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eneral Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of renowned evangelist, Reverend Uma Ukpai, describing him as “a true general in the army of God” and “a man of unshakable faith.”

deboye, in an emotional tribute shared on his official social media pages, revealed that he visited the late cleric’s residence earlier today to console the family.

“Earlier today, I paid a condolence visit to the residence of my dear friend and brother, Reverend Umai Ukpai, who has gone to be with the Lord,” Adeboye wrote.

He went on to extol the virtues of the late preacher, recalling his lifelong dedication to the gospel and his remarkable humility.

“Reverend Umai Ukpai was not just a minister of the gospel; he was a true general in the army of our God, a man of unshakable faith, quiet strength, and uncommon humility. His life was a living sermon, one that spoke louder than words, a story of service, of love for God’s people, and of steadfast devotion to the Kingdom,” Adeboye stated.

Quoting scripture, the pastor Adeboye noted that Ukpai “fought the good fight and finished his course,” adding that the late evangelist now rests “in the everlasting arms of the Almighty, where there is no more pain, no more striving, only peace, joy, and glory.”

To the bereaved family, Adeboye extended heartfelt sympathies, praying that God’s comfort would see them through this difficult period.

“To his beloved wife, Pastor Philomena Ukpai, and the entire Ukpai family, we extend our heartfelt prayers and deepest sympathies. May the Lord Himself wrap you in His unfailing love, comfort your hearts, and strengthen you in this valley of loss,” he wrote.

Concluding his message, Adeboye said his late friend “has not died, but only changed address.”

“My friend has not died; he has only changed address, moving from the field of battle to the presence of his Commander-in-Chief. He is home. He is at rest. He is in the arms of God Almighty,” Adeboye declared.

Reverend Uma Ukpai, founder and president of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, was one of Nigeria’s most respected Christian leaders, widely known for his nationwide crusades and decades of ministry work across the world. He died on October 6, at age 80.

The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, has adjourned the defamation trial of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to December 1.

Justice Chizoba Oji postponed the hearing after the prosecution failed to properly serve its response to a preliminary objection filed by the defence.

kpoti-Uduaghan, arraigned on 19 June, faces a three-count charge filed by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, accusing her of making “harmful imputations” against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. She allegedly claimed Akpabio conspired with Bello to kill her and linked him to the death of Miss Iniobong Umoren. The senator has pleaded not guilty.

Her lawyer, Ehighioge West-Idahosa, argued that the Attorney-General’s office abused its prosecutorial powers and that the charges were invalid. The defence requested a longer adjournment due to counsel’s planned attendance at the International Bar Association Conference in Canada.

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

The Youth Alliance for Northern Development (YAND), has eulogized Seyi, the son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his impactful life and philanthropic gestures, particularly, to the Nigerian youths.

YAND poured encomiums on Seyi on Saturday night, while celebrating the President’s son 40th birthday, at Hilton Palace Banquet Hall, Kano.

YAND organized what it described as a ‘super-dinner. in honour of Seyi Tinubu, which attracted youth leaders from across the 19 northern states.

In his speech, the Convener of YAND, Seyi Olorunsola, described Seyi Tinubu as a compassionate Nigerian youth, who used his position and personality to leverage the lives of Nigerian youths.

ccording to Olorunsola: “Tonight, we celebrate not just a birthday, but a life of impact, service, and inspiration. Mr. Seyi Tinubu’s 40th birthday is a reminder of how one young Nigerian has chosen to use privilege not for personal comfort, but as a platform to lift others and build a better nation.

“At a time when many in positions of influence seek advantage, Seyi Tinubu stands out as an example of responsible leadership.

“Despite being the son of Nigeria’s President, he has refused to be defined by privilege. Instead, through his organization, TELD (established in 2005), he has championed youth development, mentorship, sponsorship, and community upliftment across Nigeria — cutting across religion, region, and tribe.”

YAND further commended Seyi Tinubu for providing humanitarian aid during Ramadan, supporting young entrepreneurs, building positive grassroots initiatives, insisting that, “his compassion has spoken louder than any title.”

