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Gov Okpebholo orders Obaseki’s probe

The Edo State Government has directed the State House of Assembly to probe the immediate past administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki.

This was contained in a letter to the State House of Assembly by the governor, dated October 8, 2025, and signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Umar Musa Ikhilor.

The letter titled, ‘Investigation of two critical projects in the state’ and addressed to the Speaker of the House, Hon Blessing Agbebaku, listed the projects for investigation as Radisson Blu Hotels and Museums for West Africa Arts (MOWAA).

Okpebholo directed the House to invite the respective contractors handling the projects and any other body connected with the projects to ascertain their status and Edo State government’s stake in each of the projects.

‘I write at the instance of His Excellency, the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to request the House to carry out a thorough oversight investigation of two critical ongoing projects in the state initiated by the last administration.

‘The Speaker will recall that at the inception of this Administration, His Excellency, the Governor, set up the Assets Verification Committee with a mandate to primarily assess, verify and document the status of all Edo State Government assets and liabilities as at 11 November, 2024.

‘Based on the report of the Committee. The government saw the need for the House of Assembly to investigate two critical projects which the state government is believed to have stakes in.

‘The projects are Radisson Blu Hotels and Museums for West Africa Arts, MOWAA,’ the governor said.

The House of Assembly has fixed Tuesday, October 21, 2025 to set up an ad-hoc committee to carry out the investigation.

Unity above division: A call to Nigerian leaders

Africa is yet to outgrow military coups, unlike its counterparts in other parts of the world. The reason is not far-fetched – bad governance. The continent remains one of the most underdeveloped, as many of its leaders amass stupendous wealth to enrich their families and friends.

Years ago, the continent was shaken by the shocking news of military coups in Mali, Niger, Guinea, and Burkina Faso. These events sent shivers down the spines of not only ordinary citizens but also those in power. The coups were followed by attempted and failed ones in other countries. Nigeria has had its fair share of coups and countercoups. The memory of those dark times still lingers in the minds of our parents. We were told stories of how many lives were wasted. The phrase ‘No victor, no vanquished’ echoed from the then military heads.

I have never supported coups, especially considering the tragic outcomes in some countries overtaken by the military – Sudan and Libya are typical examples. Are they better off today? No.

As the years passed, Nigeria – the continent’s behemoth – has remained in recovery mode. Recently, news emerged of some coup plotters being arrested for allegedly planning to strike. Their plan was to assassinate the President, Vice President, Senate President, and Speaker of the House of Representatives. This is a clear signal that even the ‘Giant of Africa’ is not immune.

As the Hausa proverb says, ‘Sai bango ya tsage, kadangare ke samun gurin shiga’ – meaning ‘It’s when the wall cracks that the lizard finds a way in.’ The plotters were able to sell their idea because of mismanagement and bad governance. If such a coup were to succeed, foreign powers and elements would likely arm the groups.

Nigeria is already deeply divided along ethnic, tribal, and religious lines, making the idea of armed resistance dangerously appealing to some groups. It is the cracks in the wall that allow the lizards to slip through – and those cracks are created by bad governance, weak institutions, and eroding trust in leadership.

Not long ago, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz accused Nigeria of allowing the massacre of Christians. That statement resonated strongly with gullible individuals and netizens. He has probably never set foot on our soil, yet he is making a statement that can stoke ethnic and religious tension and create discord among Nigerians.

In reality, most of the killings are happening in the Muslim-dominated North, and the majority of the victims are Muslims themselves. It is not true that Christians are not affected, but singling out one religion as the sole victims is a strategy to sow division. Just a few days ago, a U.S. ambassador issued a statement contradicting the Senator’s claim, stating that Muslims are, in fact, the major victims.

In a country as divided and vulnerable as ours, selling the idea of rebellion becomes easy. External forces can easily step in, instigate unrest under the guise of ‘freedom,’ and in the process exploit our mineral resources and oil.

