Category: Nigerian Tribune

Former senator and member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ben Murray-Bruce, has officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring his confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership and reform agenda.

In a statement on Wednesday, Murray-Bruce said his decision was driven by his belief that President Tinubu is leading the country in the right direction.

‘I have known President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu since 1998. I know the man’s mind, his courage, and his conviction. He is not driven by applause; he is driven by results. And today, I can boldly say to you that he is on the right track,’ he said.

He commended Tinubu’s economic and infrastructural policies, noting that the president’s understanding of finance has positioned the country for long-term prosperity.

‘For the first time in our nation’s history, we have a President who truly understands finance, who sees the economy not as a political slogan, but as a living organism that must be disciplined, deregulated, and allowed to breathe,’ he said.

The former lawmaker described the current reforms as necessary for building a free-market economy that rewards innovation and productivity.

‘The painful reforms we face today are the very foundation of tomorrow’s prosperity. We are moving into a free-market economy, one that rewards hard work and innovation instead of dependency and distortion,’ he stated.

Murray-Bruce also highlighted improvements in security, economic management, and foreign policy under the Tinubu administration.

‘Look around you: under this administration, the appointment of the National Security Adviser has redefined our national safety architecture. Insecurity is being quietly and systematically dismantled. The Central Bank, now professionally steered, is stabilizing the economy, rebuilding confidence, and restoring the dignity of the naira,’ he said.

He added that the government’s deregulation of the fuel sector and infrastructural drive were transforming the nation’s economy.

‘Our foreign policy is again respected. Our fuel supply is deregulated. We will never again live through the humiliation of fuel scarcity. The numbers are beginning to speak, investments are returning, and the world is watching Nigeria rise again,’ he noted.

Murray-Bruce said his decision to join the ruling party was motivated by a commitment to national progress rather than political ambition.

‘That is why today, I am joining the All Progressives Congress (APC), not for politics, but for progress. Because I believe that Bola Tinubu’s leadership, guided by courage and intellect, will deliver the Nigeria we have all dreamed of.’

He expressed optimism that the country would achieve remarkable growth under Tinubu’s leadership.

‘Mark my words: in the full term of eight years, Nigeria will witness phenomenal growth. I choose to stand with that vision. I choose to stand with reform. I choose to stand with the future.’

TO say that Lekan Alabi is a famous professional in the media world is an understatement. He is an asset.

In the foreword to this book, Media, Governance and Culture, legendary broadcaster, Chief Julie Coker, aptly described him as one ‘whose name and influence cut so seamlessly across the triad of media, governance, and culture.’

Many still recall Alabi’s strokes as a bilingual Society and Culture columnist with the Sketch newspaper in Dugbe; his big interviews and television years with NTA Agodi, TSOS, and later BCOS, Ibadan; his commanding presence on the social circuit in full Yoruba regalia; and his strategic roles at the Governor’s Office, Agodi, Ibadan, where he served as Principal Staff to both democratic and military administrations-from Uncle Bola Ige, the Cicero of Esa-Oke, to Colonels Oladayo Popoola, Adetunji Olurin, and Sasaenia Oresanya.

Indeed, he embodied an unusual immersion in two contrasting cultures of governance.

Alabi was also a pioneer of Public Relations as a management practice at the O’dua business conglomerate, where he proved himself to be far more than a mere publicist.

Now to the work itself-Media, Governance and Culture-anchored by Dr Rasaq Akinyemi, a young mediapreneur of Okeho and Ibadan heritage, known for honouring accomplished media leaders. This is his second festschrift: the first honoured Professor Ralph Akinfeleye of the University of Lagos at his retirement; this one celebrates Oloye Alabi at 75.

Traditionally, a festschrift is a collection of academic essays written by colleagues or mentees to honour a scholar at a milestone. While Alabi is not an academic in the formal sense, his prolific publications-over 30 works, including a documentary (Inside Source) on Governor Bola Ige and another -clearly qualify him for such recognition.

Media, Governance and Culture, a 284-page, two-part volume, is a collection of contributions by fourteen academics, including four professors of media studies and education.

