Author: user user

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has alleged that members of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) are working secretly for the victory of Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu and Senator Uche Ekwunife.

A former stalwart of APGA, Prof. Theodore Okonkwo, said the joint ticket of the duo is giving some political parties, especially his former party, APGA, serious concern.

Okonkwo, a Professor of Law specialising in Environmental, Climate Change, Biodiversity, and Maritime Law, hails from Ezenaja Village, Oraukwu, in Idemili North Local Government Area. He had been a member of APGA since 2011 until a few weeks ago when he joined the APC.

Speaking with The Nation on his defection, Okonkwo said APGA, once a vibrant movement founded on the principle of brotherhood, had lost its moral compass.

‘The truth is that APGA has been hijacked. Their slogan, ‘Onye Aghana Nwanneya’ (Be Your Brother’s Keeper), no longer holds. The party is now filled with injustice, fake promises, and a broken reward system.’

He further alleged that numerous APGA members are quietly working for Prince Ukachukwu’s impending victory.

‘Many stakeholders in APGA have sympathy for Ukachukwu. They are working underground but can’t say it openly,’ he said.

Okonkwo declared that his decision to join the APC was divinely inspired. ‘It was not about inducement or persuasion. It was a spiritual revelation,’ he said.

He criticised the Soludo administration, saying it had failed to deliver on its promises. The APC chieftain added, ‘We were excited when Soludo came with the slogan, ‘I will fix it, even if it is not broken.’ But now, it is broken into pieces.

‘The governor’s promises do not match the realities on the ground. What happened to the ecological funds? My hometown, Oraukwu, is ravaged by erosion, yet nothing serious has been done.’

National Youth Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Dayo Israel, has hosted President of Senate, Godswill Akpabio, to an engaging interactive session: ‘An Evening with Senate President’ at APC Youth House in Abuja.

The event convened young leaders, professionals, and APC Youth Wing for an inspiring evening of mentorship and dialogue: ‘Legacy. Journey. Experience.’

Israel thanked the Senate president for honouring the invitation and for his commitment to youth inclusion and empowerment in the party.

He lauded Akpabio as a leader whose journey in governance inspires a new generation of emerging leaders.

‘The Senate president embodies visionary leadership. His journey from governor to minister and Senate president shows resilience, excellence, and a dedication to national service. Tonight’s engagement provided young people in our party an opportunity to learn from his experience. We will keep bridging the gap between experience and innovation, ensuring that young people remain active drivers of policy, governance, and political strategy in our party and nation,’ he said.

Akpabio shared insight from over two decades of public service. He noted importance of preparation, mentorship, and consistency in leadership, urging youths to build capacity and remain steadfast in their commitment to development.

‘The future of Nigeria rests on the energy, innovation, and determination of youths. I commend APC Youth Wing for creating a platform that bridges generations and upholds values of progress and unity in our party,’ he said.

On APC and youths, he said: ‘Dayo Israel is one of the most eloquent youth leaders Nigeria has. Youths are not just leaders of tomorrow; they are leaders of today.”

APC is a vehicle of leadership, transformation, and change. You have to be angry with your situation to be able to change it.’

On leadership, he said he joined politics to change the status quo.

‘With positive anger, genuine intention, and God on your side, you will make it in life.

One of the ways I changed the perception of Akwa Ibom indigenes being seen as only fit to serve as domestic workers was by declaring free and compulsory education for primary and secondary schools when I became Governor of Akwa Ibom State,’ he said.

He urged the youths to have faith in Nigeria and think positively about her, because what they think in their mind about the country is what will happen.

‘As a young person, you have the power to change Nigeria. If you feel discouraged about Nigeria, do something about it.The will of God for man is to progress; so, let us unite and progress.

The mind is stronger than the body, so take care of your mind. If you want to be successful, avoid the excessive pursuit of money; money cannot give you happiness or peace.

If you want to be successful as a young person, do not get entangled in inappropriate relationships with married women,’ he added.

Heliconia Park, a homegrown hospitality brand, has explained that it decided to keep investing in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, because of the city’s energy, commerce and culture.

Speaking at the launch of the Heliconia Park Port Harcourt Hotel and Resort at the Aba Road Estate, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the park, Pasquale Fiore, described the Rivers capital city as a destination and home of excellence.

He said the company’s investment underscored its commitment to the city, its people and its future recalling that the firm started in 2022 with the opening of its Hotel in the city followed by the Lagos Luxury Apartments and Suites in 2024.