Madagascar – an island off the southeastern coast of Africa – recently experienced a military coup. Members of Generation Z took to the streets, bringing the island nation to a standstill. The President was forced to flee before the military seized power.

My humble advice to our leaders – from the President down to the councillors – is to represent us well by doing what is right. We have no other country better than Nigeria. If we destroy this nation, we have nowhere else to call home. Abroad, we will always be treated as second-class citizens. Let us make our country better.

Army warns soldiers against drugs abuse

The Nigerian Army has urged soldiers and its frontline operatives to abstain from drug abuse capable of destroying their lives.

The Director of the Nigerian Army, Islamic Affairs Directorate, Brigadier General Usman Musa, stated this at the Nigerian Army Annual Training Week and Conference, held in Damaturu, Yobe State.

He said the abuse of drugs among military personnel could lead to a serious catastrophe if not addressed.

He further said the conference will in no small measure bring out the best out of the troops in all theatre of operations within and outside the country.

According to him, providing a free drugs society will help the Nigerian Army towards recruiting a well-motivated and combat-ready force that can effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.

In his remark, the Deputy Governor of Yobe State, Hon Idi Barde Gubana, said the state government is committed to supporting the Nigerian Army to discharge its responsibilities.

7 Tips for a Thrilling Rafting Adventure

Are you ready for an adrenaline-pumping adventure on the rapids? Rafting is an exhilarating way to explore stunning river landscapes while challenging yourself in the great outdoors. To ensure you have a thrilling and safe experience, here are seven essential tips to keep in mind.

Choose the Right Difficulty Level

When planning your rafting trip, it’s crucial to select a river that matches your skill level and experience. Rivers are classified from Class I (easy) to Class V (extremely difficult), so be honest about your abilities and choose accordingly. If you’re a beginner, opt for a guided tour on a Class I or II river to build your confidence.

Wear the Proper Gear

Safety should always be your top priority when rafting. Wear a well-fitting life jacket and helmet at all times, even if you’re a strong swimmer. Dress for the weather and water temperature, opting for quick-drying synthetic fabrics or a wetsuit if necessary. Secure footwear, such as water shoes or sandals with straps, will help you maintain traction on slippery surfaces.

Listen to Your Guide

If you’re joining a guided rafting trip, pay close attention to your guide’s instructions and safety briefing. They are experienced professionals who know the river and can navigate you through challenging sections. Trust their judgment, follow their commands, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about anything.

Practice Proper Paddling Technique

Efficient paddling is key to maneuvering your raft through the rapids. Learn the basic strokes, such as the forward stroke, backward stroke, and draw stroke, and practice them in calm water before tackling the whitewater. Work in sync with your fellow paddlers and maintain a steady rhythm to keep the raft stable and on course.

Stay Alert and Communicate

Rafting requires constant attention and communication with your team. Keep an eye out for obstacles, such as rocks, branches, and other rafts, and alert your crew if you spot any hazards. Use clear, concise commands to coordinate your movements and avoid confusion. If you fall out of the raft, follow your guide’s instructions and stay calm until you’re back on board.

Respect the River

Remember that you’re a guest in the river’s environment, so treat it with respect. Avoid littering, disturbing wildlife, or damaging vegetation along the banks. Follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out any trash you generate. By being a responsible rafter, you’ll help preserve these beautiful waterways for future generations.

Embrace the Adventure

Finally, don’t forget to have fun and embrace the thrill of rafting! Take in the stunning scenery, bond with your fellow paddlers, and celebrate your achievements after conquering each rapid. Rafting is a unique opportunity to challenge yourself, step outside your comfort zone, and create unforgettable memories in the great outdoors.

With these seven tips in mind, you’re ready to embark on an exhilarating rafting adventure. Remember to prioritize safety, work as a team, and respect the power of the river. Whether you’re navigating gentle waves or heart-pounding whitewater, rafting offers an unparalleled experience that will leave you craving more. So grab your paddle, buckle up your life jacket, and get ready for the ride of a lifetime!

