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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 All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed a viral report claiming to outline a supposed price list for its expression of interest and nomination forms ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The message, widely shared on WhatsApp, claimed that presidential nomination forms would cost N200 million, while forms for State Assembly positions were pegged at N20 million.

However, in a statement released on Saturday in Abuja, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, described the report as ‘fake news’ aimed at misleading the public.

The party clarified that it has not yet deliberated on, let alone announced, the costs for electoral forms for the next general election cycle.

‘The APC states categorically that the report is false and did not originate from the party,’ the statement said.

‘To be clear, no decision has been taken regarding the sale or pricing of forms for the 2027 elections.

‘The report is entirely fabricated and a product of mischievous imagination.

‘We urge party members, the media, and the general public to disregard the report completely,’ it added.

The Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has raised concerns over the growing threat of cryptocurrency-related crimes in the country.

Olukoyede made this known at the inauguration of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Country Programme for Nigeria 2026-2030 in Abuja yesterday.

The EFCC boss revealed that the world lost more than 160 billion dollars to illicit transactions involving digital currencies in 2025.

Olukoyede highlighted the risks posed by cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.

He noted that criminal networks were increasingly exploiting technological advancements, global financial systems and governance gaps to facilitate illicit activities.

‘Last year, the world lost over 160 billion dollars to illicit transactions in cryptocurrencies.

‘Tackling these challenges requires coordinated national responses, strong institutions and sustained intelligence-driven strategies,’ he said.

He said that the UNODC programme came at a time when Nigeria and the global community were grappling with evolving threats from transnational organised crime, financial crimes, illicit financial flows and cyber-enabled offences.

Olukoyede said the programme represented a strategic foundation for collective efforts to strengthen the rule of law.

This, he said, included enhancing the criminal justice system and protecting institutions and communities from violence, crime and financial corruption.

He noted that the programme’s focus on combating corruption and illicit financial flows was particularly significant to the EFCC, given the enormous economic and social costs of such crimes on Nigeria.

‘The imperative of sustained action to turn the tide cannot be overstated,’ he said.

The EFCC chairman expressed pride in the commission’s longstanding partnership with UNODC, stating that the collaboration had strengthened institutional capacity and improved Nigeria’s response to economic and financial crimes.

He said the partnership had supported reforms and operational frameworks that enhanced the agency’s effectiveness in tackling corruption and related offences.

Olukoyede expressed optimism that the programme would further improve national security and safeguard the future of Nigerians through strengthened collaboration and shared operational experiences.

He stressed the need to continuously refine frameworks and ensure that Nigeria’s institutions and citizens remain at the centre of all collaborative efforts.

The EFCC boss commended UNODC for initiating the programme and reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to supporting its implementation to achieve measurable outcomes for Nigeria and the wider region.

The Chairman, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr Musa Aliyu, SAN, in his remarks called for stronger collaboration among institutions to address Nigeria’s growing security and corruption challenges.

Aliyu said Nigerian society was currently grappling with multiple social ills, stressing that no single agency could effectively tackle the challenges alone.

According to him, the country faces complex and interconnected threats, including violent extremism, organised crime, illicit financial flows, smuggling and other serious offences.

‘There is a common point of truth, Nigerian society is entangled with many ills, and no agency can fight them alone,’ he said.

The ICPC boss noted that these challenges also posed significant threats to the nation’s criminal justice system, warning that no society could remain secure under such conditions.

He, however, expressed optimism that through strategic partnerships and collective efforts, Nigeria could overcome the challenges.

Aliyu described the UNODC Country Programme as timely and appropriate, given the scale and urgency of the issues confronting the nation.

He emphasised the importance of international support, noting that Nigeria’s progress in tackling crime and corruption had been strengthened by its collaboration with global partners, particularly the United Nations.

The ICPC chairman said the partnership between the commission and UNODC had been beneficial to Nigerian society, contributing to efforts aimed at strengthening institutions and improving governance.

He congratulated UNODC on what he described as a significant milestone and a ‘grand stride’ in supporting Nigeria’s fight against crime and corruption.

Aliyu reaffirmed ICPC’s commitment to continued collaboration, assuring stakeholders of the commission’s readiness to work with UNODC and other partners toward national development.

‘I assure you of our continued support and willingness to work together for the growth and betterment of Nigeria,’ he said.

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.

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.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has reaffirmed the union’s commitment to empowering women journalists, as she called for greater inclusivity and professionalism in the media space.