Fiore said: ‘This is not just another hotel. This is a destination and a home for excellence. Port Harcourt has long been a hub of energy, commerce, and culture, and by investing here we reaffirm our commitment to this city, its people, and its future.

Heliconia Park was founded on the belief that true luxury is welcoming, personal, and tailored, and this resort embodies that very spirit.

‘We started Heliconia Park in 2022 with the opening of its first hotel in Port Harcourt, followed by the Lagos Luxury Apartments and Suites in 2024, officially inaugurated in February 2025.

‘The launch marks a significant milestone in the brand’s growth journey in Nigeria, each chapter reflecting a vision of fine hospitality rooted in excellence, inspired by culture, and crafted with timeless standards of service’.

Also speaking, Mike Epelle, Director at Heliconia Park, said the arrival of Heliconia Park Hotel and Golf Resort was a welcome addition to Port Harcourt.

‘It reflects the city’s growing appeal as both a business and leisure hub, and we are proud to see such an investment that will not only elevate hospitality standards but also contribute to local tourism and economic growth’, he said.

Transcorp Power Plc recorded N91.2 billion profit before tax in unaudited third quarter financial results for the period ended September 30, 2025.

The company’s revenue grew by 38 per cent to N308.5 billion in 2025, compared with N223.5 billion in third quarter of 2024.

The third quarter 2025 performance was driven by an increase in average power generation, reflecting Transcorp Power’s continued investment in improving generation capacity and operational excellence.

Profit after tax rose to N68.42 billion in third quarter 2025, from N58.4 billion in third quarter 2024, representing growth of 17 per cent.

Chairman Transcorp Power Plc, Emmanuel Nnorom, said: ‘Our performance in the third quarter, building on the positive momentum in the first half of the year, demonstrates Transcorp Power’s resilience and capacity to sustain profitability, despite economic challenges, supported by efficient operations strategies and prudent cost management. This sustained performance, in the face of economic headwinds will further strengthen investor confidence in our capacity to create shared value and maintain our growth trajectory.’

Managing Director, Transcorp Power Plc, Peter Ikenga, said: ‘The Q3 2025 results are underpinned by further growth in energy delivered to the grid, and emphasising our strategic approach, that ensures we deliver ever increasing value to our shareholders and stakeholders.

These results illustrate our continuous drive to improve our business operations, eliminating waste and harnessing value. We are confident of finishing the year strong in fulfillment of our mission to improving lives and transforming Africa.’

Ahead of today’s crucial FIFA World Cup qualifying encounter against the Super Eagles in Uyo, coach Gernot Rohr has described the match as a defining moment for his Beninese side.

The Franco-German tactician, who once managed the Super Eagles , said his players were motivated by their impressive run so far and the prospect of making history.

‘I am happy to be here. Nobody expected us to be in this position,’ Rohr stated during his press conference that preceded today’s game. ‘Now, we are just a game from achieving something very memorable for Benin football.

‘We had good memories in the past but they are now in the past – we are in the present. I am with another country.’

Rohr added that while the odds favour Nigeria, his side remains confident in their ability to pull off another upset.

‘We believe in ourselves and we still have our destiny in our hands,’ he said. ‘We know it will be a surprise to beat the Eagles here, but we did it already in Abidjan when we beat Nigeria for the first time in the history of Benin football. We will try to do it again.’

A not-for-profit, the Fond Treasures Foundation, has launched new initiatives that aim to empower children with special needs and boost their capabilities to live a dignified life in future.

In her address at the maiden hosting of Nigeria’s Independence Day celebration for the kids, in Lagos, the Foundation’s executive director Dr. Oarhe-Adekola ‘Foni, said their objective is to create ‘an inclusive world where every child with special needs has the opportunity to reach their full potential and live a life of dignity, respect, and joy.’ She also mentioned that their focus is on giving special education, care, and leading an advocacy for the right of the differently abled children.

This she said the foundation will be providing specialized support and equipping families with the tools they need to nurture their children effectively.

Under its motto ‘Unlocking Abilities and Inspiring the Future,’ Fond Treasures Foundation runs a range of initiatives, including therapeutic services, assistive technologies, and community-based inclusion programs.

Foni emphasised the importance of excellence and sustainability, pledging to build strong partnerships and mobilize resources to ensure lasting impact.

As part of its plan, the foundation plans to establish the ‘Fond Treasure Armoury’-a resource hub designed to offer educational and social support for children with special needs.

‘We shall be requesting the usual support of our vision partners and people with milk of human kindness,’ she said, noting that a formal launch would be organised to attract corporate and private sector backing.

