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First Ly Remi Tinubu has expressed optimism about the National Library of Nigeria becoming the country’pride after it is completed.

The first ly, who recently raised over N20 billion for the project which has been abandoned for deces, said this after a facility tour of the Qatar National Library in Doha.

She said Nigeria’s library will soon become a modern, digitized facility, equipped to cater to the knowledge-building needs of all and a repository of history of the nation.

She noted that for the Nation to achieve this objective, Nigeria is looking to draw inspiration and worthy template from Qatar National Library in Doha.

‘Senator Oluremi Tinubu noted that Nigeria is blessed with a robust and rich cultural heritage which must be properly documented for posterity.’

‘The First Ly emphasized that the youth must have a referral point to know more about the nation. She noted that the motto of the Quatar National Library, Free Access to Knowledge is worthy of note.

‘And with its two million books and 500,000 e- books, Qatar National Library, situated in Education City, Doha, is one of the prides of Quatar and a monument.

‘The visit to the Quatar National Library is the first engagement by First Ly of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu upon in Doha.

‘Her visit to the library is a prelude to her engagement with the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, where she hopes to secure needed partnership that will dress the challenges of out of school children and Almajiri Education in Nigeria,’ Busola Kukoyi, her media aide, said in a statement.

The recent appointment of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has sparked renewed conversations about the future of Nigeria’s electoral process. Professor Amupitan, a seasoned legal scholar with an impressive record of service and no known political affiliations, appears to be a fitting choice for this crucial role. Yet, beyond his credentials lies the enormous task of restoring Nigerians’ confidence in the nation’s electoral system.

For years, citizens have called for a constitutional amendment to remove the power of appointing the INEC Chairman from the President. While that debate continues, all eyes are now on Professor Amupitan to prove through his actions that INEC under his leadership will ensure that every vote counts. Nigerians yearn for a credible system where electoral outcomes reflect the true will of the people.

One of his immediate priorities should be to engage the National Assembly to ensure that the ongoing Electoral Act Amendment Bill receives accelerated attention and passage. The bill contains crucial reforms that can strengthen the credibility and transparency of elections. Among these reforms, the mandatory electronic transmission of results in real time stands out as a key measure to prevent manipulation and restore public trust.

It has become increasingly clear that ward, local government, and state collation centres have often served as breeding grounds for electoral fraud. Past elections have shown how results are altered during the collation process. Therefore, INEC must embrace full technological deployment to eliminate these manual collation centres. By relying on real-time result transmission and collation via the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) directly from polling units, the commission can significantly reduce human interference and uphold the sanctity of the ballot.

Furthermore, the electoral body should champion legislation granting INEC the authority to disqualify candidates who present fake or forged certificates. This will help uphold the integrity of the political process and deter aspirants who attempt to deceive the system.

To further sanitize the voter register, the National Identity Number (NIN) should be integrated with the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) and the BVAS. Making NIN mandatory will prevent double or multiple registrations, while also ensuring that citizens who attain the age of 18 are automatically added to the voters’ register.

In line with global democratic practices, Nigerians in the diaspora should be allowed to participate in elections, as well as those on essential duties, such as members of the security agencies, health workers, and journalists. Granting them the opportunity to vote, perhaps days before the general election, would expand inclusiveness and enhance voter participation.

Adopting comprehensive technological reforms will not only improve credibility but also drastically reduce the huge costs currently incurred on election logistics. Technology offers transparency, speed, and efficiency – the very qualities Nigeria’s electoral process desperately needs.

As Professor Amupitan assumes office, Nigerians extend their congratulations and high expectations. The task before him is enormous but not insurmountable. If he leads with integrity, courage, and innovation, he will indeed write his name in gold as the man who transformed Nigeria’s electoral landscape for the better.

Tochukwu Jimo Obi is a public affairs analyst and wrote via jimobi83@gmail.com

Manchester United players huddled in the dressing room and again on the pitch before the start of the game against Sunderland. Their talks were about starting positive and pressing the Black Cats before they could settle. This approach to the game will be vital next week when United go to Anfield because Ruben Amorim and Bruno Fernandes know that Liverpool conceded in the first 20 minutes of their past three matches.

Considerable confidence has been restored in United’s usual shaky defence with the signing of Senne Lammens in goal. The players in front of Andre Onana never felt secure, they did not trust him. With Lammens that negativity and concern has disappeared because the calming influence he has on the players and crowd who spent long afternoons with their hearts in their mouths worrying whether Onana would have a good or disastrous game. Playing against Sunderland saw Lammens make two excellent saves during the match, one punched and the other caught which brought the crowd to their feet with an applause which was loud and encouraging. His distribution and passing are very good indeed.

