Tinubu to visit Plateau for APC chairman’s mother’s funeral

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will on today travel to Jos, Plateau State, to attend the funeral prayers of Nana Lydia Yilwatda Goshwe, mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nantewe Yilwatda Goshwe.

According to a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President will also use the occasion to engage with religious leaders across the North at the headquarters of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Jos.

‘President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart Lagos on Saturday, October 4, for Jos, Plateau State capital, to attend the funeral prayers in honour of Nana Lydia Yilwatda Goshwe, mother of the APC National Chairman, Professor Nantewe Yilwatda Goshwe.

‘The President will later address Church Leaders across the North at the headquarters of the COCIN Church in Jos’, the statement said.

President Tinubu is scheduled to return to Lagos later on the same day after the engagements in Jos.

Africa agriculture forum to hold in Abuja

The Africa Agriculture Dialogue 2025 is set to take place on October 7 and 8 at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Nigeria.

It aims to spotlight Africa’s agricultural priorities and elevate the continent’s voice on the global stage, serving as a precursor to the prestigious World Food Prize that will hold in the United States.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Livestock Development, Idris Ajimobi, emphasised that the Federal Government is intensifying its efforts to transform Nigeria’s livestock sector-a critical pillar for food security, employment generation, and economic diversification. These efforts, he said, are being spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD).

A cornerstone of this transformation, he noted, is the recent launch of the National Livestock Master Plan (N-LMP), a five-year strategic investment framework. Developed in collaboration with the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) and international partners, the plan seeks to attract public and private investments into key livestock value chains, including cattle, poultry, and small ruminants.

According to Ajimobi, it also outlines targeted interventions in animal breeding, health services, and market access.

He noted that the government is actively promoting the development of ranches and integrated crop-livestock settlements as part of efforts to move away from traditional nomadic grazing.

‘This transition to sedentary farming systems is not just about improving productivity,’ he said, ‘it is also a deliberate strategy to reduce conflict over grazing land.’

To improve the safety and traceability of livestock products, Ajimobi revealed that the ministry is implementing a national mass animal tagging programme, aiming to identify and track millions of animals across the country. ‘This, along with enhanced veterinary services and the control of transboundary pests, is expected to significantly improve animal health standards and help Nigeria meet international export requirements.’

In addition, he highlighted the government’s focus on reducing poverty and creating jobs-particularly for youth and women-through targeted training and support programmes.

Nigeria’s hosting of the Africa Agriculture Dialogue, he explained, would be a recognition of the ‘profound steps’ taken by the current administration to revamp the agricultural sector from a policy standpoint.

Embedded Adviser on Agriculture at the African Development Bank (AfDB), Richard Mbaram, also praised the government’s commitment to agricultural transformation under President Bola Tinubu. Mbaram said the administration has ‘moved beyond rhetoric’ and is now executing ‘ambitious programmes and policies with the potential to fundamentally transform our agricultural landscape.’

According to Mbaram, the government’s declaration of a state of emergency on food security marked a turning point in the nation’s agricultural history. ‘The declaration was not just a symbolic gesture,’ he said. ‘It was a clear signal that the government views a secure food system as essential to national stability. They are not merely scratching the surface; they are building a new foundation from the ground up.’

FCCPC approves Chivita|Hollandia sale to UAC

The Coca-Cola Company says the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has approved the sale of Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited) to UAC of Nigeria PLC (UAC), and the transaction has now been closed.

This follows the July 30, 2025 announcement of an agreement for the sale of Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited), a leading Nigerian food and beverage company with market-leading brands in value-added dairy and juice.

‘We are pleased to have received regulatory approval for this transaction,’ said Eelco Weber, Managing Director of Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited). ‘We look forward to a smooth transition and to seeing Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited) thrive under UAC’s ownership.’

Group Managing Director of UAC, Fola Aiyesimoju, commented: ‘We are excited to officially welcome the Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited) team and brands into the UAC family, and we are eager to work together to build on their strong legacy and market leadership.’

FULL LIST: Ten most technologically advanced countries in 2025

Technological advancement has become a leading cause of economic growth and global influence. The innovation nations, research nations, and technologically advanced nations are setting the future agenda through innovation in artificial intelligence, clean energy, biotechnology, and digitalization.

Statistical international rankings such as the Global Innovation Index and technology ecosystem reports highlight the world’s most technologically advanced nations, which also detail their areas of strengths in areas such as smart cities, connectivity, and automation.

Here are the top 10 most technologically advanced countries in 2025 along with an analysis of their innovation capacity and where they stand in the global technology landscape.

1. Switzerland

Switzerland is still the global leader in innovative technology in 2025, leading in research, patent filing, and high-tech sectors. It is constantly at the top of global innovation indexes, thanks mainly to affluent investment in R and D and a high level of education.

2. Sweden

Sweden continues to be a leader in automation, digitalization, and clean technology. Its emphasis on digital infrastructure and sustainability keeps it at the world tech forefront.