Part One examines the intertwining of media, governance, and culture-highlighting both possibilities and contradictions in Nigeria’s socio-political life. Here, media is envisioned as watchdog, governance as a Western-imported framework, and culture as the symbolic foundation of legitimacy. But these elements rarely align neatly; they interact dynamically, producing hybrid forms of democracy, accountability, and cultural expression.

This part is themed into four sections: Media, Democracy and Governance (A) covering Nigerian media and elections; engagement, ethics and safety; Watchdog media, public amnesia and fizzing of political discourse; Using solution journalism to redefine the role of the media in a democratised Nigeria. These are thoughtful academic reviews.

Social Media and Youth Activism (B) covers National security in the context of social media and youth activism in Nigeria, a reflection on the Nigerian Nigerian youth activism through Twitter ( now X); Influence of social media on newspaper consumption patterns among undergraduates of Lead City University, Ibadan. Check the #EndSARS revolt and get sense.

Media, Human Rights and Global Perspectives (C) which looks at : Media and the protection of human rights: Analysing the watchdog role of Nigerian newspapers; Foreign media assistance to Nigeria and the question of media imperialism. Here you look at content and context of media practices in Nigeria and the influence of the western orientation and the quality of journalism practice in Nigeria. We are a product of our history.

Communication, Culture and Education (D) that dwell on Public relations for governance, Power relations and conflict management in a multicultural society; Investigating the importance of culturally responsive teaching practices, fostering diversity and inclusions in education.

Highlights include: A sober reflection on the Nigerian media’s inability to fully free itself from prebendal politics, with a call for a shift from problem-saturated reporting to solution journalism.

The disruptive impact of social media as a democratising force and an alternative to traditional gatekeepers.

A critical look at foreign aid to media institutions, warning against uncritical adoption of foreign values and dependence.

The recognition of Public Relations as a potential mediator of Nigeria’s governance contradictions, through strategies like stakeholder mapping, intercultural dialogue, and storytelling.

Of special importance is the emphasis on culturally responsive education: teaching that values students’ cultural backgrounds and leverages them as assets for learning, engagement, and leadership.

This festschrift is, therefore, not just celebratory but scholarly. It will serve students, academics, policy-makers, and media practitioners alike.

Finally, the icing on the cake: Part two, which in my view qualifies as the biographical section-Oloye Lekan Alabi on the Scroll. Here, Oloye Alabi either in press interviews, speeches, lectures or excerpts of different narrations, provides insight into his own story: his birth and lineage here in Ibadan and EmureEkiti, education, career, marriage and family, triumphs, politics of a non partisan operator, challenges, and legacy. For me, you have a sense of an authentic memoir-detailed, illustrated, engaging, and inspiring. From his pioneering days as Nigeria’s first bilingual columnist in a national daily to his service under both democratic and military regimes, Alabi connects history with destiny in ways that illuminate and inspire.

For those less inclined to academic discourse, this section is an accessible and compelling read.

In conclusion, while Media, Governance and Culture might demand patience in its early chapters, it is a worthy festschrift-a thoughtful tribute to a deserving icon. I recommend it wholeheartedly to scholars, practitioners, students, and all who are interested in the interplay of media, governance, culture, and the life of a role model.

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s foreign reserves through an innovative gold acquisition program that eliminates the need for dollar sourcing.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Oladele Alake, disclosed this at the ongoing 10th edition of the Nigeria Mining Week in Abuja.

According to Dr. Alake, the program which began in August and is being driven by the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF) is designed to use locally mined gold to boost the country’s foreign reserves, thereby reducing pressure on the naira and the demand for foreign currency.

‘This initiative allows us to purchase gold from local artisanal miners using naira, instead of sourcing dollars to buy gold internationally,’ the minister said.

‘Once the gold is acquired, it is added directly to the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) foreign reserves. It’s one of the fastest ways to reflect growth in our reserves,’ he added.

He noted that because the gold is mined locally, there is no need to spend scarce foreign exchange, making it a strategic solution to multiple economic challenges.

‘The program also supports local employment and economic activity, as miners and workers are paid in naira and spend within the local economy,’ he stressed.

‘In 2025, we are allocating even more funds to this program. The President has shown strong confidence in its potential by approving substantial budgetary support,’ Alake stated.