Olorunsola praised Seyi Tinubu for his 15 million humanitarian support to King Mitchy, among philanthropic gestures, declaring that: “Seyi Tinubu continues to show that giving is not a show of wealth, but a call to service anchored in dignity and accountability.”

In a symbolic gesture for Seyi Tinubu’s 40th birthday anniversary, YAND sponsored the distribution of 100, 0000 notebooks and other educational materials to selected schools across the North.

Olorunsola said: “As we celebrate him tonight, we also launch a new chapter of community-driven impact. Part of this celebration is the printing of over 100,000 educational notebooks already produced for distribution to public schools across Kano and neighboring northern states.

“This initiative is a continuation of the legacy of service and youth empowerment we honor tonight.

“I therefore call on all well-meaning Nigerians–especially the privileged youth and development-minded individuals–to join this noble crusade. Your support and contributions will help us distribute more educational materials, expand this vision, and brighten the future of countless young learners across the North.

“Mr. Seyi Tinubu’s life reminds us that influence is not inherited– it is earned through compassion, responsibility, and courage.

“May his example continue to inspire a generation of Nigerians who will use power not as a pedestal for self- promotion, but as a platform for service and national development.

“Happy 40th birthday, Mr. Seyi Tinubu. May your impact continue to multiply.”

In the midst of a high-profile marital crisis that has gripped Nigerian social media, Nollywood star Regina Daniels has struck a defiant tone, sharing glamorous new photos with a Pidgin English caption that underscores resilience and unwavering prosperity: “Even when table turn, we go still Dey chop for the table.”

The 25-year-old actress, known for her roles in films like ‘Plantain Boy’ and her production ventures, posted the images on Instagram late Monday, showcasing herself in a form-fitting dress from @regaeofficial, adorned with sparkling diamonds courtesy of @markdajeweller.

Captured by photographer @reen.captures, the ensemble exudes elegance and unapologetic luxury, a stark visual counterpoint to the turbulence in her six-year marriage to 64-year-old Delta State Senator Ned Nwoko.

Daniels’ message arrives just days after a viral video surfaced online, in which she appeared to accuse Nwoko of domestic violence, sparking widespread outrage and speculation about the future of their union.

The footage, which quickly amassed millions of views, depicted an emotional Daniels in what many interpreted as a moment of vulnerability.

Nwoko, a polygamist with multiple wives and a reputation for opulent living, responded indirectly by assuring fans that “everything is under control.”

He further fueled the fire with a philosophical quip in a recent interview: “Having one wife is like standing on one leg,” alluding to his preference for polygamy amid the fallout.

The couple’s relationship, already a tabloid staple since their 2019 wedding, marked by a 39-year age gap and Nwoko’s vast wealth, has now escalated into a public spectacle.

Reports emerged of Nwoko being spotted with an alleged new romantic interest, while Daniels countered by flaunting a newly acquired mansion, signaling financial independence and a subtle declaration of self-sufficiency.

Her latest post, however, shifts the narrative from confrontation to composure, implying that no matter the relational upheavals, “when table turn,” she remains seated at the feast of success.

Public reaction has been swift and polarized, with the post garnering over 162,000 likes within hours.

Supporters flooded the comments with fire emojis () and affirmations of solidarity, but deeper dives reveal a chorus of unsolicited marital counsel rooted in cultural norms around loyalty and endurance.

One top comment, liked by hundreds, reads: “God bless your home forever pls stay loyal loyalty pass juju na wife wey dey loyal dey enjoy life pass .”

This sentiment echoes across replies, with users like one who warned: “Nice man go come your dm say your husband dey do you bad na lie he dey do caring man because of your pata after them see the pata no matter your matter no concern them again.”

By Wale Edun

In this role, I often feel a mix of emotions: deep pride in our national journey, regret over the opportunities we failed to seize, and confidence in our direction of travel today. Despite some historical shortfalls and present-day challenges, I believe the most difficult phase of our economic journey is behind us. Nigeria has turned a decisive corner. The road ahead will demand hard work and discipline, but we are firmly on the right path.

