Seyi Shay reflects on friendship, mentorship with Wizkid

Singer Deborah Oluwaseyi Joshua, known professionally as Seyi Shay has opened up about her close working relationship with Afrobeats sensation Wizkid, shedding light on the mentorship and friendship that developed through their early collaborations.

She disclosed that they had worked together on several projects, including her song Crazy and one of Wizkid’s tracks, adding that she also provided backing vocals on some of his other records.

‘I did ‘Crazy’ with Wizkid. I featured him on the song and he featured me on one of his songs. I also did backing vocals for a couple of his other songs then.

‘We became genuine friends,’ she recalled.

Speaking on her admiration for his artistry, Seyi Shay said: ‘I realised that he is actually so smart and so talented. I have actually seen him record while eating, and that was mad to me. I don’t know where he gets his inspiration from. He is like a magician, and I am heavily attracted to people with such levels of talent. My spirit, my soul, everything resonates with people that are inhumanly talented.’

She also mentioned that beyond music, Wizkid was supportive and often gave her helpful advice about the entertainment industry.

‘He used to advise me a lot and used to tell me how people behave in this industry,’ she added.

Seyi Shay expressed profound admiration for Wizkid’s artistic brilliance, highlighting the authentic friendship and mentorship that have significantly shaped her musical journey.

How ‘Pour You Spit’ turned Radiogad into viral sensation

With nearly a million followers across Instagram and Facebook, Destiny Ezeyim, widely known as Radiogad or Brainiac the Radiogad, has carved a unique niche in Nigeria’s fast-evolving digital space. His sharp observations, deep radio-trained voice, and daring commentary style have earned him both loyal fans and formidable critics. But what truly sets him apart is his unapologetic signature style: ‘pour you spit.’

The phrase, which he uses to describe his raw, unfiltered, and often provocative delivery, has become synonymous with his brand. For him, provocation is not recklessness; it’s a deliberate strategy to capture attention in a noisy digital ecosystem.

‘Nigerians connect with raw energy when you say it as it is, no sugarcoating,’ he explained. ‘My delivery is confident, firm, and sometimes provocative, because provocation makes people listen to issues they would otherwise ignore.’

At its core, Pour You Spit is social commentary disguised in metaphorical clothing. It is art rooted in grime but polished with wit. Radiogad’s delivery was not just about sound; it was about spectacle, the very act of framing his ideas as ‘spit’ created a visceral reaction online. Audiences weren’t just listening; they were tasting the rawness of his truth, feeling the sting of words that refused to be swallowed.

What followed was a digital wildfire. Clips from Pour You Spit spread across TikTok and Instagram like an uncontainable chain reaction. Memes were made, parodies followed, and hashtags trended. In an era where virality often thrives on shock value, Radiogad offered something deeper: he gave audiences an image so raw, so symbolic, it could not be ignored.

This bold approach has made him a viral force, though not without controversy. Radiogad has found himself in the middle of heated online feuds with celebrities such as Angela Okorie and Blessing CEO. But unlike creators who avoid conflict, he leans into it carefully.

‘I rely on verifiable sources, interviews, public statements, social media posts from the people involved, sometimes even court documents,’ he said. ‘I don’t defame; I present the facts, show my sources, and let people decide.’

His rise didn’t happen overnight. A graduate of Political Science from Tansian University, Radiogad started his journey in radio at the young age of 16. He credits his academic training with sharpening his understanding of society, communication, and the power of voice. Transitioning into digital content, he found a platform where freedom and reach outpaced traditional media. ‘It gave me more freedom and a wider reach,’ he recalled.

But with visibility comes pressure. Brainiac acknowledges that backlash, misinformation, and online abuse are constant challenges. Still, he has developed a mindset to cope.

‘The key is to have a thick skin, but not a cold heart,’ he advised. ‘You have to care enough to put in good work, but not let every insult derail you.’

Beyond the drama and provocation, he sees himself first as a storyteller. For him, every piece of content is part of a larger narrative. ‘Storytelling is everything; that emotional connection is what keeps people listening,’ he said.

Today, Radiogad juggles multiple roles as a digital creator, radio personality, event host, and actor. Looking ahead, he envisions a Nigerian content industry that leans into podcasts, live interactive sessions, and immersive storytelling formats that allow creators to deepen their bond with audiences. He is also keen on monetization and sustainability, emphasizing the need to stay adaptable.