He stressed that the government’s determination to pursue the gold initiative ‘with vigor and assiduity,’ noting that it is one of the most effective strategies available to enhance Nigeria’s economic stability.

The minister also hinted at plans to propose a policy that could bar local schools from charging tuition in foreign currency, reinforcing the broader agenda to reduce dollar dependency in the domestic economy.

In her remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF) Mrs Fatima Shinkafi highlighted key lessons learned from the African Finance Corporation (AFC)-backed mining facility.

‘We underestimated the level of unpreparedness and misalignment within the sector. Many jump into mining thinking it’s a quick win, but it’s a serious business that requires serious science, funding, and long-term commitment.’ she noted.

She emphasised that while SMDF did not require collateral or feasibility studies from applicants, even pre-feasibility was a challenge for many.

‘Too often, people are speculating chasing licenses based on rumors like ‘there’s gold behind my grandfather’s backyard.’ That mindset must shift. Mining goes far beyond artisanal thinking.’

‘Despite these challenges, Nigeria’s gold sector is bucking global trends. ‘Exploration funding is rising in Nigeria while it’s declining globally-we’re literally defying gravity,’ she stated.

Citing global instability, including U.S.-China tensions, the war in Ukraine, and conflict in the Middle East, she pointed out that investors are increasingly turning to gold as a safe haven.

‘Gold just hit $4,200 per ounce, and institutions like Goldman Sachs and J.P. Morgan are now projecting $5,000. A year ago, that would’ve sounded ridiculous now it’s very plausible.’

The SMDF Executive Secretary also credited the Minister of Solid Minerals for pivotal support, calling recent initiatives ‘crucial to the next phase of our growth.’

She encouraged attendees to continue supporting the government’s vision of making Nigeria a prime destination for junior miners and exploration investment.

Everyone needs to have a consistent and positive approach to hair care.

Well, this is not about a particular hairstyle or look; it’s about the health of your hair.

Having a hair regimen gives you structure and a plan to manage your hair for a specific period.

The following are seven reasons you need a hair regimen.

1. Addresses specific concerns

A consistent hair regimen gives you room to deal with certain problems. For example, if you have a dry, flaky scalp, a routine can include products that add moisture and how to apply them.

Or if your hair is prone to breakage, your regimen can centre around using gentle tools and strengthening products or treatments.

By following a structure, you can tackle conditions that your hair reacts to without delay.

2. Prevents damage

Did you know that your daily routine can cause your hair to wear out? Constantly combing, applying heat, styling, and exposure to the sun can damage the health of your hair. A good hair regimen will guard against this. It’s easier to prevent a situation than to try to repair damage.

This is why your hair regimen factors in your everyday activities, so in this case, it might require using a heat protectant spray before applying heat to hair, or it could include the application of leave-in conditioner to detangle your hair.

3. Enhances a healthy scalp

Our scalp forms the foundation for the growth of healthy hair. A hair regimen that makes regular cleansing and moisturising a priority keeps the scalp clean and balanced.

A clean scalp has less build-up from products and sweat, keeping dandruff and itchiness in check.

4. Encourages better growth

A hair regimen is not a cheat code for growing your hair faster than it naturally should. However, it can help it grow longer by reducing breakage.

When you take care of your hair, you are preserving its length.

5. Promotes consistency

If you ever want to see results, consistency is key. A hair regimen gives you a clear plan to follow, helping you know what products to use and in what order.

Giving your hair regular care is what leads to noticeable changes and improvements in your hair health and quality.

6. Saves money

If you don’t have a plan and you buy products, you’re more likely to waste money compared to someone who does.

Trends might inspire you to buy something, use it once, and abandon it. A hair regimen helps you identify what your hair needs. This will streamline your purchases and reduce needless expensive treatments for avoidable problems.

7. Builds confidence

When your hair looks and feels good, it can affect how you feel. Taking a moment to care for your hair is an underrated form of self-care. It can make you feel organised and ready for the day.

This simple act can boost your confidence and appearance.

In summary, this is all about being proactive. A hair regimen is a simple plan for anyone who wants to take better care of their hair. It doesn’t need to be confusing; it just needs to be consistent and tailored to your needs.