’Time not ripe for Africa to abandon fossil fuels’

The Principal/Chief Executive, Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Engr. Dr. Samuel E. Onoji has stated that the time is not right for Africa to abandon the use of fossil fuels but research should be conducted on ways to develop local technologies that enable the exploitation and utilization of oil and gas in a more environmentally friendly manner.

Speaking during a press conference to mark the 4TH Biennial International Conference on Hydrocarbon Science and Technology (ICHST) in Abuja, Onoji said the institute has taken a bold step to kick-start research and development effort that takes cognizance of the peculiarity of Africa’s hydrocarbon situation.

‘With an estimated 125 billion barrels of crude oil reserves and over 600tcf of natural gas reserves in Africa, it is our considered opinion that Africa should not hasten to abandon fossil fuel but should strive to deepen research and development of local technologies that enable the exploitation and utilization of our oil and gas endowment in a more environmentally friendly manner as the reality of global demand for fossil fuel is expected to linger for the next 50 years.’

He stated that only a few African countries have been able to master certain aspects of oil production technology and fabricate key machineries for the industry.

He added that the conference intends to focus on research in such areas with the aim of developing local content capacity in oil technology.

‘So, there is a need to utilize this gas, because the Western nations have used this gas and the crude oil here to develop their economy.

‘And because of a shortage of oil and gas in the Western nations, they termed oil and gas as dirty water. But of course, it is not. Now, for PTI, technology is important. We understood very well that there is a lot of divestment in the oil and gas industry in Nigeria and even in Africa as a whole. And we, as Africans, want to take steps to address this gap that we exist in.’

He added that the Petroleum Training Institute, in partnership with some other organizations, is working very hard to develop local technology that will help to exploit crude oil production as oil exploration is simple.

‘We talk of oil exploration, we talk of drilling, we talk of production, we talk of processing. We have mastered this area. We have been in the business of oil and gas for the past 53 years and so local technologies have been developed to exploit this oil and gas. We are not waiting for 2060,’ he added.

Benin vs. Nigeria: Super Falcons’ Lomé camp bubbles ahead of WAFCON Qualifiers

Champions Nigeria commenced training sessions yesterday in the Togolese capital, Lomé ahead of their 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations final qualifying fixture, first leg match against their Beninese counterparts, which will take place on Friday.

Six-time Africa Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala was among the early birds in the Super Falcons’ Lomé camp, alongside new invitee Joy Omewa, as well as Turkey-based defender Tosin Demehin, China-based forward Folashade Ijamilusi, and the home-based quintet of goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi, defenders Blessing Ilivieda and Miracle Usani, midfielder Taiwo Afolabi and forward Kafayat Mafisere.

Head Coach Justine Madugu has confirmed that the team’s early training sessions in Lomé as they prepare to face the Bénin senior women’s team at the 25,000 – capacity Stade de Kégué on Friday afternoon.

Both West African neighbours clash in a final qualifying fixture for the 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations championship to be hosted by Morocco, and which serves as Africa’s qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup finals, to be hosted by Brazil. The encounter will commence at 3pm Togo time (4pm Nigeria time).

The return leg is slated for the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta on Tuesday, 28th October.

The Confederation of African Football has selected Gambian official Ngum Fatou as referee for Friday’s match, with Mauritanians Mariem Chedad and Hamedine Houleye as assistant referees 1 and 2 respectively, while Gambian Isatou Touray will serve as fourth official.

Halimatou Hamidou from Niger Republic will be the commissioner, while Martha Nyekanyeka from Malawi will be in the role of referee assessor.