‘My plan is to keep learning, collaborating with innovators, and keeping my content authentic, even as production quality improves,’ he shared.

For the bubbly media personality, the journey so far has been marked by consistency, humility, and resilience, qualities he believes will carry him even further.

Yet it’s his fearless decision to ‘pour you spit’ that has turned him from a radio kid into a viral sensation and one of Nigeria’s most talked-about digital commentators.

Lagos honours Adekunle Gold, names street after him

Afrobeats singer Adekunle Gold has received a lasting honour in his hometown of Lagos, with a street named after him – ‘Adekunle Kosoko Street.’

The recognition celebrates his outstanding contributions to the Nigerian music industry and his influence on the country’s cultural landscape.

Expressing gratitude, Adekunle Gold shared, ‘Adekunle Kosoko Street. The city that raised me now carries my name. Thank you Lord for my many blessings.’

This milestone follows the successful release of his latest album, ‘FUJI,’ which has further cemented his reputation as one of Afrobeats’ most versatile and soulful voices.

Born Adekunle Almoruf Kosoko on January 28, 1987, the award-winning singer, songwriter, and performer has built a decade-long career defined by creativity and consistency.

His music, known for its rich storytelling and emotional depth, often touches on themes of love, relationships, and social issues, resonating with fans across the world.

Over the years, Adekunle Gold has collaborated with top artists, won numerous awards, and continues to be celebrated as a trailblazer in the global Afrobeats movement.

Insecurity: Senate set to tackle US over ‘Christian Genocide’ label on Nigeria

Barring any last-minute changes, the Senate will on Tuesday debate a motion aimed at correcting what it described as ‘dangerous misrepresentations’ of Nigeria’s security challenges being portrayed internationally as a campaign of ‘Christian genocide.’

The motion, titled ‘Urgent Need to Correct Misconceptions Regarding the Purported ‘Christian Genocide’ Narrative in Nigeria and International Communities,’ is sponsored by Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (Borno South) and co-sponsored by Senators Sani Musa (Niger East), Magatakarda Wamako (Sokoto North), Ibrahim Bomai (Yobe South), and Ahmed Aliyu Wadada (Nasarawa West), among others.

According to a draft copy of the motion sighted in Abuja, the lawmakers expressed concern over the ‘increasing circulation of misleading narratives’ in local and international media, suggesting a systematic extermination of Christians in Nigeria.

While acknowledging the tragic and unacceptable attacks suffered by Christian communities in parts of the country, the senators noted that the ongoing violence has affected citizens of all faiths – Christians, Muslims, and adherents of other religions alike.

They warned that portraying the nation’s security crisis in purely religious terms could inflame sectarian tensions, distort global understanding of Nigeria’s challenges, and undermine national unity.

The motion reads, ‘The Senate: Aware that Nigeria is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious nation whose unity and stability depend on mutual understanding, responsible communication, and accurate representation of facts;

‘Concerned about the increasing circulation of narratives-both within and outside Nigeria-alleging an ongoing ‘Christian genocide’ in the country, which have been amplified by certain foreign media outlets, advocacy groups, and religious networks;

‘Further concerned that these narratives, though emotive, often fail to reflect the complex realities of Nigeria’s security challenges and may fuel sectarian mistrust, distort international perceptions, and undermine national cohesion and Nigeria’s diplomatic relations;

‘Notes that Nigeria has in recent years faced serious security challenges, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, communal conflicts, and targeted attacks, which have affected citizens across various religious, ethnic, and regional backgrounds, resulting in loss of lives and property among both Christian and Muslim communities;

‘Notes that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) guarantees freedom of religion, equal protection of the law, and obliges the government to secure the lives and property of all citizens, irrespective of faith or ethnicity;

‘Recognises the critical role of accurate information and responsible leadership in preventing sectarian division and countering extremist narratives;

‘Worried about the recent events in the US Senate and Congress, where they have taken initiatives to designate Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern,’ which is a foreign policy tool to target human rights or religious freedom violations.’

