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Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed delight that the state has witnessed what he described as a ‘phenomenal progress’ in the last 29 years of its existence as a political entity.

Reflecting on the journey since it was created on 1 October 1996, the Governor noted that God has been kind to Ekiti, judging by the notable landmarks recorded in infrastructure, health, education, economy and social development.

The Governor made the remarks on Wednesday during a statewide broadcast aired on all electronic media channels to commemorate the 29th anniversary of Ekiti State and the 65th anniversary of Nigerian independence.

Oyebanji also used the opportunity of the broadcast to appeal to political parties, political leaders and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully as the state is already in campaign mode ahead of the parties’ primary elections later this year and the main governorship election in June 2026.

He congratulated the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the anniversary of Independence Day, expressing the profound gratitude of the Ekiti people for his support for the state, and also rallied their support for the Renewed Hope Agenda, ‘which has seen the economy on a positive trajectory never seen in almost two decades.’

Reminiscing on the journey so far, Oyebanji stressed that the memory of the landmark speaks to the dream of Ekiti State’s founding fathers, the resilience of forebears, the sweat of its traditional rulers and the steely determination of the generations before, which eventually became a reality.

The Governor used the opportunity of the broadcast to pay tribute to Ekiti patriots and distinguished citizens who were part of the vanguard for the creation of the state, adding that while the state might not have reached its destination yet, considerable progress has been made on all fronts of development.

He said, ‘I pay homage to every man and woman who was part of the Movement for the Creation of our State. I thank all the leaders before me who have had the privilege to lead Ekiti at one time or the other. Many thanks to our dogged civil and public servants for staying the course; just as I commend the resilience of our people for keeping the dream.

‘With our collective effort, Ekiti has witnessed phenomenal progress in the last 29 years of her creation. We may not roll out the drum for elaborate celebrations, but we have every cause to thank God in the life of our dear State. My message to you today, as we celebrate the 29th anniversary of our State, is that we thankfully reflect on the journey so far.

‘As someone who had the rare privilege of being part of the Creation Movement, I have a very big reason to acknowledge that God has been kind to us in Ekiti. When we look back in time, it is undeniably clear that we have made some major landmarks in infrastructure, health, education, economy and social development. We may not have reached our destination, but we have recorded considerable mileage.’

Appealing for a peaceful electoral process ahead of the 2026 governorship poll in the state, the Governor added, ‘Ekiti kete, another governorship electoral cycle is here already and interested persons and parties are already in campaign mood. This is how it should be in a democracy.

‘I would like to reiterate my earlier appeal to all political stakeholders in our State to remain peaceful as we enter into the electoral season. The political environment must remain peaceful, our contest must be for ideas and not for violence.’

As his administration marks three years in office on 16 October, the Governor expressed delight at the various achievements recorded across the six-pillar development agenda, which he said has touched every community in Ekiti, adding that he is proud of the fact that ‘Ekiti has sustainably and continuously been on a positive trajectory since we have been in the saddle.’

The Governor disclosed that he would appear before the State House of Assembly to give the full account of his stewardship on 16 October as required by law, calling on Ekiti citizens at home and abroad for their continued support as the journey to shared prosperity continues.

As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary today, Infinix joins millions of Nigerians in celebrating a nation defined by strength, resilience, and the pursuit of progress. For Infinix, Nigeria is more than a market, it is home. The brand has grown alongside the Nigerian people, drawing inspiration from their creativity, drive, and determination to break barriers. Just as Nigeria continues to rise and redefine its place on the global stage, Infinix has consistently delivered technology that empowers its people to dream big, stay connected, and achieve more.

Over the years, Infinix has achieved remarkable milestones in Nigeria, consistently earning recognition for its award-winning innovation and delivering high-performance devices that align with the lifestyle of today’s digital generation. The brand has redefined itself as a lifestyle choice for bold, ambitious Nigerians fusing high-end tech with local social culture and icons.