Foni extended heartfelt appreciation to attendees and others who gave moral support for the foundation for the successful hosting of the children, saying ‘Your support, whether through partnership, volunteerism, or advocacy, is crucial to the success of our mission.’

She urged stakeholders to join hands in building a society that celebrates diversity and nurtures every child’s unique potential.

‘As we progress with our vision,’ she concluded, ‘we do so with hope, determination, and shared commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive world for children with special needs.’

A new economic empowerment model promising lifetime monthly income for Nigerian and African families has been unveiled under the Black Wall Street Compassionate Capitalism Economic System (CCES), in partnership with OpportunityPages.com.

The initiative, called the Family Monthly Income Plan (FMIP), introduces what its promoters describe as a risk-free investment platform that could pay families up to $120 monthly for life.

It forms part of the broader Compassionate Capitalism movement, aimed at curbing poverty, reversing capital flight, and ensuring that wealth generated within Africa remains within African communities.

According to its founder, King Charles Lambert, ‘Income without Labour’-is a system that allows individuals to earn sustainable income through ownership and participation in a profit-generating network rather than through traditional employment.

The Income Without Labour model, once fully operational, is expected to redefine how ordinary Africans engage with the economy-shifting the focus from survival to sustainability, and from dependency to ownership.

Under the CCES model, ordinary consumers are transformed into shareholders who benefit directly from Africa’s growing markets. The system operates through three interconnected digital platforms-28DevelopmentChannels.com, RedirectMall.com, and OpportunityPages.com-which link consumers, producers, and investors in one economic ecosystem.

Through RedirectMall.com, families can purchase Inspirational Wall Portraits, each carrying Investment Points that automatically convert into risk-free shares within the Compassionate Capitalism system. Every share guarantees a lifetime dividend of $6, funded by profits from 28 need-based sector apps. A family that owns 20 portraits, valued at $25 each, earns $120 monthly for life-a stable income designed to enhance financial security while promoting African-made products.

According to Lambert, the initiative targets at least 2.5percent of Africa’s $4 trillion annual consumer spending power, translating to a projected $100 billion in system revenue. This, he said, would be enough to sustain lifetime monthly dividends for over 50,000 African families.

‘Through our three pillars-28DevelopmentChannels.com, RedirectMall.com, and OpportunityPages.com-deployed across 28 mobile platforms addressing basic human needs, we can ensure that the money Africans spend every day stays within the continent,’ Lambert stated.

The Family Monthly Income Plan is limited to 50,000 participating families, focusing on households with unstable income or limited access to conventional investment channels. The plan eliminates financial risk and offers guaranteed lifetime earnings. Dividend payments are expected to begin three months after full subscription, projected for March 31, 2026.

The Compassionate Capitalism Economic System also serves as a Pan-African economic movement, currently supported by over 15,000 job centers and a network of mobile applications connecting consumers, producers, and investors.

Lambert said the ultimate goal of the program is not just income generation, but economic liberation-a strategy to stop wealth from leaking out of the continent through imports and foreign ownership.

‘Africa’s greatest economic enemy is capital flight,’ he noted. ‘Our system is designed to retain, multiply, and reinvest wealth within African communities, so that prosperity becomes a cycle, not an exception.’

Society of Nigerian Artists, Edo State Chapter, has closed its IMIÈFAN programme, after a celebration of art and culture.

Highlight was the award night on October 6 where artists were recognised for their contributions to the art world.

It revolves round the philosophy of ‘salvation or redemption,’ symbolising cultural rebirth and a renewed commitment to excellence.

By honouring outstanding artists, the programme aimed to inspire future artists and promote the rich cultural heritage of Edo State.

Some of the recipients are: Dr. Kehinde Shobukonla, Dr. Olajumoke Temitope Kukoyi, Chinwe Russell, Prof. Ndubisi Ezeluomba, Destiny Enejeta, Steve Ekpenisi, among others.

The ceremony was attended by Mark Olaitan, curator of National Museum and Monument; Iryn Omorogiuwa, permanent secretary of Art, Culture and Tourism; Moses Ajayi, president of Ososo Carnival; Ezekiel Udubrae, SNA vice president in Northcentral; Chidi Ubamadu, founder/director of Black Passionate Art Gallery; Festus Curator of Idubor Art Gallery; Duke Igbinedion, founder/director of Duke Igbinedion Visual Art Scenta and GEEDTARRWS.

Society leader in Edo, Sophia Ejameh, said it will continue to promote art and culture in the state, adding the programme was a testament to its commitment to artistic excellence.