When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took office in 2023, Nigeria’s economy was on the brink of fiscal collapse. Slowing growth, surging inflation, and market distortions like the fuel subsidy and multiple exchange rate regimes had created an environment that scared off investment. The President’s mandate was clear dismantle those market distortions, reward productivity, and create a climate where private investment can thrive.

From Crisis to Stability

Two years later, the results are evident at the macro level. GDP grew by 4.23 percent in the second quarter of 2025. Inflation, while still high, has moderated to 18.02 percent after six consecutive months of decline. The exchange rate has stabilised, and the gap between official and parallel markets has narrowed to about 1 percent, down from a peak of nearly 70 percent. Importantly, foreign reserves have risen above $43 billion, the highest since 2019. These are more than just numbers; they are the foundation for building inclusive growth that benefits every Nigerian.

Notwithstanding, we recognise that the economy is ultimately about people, not statistics. Millions of Nigerians measure progress by the cost of food, transport, and other necessities. I am keenly aware of this reality. Food inflation has been our heaviest burden since it surged after currency depreciation and the removal of fuel subsidies. However, targeted measures are beginning to ease the pressure. A bag of rice that cost about 120,000 last year now averages around 80,000. The prices of garri, pepper, tomatoes, and other essentials have also decreased.

t the same time, we are careful to ensure our smallholder farmers have enough incentives to return to farms next planting season. We are therefore implementing programmes that stimulate agricultural production by safeguarding smallholder farmers’ incomes.

In addition, 8.1 million households nationwide have received direct cash support from the government to help meet basic needs. This is more than a safety net; it ensures that the impact of these necessary reforms is cushioned for the most vulnerable among us, even as we continue to resolve the identity verification issues required to reach our 15 million households’ target.

Hard Truths on Debt and Revenue

The progress we have made does not diminish the tough realities we still face. Debt service costs remain heavy, consuming a larger-than-ideal share of our revenues. This is the consequence of past borrowing and elevated interest rates. At the same time, Nigeria’s fiscal revenue-to-GDP ratio, at about 10 percent after rebasing, remains one of the lowest in Africa. This limits government resources for essential services like health, education, and infrastructure.

On 26 June 2025, the President signed the new Nigeria Tax Act and companion legislation, to take effect on 1 January 2026. These reforms aim to broaden the tax base, simplify compliance, and reduce leakages, while introducing a more progressive tax regime that shields lower-income earners and adjusts rates for higher earners. Together with structural revenue reforms such as the Revenue Optimisation and Assurance programme (RevOp), these measures will strengthen revenues, create fiscal space, and support greater investment in our people and infrastructure.

nchoring Growth in Real Sectors

stable economy is crucial, but stability alone is insufficient. To deliver inclusive prosperity, we must anchor growth in sectors that generate jobs and opportunities. We are providing necessary incentives to revive investments in the oil and gas industry. With improved security, oil theft is down, and production has rebounded to 1.68 million barrels per day, including condensates. Refinery projects are setting the stage for a stronger downstream sector.

In agriculture, we are boosting food supply, reducing reliance on imports, and ensuring farmers have security and access to markets. We are encouraging investment in factories and strategic value chains, creating employment for our young and dynamic workforce. We are investing in technology and the creative sector to harness the energy of our youth and position Nigeria as a hub of innovation. In addition, we are expanding exports beyond oil by tapping into the global demand for critical minerals.

Infrastructure is the backbone of growth. Public funds alone cannot meet Nigeria’s vast needs, so we are attracting private capital through public-private partnerships. The AjaokutaKadunaKano gas pipeline, and Project Bridge’s 90,000 km fibre expansion are examples of how we are laying out the groundwork for industrialisation and nationwide connectivity.

Restoring Confidence at Home and Abroad

s I begin to conclude, the clearest sign that Nigeria is on the right path is the return of confidence. Investors both domestic and foreign, multilateral institutions, and ordinary citizens are starting to believe in the nation’s prospects again. But confidence is fragile. Sustaining it demands a predictable policy environment, disciplined fiscal management, and steady progress in reducing inflation.