Infinix’s Commitment to Nigeria and Nigerians

Beyond devices, Infinix has invested heavily in initiatives that empower young Nigerians with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in the digital era. From advancing education and innovation to creating platforms for talent development and global exposure, the brand has consistently demonstrated its commitment to building capacity, supporting creativity, and positioning Nigerian youth for success in an increasingly technology-driven world. These initiatives reflect Infinix’s deep commitment to not only selling technology but also investing in the people who use it, turning passion into opportunity and innovation into empowerment.

Infinix has also championed youth empowerment by supporting young creators, influencers, and tech enthusiasts, providing platforms for self-expression and growth while ensuring technology becomes a tool for opportunity. It continues to embed itself in Nigerian culture through active community engagement, from sponsoring entertainment shows to collaborating with local talents, celebrating the creativity and energy of the nation’s vibrant youth.

Looking Ahead

Speaking on the Independence Celebration, Oluwayemisi Ode, Integrated Marketing Communications and PR Manager at Infinix Nigeria, highlighted that Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary is not just a milestone for the nation but also a reminder of the shared values of resilience, creativity, and progress that continue to inspire the brand, ‘As we celebrate Nigeria’s Independence, we are reminded of what this day truly represents – the freedom to innovate and the freedom to evolve. At Infinix, this spirit is at the very heart of our mission. Our goal has always been to create devices that put cutting-edge technology into the hands of everyday Nigerians. We believe in a vibrant, youthful Nigeria, and we will continue to design technology that resonates with the dreams and aspirations of its people.’

As Nigeria celebrates this milestone, Infinix reaffirms its dedication to standing side by side with the nation on its journey of growth and transformation.

Diaspora investors in WINHOMES Estate have accused the Minister of Works, David Umahi, of inappropriately dragging President Bola Tinubu’s name into the controversy surrounding the demolition of properties to pave way for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.

The investors, in a press statement on Wednesday, faulted Umahi’s repeated references to the President in what they described as a ‘purely legal conflict’ that should be determined by the courts.

‘Repeatedly invoking the President’s name in this dispute is both inappropriate and damaging. Presenting a legal conflict as though it bears presidential endorsement erodes investor confidence, paints Nigeria as a country where executive interference trumps judicial independence, and sends the wrong signal to the international community,’ the group said.

The statement, signed by Engr. Stella Okengwu, CEO of WINHOMES Global Services, accused the Minister of misleading Nigerians and the global community on the scale of demolition, the status of court proceedings, and the level of diaspora engagement.

Umahi had claimed that only four hectares of WINHOMES land were affected, but the investors insist the estate represents over $250 million in diaspora investment covering a much larger area.

‘Families, professionals, and businesses who invested in good faith have lost properties and assets valued at far more than what the Ministry admits,’ the group stated.

They also debunked Umahi’s claim that the Federal Government had secured judgment in its favour, stressing that Suit No. FHC/L/CS/1063/25, filed before Justice Akintayo Aluko at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, remains pending.

‘No trial has commenced, no judgment has been delivered, and any suggestion otherwise is a reckless distortion,’ the statement read.

The investors further alleged that the Minister personally invited diaspora representatives to discuss the issue and promised to escalate it to the President, contrary to his public denials.

They said video evidence of the invitation exists and could be made public if necessary.

Beyond the demolition dispute, the group raised concerns over reports of a ?200 million cash payment linked to the Ministry, calling on the EFCC and DSS to launch a probe in the interest of transparency.

They also cited MTN Africa’s televised warning against diverting the coastal highway through the estate, accusing the Ministry of ignoring expert advice and due process.

WINHOMES investors announced plans to convene a world press conference to present video evidence, financial records, and expert testimony.

‘Our goal is not only to defend our investments but also to expose the wider risks of arbitrary governance to any investor considering Nigeria as a viable destination,’ Okengwu said, vowing to pursue the matter until justice is served.

The African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) has thrown its weight behind Nigeria’s tax reforms which culminated in the new tax laws, describing them as necessary for economic growth and development.

The recently-inaugurated Executive Secretary of the continental body, Ms Mary Baine, made the support known during a visit to the chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, in Abuja, on Tuesday.