Big Brother Naija Season 10 housemate, Adewale Faith, simply known as Faith, was disqualified from the recently concluded reality TV show for his inability to control his anger in public after an altercation with fellow housemate, Sultana. In a viral video of the incident, he was seen engaging in physical violence, forcefully dragging a bucket from Sultana until she fell.

The development, which came just three days before the grand finale on Sunday, led to Faith’s disqualification despite being tipped as one of the favourites to win the show. Faith’s disqualification further emphasised the importance of anger management.

There is no doubt that everyone gets angry from time to time, but the way it is expressed, especially in public, can leave a lasting impression.

Outbursts can damage relationships, harm reputations, or even escalate situations unnecessarily. That is why learning how to control anger in public is an important skill for maintaining self-respect and earning the respect of others.

Staying calm when emotions run high does not mean suppressing feelings; rather, it means responding thoughtfully and managing reactions constructively.

In this article, Tribune Online takes a look at five ways to control anger in public without losing your cool.

1. Take deep breaths

Breathing deeply helps slow down the body’s stress response. When anger rises, your heartbeat and blood pressure increase, making you feel ready to explode. A few controlled breaths calm your nervous system and give you a moment to think before reacting.

Try inhaling slowly through your nose, holding for a few seconds, and exhaling through your mouth. This simple practice can quickly help you regain control when tensions rise in public.

2. Walk away if possible

This is another way to control your anger in public. If a situation feels overwhelming, stepping away can prevent things from escalating. A short break creates space between your emotions and the trigger, making it easier to respond calmly later.

Walking away is not weakness, but it’s wisdom instead. Whether it’s moving to another room, stepping outside, or even counting to ten silently, this pause allows your mind to reset.

3. Think before you speak

When emotions are high, words often come out sharper than intended. Taking a brief moment to process your thoughts prevents saying something you may regret.

Instead of reacting instantly, pause and consider the consequences of your words. This short delay can make the difference between resolving a conflict and creating a bigger one.

4. Focus on solutions

Staying angry at the problem often fuels more frustration. Shifting your energy to finding solutions helps reduce negative emotions and creates a sense of control.

For example, instead of shouting about a mistake, suggest ways it can be fixed. This approach makes you look composed and proactive, even under pressure.

5. Practise relaxation techniques

Techniques such as repeating calming words, visualising a peaceful scene, or gently stretching your muscles can reduce tension in the heat of the moment. These strategies help your body counter the physical signs of anger. The more often you practise relaxation methods, the easier they become to use when anger strikes.

The smartphone market is crowded with devices that promise speed, beauty, and innovation, but only a few truly deliver on all fronts. The newly launched SUPER26Ultra sets itself apart by blending advanced artificial intelligence, a powerful imaging system, and long-lasting performance in one sleek device. It is designed for users who demand more from their smartphones and want technology that adapts to their lifestyle.

Ultra-Curved AMOLED Display for Stunning Visuals

The SUPER 26 Ultra introduces a 6.78 inch 3D Curved AMOLED display that brings visuals to life. With a 144Hz refresh rate, 1.5K resolution, and 4500 nits peak brightness, it ensures clarity whether you are gaming, streaming videos, or scrolling through social media. Protected with Corning Gorilla Glass 7i, the screen is built to withstand daily wear and tear. To add peace of mind, buyers also get a 100-day breakage warranty, making the phone both beautiful and reliable.

Ultra-Durable Build for Everyday Use

Despite its elegance, the SUPER 26 Ultra does not compromise on durability. Its slim 6.8mm body houses an impressive 6000mAh battery that maintains up to 80 percent battery health even after four years of charging cycles. The phone is also IP65 dust and water resistant, ensuring that it can handle splashes, dust, and the rigors of daily life without losing performance.

Ultra-Imaging for Creative Storytelling

For photography lovers, the SUPER 26 Ultra offers an advanced imaging system that ensures every shot tells a story. It comes with a 50MP snapshot camera for sharp captures and a 32MP clear selfie camera for outstanding self-portraits. Video creators will enjoy dual video mode, AI RAW support, and 2K 30fps ultra stable video recording. These features allow users to capture professional grade content without needing extra equipment.