SUPER FALCONS FOR WAFCON QUALIFYING FIXTURE VS. BÉNIN:

Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton Hove and Albion, England); Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels); Rachael Unachukwu (Nasarawa Amazons)

Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy); Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA); Ashleigh Plumptre (Ittihad Ladies FC, Saudi Arabia); Blessing Ilivieda (Bayelsa Queens); Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray Sportive, Turkey); Miracle Usani (Abia Angels)

Midfielders: Rasheedat Ajibade (Paris Saint Germain, France); Taiwo Afolabi (Rivers Angels); Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit, USA); Jennifer Echegini (Paris Saint Germain, France); Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal)

Forwards: Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Joy Omewa (Fortuna Hjorrin FC, Denmark); Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada); Asisat Oshoala (Al Hilal FC, Saudi Arabia); Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng, China); Kafayat Mafisere (Edo Queens)

Federal Govt targets 20,000 jobs with new training

The federal government has unveiled an ambitious plan to create at least 20,000 jobs annually through the second phase of the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP), designed to connect high-potential graduates with real-world work experience, mentorship, and training opportunities.

Vice President Kashim Shettima is scheduled to formally flag off the NJFP 2.0 and declare open a high-level policy dialogue on job creation tomorrow at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Themed ‘From Skills to Jobs and Enterprises: Driving Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship in Key Economic Sectors,’ the event will bring together policymakers, private-sector leaders, and development partners to chart strategies for expanding youth employment and enterprise development.

Ahead of the launch, the Vice President on Monday inaugurated the NJFP Project Steering Committee, charging members to ensure inclusivity and measurable impact across all regions of the country.

Shettima described the NJFP as a ‘deliberate attempt to translate Nigeria’s demographic strength into productive economic power,’ stressing that its success depends on deep collaboration among government, private sector, and development partners.

According to a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, ‘the goal of the NJFP is to bridge the transition gap between learning and earning for thousands of young graduates with the required education but no job opportunity.

‘We have an opportunity here to demonstrate what partnership done right can achieve: where government leads with clarity, partners contribute with confidence, and results speak for themselves’, he said.

He emphasised that inclusivity must remain central to the programme’s design.

‘Our young people are not a homogenous group. They live in different realities across regions, genders, and social backgrounds. We must ensure that this opportunity reaches every corner of the country – and that placements are tied to sectors that will shape Nigeria’s future: agriculture, digital technology, renewable energy, manufacturing, and the creative industries,’ the Vice President stated.

The NJFP, coordinated by the Office of the Vice President, is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with funding support from the European Union (EU).

The first phase, launched in 2022, empowered over 14,000 young Nigerians through paid 12-month fellowships that provided career experience and mentorship.

EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Gautier Mignot, expressed optimism that the NJFP 2.0 would transform the lives of thousands of Nigerian youth, noting that the EU’s partnership with the Federal Government aims to ‘optimise the full mandate of the programme.’

Similarly, UNDP Resident Representative, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, described the initiative as part of a larger continental vision for youth empowerment.

She praised the Tinubu administration’s focus on inclusive job creation, saying the UNDP is proud to help build an ‘ecosystem that creates jobs and fosters innovation across Nigeria.’

Briefing journalists ahead of Wednesday’s ceremony, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, said the second phase of the programme has been redesigned to reflect current economic realities and lessons from the first phase.

‘The new phase, supported by the European Union, will place a minimum of 24,000 fellows over the next 10 months. It supports the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises job creation, skills development, and youth empowerment as key pillars of Nigeria’s economic transformation’, he explained.

According to him, NJFP 2.0 introduces two clear pathways for every fellow: ‘a pathway to employment through extended professional placements, and a pathway to entrepreneurship through business mentorship and enterprise support.’

The idea, Hadejia said, is to ensure that ‘every fellow is empowered to either secure meaningful employment or launch a viable business in strategic sectors of the economy at the end of the fellowship.’

He described the NJFP as ‘a bold and practical response to the aspirations of young Nigerians – a generation of problem-solvers and innovators who only need opportunity to thrive,’ adding that ‘this administration is not only focused on policy; it is focused on impact.’