A statement by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS chairman said ATAF stands by Nigeria in reforming its fiscal landscape and pledged the readiness of the body to give technical support in areas that would help in realising the gains of the reforms.

She referenced how the organization had helped Zambia to build capacity in the area of raising revenue from mining, promising to offer support to Nigeria in the same area.

According to her, ATAF is willing to leverage Nigeria’s continental and global influence to mobilise member-countries to strengthen the organisation.

‘When you look at the strategic vision of FIRS, we see the things you are doing and the way you’re changing the tax system, the kind of reforms and the time that it has taken and of course the movement forward.

‘So, we applaud you, and I wanted to say that ATAF is here to say that we stand with you, we applaud you, and we’re ready to provide whatever support that could lead to its success.

‘In terms of your strategic vision- people, technology and data, we find that this is something that is really critical for the rest of the continent and that it is an area where ATAF will be happy to support as well,’ she said.

The FIRS chairman, while welcoming the visitors, expressed confidence in the capacity of the Executive Secretary to lead ATAF to glory.

He charged Africans to look inwards for homegrown solutions to challenges, stressing that salvation cannot come from the Western world.

‘My belief has always been that solutions to Africa’s challenges can only come from Africa. There is no free lunch anywhere. I have said that I don’t believe in aids; I believe in cooperation.

‘There is a saying that when you are not on the table, you are definitely on the menu. So, Africa must be on the table and that is it. We should stop being on the menu. That is my charge to you.

‘So, the expectation from us as a continent is also to bring what we can contribute to the work, most especially in tax matters. For us, we have to evolve our own fiscal policies which is what Nigeria has done with the new tax laws.

‘Before now, we had tax laws that were colonial relics. We had the Stamp Duties Act of 1939 which was enacted when there was no internet,’ he said.

In the rapidly expanding world of online betting in Nigeria, countless platforms compete for user attention. Each promises something better – bigger bonuses, faster withdrawals, or a more diverse gaming experience. Amid this crowded space, 1win.ng has steadily emerged as a compelling option for Nigerian players, combining international experience with local appeal. But how does it really compare to the competition?

When placed side by side with other major bookmakers in the region, 1win Nigeria holds several distinct advantages. The platform offers generous welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions that are often more lucrative than those of traditional Nigerian operators. It also supports a range of popular games – from live sports betting to online casino options – all within a sleek, mobile-friendly interface.

Of course, no platform is perfect. While 1win.ng excels in areas like promotions and user experience, it currently supports fewer withdrawal methods compared to some local competitors. For users seeking maximum flexibility in cashing out their winnings, this may be a point of consideration, although it is far from a dealbreaker.

Ultimately, 1win.ng positions itself as a forward-thinking platform, blending modern features with strategic simplicity. As Nigerian users grow more discerning, platforms like 1win.ng that offer both value and ease of use are likely to shape the next phase of the country’s online betting evolution.

Unlocking the value: how 1win.ng redefines bonus strategy and user experience

Choosing a betting platform in Nigeria isn’t just about odds – it’s about value. Bonuses, usability, mobile access, and payment flexibility are what separate a solid bookmaker from a truly exceptional one. In a landscape filled with similar-looking offers, it’s essential to take a closer look at how these elements work together to enhance or hinder the player experience.

When it comes to 1win.ng, the platform doesn’t just follow industry standards – it seeks to elevate them. Whether you’re a new user lured by a welcome bonus or a seasoned bettor looking for loyalty perks, 1win.ng positions its promotions to offer not just excitement but real value. And it’s not just about bonuses: the ecosystem surrounding those offers – from games to apps and payment tools – plays a key role in maximizing their benefits.

Key strengths of 1win.ng compared to competitors

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Ongoing promotions: from cashback incentives to event-based specials, 1win.ng ensures there’s always a reason to stay active.

Broad game selection: users have access to both classic sports betting and an extensive casino catalog, offering greater flexibility than most local platforms.

Sleek and intuitive interface: the website is easy to navigate, with a clean layout and responsive design that works smoothly across devices.