Ultra AI for Smarter Living

Artificial intelligence is one of the strongest highlights of the SUPER 26 Ultra. It comes with AI writing assistance, AI image creation, and real-time call translation, helping users work smarter and communicate across languages with ease. Its newly upgraded Sola assistant, voice activation, AI wallpapers, circle to search function, and Ask About Screen feature make the smartphone an everyday digital companion that adapts to your needs.

Ultra-Performance for Smooth Experience

Performance is at the heart of the SUPER 26 Ultra. Powered by the T7300 6nm processor, the device offers smooth multitasking and a solid gaming experience. It supports up to 256GB storage and 16GB RAM expansion, providing space and speed for every user. With features such as NFC touch transfer, DTS sound effects, and Ultra Link free call technology, the phone ensures both productivity and entertainment are well covered. The device also comes with a six-year fluency guarantee, proving its long-term reliability.

Added Benefits for Buyers

The SUPER 26 Ultra is not only about technology but also about customer rewards. Buyers of the 256+8GB variant using EasyBuy can enjoy zero percent interest when paying in three installments from October 11th – 31st. Other exciting offers include 100 day broken screen insurance, six months of MovieBox VIP access, one month of free premium subscription, and exclusive DIY phone case displays limited to 5000 units. Additionally, buyers can swap their phones within 180 days for a 60 percent resale value.

As part of a special promotion running from September 9 to November 30, customers also stand a chance to be among 3000 lucky winners to enjoy a ?2,500 discount on four Bolt rides when they download the app and activate their voucher after purchasing the phone. To add to the aforementioned benefits, customers who purchase the SUPER 26 Ultra will receive over 6000 gift items: itel A1420 Powerbank and 1A Kettle.

Conclusion

The SUPER 26 Ultra is not just another smartphone; it is a well-rounded device that combines intelligence, durability, and creativity. With its AI powered features, professional grade imaging, and guaranteed performance, it sets a new standard in the smartphone market. Added customer benefits make it even more appealing, ensuring that every buyer enjoys both technology and value.

For those seeking a phone that blends cutting edge innovation with practical everyday use, the SUPER 26 Ultra is more than a worthy choice. It is the future in your hands.

The Senate has expressed concern over the increasing incidents and accidents in the aviation sector, directing its Committee on Aviation to commence investigations to ascertain their causes.

It noted, in particular, the recurring cases of runway incidents at several airports across the country and called for urgent measures by the relevant regulatory authorities.

The Senate passed the resolution following a motion moved by the Senator representing Oyo North Senatorial District, Abdulfatai Buhari.

Senator Buhari, who pushed for the strengthening of aviation safety, drew attention to the recent report of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) on the 22 June 2025 Air Peace runway incident at the Port Harcourt International Airport.

An Air Peace aircraft had overshot the runway, with the report citing ‘critical gaps in safety standards, infrastructure management, and operational compliance.’

The Oyo senator noted that the observed lapses could put the lives of air travellers at risk, as well as erode public confidence in the country’s aviation services if not quickly addressed.

For instance, he told the session that in 2025 alone, the industry had recorded seven near-air mishaps, expressing concern over the finding that the Air Peace pilot involved in the Port Harcourt incident was intoxicated.

Buhari stated, ‘Aviation safety is not negotiable.

‘The NSIB report shows systemic failures that must be addressed urgently to safeguard passengers and restore confidence in our airports.’

While passing the motion, the Senate called on the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, in collaboration with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), to implement the NSIB report and further strengthen air safety within six weeks.

Similarly, the Senate urged the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to ‘strengthen compliance monitoring, conduct routine audits of airport facilities, and enforce strict adherence to international safety standards by operators.’

FAAN was also directed to prioritise the rehabilitation of runways, the provision of airfield lighting, and the installation of modern navigational aids, beginning with the Port Harcourt International Airport.

In addition, the resolution called for the construction of a second runway at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to improve operational safety and reduce pressure on the airport’s existing runway.

Despite the transition to modern governance that gives ultimate power to elected public officials, Nigeria’s first-class monarchs continue to play significant roles in politics, culture, and community life.

Among these traditional rulers in Nigeria, some monarchs stand out for their cultural authority, historical prestige, royalty, and their role as custodians of tradition.

