Category: Daily Trust

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, has assumed office.

Amupitan is currently holding meetings with Directors, National Commissioners, Staff of the Commission and members of the Press Corps, at the Headquarters in Abuja.

He was earlier Thursday sworn in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He succeeds Professor Mahmud Yakubu who had a tenure of two terms.

Head Coach Justine Madugu remains optimistic about Nigeria’s prospects in their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifying tie against Bénin Republic, despite a major setback with the withdrawal of key midfielder Jennifer Echegini.

The Paris Saint-Germain star sustained a hamstring injury during her club’s league match on Monday night, ruling her out of both legs of the final qualifying fixture.

Echegini, who netted Nigeria’s decisive goal in the 2024 WAFCON final against hosts Morocco in [oo1] Rabat, will miss the first leg on Friday at the Stade de Kégué, Lomé, and the return leg scheduled for Tuesday at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abuja. Her absence is a blow to the Super Falcons, but Madugu insists the team has enough depth to secure qualification.

Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, also of PSG, is expected to arrive in Lomé on Tuesday night alongside Osinachi Ohale and Chinwendu Ihezuo (Mexico), Michelle Alozie and Deborah Abiodun (USA), Esther Okoronkwo (Canada), and Shukurat Oladipo (Italy). The Falcons’ camp grew to 11 players on Monday night following the arrival of Christy Ucheibe (Portugal) and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, with Ashley Plumptre (Saudi Arabia) joining on Tuesday afternoon.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s U17 women’s team, the Flamingos, face a crucial task in their second FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Group D match against France, following a disappointing 4-1 loss to Canada in their opener. The fixture, scheduled for 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Football Academy Mohammed VI (Pitch 1) in Rabat, is pivotal to Nigeria’s survival hopes.

The clash revives memories of their 2012 quarter-final encounter in Azerbaijan, where France edged Nigeria 5-3 on penalties after a goalless draw. Currently bottom of the group with zero points and a -3 goal difference, the Flamingos must secure at least a draw to stay in contention, though victory would transform their campaign.

Coach Bankole Olowookere has urged his players to tighten their defence, maintain focus, and display resilience. ‘This is not just about tactics,’ he emphasized. ‘It’s about belief, redemption, and survival.’

Original inhabitants of the FCT have reiterated the need for greater advocacy regarding resettlement and adequate compensation for those whose land has been encroached upon or taken over by developers.

Godwin Arome Onoja, Program Manager for the Helpline Social Support Initiative, spoke at a one-day town hall meeting in Abuja, which focused on strengthening the rights of the FCT’s original inhabitants.

He briefed the participants on their last meeting with the FCT Administration (FCTA).

He explained that the town hall meeting was specifically convened to address the issue of resettlement and compensation, as it affects original inhabitants who continue to suffer marginalization through the confiscation of their ancestral land. Arome Onoja assured the audience that the government is committed to ensuring that all residents affected by resettlement receive fair and adequate compensation, noting that displacement can be very distressing.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has completed the delivery of all non-sensitive materials for the November 8, Anambra State governorship election.

The commission said arrangements for the distribution of sensitive materials are underway under tight security.

INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Mr Sam Olumekun, disclosed this on Tuesday during a media forum in Awka for editors, reporters, producers and on-air personalities.

Olumekun said the commission’s preparations reflect its commitment to conducting a credible, transparent and peaceful poll. Olumekun announced that Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) from the recent Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise would be available for collection between October 22 and 26, urging voters to collect theirs in person.

In a bustling metropolis like Los Angeles, navigating through the city’s notorious traffic and finding parking can be a daunting task. That’s where the services of a professional chauffeur come in handy. Whether you’re a busy executive, a celebrity, or simply someone who values comfort and convenience, hiring a chauffeur in LA offers numerous benefits that can make your life easier and more enjoyable.

Stress-Free Transportation

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Punctuality and Reliability

When you hire a professional chauffeur, you can expect punctuality and reliability. Chauffeurs are trained to be on time and to plan their routes efficiently, taking into account factors such as traffic conditions and road closures. This means you can count on arriving at your destination promptly, without the risk of being late due to unforeseen circumstances.

Luxury and Comfort

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Local Expertise

Professional chauffeurs in LA have extensive knowledge of the city’s roads, landmarks, and best routes. They can help you navigate the city efficiently, avoiding traffic congestion and construction zones. Additionally, they can offer recommendations for restaurants, entertainment venues, or other points of interest, making your stay in LA more memorable and enjoyable.