High-performance mobile app: both Android and iOS users benefit from a stable, fast-loading application that mirrors the desktop experience.

Instant deposits and fast payouts: while withdrawal options are slightly more limited, the ones available are reliable and quick.

Multi-currency support: players can fund their accounts in Nigerian naira and other currencies, adding to the platform’s accessibility.

Transparency of bonus terms: all promotional conditions are clearly laid out, reducing confusion and increasing trust among users.

These advantages create a streamlined experience that reduces friction and increases user confidence. For many players, especially those new to online betting, understanding exactly how a bonus works – and being able to access it without jumping through hoops – makes a huge difference.

That said, it’s also important to read the fine print and understand how rollover requirements and bonus conditions fit into your own betting style. While 1win.ng does a good job of making these terms accessible, informed decisions are always the best kind – and that’s where the platform truly empowers its users.

Looking closer: where 1win.ng falls short in a competitive betting market

Sterling Bank has once again redefined the boundaries of customer-first banking in Nigeria by scrapping Account Maintenance Fees (AMF) across all personal accounts.

Just months after abolishing transfer fees on local online transactions in April 2025, the bank has dismantled yet another long-standing industry

practice, cementing its role as the nation’s leading force for transparent, fair, and customer-focused banking.

This decision cuts at the heart of a revenue model that has long cost Nigerian customers dearly. In 2024 alone, tier-1 banks raked in over ?650 billion from account maintenance and e-banking charges.

Sterling’s move rewrites Nigeria’s banking rulebook while amplifying its bold stance: customers deserve freedom from too many deductions and the right to keep more of their hard-earned money.

Abubakar Suleiman, Managing Director of Sterling Bank, explained the principle driving this bold action: ‘Every fee we remove is one less barrier between our customers and true financial freedom. This was the rationale behind eliminating transfer fees in April, and it is the same principle we uphold as we eliminate accountmaintenance fees.’

Obinna Ukachukwu, Growth Executive for Consumer and Business Banking at Sterling Bank, reinforced this position: ‘This initiative is about building lasting relationships that fuel sustainable growth. We put transparency and customer value first, and in doing so, we are building a foundation that serves both our customers and Sterling’s future.’

As Nigeria marks another Independence Day, Sterling Bank presents this decision as a declaration of financial independence for millions of Nigerians. By freeing customers from deductions that silently erode their balances, Sterling is empowering them to keep and grow their wealth while redefining true financial freedom.

With two unprecedented moves in quick succession, the removal of transfer fees in April and now the elimination of account maintenance charges, Sterling Bank continues to challenge the status quo and champion a new era of fairness in Nigerian banking.

The Akwa Ibom State Government has intensified its crackdown on illegal private schools, sealing several unlicensed institutions across the state and ordering the arrest of defaulting proprietors who attempted to defy the directive.

The Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Essien, who led the enforcement taskforce, disclosed that while many operators complied with the state’s directive to shut down, some proprietors illegally unsealed their premises and resumed academic activities.

Angered by the development, Prof. Essien ordered the arrest and detention of the offenders, who are now awaiting prosecution.

‘During the ministry’s regular monitoring exercise, it was observed that while several operators of unauthorized private schools had obeyed the directive, a few chose to defy the order and continued with academic activities,’ he said.

He warned parents and guardians across urban and rural communities against enrolling their children in unregistered institutions, insisting that the state-wide exercise would continue throughout the school year.

‘The Ministry of Education reiterates its stance on the closure of unauthorized and rogue schools. This exercise is aimed at standardising educational delivery across the state, ensuring compliance with approved standards, and ridding our educational system of substandard institutions that compromise the future of children in Akwa Ibom State,’ Prof. Essien stressed.

WHEN many took off, he stayed put. When the ones we thought were the brave ducked, he dug and rigged. He sweated and defended the homestead or what was left of it. Even to me, his courage did not make sense. Why swim against the tide when you can just go with the flow? Why stay in a house with half its roof blown off? What is the sense in not just holding on tight to a tattered umbrella but also taking shelter under it? The umbrella itself looked like it needed help.