The lawmakers would be praying the Senate to: ‘Reject the blanket characterisation of Nigeria’s security crises as a ‘Christian genocide,’ and affirm that the ongoing conflicts are rooted in complex socio-economic, ethnic, criminal, and terrorist dynamics which cut across religious lines.

‘Urge the federal government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Security agencies, and relevant stakeholders, to intensify data-driven public communication by providing accurate casualty figures, context, and investigative outcomes to counter misinformation.

‘Call on religious leaders, civil society organisations, and the Nigerian media to exercise restraint and responsibility in their public statements and reporting, avoiding language that could inflame sectarian tensions or misrepresent the national situation.

‘Encourage diplomatic missions, especially the US Embassy, International organisations, and foreign media to rely on verified, balanced, and credible sources-including Security agencies, local communities, and independent observers-when reporting on religiously sensitive issues in Nigeria.

‘Mandate the Senate Committees on Foreign Affairs, Information, National Security, and Intelligence; and any relevant committee as may be deemed appropriate) to:

‘Work with the Executive to develop a coordinated national communications strategy to clarify misinformation on religious violence;

‘Engage the US Senate and Congress; International partners and Diaspora networks through official briefings and fact-based publications to correct misconceptions;

‘Support interfaith peacebuilding programmes that emphasise shared victimhood and national unity.

‘Urge the Federal Government to ensure justice and accountability for all victims of violent attacks-whether Christian, Muslim, or otherwise-to address impunity and rebuild public confidence in state institutions.’

If adopted, the Senate’s resolutions are expected to form the basis of a coordinated diplomatic and public information effort aimed at correcting international opinions about religious violence in Nigeria.

The United States recently expressed ‘deep concern’ over the persistent violence targeting Christians and other vulnerable groups in Nigeria, urging the government in Abuja to take stronger measures to protect its citizens from terrorist attacks.

The statement followed remarks by American comedian Bill Maher, who highlighted the growing number of Christians killed by extremist groups, including Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa.

In a statement to Newsweek, the US State Department confirmed it had repeatedly raised the issue with the Nigerian government at the highest levels.

Maher recently cautioned Western media for ignoring what he described as the ongoing genocide against Christians in Nigeria.

Speaking on his HBO show Real Time with Bill Maher on Friday, September 26, Maher accused news outlets and political elites of deliberately staying silent while Boko Haram, Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP), and Fulani militias slaughter Christians and raze churches across Nigeria.

‘Nigeria, the fact that this issue has not gotten on people’s radar, it’s pretty amazing,’ Maher said. ‘If you don’t know what’s going on in Nigeria, your media sources suck. You are in a bubble.’

The comedian, who is an outspoken critic of religion but often uses his platform to highlight uncomfortable truths, compared the violence to a full-scale genocide.

‘I’m not a Christian, but they are systematically killing the Christians in Nigeria. They’ve killed over a hundred thousand since 2009. They’ve burned 18,000 churches. These are the Islamists, Boko Haram. This is so much more of a genocide attempt than what is going on in Gaza. They are literally attempting to wipe out the Christian population of an entire country,’ he said.

During the show, U.S. Congresswoman Nancy Mace (Republican, South Carolina) thanked Maher for raising the alarm, stressing that the media had failed to cover the crisis with the urgency it deserves.

Nigerian Govt Debunks ‘Christian Genocide’ Reports

However, the Nigerian Government has dismissed reports suggesting that terrorists in Nigeria are carrying out a systematic genocide against Christians, describing such claims as ‘false, baseless, despicable, and divisive.’

In a statement, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described portraying Nigeria’s security challenges as a targeted campaign against a single religious group as ‘a gross misrepresentation of reality.’

The minister stressed that terrorist groups target people of all faiths.

‘The violent activities of terrorist groups are not confined to any particular religious or ethnic community. These criminals target all who reject their murderous ideology, regardless of faith. Muslims, Christians, and even those who do not identify with any religion have suffered at their hands,’ he said.

Don seeks govt investment in mathematical science

The immediate past Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) and distinguished Mathematics scholar at the University of Ibadan, Prof. Ezekiel Olusola Ayoola, has urged the Federal Government to invest in mathematical sciences.

He said mathematical science remains foundation for emerging technologies.