Amad Diallo played an important part as a No10 last season but this time around Amorim is using him more as a wingback and he has developed a partnership down the right with Bryan Mbuemo. They look to Lammens to get them moving forward. Against teams who play on the front foot, Amorim might bring in Noussair Mazraoui or Diogo Dalot but against Sunderland his chosen pair passed to each other thirteen times and posed a real threat. Clearly what has gone wrong on the field lately is being sorted out on the training field but United are aware that the next game at Anfield will be a tough test.

**United owners say they are prepared to give Amorim three years to prove himself and get the club back in contention for top honours. Their next four games are against Liverpool, Brighton, Forest and Spurs and the coach will have to win at least two of those to prevent his future coming under scrutiny again. What I wonder is what would Barcelona, Real Madrid, PSG or Bayern Munich owners do if their clubs were placed 15th in the league like United?

What has gone wrong with Mo Salah?

During the past few seasons Erling Haaland and Mo Salah have battled for the Golden Boot. Haaland is once again in contention but Salah, since signing an extension to his contract, is out of sorts. What has happened to Liverpool’s goal scoring machine?

In the Chelsea game Mo was presented with three clear cut chances which in previous seasons would have put him on the scoresheet. On Sunday he sent the shots wide and high to the delight of the Chelsea supporters in the Shed End.

After spending £446million on new players during the summer, Liverpool still miss the creativity of Trent Alexander-Arnold and their midfield is not showing its usual quality in front of a shaky defence. However, Arne Slot’s biggest challenge is helping Salah to recover his mojo or has age finally caught up with the Egyptian wizard?

Last season Salah was involved in 57 goals, either scoring or assisting. So far, he has made three assists and scored three.

Recognising Mo’s lack of form, the manager dropped him to the bench for the Galatasary game. The first time Mo had not started since Slot joined the club.

Is Mo’s problem a knock-on effect from changes to the team and the absence of Alexander-Arnold’s creative moves behind him? Is it a change in Liverpool’s general playing approach?

Salah is backed up by Conor Bradley this season and is a more conventional right back who does his job well but rarely provides Mo with clear chances. Jeremy Frimpong is another who, like Bradley, will fly up the wing whereas Alexander-Arnold would move inside and either pass out to Mo or place the ball for him to run onto.

Mo used to wander into the centre more often than he does now because those spaces are usually occupied by Florian Wirtz and Mo is confined to creating his own chances on the wing. Liverpool are in desperate need for that to change and it is perhaps Slot’s fault that the potency of Salah is being hindered. You might ask if Liverpool needed Florian Wirtz given his lack of goals and the fact that he is preventing Mo from moving onto goal scoring positions.

Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike are also players Mo is not used to working with. Previously he operated effectively with deeper-lying forwards such as Luis Diaz and Roberto Firmino.

Mo has been criticised for not getting back to help in defence when Bradley gets into trouble and this was evident during the Chelsea game. These days he runs more slowly and tends to watch from upfield.

It is true that many coaches are not so worried about Salah these days and Chelsea’s left back Marc Cucurella was told by Enzo Maresca to leave Salah upfield and go in hunt of a goal himself and he assisted Estevao Willian’s winner.

Mo was on international duty this week but before that he was in the gym working on his usual punishing routine to keep his body in tip top condition but most of all he is trying to rebuild his strength and confidence and working out what has gone wrong.

City plan for the future

Pep Guardiola sat down with his staff and his director of football, Hugo Viana to plot out the future of his playing staff.

Tying down their younger talent was decided as the main strategy and as a result 21-year-old Savinho signed a new contract extension which keeps him at the Etihad until 2031. He was signed from sister club Troyes in 2024 for £30.8million.

This follows new deals for 20-year-old midfielder, Nico O’Reilly and 20-year-old full back Rico Lewis. City already have 23-year-old Jeremy Doku and 22-year-old Oscar Bobb tied down to long contracts.

When the older players eventually hang up their boots there would be plenty of young talents ready to step up and continue Pep Guardiola’s legacy.