Safety and Security

When you opt for a professional chauffeur service, you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re in safe hands. Chauffeurs undergo rigorous background checks, are properly licensed, and are trained in defensive driving techniques. They also maintain their vehicles to the highest standards, ensuring that you travel in a well-maintained and secure environment.

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Time-Saving and Productivity

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In conclusion, hiring a professional chauffeur in LA offers a wide array of benefits that can greatly enhance your travel experience. From stress-free transportation and punctuality to luxury, comfort, and local expertise, a chauffeur service can provide you with the convenience, reliability, and peace of mind you need to make the most of your time in the city. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, considering the services of a professional chauffeur can be a smart investment in your comfort, safety, and overall well-being.

uper Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, has been shortlisted for the 2025 CAF Men’s Player of the Year Award, marking another milestone in his illustrious career.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Wednesday released a 10-man list of nominees, featuring some of the continent’s finest footballers.

Alongside Osimhen, the list includes Mohamed Salah of Egypt; Achraf Hakimi and Oussama Lamlioui of Morocco; Seydou Guirassy of Guinea; Fiston Mayele of Congo; Frank Anguissa of Cameroon; Denis Bouanga of Gabon; and Senegalese stars Ilimane Ndiaye and Pape Sarr.

Osimhen, who won the prestigious award in 2023, enjoyed another impressive season, leading Galatasaray to the Turkish Super Lig title with 26 league goals. His remarkable form earned him a record pound 75 million permanent transfer from Napoli to the Turkish champions.

In other categories, Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali has been nominated for the Goalkeeper of the Year award, where he will face competition from Yassine Bounou, Ronwen Williams, and Andre Onana.

Also on the honours list is Daniel Bameyi, captain of Nigeria’s Flying Eagles, who is among the contenders for the Men’s Young Player of the Year award.

CAF is expected to announce the winners at its annual awards ceremony later in the year._:

Johnvents Industries Limited, a subsidiary of Johnvents Group, one of Nigeria’s leading indigenous companies bridging the funding gap in Nigerias cocoa value chain has called for more investment in the sector for Nigeria to participate globally in the cocoa value chain.

In a statement yesterday, the firm noted that ‘Nigeria is the fourth-largest cocoa producer, contributing about 6.5% of global production according to the (NEPC), with 2024 export value of about N2.7 trillion. Despite this strong base, Nigeria still exports most of its cocoa in raw bean form, capturing limited value compared to peers with higher local processing capacity.’

It noted that this reality underscores the opportunity for integrated players to scale processing, improve traceability and unlock greater value domestically and globally.

‘Having operated within the cocoa value chain for over six years, the company has established itself as a trusted, growth-driven brand, deeply committed to quality, sustainability, and innovation.

‘Following the registration of its N30 billion commercial paper in 2022, Johnvents Industries has experienced exponential growth with revenues rising from N59 billion in 2022 to over N230 billion in 2024. This achievement reflects its expanding footprint, strategic foresight, and contribution to local value creation.

As global demand for cocoa and value-added derivatives continues to rise, Johnvents Industries remains steadfast in its mission to deepen Nigeria’s participation in the global cocoa economy while delivering value to stakeholders,’ it added.

The firm further stated that ‘Through continuous investments in processing capacity, sustainability initiatives, and strategic financing via the Nigerian Capital Markets, the company is not only advancing the nation’s cocoa story but also living its purpose of nourishing Africa and the World.’

The Nasarawa State House of Assembly has passed a bill seeking to increase the retirement age of judges in the state’s lower courts.

The bill covers magistrates, sharia court judges, customary court judges, and area court judges.

Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Danladi Jatau, announced the passage of the bill during Tuesday’s plenary in Lafia.

According to him, ‘A Bill for a Law to Provide for Magistrates, Sharia Court Sole Judges, Customary Court Sole Judges, Area Court Judges and Customary Court Judges Increase of Retirement Age Service Law, 2025, and Other Matters Connected Thereto,’ was read for the third time and passed.

Jatau explained that once assented to by Governor Abdullahi Sule, the law would raise the retirement age of the affected judges from 60 to 65 years.

MTN Nigeria yesterday announced plans to carry out a scheduled network maintenance exercise on Saturday, October 25, 2025.