Speaking at his retirement valedictory and birthday lecture, Ayoola urged Nigeria to make long-term investments in mathematics and education if the country hopes to compete with developed nations globally.

Delivering a lecture titled: ‘The closing and the opening doors: An account of my experience of my academics, administrative and spiritual experiences’ at the Trenchard Hall, University of Ibadan,’ Ayoola lamented widespread ignorance among some top ruling elites and technocrats about the value of mathematical knowledge in national development, which according to him has contributed to the poor recognition and funding of basic mathematical research in Nigeria.

Pointing to the complete omission of mathematical sciences from direct funding in the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) thematic research priorities, Ayola contrasted Nigeria’s approach with that of the US National Science Foundation and leading European and Asian agencies, which invest heavily in mathematics.

He said: ‘Mathematical principles are foundational to the development and application of countless existing and emerging technologies. Mathematics underpins algorithms, data analysis, artificial intelligence, quantum information science, quantum computing, optimization, modeling, and simulation, all essential for innovation and efficiency across various sectors.’

The former Head of the Department of Mathematics emphasised that mathematical tools are not just supplementary but are the very foundation upon which modern technologies are built.

Ayoola also challenged young scholars to explore cutting-edge interdisciplinary fields such as quantum information science and quantum computing, describing these areas as revolutionary and rapidly advancing.

He expressed deep concerns over Nigeria and Africa’s, lag in developing robust capacities in these critical fields.

Citing corruption, under-investment and poor treatment of scholars, Ayoola lamented that such setbacks have hindered progress.

He also faulted the lack of visionary leadership passionate about science and mathematical research.

‘No nation can achieve technological development without a solid foundation in mathematics,’ he warned, urging that ‘long-term planning and investment’ are essential to reap the benefits of emerging advanced technologies.

A former Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Abel Idowu Olayinka lauded Prof. Ayoola as a hardworking and dedicated scholar, congratulating him on his retirement and wishing him a peaceful post-academic life.

In her remarks, the immediate past Deputy Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Baiyeroju described Ayoola as honest, open, and trusted, noting his tireless efforts in both administration and academics, as well as his mentorship in showcasing the beauty of mathematics to younger generations.

BBNaija star Phyna congratulates Imisi, says she deserves victory

Reality TV star and former Big Brother Naija winner, Phyna, has congratulated Imisi, the newly crowned winner of BBNaija Season 10, which concluded on Sunday, October 5, 2025.

Taking to her X (formerly Twitter) account, Phyna revealed she had been supporting Imisi throughout the season, describing her as her ‘top pick.’

‘In the midst of all, Imisi has been my top pick!!!! Congratulations, my authentic winner. The street has made another queen,’ Phyna wrote.

Phyna, who gained fame for her vibrant and outspoken personality, won BBNaija Season 7: Level Up in 2022, becoming one of the most talked-about contestants in the show’s history. Despite mixed reactions to her win, she has since built a devoted fan base.

Imisi’s victory in the BBNaija Season 10 finale has continued to generate excitement across social media, with fans and former housemates celebrating her success.

Tinubu, Shettima step into Dangote-PENGASSAN dispute

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima have waded directly into the ongoing dispute between the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, warning that nothing must be allowed to disrupt the operations of the $20 billion facility.

Representing President Tinubu at the opening of the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit (NES #31) in Abuja on Monday, Vice President Shettima described Alhaji Aliko Dangote as ‘not just an individual, but an institution,’ and urged labour unions to exercise restraint and seek peaceful dialogue in addressing industrial issues involving the refinery.

According to Shettima, ‘Aliko Dangote is not just an individual. He’s an institution and the leading light in Nigeria’s economic development. How we treat this gentleman will determine how outsiders will judge us.’

He explained that the refinery – financed through a mix of equity, debt, and local and foreign bank loans – must remain operational to meet its financial obligations and sustain national economic stability.

‘The refinery has to function to service the debt,’ Shettima said. ‘We cannot hold the whole nation to ransom because of issues that we can amicably settle across the table.’

The Vice President stressed that Dangote’s decision to invest massively in Nigeria, rather than abroad, was an act of faith in the country’s future.

‘If he had invested $10 billion in Microsoft, Amazon, or Google, he might be worth $70 to $80 billion today. But he chose to invest in Nigeria, and we owe it to future generations to promote, preserve, and protect the interests of this very Nigerian,’ Shettima stated.

