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President Bola Tinubu has urged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to designate resource theft, illegal mining and mineral smuggling as international crimes that threatens regional stability.

Tinubu made the call on Tuesday in Abuja, at the 7th Annual General Assembly of the Network of Anti-Corruption Institutions in West Africa (NACIWA).

The theme of the 2025 meeting of the Assembly is ‘A United ECOWAS Against corruption: Strengthening Regional Collaboration for Asset Recovery and Exchange of Information’.

Tinubu, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, said that the theme of the conference was apt.

The president emphasised the need for collective action to combat illicit financial flows and corruption in the region.

His proposal highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in tackling corruption and its manifestations.

He noted that no country could single-handedly win the battle against illicit flows, and NACIWA offered a platform for ECOWAS to harness regional efforts.

He emphasised that corruption, insecurity, and illicit financial flows were interconnected and must be addressed collectively.

Tinubu highlighted the devastating impact of corruption and resource theft on West Africa’s economic and political trajectory, saying that it fueled insecurity, violent crimes, and hindered development.

He stressed that under Nigeria’s anti-corruption strategy, significant progress had been made in tracing and recovering stolen assets.

He said that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), led by Ola Olukoyede, had been instrumental in recovering stolen assets, with notable successes over the past two years.

He emphasised the need for a paradigm shift from rhetoric to taking deliberate measures to actualise the vision of ECOWAS founding fathers for collective prosperity and good governance across the region.

The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), in his remarks also urged ECOWAS to unite against corruption, stressing that it was a moral, legal, and cultural imperative.

Fagbemi emphasised the need for collective action to combat corruption, which he said fueled poverty, instability, and undermined development in the region.

He urged West African nations to domesticate the ECOWAS Protocol on Corruption, noting that this would ensure that corrupt officials find no safe haven within the sub region.

‘Let us domesticate the ECOWAS Protocol on Corruption so that thieves find no hiding place.

‘The child who says his mother will not sleep will also not sleep; so the corrupt who disturbs the peace of nations must not find rest across borders.

Fagbemi also proposed the establishment of an ECOWAS Regional Task Force on Asset Recovery, to be supported by NACIWA, to coordinate investigations and intelligence sharing among member states.

He also emphasised the importance of independence and resources for anti-corruption institutions and engaging citizens, media, and civil society in the fight against corruption.

He further warned against under-funding anti-corruption agencies, noting that such could make them vulnerable to compromise.

‘The goat eats where it is tied; if we starve our institutions, they will be unable to resist corruption,’ said.

He proposed several other measures to strengthen regional collaboration and asset recovery efforts, including building trusted information channels, and equipping investigators, prosecutors, and judges with necessary skills.

The attorney general commended the leadership of NACIWA’s President, Ola Olukoyede, and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to a corruption-free region where justice, equity, and accountability form the bedrock of governance.

Olukoyede in his remarks said the fight against corruption in West Africa must be viewed within the broader context of political stability and social justice.

The NACIWA president who is also the Chairman of the EFCC, highlighted the challenges facing the network to include political transitions, security concerns, and governance challenges in some member states.

He emphasised the need for NACIWA to remain a stabilising moral force, championing transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity.

The EFCC chairman called on member institutions to reaffirm their commitment to NACIWA’s founding principles of solidarity, mutual assistance, and institutional integrity.

He urged the network to consolidate its achievements, address institutional and financial sustainability challenges, and ensure that cooperation transcends political cycles and national boundaries.

Present at the occasion were Chairman, Senate Committee on Anti-corruption, and Financia Crimes, Sen Emmanuel Udende; Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Anti-corruption, and Financial Crimes, Hon Ginger Onwusibe, represented by a member of the committee,Nnamdi Eze

Others include EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautta Mignot, Vice President of ECOWAS Commission, Damtien Tchintchibidja, UNODC Country Representative, Cheikh Toure, represented by an official, Princess Chifiero among others

Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has picked up a hamstring injury and could miss the much-anticipated clash against Real Madrid later this month.

The 37-year-old forward, who scored for Poland in their 2-0 win over Lithuania on Sunday, will miss Barcelona’s La Liga match against Girona this weekend.

Barcelona are also set to face Olympiakos in the Champions League on Tuesday before the El Clasico showdown at the Bernabeu on October 26.

In a statement, the club said:

‘Robert Lewandowski has suffered a hamstring injury in his left thigh. He will be sidelined, and his recovery time will depend on how the injury progresses.’

Although Barcelona did not give a specific timeline, Spanish media reports suggest the Polish striker could be out for around four weeks.