Leave and let the house crumble. You can build another one. But he stood there in the rain, in the scorching sun. He even bellowed in a fearful voice at passers-by who thought something was really wrong with him. He flexed his muscles at those who had armour. He looked them in the eye and dared them to cross his threshold.

Who the dickens did he think he was? But he paid us all no mind. It was his umbrella to keep, torn, shredded or bent. He mobilized money and started the rebuilding. When he was let down by those he trusted, he soldiered on. When those whose expeditions he sponsored aimed arrows at his bare chest, he nursed his wound, lips pursed in pain and determination. If he shed a tear, it was in private. If he bled, he hid the blood. To his tattered tent he held.

Then one day, he rose out of the ashes, with his umbrella in his hands, this time like a sword. He had rebuilt the house with everything he could muster. Soon, those who watched him rebuild and those who went away all came back, together. He welcomed them. And they all sat under the umbrella. Then one day, he said he wanted to become the leader. Some of the ‘returnees’ also showed interest. They all agreed to a fair contest. Then the demon of conspiracy came into the house and possessed almost everybody. Stabs in the back, followed by another stab in the heart led to a bloodied floor. Things became blurry and slippery. Of course, things fell apart. There was no centre for anybody to even hold.

Now, the builder is angry, raving and raging. What was taken from him he has sworn nobody else would get. He has even gone after those who left the house a second time, bellowing harder than before. He is like one character in Yoruba movie I watched a long time ago. His name was Cause Trouble. The name still makes me smile every time. But the most apt description for me, at least today, is the debt distrainor as described by Reverend Samuel Johnson. Distraining for debt among the Yorubas used to be a big deal in those days. A ‘distrainor’ is a licensed by fire-by-force debt collector who sits on the debtor in every way until he pays. He is said to ‘d’ogo ti’ until he collects.

Pay attention to how Rev. Johnson describes him.

‘The distrainor is a man of imperturbable temper, but of foul tongue, a veritable Thersites. He adopts any measure he likes, inflicting his presence and attention on the debtor everywhere and anywhere he may go, denying him privacy of any kind, and in the meantime using his tongue most foully upon him, his own person being inviolable, for touching him implies doing violence to the person of the authorities who appointed him the task. Loud in his abuses, intolerable in his manners to all in the house whilst going in and out with the debtor till the inmates of the house get tired and quickly finds a way of getting rid of the distrainor by paying off the debt.’

Our builder, Cause Trouble or Distrainor is ‘drawing gbese’. He’s giving everybody in the house high blood pressure.

‘He must not take anything away from the house but he may enjoy the use of anything he finds in the house.’

Does he remind you of someone?

This is a peaceful piece.

The Association of Nigerian Broadcasters (ANBROAD) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting professionalism in Nigeria’s broadcasting industry, condemning the killing of ARISE News broadcaster, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, who was fatally attacked by armed robbers in Abuja on Monday.

The association’s president, Abdulrasaq Abdulganeey, made this known on Tuesday in Ibadan during ANBROAD’s first national congress.

Reflecting on the association’s journey since its formal inception in 2024, Abdulganeey acknowledged the challenges encountered but expressed optimism about ANBROAD’s progress.

‘We want to sanitise our profession, to differentiate the wheat from the chaff. Our mantra is: together we can do it, move mountains and be the talk of the town,’ he said.

He also stressed the need for modernisation in the industry, stating that broadcasters must move away from outdated practices.

As part of this drive, the association has introduced a Unique Professional Number (UPN) system and launched an official website to help identify, connect, and support its members nationwide.

Abdulganeey called on key stakeholders to collaborate on improving the welfare of broadcasters and ensuring their contributions are adequately recognised and rewarded.

Encouraging more practitioners to join ANBROAD, he emphasised the association’s vision of building a stronger, more ethical broadcast industry that truly serves the public interest.

On the killing of Maduagwu, the ANBROAD president described the incident as a ‘heinous and unfortunate tragedy’ that claimed the life of a promising young broadcaster.