Comrade Ike made this known at a capacity-building training organised by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, in partnership with the German Embassy, to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day in Abuja.

Represented by the Treasurer of the Council, Comrade Sandra Chukwugekwu, the NUJ Chairman described the theme of the training, ‘Empowering Women Journalists for Democratic Governance and Social Change,’ as both timely and necessary.

‘It is with great pleasure and a deep sense of pride that I welcome you all to this important event,’ she said. ‘Women journalists continue to play a critical role in shaping narratives, holding leaders accountable, and amplifying the voices of the underserved.’

She, however, acknowledged the persistent challenges facing women in the media, including gender bias, limited leadership opportunities, and safety concerns in the field.

‘This is why gatherings like this are so important. They provide not just a platform for learning, but a space for reflection, growth, and solidarity,’ she added.

Comrade Ike reaffirmed the NUJ FCT Council’s dedication to promoting professionalism and inclusivity, particularly through capacity-building initiatives targeted at women journalists.

She also commended the leadership of NAWOJ FCT, led by Chairperson Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, for organising the training, and appreciated the German Embassy for its continued support towards media development and gender empowerment.

‘This collaboration is a strong reminder that when institutions work together, the impact is deeper and more sustainable,’ she noted.

Earlier, the Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, said the training was designed to equip female journalists with essential skills in investigative reporting, ethical journalism, gender-sensitive storytelling, and leadership.

‘At a time when the media plays a pivotal role in shaping public discourse, it is essential that women journalists are not only visible but empowered to influence narratives and promote accountability,’ Ikpang stated.

She described the initiative as a deliberate effort to build a strong and resilient network of women journalists capable of driving social change.

Representing the German Embassy, Spokesperson Mr. Felix Haala said the partnership was aimed at strengthening the capacity of female journalists and amplifying their voices in Nigeria’s media landscape.

‘Nigeria has a large media landscape with many talented women journalists. Strengthening their capacity and networks will ensure their voices are heard. Without female journalists, there is no development,’ he said.

In a keynote address, NAWOJ National President, Comrade Aisha Ibrahim, urged participants to go beyond storytelling and become advocates for truth and drivers of societal transformation.

She described the collaboration between NAWOJ and the German Embassy as commendable, noting that the national body would continue to support initiatives that promote women’s development.

Delivering a lecture, CEO of Valor Communications, Dr. Lemmy Ughegbe, emphasised the importance of investigative journalism and fact-checking in combating misinformation.

‘No matter the pressure, the golden rule remains: when in doubt, leave it out,’ he advised.

Also speaking, former NAWOJ National President, Comrade Ladi Bala, encouraged participants to embrace gender-sensitive reporting and support one another in leadership roles.

She noted that women remain underrepresented in media narratives and called for more inclusive reporting.

‘The issue of justice, rights, and action is needed in the media space. Women are still grossly marginalised in the pattern of our reportage,’ she said.

Participants at the training described the programme as insightful and impactful, expressing confidence that the knowledge gained would enhance their professional practice and storytelling.

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.

A new survey of driver-partners on the Bolt platform in Nigeria has revealed that rider behaviour plays a major role in how passengers are rated after trips, with 76% of drivers identifying rudeness or verbal aggression as the leading reason for giving low ratings.

The survey, which gathered responses from more than 1,800 drivers nationwide, highlights the growing importance of respectful interactions in Nigeria’s ride-hailing ecosystem.

According to the findings, payment disputes were the second most common reason for low ratings (49%), followed by safety concerns (42%) and cases where riders left vehicles dirty or caused damage (42%).

The results challenge common assumptions that ratings are primarily influenced by operational issues such as traffic delays or route disagreements. Instead, they suggest that everyday rider behaviour is the strongest determinant of driver feedback.

Commenting on the results, Bolt’s Senior General Manager, West Africa, Teddy Appa-Dankyi said: ‘Many riders are aware they rate drivers after trips, but fewer realise drivers also rate passengers.’

The 5-day Oracle Primavera P6 training program which ran from March 23 to 27, sponsored by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and executed by Mathnebi Nig Ltd, has come to a successful close in Uyo, capital of Akwa-Ibom State.

The training, which brought together 50 participants, aimed to equip them with practical skills in project management using Oracle Primavera P6. The program was designed to enhance the participants’ ability to schedule and manage projects effectively, and it achieved its objectives.

In his closing remarks, Company Secretary of Mathnebi Nig Ltd, expressed his appreciation to NCDMB for the opportunity given to the company to execute the training program on behalf of the board.