Lewandowski, who has scored four goals in nine games this season, joins Raphinha, Gavi, Dani Olmo, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Joan Garcia on the injury list.

Meanwhile, Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez have returned to training, giving the team a small boost ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.

Iconic R and B singer and songwriter D’Angelo has passed away at the age of 51. The Grammy-winning artist reportedly died on Tuesday morning in New York City after a private battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born Michael D’Angelo Archer, the soulful crooner rose to fame in the mid-1990s with his groundbreaking debut album Brown Sugar, which earned platinum status and widespread critical acclaim. Known for his smooth vocals, musical depth, and influence on the neo-soul movement, D’Angelo collaborated with some of the industry’s biggest names, including Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, Erykah Badu, and Lauryn Hill.

Over his illustrious career, D’Angelo received 14 Grammy nominations and won four, including Best R and B Album for Voodoo and Best Male R and B Vocal Performance for his sultry hit Untitled (How Does It Feel) in 2001. His 2014 comeback album, Black Messiah, also won Best R and B Album, while his track Really Love earned the Grammy for Best R and B Song in 2016.

The music video for Untitled (How Does It Feel)-which featured D’Angelo appearing nude against a dark backdrop-sparked controversy for its sensuality but went on to become a cultural touchstone. The striking visual cemented his status as a sex symbol and later inspired artists such as Jason Derulo and Panic! at the Disco, who recreated the video’s signature style.

In 2023, Rolling Stone ranked D’Angelo No. 75 on its list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time, a testament to his enduring influence on modern R and B and soul.

D’Angelo is survived by three children, including a son with fellow singer Angie Stone, who tragically passed away in March following a car accident.

In a heartfelt statement shared with Billboard, his family expressed deep sorrow:

‘The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life. After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home, departing this life today, Oct. 14, 2025.’

They continued,

‘We are saddened that he can only leave dear memories with his family, but we are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind. We ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time but invite everyone to join us in celebrating the gift of song he shared with the world.’

D’Angelo’s passing marks the loss of one of R and B’s most soulful voices and influential figures-an artist whose music redefined a generation and whose legacy will continue to resonate for years to come.

Nigerian singer and song-writer Darey Art Alade, has spoken on how his experience in the entertainment industry has helped him connect with younger artists.

While speaking on the Afropolitan Podcast, Darey opened up on his journey in the industry, describing the experiences as fulfilling

‘As an artiste I go to auditions, I go to reality TV shows – Project Fame, for example. I have been a contestant and moved from being a contestant to being a judge, either on the same show or a coach on another show,’ he said.

Darey also noted that his evolution in the music industry allows him recommend people for some opportunities that he once looked for.

‘Sometimes I am the host, like Ebuka does now or IK Osakioduwa. From doing that to now being the one to either give other artistes the opportunity, put them on stage, or curate their performances – for me, it’s a thing of joy. Artistes feel comfortable around me because I’ve been there. Before they even ask the question, I already see where they’re going. That’s one of the advantages,’ he stated.

Nigeria got off to a flying start in their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic, as star striker Victor Osimhen opened the scoring inside the first three minutes of play.

The Galatasaray forward showed his trademark killer instinct, latching onto a quick through ball before smashing a clinical finish at the near post, leaving the Beninese goalkeeper with no chance.

The early goal sent the Uyo crowd into wild celebration as the Super Eagles took control of the must-win encounter, which will determine their fate in the World Cup qualification race.

Nigerian businessman Cosmas Maduka has expressed his concerns over the common practice of flaunting money and wealth.

He described such acts as a sign of a moral decline in the society, adding that genuine wealth comes with humility.

‘Show me any wealthy man that has talked about ”money na water’. I’ve never heard Tony Elumelu say ‘money na water,’ I’ve never heard Femi Otedola say it, and I’ve never said it myself. When I attend a function and you start showing that madness of throwing money on people, I behave like I am going to the toilet. You will not see me again because these are the bad cultures and value systems that we have learnt,’ he stated.

Maduka further noted that such acts are deadly, stating that the society should resent it rather than applaud it.

‘When we were growing up, rich people didn’t make noise. All these people making noise today never made real money. If you make money, it makes you humble. It makes you keep quiet. We’ve embraced a deadly culture and we are using it to train our children. Those things should stop. You shouldn’t clap hands for people like that, you should resent it,’ he added.

Big Brother Naija Season 10 winner, Opeyemi ‘Imisi’ Ayanwale, has opened up on her relationship with colleague and fellow finalist, Kola Omotosho.