3. United States

The US leads the way in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, software, and top-notch research institutes. Silicon Valley, MIT, and Caltech propel much of America’s next-gen innovation advantage.

4. South Korea

South Korea is renowned for super-high-speed connectivity, brand giants like Samsung and LG, and 5G, AI, and robotics leadership. Its adoption level of technology is among the world’s highest.

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5. Singapore

Singapore leads the way in smart city tech, fintech, and digital government and is a leading Asian tech hub. It is ranked highly for effective public services and AI policymaking.

6. United Kingdom

The UK’s competitive excellence is in life sciences, fintech, and world-class universities such as Oxford and Cambridge. It’s famous worldwide for cutting-edge research and high-tech startups.

7. Finland

Finland is famous for mobile technology and online learning, supported by Nokia’s heritage and strong national innovation policy. It ranks highly on international digital readiness consistently.

8. Netherlands

The Netherlands is superior at connected logistics, sustainable technology, and agricultural technology, assisted by an enabling policy framework and advanced research.

9. Denmark

Denmark is the leader in renewable energy tech, green tech, and digital public services. It usually tops the ranks for ease of doing digital business.

10. China

China is the world leader in patent filings and leads in R and D, particularly in AI, quantum computing, and telecommunications. Shenzhen, Beijing, and Shanghai are the key innovation clusters.

STAMFORD BRIDGE BATTLE

Liverpool may have lost their grip on top spot in the Premier League table by the time they kick off against Chelsea in this evening’s Stamford Bridge battle.

More cracks are beginning to appear for Arne Slot’s men, while the Blues earned just a second win from six matches by taking down Jose Mourinho’s Benfica in midweek.

Labelled as dark horses for the 2025-26 Premier League title before the first ball was kicked, Chelsea’s indifferent form may have some going back on their pre-season predictions, as Enzo Maresca has overseen a mediocre two wins, two draws and two defeats thus far.

Not for the first time this season, poor discipline cost the Club World Cup winners in last weekend’s visit of Brighton and Hove Albion, who were on the back foot until Trevoh Chalobah’s red card changed the course of the game; the Seagulls eventually triumphed 3-1 courtesy of a Danny Welbeck double.

Boasting a paltry one point from their last three Premier League games – after taking seven from the first nine on offer – the eighth-placed hosts already find themselves seven points behind the leaders and are also counting the cost of a hefty absentee list, which the Club World Cup may or may not have had something to do with.

From injuries to indiscipline, Chelsea’s 118 cards – 114 yellow, four red – since the start of the 2024-25 Premier League season is more than any other team, and the Blues failed to finish Tuesday’s Champions League clash with Benfica with 11 men on the pitch too.

However, Joao Pedro’s late dismissal was inconsequential in a 1-0 win over Mourinho’s men, and the hosts now set out to avoid losing three straight Premier League games for the first time since the spring of 2023, when Frank Lampard was at the helm.

Also at risk of a torrid third consecutive defeat – albeit in all competitions rather than the Premier League exclusively – reigning champions Liverpool have looked a shadow of the side that stormed to the title at a canter over the past week.

The Reds’ latest late show was not enough to deny Crystal Palace their deserved victory last weekend, as Eddie Nketiah’s extraordinary late winner ended Liverpool’s perfect start to the top-flight campaign, in a result that Reds fans likely saw coming.

None of the holders’ first five Premier League wins of the new term were convincing by any stretch, and their autumnal plight continued in midweek, as Galatasaray condemned Arne Slot’s side to a shock 1-0 Champions League defeat thanks to a Victor Osimhen penalty.

Tinubu’ll restore Nigeria’s glory, says APC chieftain

An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Niger State, Alhaji Nma Kolo said the party’s presidential candidate; Bola Tinubu has the capacity to provide the needed leadership that will restore Nigeria to the path of greatness if he becomes president.

Kolo told reporters in Minna, the state capital yesterday that Tinubu had the required knowledge to move the country forward.

The APC chieftain described Tinubu as a leader who will unite and move the country forward.

According to him, the APC presidential candidate has vast experience in how to solve the problems bedevilling the country.

He noted that despite the withholding of local governments’ allocation from the Federation Account by the Federal Government during Tinubu’s tenure as Lagos State Governor, he was able to manage the state’s finances and put Lagos economy on sound footing.

Signing of Ajanaku siblings delight Bosnian side

Bosnia and Herzegovina second tier of professional football side, Jedinstvo Bihac, have expressed delight over the signings of Nigerian brothers Damilola and Jomiloju Ajanaku.

The Ajanaku siblings were recently presented by the club competing in the First League of FBiH at a brief but vibrant signing ceremony held last Friday, 27th September.

The club’s president, Saša Smiljanic, explained that the decision to sign the siblings was based on their individual qualities and the rich footballing pedigree of Nigerian players.

‘We decided to sign the two brothers because we recognize the immense talent Nigeria continues to produce-legends like Jay-Jay Okocha, Kanu Nwankwo, and more recently, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, who have both won African Footballer of the Year. We hope Damilola and Jomiloju can replicate that level of excellence, not only for our club but also for their national team,’ Smiljanic said.