Grealish goes for goal

Jack Grealish again shows what a talent he is. His late winner against high flying Crystal Palace was, he said after the game, thanks to coach David Moyes. Earlier in the week Moyes and his first assistant Andy Irvine had spent time working with Jack to encourage him to shoot for goal more often and to spend more time in the penalty area and not just concentrate on the wing. At half time with Everton one goal down, the Toffees players were all pointing their fingers at one another trying to find a way to beat Palace. Moyes took Grealish to one side and reminded him of their conversations and training from earlier in the week. Consequently, Jack was in the penalty area by the back post when Beto’s point-blank header was parried by Palace keeper Dean Henderson and Daniel Munoz’s half clearance went straight to Grealish who put the ball into the net. You could see how delighted Jack was as he ran towards his parents in the stands with arms wide open and a grin on his face.

In recognition of the International Day of the Girl Child, Folasade Agbeluyi, humanitarian and founder of the FOF Charity Organization, has renewed her call for sustained action to uplift, educate, and empower girls across Nigeria-especially those in vulnerable and underserved communities.

The International Day of the Girl Child, marked globally on October 11, highlights the unique challenges girls face and promotes their rights to education, health, safety, and equal opportunities. Folasade Agbeluyi, through her foundation, has been at the forefront of this mission-advocating for access to education, mentorship, menstrual health support, and protection from all forms of abuse.

‘At FOF Charity Organization, we believe every girl deserves the chance to dream, to learn, and to lead,’ said Agbeluyi. ‘Our work is focused on ensuring girls are seen, heard, and empowered to shape their futures and contribute meaningfully to society.’

Over the years, FOF Charity Organization has implemented a range of impactful programs, including school outreach initiatives, scholarship drives, sanitary pad distribution campaigns, vocational training, and counseling services for young girls and teenage mothers. The foundation operates across several local communities, targeting areas where girls are at risk of dropping out of school or becoming victims of early marriage, gender-based violence, or exploitation.

This year, in line with the global theme for the Day of the Girl Child, Agbeluyi is urging government bodies, civil society, corporate organizations, and communities to work collectively to close the opportunity gap for girls, especially in education and technology.

‘We must move beyond symbolic gestures and ensure policy and community-level interventions reach the girls who need them the most,’ she added. ‘When we invest in girls, we invest in the future of our nation.’

Folasade Agbeluyi’s vision is to build a society where every girl, regardless of her background, has the tools and support to thrive. As she continues to advocate for girls’ rights and development through FOF Charity Organization, she invites Nigerians from all walks of life to take active roles in championing the cause of the girl child-not just today, but every day.

The late journalist and former chairperson of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter, Mrs Stella Oko-Esene, has been described as a dedicated media professional.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, stated that the former NAWOJ chairperson was ‘a dedicated and passionate media professional whose contributions to the advancement of women journalists and the cause of ethical journalism will be remembered for years to come.’

In a statement by the secretary of council, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, the union noted that the death of the veteran journalist is a monumental loss to the journalism profession, particularly women who looked up to her as a trailblazer, mentor and advocate for gender equity in the newsroom and the society.

‘The NUJ, FCT Council is deeply pained by this loss. She was a pillar of strength and inspiration to many journalists, particularly the younger generation. Her leadership, courage and commitment to the ideals of truth and fairness in journalism remain exemplary.

‘Her death came at a time when her experience and wisdom are most needed in the ongoing efforts to strengthen professionalism and inclusivity in the Nigerian media landscape.

‘During her tenure as chairperson, she demonstrated uncommon passion, professionalism and commitment to advancing the cause of women journalists and promoting ethical journalism across the FCT and beyond,’ the statement reads.

Mrs Oko-Esene was also the treasurer of the South-South Media Professionals Forum (SSMPF).

An official of the Forum, Emmanuel Iriogbe, described the late journalist as a treasurer who carried out her duties diligently, to the best of her ability, as well as a pioneer member.

‘She will be sorely missed for her motherly role and advice. It is for us mortals to grieve the passing of a loved one but of God to grant eternal repose to the deceased,’ he said.

Oko-Esene fought many battles and came up victorious. The verdict of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, which in 2021 nullified her indefinite suspension as NAWOJ chairperson and awarded the sum of N500,000 in damages, is a case in point.

The media professional, who retired from the Federal Ministry of Information and joined the True Verdict, an online newspaper, passed away on Monday, October 6, 2025 at the National Hospital, Abuja after a protracted illness.

Aged 64, Oko-Esene hailed from Ubiaja, Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State.

To many of his fans across the globe, he is called OdumoduBlvck, Big Kala, or Modu. His songs carry a form of drill, rap, and what his fans call ‘Afro Violence.’ Starting his career from the streets of Abuja, Tochukwu Gbubemi Ojogwu’s story is one of firm commitment to belief and purpose, as he often says, he knew he was destined for greatness. In this feature, Weekend Trust narrates Odumodu’s climb to becoming one of the greatest artistes of his generation.