The exercise is expected to temporarily disrupt connectivity across parts of Adamawa, Borno, and Kano States.

MTN explained that the two-hour maintenance window, from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., will affect 101 network sites across 15 Local Government Areas in the three states.

The telecom giant explained that the planned work is part of a long-term effort to improve service reliability and strengthen its fibre infrastructure in northern Nigeria.

The activity involves a fibre cutover on a newly relocated cable segment between AFCOT and Bawo Village, replacing previously damaged spans and reducing multiple joints that have affected optical performance and network stability.

Affected areas

MTN disclosed that the affected areas include Nasarawa LGA in Kano State; Girei, Song, Mubi North, Hong, Gombi, Fufore, Mubi South, Madagali, Michika, Maiha, Chibok, and Yola North in Adamawa State; as well as Askira/Uba and Shani in Borno State.

The company noted that services on 2G, 3G, 4G, and 10 enterprise connections will be unavailable during the maintenance window due to the linear and unprotected nature of the fibre route.

MTN said the intervention builds on an earlier network restoration exercise conducted in August 2025 along the same AFCOT-Bawo fibre route.

This next phase, it added, is a more comprehensive upgrade designed to eliminate long-term faults and ensure more stable connectivity for customers in the region.

While acknowledging that customers may experience temporary service disruptions, the company expressed regret over any inconvenience caused.

CONCERNED with the internal rivalry among leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano state, the Deputy Senate President, Distinguished Senator Barau I Jibrin, met with party juggernauts from Kano, in his office, at the National Assembly, yesterday Tuesday.

This, is just a fraction of his efforts towards mending fences among party leaders and members in recent time. I learned that, his covert efforts across the state have started yielding fruits, as some volunteer groups started going round in search of the soul of the party, not only in Kano, but across North West region.

I know of some professional platforms who, for the past few months, have been going round touching their other professional colleagues, searching for saner and healthier corridor for the victory of the party, APC, in Kano and at national level. All courtesy Senator Barau. In all the 44 local governments in Kano and across all the 7 states of the North West. We all know that he does not limit himself to North West alone. He also touches other communities across Nigeria.

Meaning, the Distinguished Senator is more concerned with the victory of the party, across the country, than his political future. Leadership by example. An embodiment of courage, commitment, honesty, genuine engagement, faith, political maturity, noiselessness and humility. DSP’s faith, loyalty and commitment towards President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and performance across all facets of his administration, are some of the reasons behind his (Barau) unwavering engagement.

On his official Facebook page, yesterday, Tuesday, Senator Barau disclosed that, ‘Earlier today, I received stalwarts of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), from Kano State, led by Malam Hamza Darma, in my office at the National Assembly in Abuja.’

Looking at the composition of those who participated in the meeting, as stakeholders, we can understand that, DSP’s commitment is unwavering, genuine, honest and with full force.

Amongst them were serving and former lawmakers, former local government chairmen, and party executives and many others.

He said, ‘Among the stakeholders were serving and former lawmakers, former local government chairmen, and party executives, among others.’

Genuine and open discussions centred around how to refocus, re-engineer and redefine faithful loyalty, patriotic commitment and energetic solidarity, for unity and survival of the party, as 2027 elections are inching closer. While his focus is beyond Kano, he still believes that, Kano’s unity within the party, is tantamount to unity of the party across other North West states. His intent is the overall strength and survival of the party in Kano, North West and the nation in general.

He noted on his page that, ‘The unity and success of our party took centre stage during the fruitful meeting, which lasted over an hour. We unanimously agreed that with unity, our party will continue to grow stronger and victorious in all elections. At all times, the success of our party and the welfare of our people are top on our agenda.’

For proper understanding of the move, that the meeting is part of the many plans and strategies designed to aid the survival of the party, not for his individual interest, he made it categorically clear to all the participants that, they were all on board to bring the flesh and the blood of the party together. Infusing new life of hope, hardwork, commitment, endearing foresight and united front.

He attests to this in his posting as he urged, ‘Join us on this train to move our state and country forward for the benefit of all.’

What is more fascinating and encouraging is the kind of comments, likes and shares he got few minutes after his post. At the time I examined that, he got Likes of over One Thousand Five Hundred (over1.5k), Comments of multitude of dozens and Shares of over One Hundred and Sixty (over 160).