He called for ‘caution, introspection, and a sense of accountability from all the organized and independent private sector players’ to maintain industrial peace and a sustainable investment climate.

‘It’s not about holding the gold medal for ransom,’ he said. ‘Nigeria is greater than PENGASSAN; Nigeria is greater than every one of us. I’m not speaking as a partisan but as a Nigerian in search of solutions to our national challenges.’

The Vice President disclosed that the Federal Government has tasked the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) with providing policy recommendations to help resolve the issue and prevent future disruptions to strategic industries.

‘This is off-the-cuff,’ Shettima clarified, ‘but it reflects the true position of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian people.’

Turning to broader economic issues, Vice President Shettima said the government remains confident that Nigeria will overcome its current economic challenges through industrialization, infrastructure development, and human-centered policies.

‘As Nigerians, we are not condemned to low growth, high costs, and low trust,’ he said. ‘We will stabilize. We will industrialize. We will humanize our economy. We will stabilize prices and currency, and we will industrialize through power, logistics, and technology.’

He added that the administration is determined to ensure that governance serves every citizen.

‘We will humanize governance so that every citizen feels respected and served,’ he said. ‘Our priority remains restoring hope to the unemployed, the poor, the excluded, and the vulnerable.’

According to him, the government has created pathways for young Nigerians to access grants, loans, and equity investments of up to $100,000 to grow their enterprises, innovate, and build sustainable livelihoods.

He also announced a N200 billion intervention fund to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and manufacturers in overcoming structural challenges and enhancing competitiveness.

‘Our expansion of digital micro-loan access has improved financial inclusion, empowered small businesses, and stimulated community-level productivity,’ Shettima said.

On fiscal policy, the Vice President said the newly signed Tax Reform Act-which introduced the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Act, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Act-marks a major recalibration of the nation’s tax architecture.

‘These reforms will boost domestic revenue mobilization, reduce dependence on oil, and simplify compliance,’ he said. ‘They protect low-income earners, ensure fairness in corporate taxation, and strengthen digital innovation in tax administration.’

Shettima noted that infrastructure development remains central to the government’s growth agenda, with more than 440 road projects covering over 2,700 kilometres of highways and bridges currently under construction nationwide.

‘These investments are the address of national prosperity,’ he said. ‘They facilitate commerce and strengthen national unity.’

He also announced the launch of the Renewed Hope Ward-Based Development Programme, a grassroots initiative designed to empower citizens across all 8,809 wards in the 774 local government areas of Nigeria.

‘The programme seeks to map local economic activities, human capital, infrastructure, and resource endowment, ensuring no community is left behind,’ Shettima said. ‘Communities will directly influence planning and budgeting to ensure inclusivity and transparency.’

He called on state governments to align their development agendas with the Renewed Hope framework to ensure coordinated progress.

‘Our challenges are daunting but not insurmountable,’ he stated. ‘Our ticket to achieving inclusive and lasting prosperity is sound policies, strong partnerships, and the commitment of the private sector.’

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, said Nigeria’s next National Development Plan (NDP 2026-2030), guided by the Nigeria Agenda 2050, targets a $1 trillion GDP by 2030.

He said achieving this goal would require an average annual GDP growth rate of 8.78 percent, a 17.18 percent manufacturing contribution to GDP, and a 24.78 percent manufactured export share by 2030.

‘The process of developing the NDP 2026-2030 will be consultative, participatory, and inclusive,’ Bagudu said. ‘We will involve the private sector, state and local governments, political parties, civil society organizations, labour unions, and other key stakeholders.’

He explained that the Renewed Hope Ward-Based Development Programme would be one of the key focus areas of the summit, describing it as ‘an ambitious, people-centred initiative designed to uplift economically active citizens and ensure that ordinary Nigerians, particularly those at the grassroots, directly feel the positive impact of government reforms.’

In his remarks, NESG Chairman, Mr. Olaniyi Yusuf, said Nigeria must now move from economic stabilization to sustained transformation, embedding reforms that drive jobs, growth, and inclusion.

‘The challenge before us is to move decisively into the consolidation phase-turning fragile recovery into resilient, inclusive growth,’ Yusuf said.