While speaking with Doyin Imisi revealed that Kola was her only safe space during her stay in the Big Brother house.

‘I feel like Kola was my only safe space. Anytime I feel down, he’s always there; when I am down too, he’s there. He’s always vulnerable to me,’ she said.

Kola also previously told journalists that his bond with Imisi is platonic adding that she always looks out for him.

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Super Eagles on their emphatic 4-0 victory over the Cheetahs of the Benin Republic, commending the team for keeping the nation’s hope alive as they pursue qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised the team for their hunger, passion, and determination, describing the performance in Uyo as one that has reignited national pride.

‘The President praises the Super Eagles for the hunger, passion, and determination displayed on the field in Uyo, noting that the superlative performance has reignited Nigerians’ football pride,’ the statement read.

While acknowledging that more work remains to be done, President Tinubu expressed confidence in the team’s ability to qualify for the World Cup.

‘While the job is not yet complete, I join millions of Nigerian football fans in wishing our team every success in the playoffs,’ he said.

‘The mood across the country reflects a shared belief that Nigeria deserves a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Canada, Mexico, and the United States will host,’ the President added.

‘As your President, I assure you and the coaching crew of the Federal Government’s support as you strive to secure your place at the tournament. Nigerians everywhere believe in you, and I do too.

‘We look forward to seeing you fly our flag proudly on the world stage,’ President Tinubu affirmed.

President Bola Tinubu has learned with profound sadness that Ambassador Joy Uche Angela Ogwu, who was 79, has passed away.

A former Minister of Foreign Affairs and former Ambassador/Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations in New York, Ambassador Ogwu represented Nigeria at the United Nations from May 2008 to May 2017.

A skilled diplomat and scholar, she served as the Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), where she made invaluable contributions to developing Nigeria’s foreign policy and international relations scholarship.

With inspiring dedication and skill, she presided over the UN Security Council twice, first in July 2010 and again in October 2011.

President Tinubu extols the late Ambassador for projecting Nigeria’s voice with clarity and purpose and working tirelessly for global peace, disarmament, international security, and the advancement of women’s rights.

The President extends his heartfelt condolences to Ambassador Ogwu’s five children, grandchildren, sisters and brothers, the entire Ogwu family, and the diplomatic and academic community, mourning the passing of the distinguished diplomat.

‘Nigeria has lost a trailblazer who rose to the highest level of her vocation through excellence and hard work,’ he says.

President Tinubu prays for the repose of her soul and for divine comfort for all who mourn the diplomat.

Israel’s last 20 surviving hostages released from Gaza may face lasting physical and psychological damage after more than 700 days in captivity, health experts have warned.

The men, aged between 21 and 48, were freed following the Gaza peace deal signed on Sunday. While their exact medical condition remains unclear, doctors say many are frail, malnourished, and deeply traumatized.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that 24-year-old Alon Ohel lost sight in one eye due to injuries sustained while in captivity. Other freed hostages appeared emaciated, weak, and disoriented upon arrival at hospitals.

Medical experts treating them say recovery could take years, with some effects likely permanent.

‘Captivity produces deep and long-lasting psychological, somatic, and functional injuries,’ researchers wrote in a study on former prisoners of war from Israel’s 1973 Yom Kippur conflict. ‘Former captives carry their wounds for a very long time.’

One of the freed men, Avinatan Or, 32, who was taken alongside his girlfriend Noa Argamani from the Nova Festival, was reportedly held in near-total isolation for two years and lost almost half his body weight.

Another freed soldier, Matan Angrest, 22, endured ‘severe torture’ and months of solitary confinement. His mother, Anat Angrest, told local media that her son ‘was alone for a long period, under special guard,’ and had ‘refused to break for the monsters who kept him captive.’

Doctors have warned that the hostages’ bodies were pushed to their limits. Severe malnutrition has weakened their immune systems, damaged muscles, and caused extreme fatigue. The loss of subcutaneous fat has left many prone to wounds and infections, while vitamin and mineral deficiencies may have harmed their teeth and gums.

Those kept underground for long periods also suffered disrupted circadian rhythms, affecting sleep, digestion, hormones, and mental balance. Research links such conditions to heart rhythm disorders and even strokes.

Each survivor is now under the care of a team of doctors, nurses, psychologists, and social workers.

In a statement, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum said:

‘The process does not end with release – it begins with it. After two years under inhumane conditions of starvation, isolation, and abuse, they need medical care, close supervision, and peace. Above all, they need to regain their identity as people, not as hostages.’