OdumoduBlvck isn’t your everyday Nigerian artiste. To many of his fans, he is considered a rare artiste whose music doesn’t just entertain but also tells one where he’s coming from, an insight into his faith, struggles, identity, and grind.

OdumoduBlvck was born on October 19, 1993, in Lagos, but his roots stretch all the way back to Anioma, Delta State. At the age of seven, Odumodu and his family relocated to Abuja, where his passion for music and views about the world began to take shape. At Christ the King College, Gwagwalada, he earned the nickname Odumodu, a name that would later deliver hits not just on local but global charts.

According to the artiste, he had always known he was destined to be great and didn’t shy away from the spotlight that awaited him. Modu said that his mother raised him on scripture and music, while his father gave him discipline and drive.

In an interview, he said, ‘I’m a covenant child. My mum had me at 39. God made me for something, I know that much.’

Odumodu first enrolled in Bowen University, where he expressed his dislike for the school’s strict rules and limited freedom, which led to him intentionally missing his first-year exams, earning a grade point of 0.01, and ultimately leaving the school. He later settled at the University of Lagos, where he earned his first degree.

After school, Odumodu’s artistry grind became more intense as he performed at school shows, cypher battles, and hostel parties, dropping singles as part of the Anti World Gangsters collective, a group of upcoming artistes in the capital city. His sound gave a feel of Afro drill mixed with influences from the eastern part of Nigeria. However, it wasn’t a sound that many were willing to embrace at the time.

In a Cool FM interview, the artiste once ridiculed how broke he used to be in those days. He said, ‘I used to sleep in people’s parlors. But I always knew I’d make it. I saw it in my dreams. God showed me tomorrow. I knew everything was gonna work out. I have made it, and I’m still making it.’

Odumodu’s luck changed for the better in 2022 when he signed to NATIVE Records, later partnering with Def Jam. His single Picanto featuring Zlatan and Ecko Miles gave him his first real chart presence, as the song peaked on Nigeria’s TurnTable Top 100.

However, the real fame came in 2023 with Declan Rice. The song didn’t just run through the charts, it flew. Even West Ham United captain Declan Rice expressed his joy as his name was suddenly on the lips of every Nigerian thanks to Odumodublvck. Not long after, with the song playing in the background, Arsenal announced the signing of Declan Rice in July 2023.

Odumodu himself did not let the hype die as he took to X (formerly Twitter) to post, ‘In the history of Nigerian hip-hop, no song has had more impact than Declan Rice. It’s the biggest digital asset Arsenal has ever had. Check it.’

After Declan Rice, it was more fire to flame for Odumodu. In October 2023, he released his mixtape under Def Jam Recordings titled EZIOKWU (written in capital letters). The album featured major hits including Blood on the Dance Floor featuring Bloody Civilian, Firegun with Fireboy DML, Kubolor, and many other hit songs. Blood On The Dance Floor was one of the top two tracks on the TurnTable Top 100 charts. At the same time, Eziokwu (Uncut) became the number one album on the TurnTable Official Top 50 Albums chart.

The artist went on to drop more singles within the year featuring Tiwa Savage and Shallipopi. Cast, his Shallipopi collaboration, grew into a club hit as the song, released in December 2023, remained on the charts until about February 2024.

In September 2025, Odumodublvck shared with his fans the title of his new album Industry Machine. Shortly before the announcement, he gained momentum with the release of his smash single Pay Me, featuring Zlatan and British rapper Stormzy.

Additionally, he teased fans with a sneak peek at the album’s tracklist and official cover, created by well-known artist and designer Slawn, who previously designed the artwork for Eziokwu. Wizkid, Davido, Giggs, Modenine, and many others were reportedly featured on the 23-track album.

Fans were thrilled as not only had he managed to collaborate with both Davido and Wizkid, who are said to be unspoken rivals, but he had also been able to work with international artists Skepta and Saweetie. It also explained the viral video of Saweetie and Odumodublvck working together in the studio in late December 2024.

However, in an interview days before the album’s release, the artist explained that neither Wizkid nor Davido charged him a penny for their contributions, stating that the Wizkid feature was even a gift to him.

He said, ‘Davido and Wizkid are real men. Both of them know they are on my album, but they are there by the special grace of God and on the virtue of the respect they have for my hustle because I didn’t pay them a dime. The song that Wizkid featured on is his song. He gave me the song. I didn’t record and send it to him, he gave me!’

