade and investment procedures.’

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 West African Examinations Council on Friday released the results of the 2026 First Series Computer-Based WASSCE for Private Candidates, confirming improved performance and increased nationwide participation in the examination.

According to a report by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the examination was conducted across Nigeria from Jan. 28 to Feb. 14, while coordination and marking of scripts took place between Feb. 26 and March 13.

This information was contained in a statement by the Public Affairs Department of WAEC in Lagos, signed by Moyosola Adesina, Acting Head of Public Affairs.

The statement indicated that a total of 608 examiners participated in the marking exercise, while 10,523 candidates registered, a rise of 11.49 per cent over 2025, with 10,480 candidates ultimately sitting for the examination nationwide.

Those who obtained credit or above in at least five subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, were 30.95 per cent and 26.96 per cent, respectively, representing a marginal increase of 5.76 per cent compared to the previous year.

Among the candidates, 43 persons with special needs were registered, including visually impaired, hearing impaired, and albino candidates, all of whom were adequately supported throughout the examination process.

The statement added that of the total candidates, 5,106 were male (48.72 per cent), while 5,374 were female (51.28 per cent), reflecting slightly higher female participation.

‘Out of 10,480 candidates, 8,418 (80.32 per cent) have fully processed results, while 2,062 (19.68 per cent) still have some subjects currently under processing.

‘Performance analysis shows 4,598 candidates obtained credits in five subjects, while 3,429 achieved credits including English and Mathematics, indicating measurable improvement over previous years’ performance levels.

Of those meeting the requirements, 1,847 were male, and 1,582 were female, while overall performance improved by 5.76 per cent compared to the 2024 and 2025 First Series results.

‘The portal address is [https://certrequest.waec.ng/](https://certrequest.waec.ng/). All candidates who sat the diet are hereby advised to check their results carefully and take necessary actions as required,’ it added.

It further noted that the results of 75 candidates were withheld due to alleged examination malpractice cases, which were currently under investigation.

It added that the findings would be considered by the Council’s appropriate committee for determination.

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.

Super Eagles secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the Iran national football team in Antalya, Turkey on Friday.

The Super Eagles took control early, extended their lead after the break, and held firm under late Iranian pressure to seal a deserved win.

Nigeria wasted no time stamping their authority on the game, taking the lead just six minutes in through Moses Simon.

A well-weighted pass from Samuel Chukwueze found Simon in space, and the winger made no mistake, spinning away from his marker before drilling a low finish into the bottom corner.

The early goal settled the Super Eagles, who went on to enjoy long spells of possession. Simon remained a constant threat, repeatedly driving into the penalty area and forcing Iran onto the back foot.

Iran responded with flashes of attacking intent, with Mehdi Taremi showing glimpses of danger down the flank. However, a lack of support in the box meant their promising moments failed to translate into clear chances.

Nigeria’s midfield, led by Wilfred Ndidi, controlled the tempo, while the defence stood firm to take a 1-0 lead into the break.

The Super Eagles doubled their advantage early in the second half, with Ademola Lookman playing a key role.

The former Atalanta forward slipped a precise pass through to Akor Adams, who calmly finished inside the far post to make it 2-0 and put Nigeria firmly in control.

Iran, however, refused to fold. Sustained pressure eventually paid off in the 67th minute when captain Taremi reacted quickest after a corner struck the crossbar, slotting home from close range to halve the deficit.

Burundian Ambassador to Nigeria, Edward Nduwimana, has pleaded with Nigeria to resume the supply of crude oil to his country.

Burundi and Nigeria had signed an agreement leading to the supply of 45,000 barrels per day of crude oil between 2008 and 2014 before the agreement was suspended.

Nduwimana attributed the suspension to Nigeria’s desire to restructure the sector.

Nduwimana, however, disclosed that moves are ongoing to revive the agreement.

In a session with some selected journalists in Abuja, the envoy also reaffirmed Burundi’s commitment to further strengthening its cooperation with Nigeria.

He said: ‘Burundi wishes to express its gratitude to the Nigerian people, through their institutions, for the support provided since 2008 through the supply of crude oil. In return, Burundi has remained faithful to its diplomatic commitments toward Nigeria from that time to the present and is committed to strengthening this loyalty.

‘This support has helped mitigate the effects of the energy deficit in my country.

‘We understand that the suspension that occurred in 2014 took place in a particular context, driven by the government’s desire to restructure the sector.

‘However, Burundi remains convinced that Nigeria, true to its values of African solidarity and shared prosperity, will be able to consider resuming this cooperation in a spirit of mutually beneficial partnership.’

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on the outcome of the party’s National Convention held in Abuja.

Mr. Aiyedatiwa, who led delegates from Ondo State to the convention, described the exercise as peaceful and well-organised. He noted that the emergence of national officers reflected internal cohesion within the ruling party.

According to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the Governor also congratulated the party’s National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, and other members of the National Working Committee (NWC), who were returned unopposed.

‘The orderly process, spirit of unity and reaffirmation of shared ideals attest to the maturity of our party and the strength of its internal democracy,’ the governor was quoted in the statement.

He also lauded party stakeholders, including members of the convention planning committee and delegates, for their discipline during the exercise.

The governor added that the convention’s outcome reinforces the responsibility of the APC as the governing party to deliver on its mandate under the Tinubu administration.

He said Ondo would continue efforts to strengthen grassroots mobilisation and expand development initiatives across communities.

Aiyedatiwa, however, lauded the delegates from the state for their conduct at the convention.