Here are the 10 Top First-Class Monarchs in Nigeria:

1. Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II ( The Ooni of Ife):

The throne of Ooni of Ife is highly revered in Yoruba land and regarded as the spiritual leader of the entire Yoruba race all over the world.

Since ascending the throne in 2015, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, one of the most respected monarchs, has been a strong advocate for youth and women’s empowerment.

His ruling in Ile-Ife, Yoruba’s ancestral home, commands respect across Nigeria and the diaspora. Additionally, the Ooni of Ife serves as the co-chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers in Nigeria.

2. Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad ABUBAKAR III ( The Sultan of Sokoto):

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, is the 20th Sultan of Sokoto and is considered the spiritual leader of Nigerian Muslims.

He inherited the two-century-old throne founded by his forefather, Sheikh Usmanu Dan Fodio. The Sultan of Sokoto plays a unifying role in the Muslim Ummah and chairs the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs.

He is a respected authority on matters of peace, interfaith dialogue, and national unity. Sultan also co-chairs the National Council of Traditional Rulers in Nigeria.

3. Oba Akeem Owoade I (The Alaafin of Oyo)

The Alaafin of Oyo stool, as is widely referred to, remains a powerful Yoruba seat with centuries of history tracing back to the old Oyo Empire.

According to history, Alaafin of Oyo is said to have originated from Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba race. Headed by the current Alaafin of Oyo, Akeem Owoade I, the institution remains one of the influential traditional monarchs in Africa.

4. Oba Ewuare II (The Oba of Benin)

The seat of the Oba of Benin remains a custodian of the ancient Benin Kingdom, with its long history of art, culture, and early contact with Europeans.

Enthroned in 2016 as Benin’s 40th Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II remains a strong advocate against human trafficking and continues to preserve the heritage of his kingdom.

5. Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi (The Emir of Kano):

The Kano Emirate is no doubt one of Nigeria’s most prominent traditional institutions. The Emir has cultural influence over millions in Kano and beyond. In 2024, Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi was reinstalled for his second reign and since been continuing the legacy of Kano as historically a hub of commerce and Islamic scholarship.

6. Oba Rilwan Akiolu (The Oba of Lagos):

Lagos’s throne is symbolic not only because of its finest history but also because it is Nigeria’s commercial nerve.

Oba Rilwan Akiolu has been on the throne since 2003 and is widely known as an influential figure in Yoruba land.

7. Prof. James Ayatse (The Tor Tiv):

The Tor Tiv is an influential figure and paramount ruler of the Tiv people in Benue State. Professor James Ayatse is a former Vice Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and became the Tor Tiv in 2017. He is greatly recognized for his leadership skills.

8. Igwe Nnaemka Alfred Achebe (The Obi of Onitsha):

The Obi of Onitsha represents a great traditional emblem in one of the most historic towns in Igboland. Igwe Achebe is the traditional ruler and 21st Obi of Onitsha, who was installed in 2002. As a Harvard Alumnus and former Shell executive, Achebe represents the Igbo tradition with dignity.

9. Abubakar Ibn Umar Garba El Kanemi ( Shehu of Borno):

The Shehu of Borno represents the iconic institution as the custodian of the Kanemi-Bornu Empire heritage. Abubakar Ibn Umar Garba El Kanemi was appointed as the shehu by Governor Ali Modu Sheriff in 2009. Even though much of his tenure has been marked by the violent Boko Haram insurgency, which has been largely concentrated in northeastern Borno State, Abubakar remains a symbol of resilience, unity, and cultural pride for the Kanuri people.

10. Oba Rashidi Ladoja (Olubadan of Ibadanland):

Ibadan, West Africa’s largest city, boasts a unique chieftaincy system where succession to the throne of Olubadan follows a well-structured line. Following the demise of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the Olubadan-in-Council nominated Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th ruler of the ancestral kingdom and was installed in a talk-of-the-town coronation on Friday, September 26, 2025, at Mapo Hall in Ibadan.

The opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) has reacted to the recent defections of two governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The ADC described the move as a gang-up against Nigerians by the governors.

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, formally declared for the APC at an elaborate event in Enugu on Tuesday, while his Bayelsa State counterpart, Douye Diri, took the same political step on Wednesday, along with members of his cabinet who announced their resignation from the erstwhile ruling party in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.

The ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, in a statement on Wednesday, claimed that the action of the governors in dumping the PDP was not informed by personal conviction but by cowardice.

Describing their actions as political apostasy, the ADC declared that the 2027 general elections ‘will be a contest between the people of Nigeria and the ruling party that has sent the majority into abject poverty and made life unbearable for most.’

The full statement read:

‘The recent defections by the governors of Enugu and Bayelsa States to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) validate the African Democratic Congress (ADC)’s long-standing warning that President Bola Tinubu is determined to turn Nigeria into a one-party state, no matter the cost to democracy or national stability.

‘While it may seem like the APC has added more governors to its column, in reality, what has happened is that these governors have actually abandoned their people to team up with the ruling party that has made life miserable for the majority.

‘Nigerians can see the current state of the nation. They live through the APC’s failures every single day. Even those who once campaigned for the APC or had its logo on their social media profiles now avoid association with the party. Why? Because the Tinubu administration has failed on insecurity, failed on economic management, failed on healthcare, failed on social welfare, failed on corruption, and failed to restore Nigeria’s standing in the international community.

‘Every day, Nigerians are paying the price for these failures. Food prices continue to increase, jobs are non-existent, and insecurity continues to choke every part of the country.

‘When the ruling party has misgoverned the country, the only hope for the people in a democracy is for the opposition to rise in defence, propose alternative ideas, and lead the people out of their misery. This is what Nigerians expected from these governors in opposition. Instead, they abdicated. And in an act of historic political apostasy, they chose to join the grand conspiracy against the Nigerian people. They abandoned their people, not out of conviction but out of cowardice and other selfish considerations.

‘While the ruling party continues to celebrate the defection of these governors, the ADC and the opposition coalition are equally delighted that the line has been made even clearer between those who are committed to saving the country and those who merely want to join the gravy train. The people can see, and they are waiting. 2027 will be a clear battle between the people of Nigeria and President Tinubu and his gang of governors in the APC.’

Prompt engineering is actually a new career path that emerged with artificial intelligence. As a prompt engineer, you can work in various industries. You must be able to develop concise and effective prompts by exploring different techniques that bring the outputs you need.

Prompt engineers are experts. They create text-based prompts or cues understood by generative AI tools and large language models. This is unlike computer engineers who use code.

These AI prompt engineers are the intermediaries between machine learning models and humans who question them. As mentioned earlier, they write text-based cues, input them into the backend of AI tools to enable them to carry out tasks (with the proper and accurate tone) such as creating emails, essay writing, and even generating blog posts.

All the aforementioned are necessary because artificial intelligence lacks intuition. That’s why they need human intelligence to understand the human language to be effective.

Below are the steps that can help you become a prompt engineer:

1. Reflect on your goals

You need to reflect on your goals. Be outrightly sure this is what you want to do. Every decision or action you take will help you become a successful prompt engineer, that is, if you’re focused. Your goal could be to become a professional who develops AI language model technology, use it to grow your business, or just an engineer working for an organisation.

2. You need certification

It is your certification that will serve as proof that you have what it takes and that you’re employable. As someone aspiring for a prompt engineer role, a degree in data science, engineering, computer science, or other related fields can help. If you don’t, a certification in prompt engineering is necessary.

3. Build relevant skills

Prompt engineering is a field that requires diverse abilities. You need to understand human psychology, be proficient in technology, and be creative. Understanding the different language models, such as Chat GPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Google Gemini, is key.

You must also be a good writer in such a way that you use prompts clear to the language model, natural to the user, and also in a conversational tone. As an AI engineer, you should also be able to provide contextual information in the prompt to yield the desired result.

4. Gain experience

What can help you to sharpen your skills is to apply what you’ve learnt before getting employment. Familiarity with cues or how they work is the easiest way to get experience. You can volunteer to work for someone, design your own projects, or practice various artificial intelligence language models.

5. Apply for jobs

After trying to gain experience, the next thing for you is to start applying for jobs. Your resume should reflect your experience, skills, and credentials. Have a portfolio that would showcase all the work you’ve done. Have a LinkedIn profile and ensure you update it all the time. Finally, your cover letter should be structured in accordance with what you’re applying for.