He outlined seven priorities for consolidation: industrialization and enterprise growth; infrastructure development; investment attraction; fiscal sustainability; inclusion; institutional strengthening; and security.

‘Regulators, pseudo-regulators, and labour unions must all focus on promoting a positive investment climate that will attract and retain investors,’ he said. ‘A narrow focus on internally generated revenue at the expense of business growth will kill the goose that lays the golden eggs. Dead businesses don’t employ workers, they don’t pay salaries, and they don’t pay taxes.’

Yusuf urged the government to ensure that reforms translate into real improvements in the lives of ordinary Nigerians, saying, ‘If these priorities are achieved, consolidation will deliver broad-based growth and opportunity. Nigerians will then begin to feel that reforms are not just statistics, but real improvements in daily life.’

My BBNaija victory was for all young women – Mercy Eke

Reality TV star Mercy Eke has said her Big Brother Naija Season 4 victory represented a major triumph for young women everywhere.

In a recent interview with BellaNaija, Mercy explained that her win not only boosted her confidence but also inspired many women within and outside the reality TV space.

‘I came into the show prepared. I was ready. And when I won the show, I did it for all the young women who have been told that they can’t. I did it for all of us,’ she said.

Mercy, who became the first female winner of the BBNaija series in 2019, paved the way for other women such as Phyna (2022), Ilebaye (2023), and the recently crowned Imisi (2025).

She credited her confidence and preparation as key factors behind her historic victory.

MFM prophetic ministry holds 20th annual fire conference October 11

Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, Prophetic Ministry will hold its physical and virtual 2025 annual prophetic fire conference on Saturday October 11, 2025 with the theme ‘ Prophets and the secret of prophetic mantles’ at MFM International Headquarters , Main Auditorium, Onike, Lagos State.

The conference will feature Seminars/ workshops on prophetic ministration, Equipping end tine prophets, prophetic workshop and charting a prophetic destiny for our land.

The General Overseer of MFM Worldwide, Dr Daniel Kolawole Olukoya will be ministering live during the conference.

The conference, which is a gathering of prophets, prophetesses as well as other ministers of God worldwide, will unfold mysteries of the prophetic as led by the Holy Spirit through anointed men/women of God.

Members of the public especially children of God with prophetic gifts or those that desire office of the prophets , irrespective of their denomination are expected o attend.

Special prayers will be offered for a rebirth of Nigeria as well as Nations of the world .

Olukoya started the conference to raise Prophets that will be God’s mouth pieces and battle axes.

The Rector School of Prophets is the International Leader of the group.

JUST IN: Fire guts Rivers Secretariat

Fire has engulfed a section of the Rivers State Secretariat Complex in Port Harcourt destroying some property.

It was gathered that the inferno started at the ground floor of one of the tall buildings popularly called the Podium after the close of work and spread to the office of the newly constituted Rivers State Pension Board.

Sources said the fire started around 4pm and was reportedly caused by an electrical fault, though there was no casualty.

Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Information, Dr Honour Sirawoo, confirmed the incident saying fire fighters intervened immediately to stop the inferno.

Sirawoo said: ‘It was at the Podium Block of the State Secretariat, on the right side where the fire started from. But we are fortunate to have the State and the Federal Fire Service would intervened and did what they know best to arrest the situation.

Rivers Head of Service, Dr Inyinge Brown, confirmed that no life was lost saying she was happy that the recently rehabilitated State Fire Service was on ground to quench the fire.

She said: ‘We were informed that there was a fire incident at the right wing, ground floor of Podium Block and we immediately made calls to the River State Fire Service and they responded promptly.

‘We also called other partners of the state, such as the Renaissance, Federal Fire Service and the military who promptly sent their fire trucks. It’s a combined effort, and as we speak, you can see that the fire has been contained.

‘We thank God, and we thank His Excellency Sir Siminalayi Fubara for being proactive in rehabilitating the fire service before this time. If not for his investment in the Fire Service, this situation would have been worse’.

She added: ‘We urge all civil servants to take responsibility in safety. Put off our sockets and our lights. Not just putting off the sockets, but unplug to ensure

there is no residual charge because these buildings are heritage buildings and

we don’t want anything to happen to them’.