He also urged the players to give their best in helping the club return to the Premier League, following its relegation in the 2007/2008 season.

The Ajanaku brothers expressed their gratitude to the club’s management for the opportunity and pledged to repay the trust placed in them.

‘We’re excited to join this historic club, the first football club in Bihac, founded around 1920. We’re confident we can contribute to the team’s journey back to the Premier League,’ said Damilola.

Jomiloju also thanked the club president and everyone who made the move possible, acknowledging the support of their family.

‘This is a new chapter in our careers, and we’re deeply grateful to our parents for allowing us to pursue our dreams. It’s a big opportunity to showcase our talents and work toward representing Nigeria and playing for top clubs in Europe. We believe joining NK Jedinstvo Bihac will open doors for us in the near future.’

Ex-Euronav manager joins Caverton Marine as Chief Commercial Officer

Caverton Marine has announced the appointment of former Euronav London General Manager, Pauline Sessou-Diop as its Chief Commercial Officer (CCO).

According to a press statement by the management, based out of London, her role will comprise defining the commercial and business development strategy focusing on eco-effective fleet expansion in oil, gas and bulk marine transportation worldwide, with a particular focus on the West African market.

Deregulation of the downstream sector and implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act have encouraged an increase in both domestic and foreign investment from the private sector.

Welcoming the seasoned professional to his team, Chief Executive Officer, Caverton Offshore Support Group, Bode Makanjuola said: ‘We want to strengthen Caverton Marine as a reliable energy transport partner, delivering safe, efficient, and sustainable shipping solutions. Pauline brings a wealth of knowledge in company strategy, time charter negotiations and vessel acquisitions. As appetite for accessing the West African region expands, we want to offer a differentiated service that investors can trust.’

Sessou-Diop brings more than 21 years of experience in the tanker industry, with much of her career spent with tanker owner Euronav. Her last appointment was general manager of its London-based commercial office, including representing the company in the Tankers International VLCC pool. At Caverton Marine, she is tasked with identifying potential markets, evaluating expansion options, and negotiating strategic alliances and acquisitions to deliver growth. She will also represent Caverton in the Unity Shipping Worldwide joint venture set up between Caverton, Stena Bulk and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

Pauline Sessou-Diop commented: ‘I am excited and proud to join a dynamic and already successful team and eager to bring my knowledge and experience to support Caverton Marine’s growth ambitions. As a company, we have unparalleled regional expertise with government bodies and organisations across the West African region. We want to open this up to the marine industry and enable customers to benefit from this booming market.’

Sessou-Diop studied in France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. She holds a Bachelor of Science in International Business from Neoma Business School in France and a Bachelor of Arts in European Business Studies from the University of Lincoln in Hull, UK, majoring in Economics, International Finance, Marketing and Management. She is a member of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers and obtained an Advanced Diploma in Ship Sale and Purchases and Shipping Business.

Caverton Marine Limited is the shipping arm of the Nigerian publicly listed Caverton Offshore Support Group, a fully integrated offshore support company specialising in providing top-tier marine and aviation logistics services primarily within the oil and gas industry. Founded in 1999, Caverton Marine originated as a specialised service provider in marine and special transportation services, providing small tankers, boats, barges, and allied equipment to its clients. Today, Caverton Marine is contributing significantly to the commercial ferry sector, with a focus on efficient and reliable transportation services.

Fuji star celebrates as daughter graduates from U.S. varsity

Popular Fuji musician, Adewale Lawal, is in a joyous mood as his daughter, Mistural Ayomide Lawal, has graduated from a prestigious university in the United States.

The graduation ceremony, which took place at Army Basic Combat Fort Jackson Columbia, South Carolina, turned into a success as family, friends, and fans of the musician flooded social media with congratulatory messages.

In a brief chat, the proud father who is also the president Fuji Musicians Association of America (FUMAA), expressed gratitude to God and appreciation to everyone who supported his daughter’s academic journey. ‘This is a proud moment for our family. Education is a legacy, and I’m glad my daughter is making us proud,’ he said.

The Fuji star is known not only for his musical achievements but also for his strong advocacy for education among the youth.

The celebration continues at the family residence, with close friends and associates in attendance.

Infant at Heart set for premiere in London 18th October

A new blockbuster, Infant at Heart will premiere in London on 18th October 2025.

According to the executive producer, Dr. Oby Olebara Uzoukwu, the movie from the stable of Afrigold Tv Limited, ‘is not just a film, but an emotional journey that resonates deeply with everyone that has faced loss or confronted the truth by themselves. We therefore urge movie lovers, friends and fans in London to be part of this historic premiere,’ said Uzoukwu

The film produced by Vera Kanu and written and directed by Aguiyi Ikeobi Ndubuisi features Nollywood top actors like Oby Olebara Uzoukwu, Monalisa Chinda, Nkem Owoh, Williams Uchemba, Emeka Enyiocha, Mike Durueke, Emeka Darlington, Bryan Emmanuel among many others.