I Go Save calls out netizens’ hypocrisy in Regina Daniels’ marital woes

Comedian Otaghware Otas Onodjayeke popularly known as IGoSave, has slammed social media users reacting to the ongoing marital crisis between actress Regina Daniels and her husband, Senator Ned Nwoko.

In a post on his Instagram story, the funnyman accused netizens of hypocrisy and envy, claiming they masquerade as unsolicited advisors while harboring resentment toward Daniels’ affluent lifestyle.

‘Many of you just turned marriage counsellors because of Regina. Most of y’all were never happy for her but wanted her lifestyle so bad. This social media space is full of bitter people with sugar faces,’ I Go Save wrote.

The controversy erupted over the weekend following a viral video in which Daniels tearfully alleged domestic violence at the hands of Nwoko outside their home.

The footage, which quickly amassed millions of views, showed the actress in distress, prompting widespread sympathy from fans and condemnation of the billionaire politician.

Nwoko swiftly countered the claims, accusing Daniels of substance abuse and describing her outburst as an ‘unprovoked rampage’ fueled by drugs and alcohol.

He revealed that she had relocated to a place with easy access to narcotics and urged her to resume rehabilitation, insisting that none of his other wives had ever leveled similar accusations against him.

FilmOne secures distribution right to Funke Akindele’s ‘Behind the Scenes’

Nigeria’s film distribution company, FilmOne Entertainment, has secured an exclusive global distribution right to Nollywood filmmaker Funke Akindele’s next feature, ‘Behind the Scenes.’

The deal, which followed the record-breaking N3.3 billion combined success of Akindele’s box office slates, further cements FilmOne’s status as a driving force behind some of the country’s highest-grossing films.

FilmOne Entertainment, known for consistently delivering record-breaking titles, continues to shape the commercial landscape of Nollywood by backing visionary filmmakers and delivering premium cinema experiences to audiences nationwide.

With Behind the Scene, Akindele once again partners with FilmOne to bring an inspiring story to life; one that promises to blend laughter, heart, and relatable storytelling in the tradition of her previous box office successes.

The film is scheduled for nationwide release on December 12 and is already one of the most anticipated titles of the upcoming cinema calendar, as observed at the 2025 FilmOne Entertainment’s Exhibitors’ Showcase.

FilmOne Entertainment raised the bar at the 2025 Exhibitors’ Showcase, turning its presentation into a full-scale cinematic experience that drew applause from exhibitors, filmmakers, and industry partners.

The event celebrated FilmOne’s dual strength in championing Nollywood while driving global studio partnerships, underscoring its role as West Africa’s leading content powerhouse.

The Nollywood slate for 2025 was met with resounding excitement as FilmOne unveiled a diverse lineup of highly anticipated titles including The Herd, 3 Cold Dishes, Behind the Scene, Colors of Fire, Oversabi Aunty, War Lord, and more.

These upcoming releases showcase the studio’s expanding creative footprint across genres; from intense drama and romance to comedy and action – reinforcing its commitment to scaling Nigerian storytelling for global audiences.

The momentum continued with FilmOne’s Hollywood slate, featuring blockbuster titles such as Now You See Me, Avatar, Zootopia, Sisu, Anaconda and more.

Through its exclusive partnerships with major Hollywood studios including Disney, Sony, and Warner Bros., FilmOne continues to deliver world-class cinematic experiences to African audiences.

More than a showcase, the event reflected FilmOne’s evolution into a global player as a company that curates culture, drives creative collaboration, and defines the future of African cinema through bold storytelling and strategic partnerships.

This came as FilmOne and acclaimed filmmaker and actress Toyin Abraham reunite for blockbuster December slate following Iyalode’s over N300 million success.

Following the success of Iyalode, FilmOne has once again partnered with Abraham to distribute her highly anticipated December film lineup.