Our medium-term target is 7 percent growth by 2027/28. Achieving this will require not only government action but the full participation of the private sector, entrepreneurs, and citizens. I am confident that if we work together, we will not only meet this target but surpass it. The task ahead, therefore, is to deepen resilience, broaden opportunities, and ensure that reforms translate into real improvements in daily life–better schools, affordable food, reliable power, accessible healthcare, and jobs for our youth.

Then, we can be assured that Nigeria’s next decade will be one of shared prosperity and renewed hope.

Edun is the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) and a coalition of over 75 civil society organisations under the aegis of the Coalition of National Civil Society Organisations (CNCSOs) have commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what they described as a bold and long-overdue decision to remove the underperforming Service Chiefs.

In a joint statement signed by Comrade James Ezema, Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the CNPP, and Alhaji Ali Abacha, National Secretary of the CNCSOs, the groups said the persistent insecurity across Nigeria under the former Service Chiefs was evidence of policy failure and incompetence.

They lamented that from the forests of Zamfara to the highways of AbujaKaduna and the creeks of the Niger Delta, insecurity thrived unchecked.

ccording to the coalition, the nation witnessed a surge in kidnapping, banditry, insurgency, and piracy, leading to widespread displacement and economic losses.

“Their removal was not just necessary, it was inevitable,” the statement read.

While commending President Tinubu’s decision, the CNPP and CNCSOs urged the newly appointed Service Chiefs to deliver measurable results and restore public confidence.

“The President’s action rekindles hope that political will is finally being matched with decisive leadership. Nigerians will no longer celebrate mere appointments but expect visible improvements in safety across the country,” they stated.

The coalition, however, demanded an immediate probe into the tenure of the sacked Service Chiefs, alleging mismanagement of defence funds and poor accountability.

They called on President Tinubu to set up an independent panel to investigate defence procurements and command decisions, adding that Nigerians deserve to know how trillions of naira allocated for security were spent as violence escalated nationwide.

“There can be no meaningful reform without accountability. Those who failed the nation must explain why Nigerians remained unsafe despite huge investments in the defence sector,” the statement noted.

The groups also urged a complete overhaul of the nation’s internal security framework, emphasising the need to reposition the Nigeria Police Force as the primary institution for maintaining internal security.

They advocated the strengthening of community policing through constitutional amendments to make security more people-driven and intelligence-based.

Reaffirming their commitment to supporting government reforms, the CNPP and CNCSOs said Nigerians had suffered too long under insecurity.

“President Tinubu has taken the right step by removing those who failed. The next step is to probe their stewardship, rebuild the police, and empower the new security leadership to restore peace and unity across the nation,” they said..

By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan has has pledged to work the National Assembly to deliver a “credible, fair, and free” electoral process for Nigeria.

Thus, the new INEC Chairman said he will participate actively in the ongoing process of amendment of the Electoral Act to ensure that the country has electoral process and laws that every Nigerian can be proud of.

mupitan spoke at after he was honoured with a plaque for his “dedication, hard work, and inspiration to many” by the Federal University of Lokoja, during the 56th Annual National Conference of the Nigerian Association of Law Teachers (NALT).

The new INEC boss committed to active participation in the legislative process. “I will start waiting to participate in the National Assembly to be sure that we have a learning electoral process and laws that you and I and Nigerians should be proud of,” Amuptan said according to a statement the social media platforms of INEC.

He said a key goal of this reform, he noted, is to reduce electoral litigations. “Let us not see electoral petitions in court,” Amupitan urged, stressing the aim to establish a fair process that inspires public confidence.

ddressing the conference, which he described as a “momentous occasion,” the INEC Chairman reflected on the foundational role of law in society.

“Law is not merely a set of rules but a foundation upon which societies build their progress,” he stated, emphasizing that the electoral process is fundamentally driven by legal frameworks.

The presentation of the plaque from the Federal University of Lokoja served as a recognition of his ongoing contributions to public service and legal education, concluding an address where he also called for the support of the academic community in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.