The engagement alone gives a clue that many people within the rank and file of the party, are not happy with the unnecessary discord among leadership and among followership. The kind of praises Senator Barau gets from those who visited his page speaks volumes about how people are eager to see his political progress and development.

Some of the comments are quoted below. And all are free to go and visit his page and see how genuine are the quotations. We are in an advance stage of human development, where information is always confirmed to be accepted, for its truthfulness or rejected for its baselessness.

One Haroun Ukashatu says,

‘It was an immense pleasure to receive the esteemed APC stalwarts from Kano State, led by the dedicated Malam Hamza Darma. The diversity of the delegation, from lawmakers to grassroots executives, was a powerful testament to our party’s strength.

The wisdom of the late Speaker Tip O’Neill that ‘all politics is local’ was vividly embodied in this meeting. Malam Darma and his team represent that crucial grassroots foundation, reminding us that true and lasting victory is built from the ground up, in our local communities. This is the unity that will propel our party and our people forward. I remain one of your foundational ambassadors in the movement.’

For Abdurrahman Aminu, he accepts that, ‘Actually this is what I have been harboring since before now. There should be unity and concerns for party members who sacrifice their energies for the party to grow. But unfortunately a lot of us were sidelined due to the fact that we don’t have Godfathers who can cater for our interest. I do hope the meeting will reshape the mindset and also send a signal to anyone who foresees politics as a one man show.’

Another commentator called Eedrith Basheer, praises,

‘Thank you so much sir for your courage and dedication,’ while

Dan Amanar Baffah Alasan, adds up ‘Maliya ba’a ganin karshen ki Allah Ya kara lafiya da Nisan kwana,’ meaning ‘Maliya with no limit, no end. Wishing you more health and prosperity.’ Maliya means Sea, is the political nickname of the Senator in Kano, that his generosity is limitless.

Ya’u Hassan Gambo, noted and prayed that, ‘Good evening Sir. How is the work Sir. Then my next GOVERNOR in kano In Sha Allahu 2027,’ As Aminu Lawal prayed,

‘Allah Ya Yi maka gwamnan Kano daga masoyinka aminu Aminu Lawal daga Malumfashi Katsina state. (meaning may Allah make you the Governor of Kano state. From your ardent well wisher Aminu Lawal from Malumfashi, Katsina state).’

An association called Officers Maliya Karari, simple put it this way, ‘Masha Allah DSP,’ meaning, we thank God, for our Deputy Senate President.’ Another platform called Hasken Kano Ta Arewa, said ‘Good job Sir,’ While Akilu Ishaq Abbas, submissively said, ‘Barau I. Jibrin Barau I. Jibrin the bulldozer.’

Danlami Shu’aibu describes the commitment as, ‘ A remarkable effort,’ as Abubakar Badamasi Karofee, said, ‘The Best senator,’

Justice Rabilu Haruna prays,

‘Allah Ya Yi maka gwamnan Kano, (meaning may Allah make you the Governor of Kano state,’ and Al’Ameen Amjeed Bebeji described him as ‘Alhamdulillahi Sanatan Sanatocin Arewa, (meaning, All Praises be to Allah, the Senator of all Northern Senators).

For IBB Ibrahim, who acknowledged that, ‘Kowa ya bi ka bai bi kaho ba Maliya, (meaning you are reliable to be followed Maliya),’ as Abdullahi Malam Kunya said, ‘Masha Allah always we are together Sir Barau Maliya for Governor Kano 2027 In Sha Allah,’ Abdulladif Yakasai happily said, ‘Barakallah APC one family.’ (meaning, Alas here comes a warner against corruption, a new groom. Lie banishes when he shows up. We are solely behind truth with Maliya as our guide. Abdullahi Salisu Maisudan, our leader is also around live and direct, generous and good at all time. We all belive in Maliya, who can deliver and get us to the promised land.’

Another well wisher called Solomon Istifanus, prayed for the DSP, ‘God protect you from your enemies and give you success amen.’ Another good thing about the DSP’s yesterday’s meeting with those attendees is how spread the composition was the political spectrum they represent. I spotted legislators current and former, former local government chairmen, elders, technocrats and youth.

What was discussed in the meeting gave us a clear testimony that, Barau’s style isn’t a jamboree – looking political gathering. As against what we saw in recent times in some quarters within the APC. Though there were few meetings recently and some going on currently as others are in the pipeline, that are not, in any way, fake. But this type of meeting is very rare, at all levels of the party.