The album officially hit the airwaves on October 5, 2025, and has since been trending on charts and radio stations. It currently occupies the number one spot on the Apple Music Nigeria Top Albums chart.

In an X post, Odumodublvck also shared a video of sports journalist and influencer Fabrizio Romano using his popular slogan ‘Here we go!’ to announce the album drop. ‘HERE WE GO!! INDUSTRY MACHINE, THE ALBUM. OUT NOW. AS PER. #FabrizioRomano,’ he wrote.

Since its release, the album has made noise on social media with many praising Odumodu for his enigmatic lines and show of skill. Fans have taken to X to share their favorite lines, tracks, and opinions of the highly anticipated project.

An X user, @lobarbeatz, wrote, ‘If your woman listens to @Odumodublvck_ and @BurnaBoy, understand that she’s filled with confidence and self-assurance. She’s not someone you can easily toy with, and with her by your side, the possibilities are endless.’

Another user, @Dimmyjhay200, said, ‘Wiz don oppress Modu for song, he say baba calm down. #INDUSTRYMACHINE #TheMachineIsComing.’

@6a6ayaga quoted a line from one of the songs, writing, ‘I don’t need you to grant me favors. Even bricklayer know my labor. Their defense in shamble, Titus Bramble. Oya now, OD you do this one!’

@Olamiilekon said, ‘@Odumodublvck_ is whoever he says he is; a top performer and a lyricist. #TheMachineIsComing.’

@afroshockerx added, ‘@Odumodublvck_ is really the machine. This is the first album we’re having Davido and Wizkid featured on. #TheMachineIsComing.’

Speaking to Weekend Trust, a loyal fan of Odumodu from his early days, Raymond Zagi, said that although he initially felt Odumodu’s sound was too abrasive, he grew to become one of his favorite artists.

‘I first heard of Odumodu from an Abuja artist called Reeplay,’ he said. ‘At the time, they had just come together to form Anti World Gangsters, and I’ll be honest, Odumodu’s sound came off as noisy. But once I settled into his music and lyrics, I was hooked.’

Zagi describes Industry Machine as one of Odumodu’s best works of art. ‘The new album is madness,’ he said. ‘I’ve been locked in on it for two days straight. Permit me to say, I think this is his best album so far. It’s too good that I’m yet to decide my favorite track.’

However, with great power and fame comes great responsibility. Just like many artists, Odumodu’s popularity isn’t just about his songs, his bold character has also caused him to be involved in a few controversies in the industry.

In 2023, he came under heavy fire as many accused him of being a misogynist after the release of Cast, where a lyric about ‘wigs and handbags’ was seen as demeaning to women. He denied the claims, insisting his words were being twisted for clout.

In May 2023, Odumodublvck revealed on X that he had declined an invitation to perform at the presidential inauguration of Nigeria’s 16th president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the accompanying Renewed Hope Concert. ‘They tried to get me to perform at the inauguration,’ he tweeted. ‘They didn’t do their research.’

Earlier that year, Odumodublvck had publicly shown his support for Peter Obi, the Labour Party candidate, referencing him in the second verse of his song Vex with the line, ‘I dey hope on Peter Obi to save me.’ He even jokingly described himself as Peter Obi’s running mate in several social media posts.

At the 2025 Headies Awards, Odumodublvck’s mic was cut mid-speech reportedly for going overtime. However, he claimed it was because he began speaking about Jesus Christ. The artiste later said, ‘If I said Sanwo-Olu, they wouldn’t cut it.’ Fans rallied behind him, calling it another example of his voice being silenced.

In his walk to fame, he has also locked horns with fellow artists and industry figures.

Once, veteran singer Jaywon accused him of arrogance, to which Odumodublvck responded that ‘OGs’ just hate seeing the new wave shine. Another time, he called out label executives for exploiting artists and accused the industry of stream farming, inflating numbers to fake success.

Over the course of building his career, Odumodublvck has earned multiple awards and nominations. At the 2025 Headies, he took home the awards for Best Rap Single and Next Rated Artist. In 2024, he secured the Headies for Best Rap Single and Rookie of the Year. He also won Artist of the Year at the 2025 Leadership Awards.

At 31, Odumodublvck is both an artist and a force. With lyrics expressing profanity, faith with rebellion, and wisdom with wildness, he aims to show that he’s not a saint, and that in an age of filtered perfection, he will remain the flawed voice shouting truth from the stage.