The new collaboration reinforces the long-standing relationship between FilmOne and one of Nollywood’s most bankable stars, whose previous releases; including Alakada, and Iyalode delivered strong box office performances and solidified her reputation as a holiday season favorite.

By securing exclusive distribution rights to Abraham’s upcoming December titles, FilmOne Entertainment continues to strengthen its leadership position in African film distribution, championing female-led narratives and driving Nigeria’s biggest cinema moments year after year.

’FCMB’s N160bn capital raise aligns with Nigeria’s economic revival’

On October 13, 2025, FCMB Group Plc presented the facts behind its ?160 billion public offer to capital market operators, investors, and other stakeholders at the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX).

The offer marks a critical phase in the Group’s recapitalisation programme designed to strengthen its capital base, retain its international banking licence, and enhance shareholder value in line with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s new ?500 billion capital requirement for international banks.

The Group CEO of FCMB, Ladi Balogun, presented the offer details during the ‘Facts Behind the Offer’ session, showcasing the importance of the capital raise towards building a stronger and more resilient financial institution.

Balogun traced the Group’s history with NGX, highlighting how the exchange has facilitated approximately $863 million in capital raising since the bank’s inception, with recent rounds heavily supported by domestic investors. This confidence from local market participants is especially vital for economic stability and long-term sector growth.

Setting the capital raise against Nigeria’s improving macroeconomic backdrop, Balogun pointed to key indicators such as foreign reserves reaching a 10-year high, inflation dropping to near 20%, and the naira’s appreciation as signs of stability that buoy investor optimism. He projected that lower interest rates and Nigeria’s potential return to emerging market indices would drive increased foreign portfolio inflows and higher valuations, particularly in the banking sector.

Nigerian Exchange Group CEO, Jude Chiemeka, applauded FCMB’s proactive engagement with investors through this transparent communication platform.

He said: ‘We applaud FCMB’s proactive engagement with investors. The financial sector is critical to our economy, accounting for over 75% of daily trading on the NGX and contributing significantly, including ?2.2 trillion in taxes over the last four years.’

Chiemeka highlighted the broader achievements of the exchange, including ?4.6 trillion raised across various asset classes in H1 2025 and sustainability efforts such as green and social bonds issuance in partnership with the International Finance Corporation. He urged FCMB to deepen collaboration with NGX’s X-Academy on corporate governance and investor education, reinforcing the commitment to market development.

Speaking on FCMB’s strong H1 2025 Financial results, Balogun spoke to the restructuring which showed a 23% profit before tax increase and a 20.6% return on equity. He explained that ‘the cost of funds remains high due to the 50% cash reserve requirement, meaning half of deposits earn zero interest. Raising equity helps repay expensive deposits, effectively creating higher yields on that capital.’

He added: ‘Following FCMB’s 2024 capital raise, the bank’s net interest margin rose to 9.1% and return on equity reached the 20% range by mid-year. We expect a similar outcome after the new capital raise closes in November 2025, with funds deployed by Q1 2026 to further reduce fixed deposits.’

The FCMB Group CEO also reiterated Nigeria’s economic milestone, whereby GDP growth has finally outpaced population growth, a crucial shift for poverty reduction. ‘Sustained poverty reduction requires annual GDP growth of about 7%. The Central Bank of Nigeria is driving reforms that have supported this improvement,’ he stated.

Balogun highlighted monetary reforms like the floating of the exchange rate and clearing a $7 billion FX backlog, which have improved foreign reserves and investor confidence. Encouraging shareholder participation, He urged investors, ‘to maintain or increase their investments to avoid dilution,’ signalling a bullish outlook for Nigerian banks under these favorable conditions.

The strong performance of FCMB’s stock, which has surged by 395% since 2020, translating into a 70% compound annual growth rate, combined with the bank’s undervalued price-to-book ratio, signals significant upside potential for investors looking to capitalize on Nigeria’s evolving economic landscape.