She also promised to make IMIÈFAN programme an annual event for every October.

‘IMIÈFAN is a profound philosophical statement and a spiritual reflection of renewal, heritage and collective identity. It embodies the belief that art is both memory and medicine, capable of redeeming history, restoring pride and reviving cultural consciousness.

‘It unites three powerful narratives that define a transformative chapter in Nigeria’s cultural story: the ongoing return of Benin artefacts to their ancestral home, the ‘big awakening’ of the SNA Edo State Chapter and the significance of October 1st, Nigeria’s Independence Day.

‘At its heart, IMIÈFAN is both commemoration and continuation. The return of the Benin artefacts is more than restitution, it is a spiritual homecoming that restores a sacred link between art, ancestry and identity. Each returned bronze, ivory or woodcarving tells a story of genius, craftsmanship and devotion. Their repatriation is symbolic of the restoration of dignity once disrupted by colonial displacement. Through IMIÈFAN, this redemptive gesture is extended to living artists, those who, like the ancient guil.’

Ahmed Shuaibu Gara-Gombe, Chief Executive Officer of Green White Green Sports Centre Limited, has extended a heartfelt gesture of support to Team Nigeria at the ongoing ITTF-Africa Championships in Tunis, Tunisia.

Gara-Gombe, who visited the Rades Multi-Sports Complex, treated the Nigerian contingent to a sumptuous meal as part of his effort to motivate the squad to give their best at the prestigious continental event.

‘As a proud Nigerian, I’m deeply invested in the success of our teams across all sports. This table tennis team holds a special place in my heart. Seeing these young men and women represent our country inspires me to support and encourage them,’ Gara-Gombe said.

‘I’ve visited the venue twice to cheer them on, and I felt they needed an extra boost of motivation. That’s why I decided to host them for a meal-to lift their spirits and help them give their best for Nigeria. I’m truly impressed by their discipline and the way they’ve conducted themselves under the guidance of our legend, Segun Toriola. This is my humble token of support, and I wish them success in all their matches,’ he added.

President of ITTF Africa, Wahid Enitan Oshodi, expressed gratitude for Gara-Gombe’s thoughtful gesture, describing it as a morale booster for the team.

‘We sincerely thank Mr. Gara-Gombe for taking the time to visit the team over the past two days, cheering them on and encouraging them. His generous act of hosting the team to a delightful meal in Tunis is both inspiring and uplifting. He has proven himself to be a true friend of table tennis and a passionate supporter of sports in general,’ Oshodi said.

The General Manager of Lagos State Informal Space Management Authority (LASISMA), Mr. Oludaisi Oso, has said the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration is determined to regulate the use of informal urban space.

He said no responsible government would allow a few individuals to deface the state by putting up unapproved structures in informal urban spaces.

He said LASISMA derived its mandate from Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning Development Law of 2015 as amended under Section 2(e) to regulate the location, position, dimension, appearance, display and the manner in which urban furniture shall be affixed to land.

Oso, speaking with reporters at the weekend, said LASISMA was a creation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, when he was the governor of the state in 2001, with little known about the activities of the agency until Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu took over the mantle of leadership.

He said its mandate, among others, was to provide technical assistance to Ministry Department and Agency (MDA) on matters relating to planning, designation and use of informal urban space.

He said the agency was also charged with the responsibility of designating informal urban space as centres of socio-economic activities for business in the formal and informal sector, in tandem with existing land use.

”Others are creating and managing database for informal urban spaces and incidental open spaces, initiating, formulating and coordinating policies for the use of informal urban spaces.

”This is in addition to standardising, deploying and supervising the placement of urban furniture in informal urban spaces just to mention a few,”Oso said.

He added: ‘It is important to note that Governor Sanwo-Olu is passionate about how the urban informal space is being handled, hence the need to address the issue head on and with the utmost urgency required. The rejuvenated LASISMA connotes that it will no longer be business as usual.

‘We have come to take over our informal urban spaces and from now on, it will be regulated. The era of the massive abuse to which our urban informal spaces have been subjected to can no longer be acceptable. It is pertinent to note that 80 per cent of our urban informal spaces have been taken over by illegal users.’

On how it was funded, he said it was majorly through budgetary allocation, which was hardly enough and also through internally generated revenue.

He decried the rate at which people abused setbacks, which was known as urban informal spaces.

He cautioned Lagosians to ensure they didn’t do their businesses on any setback, noting that they should obtain a licence for their businesses before take-off ”, as the state is more than ever passionate about keeping the urban informal spaces regulated.”