‘President Bola Tinubu and the police should do the needful. We do not want to keep losing broadcasters, journalists or any Nigerian. The government must protect the lives and properties of its citizens,’ Abdulganeey said, joining the growing public call for a thorough investigation and justice for the late broadcaster’s family.

Also speaking at the congress, ANBROAD’s national secretary-general, Sola Gbayisomore, highlighted the association’s achievements within just one year of operations.

He noted ANBROAD’s growing presence in states, including Lagos, Ondo, Kwara, Osun, Ogun, Oyo, and Abuja.

He said the congress served not only as a platform to celebrate progress but also to strategise for growth, strengthen member collaboration, and explore opportunities within the industry.

During the congress, ANBROAD established operational zones across its active states and formally inaugurated zonal leaders.

In addition, the association unveiled its constitution, presented by the chairman of the board of trustees, Sulaiman Adegbenro, who stressed the importance of truth and trust in the broadcast profession.

‘The constitution is a compass for our association. It’s essential for guiding our operations and ensuring we remain true to our values,’ Adegbenro said, urging members to abide by it and contribute to the development of both the association and the national broadcast sector.

As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, leaders across the country have urged citizens to embrace unity, courage, and collective responsibility in shaping the nation’s future.

Kogi Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, in his anniversary message, described Independence Day as a reminder of the sacrifices of the country’s founding fathers and a call to patriotism.

‘Independence Day is more than a date on our calendar; it is a call to unity and to the shared responsibility of building a nation that guarantees peace, justice, and prosperity for all,’ he said.

Ododo also commiserated with families affected by the recent boat mishap in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State, which claimed several lives.

‘This tragedy reminds us of the fragility of life and the duty we owe one another to continually improve safety and support for our people,’ he said.

He assured that his government would intensify efforts to make water transportation safer for riverine communities.

Highlighting his administration’s policies, the governor pointed to free and compulsory education, support for girl-child learning through the AGILE programme, and investments in infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, and security.

‘We have made education free and accessible in order to guarantee the independence of future generations from ignorance and limitations,’ Ododo explained.

He also urged Nigerians ‘to renew our love for our country, to shun division, and to rise above fear and doubt, because the destiny of this nation is in our hands.’

In Bauchi, Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed described Nigeria’s independence as ‘a milestone achievement that liberated the nation from colonial domination and gave its people the right to self-determination, socio-economic growth, and political development.’

He urged citizens to reflect on whether the noble ideals of the founding fathers had been fully realized after 65 years of nationhood.

‘Though our development trajectory may not match that of some countries that gained independence around the same period, particularly the Asian Tigers, Nigeria has made significant strides in governing itself, managing diversity, and uniting towards nation-building,’ Mohammed noted.

He disclosed that Bauchi would host an Investment Summit on October 8 and 9 to attract investors to the state’s vast potential.

On security, he reiterated that ‘peace remains the bedrock of development’ and pledged continued collaboration with security agencies to safeguard lives and property.

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, in his goodwill message, praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bold reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and efforts to stabilise the naira, describing them as ‘seismic, historic reforms that are dismantling decades of decay and inertia.’

Dogara acknowledged the hardships facing citizens but urged Nigerians to endure with patience and faith.

‘These are not ordinary policy adjustments. Though the pain of transition is real, the reward will be even greater,’ he said.

He also stressed the importance of unity: ‘At 65, Nigeria cannot afford the luxury of division. Our destiny is one, and our survival depends on unity of purpose. Security challenges, poverty, and inequality will bow only when confronted by a people united in spirit and resolve.’

Dogara, who chairs the National Credit Guarantee Company (NCGC), emphasised the company’s role in expanding access to credit for small businesses, empowering women and youths, and supporting inclusive growth.

‘Inclusive financial empowerment is the backbone of national growth and the surest path to lifting millions out of poverty,’ he added.

Across their messages, the leaders shared a common theme: Nigeria’s progress depends on the shared determination of its people to stay united, confront challenges with courage, and work toward a nation that offers justice, prosperity, and dignity for all.