Rivers: POCACOV takes anti-cultism, drug abuse campaign, sensitisation to school

The Rivers State chapter of Police Campaign Against Cultism and other Vices (POCACOV) on Friday sensitised students and teachers on the consequences of joining unlawful secret cult and also engaging in drugs and substance abuse.

The sensitisation programme was carried out in Community Secondary School, Rumuolumeni in Obio Akpor Local Government Area, following rising complaints on hard drug and alcohol consumption in schools and its environs.

At the programme involving students from other schools, with the theme: ‘Cultism Drug Abuse and My Academics’, the state coordinator for POCACOV, ASP Captain Ogbuewe stood in for the Rivers State Police Command and the National Coordinator, ACP Olabisi Okuwobi.

While POCACOV ambassador, Patrick Akatakpo, and Engr. Chris Odorgbo highlighted the POCACOV’s mandates to the students and their teachers, the state chairman of the initiative, Ambassador Eke Onwuka, advised the management of the school to always alert POCACOV whenever cultism and drug-related issues are observed.

The students were told that smoking marijuana and sniffing chemicals, as well as taking drugs not prescribed, are all acts of drug abuse which is regarded as crime.

Noting that drug abuse could affect their academic performances, the POCACOV ambassadors urged the students to shun the vice and make their parents and the society proud.

The students were advised to avoid friends indulging in hard drugs taking and report such to teachers and those relevant in curbing the menace among youths.

In response, the school principal and teachers thanked the POCACOV for visiting them, while students promised to shun illicit drug taking and other vices.

They also pledged to be advocates against many ills destroying Nigerian youths.

NSCDC arrests five suspected illegal miners in Niger

The Niger State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have arrested five suspected illegal miners and seized nine motorcycles, in addition to other exhibits, during a raid in Katcha Local Government Area of the state.

Parading the suspects at the command’s headquarters in Minna on Friday, October 3, 2025, the State Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, sent a passionate appeal to traditional rulers, political leaders, and community members to intensify public awareness on the dangers and legal implications of engaging in illegal mining activities.

He stated further that the suspects were apprehended at Zuzungi community, near Kataeregi, along Minna- Bida road while mining monoxide solid minerals worth several millions of naira.

He said, ‘Acting on credible intelligence around 24:00 hours, the mining marshals of the NSCDC stormed the site and arrested the suspects while in the act’.

Subaru commended the operatives for their ‘resilience, commitment, vigilance, and professionalism’ during the operation, emphasising that illegal mining activities amount to economic sabotage against the nation.

The Commandant reiterated the Corps’ commitment to protecting Niger State’s natural resources from unlawful exploitation, maintaining law and order, and collaborating with other security agencies to curb crimes across the state.

‘We will continue to make Niger State a difficult zone for illegal mining, vandalism, and other social vices,’ he assured.

Suberu also commended the Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi, and Nthe iger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, for their support in promoting peace and stability in the state.

He said investigations were ongoing, stressing that further updates would be released to the general public upon conclusion of the investigation.

What’s next for us after BBNaija S10 show – Housemates

For many of the evicted housemates of Big Brother Naija Season 10, the end of the show isn’t the end of the dream, it’s just the beginning of a new chapter. After weeks of laughter, tears, and self-discovery, they’re stepping back into the real world with renewed ambition and a clearer sense of purpose.

In this article, Tribune Online will be sharing an exclusive on what to expect from them after the show:

1.Tracy – Uchenna Ekwe

In an interview with Tribune Online, Tracy who was evicted on week 7, shared that she plans to explore lifestyle content creation, cooking, and all things that reflect her everyday life.

She said, ‘For me personally, I plan to start lifestyle content cooking and everything around my life. I’m also trying out acting through short film series and skits in entertainment. I want to go into modeling, focusing on outfits and jewelry. I’m not dropping my professional career though; I’ll be pursuing my master’s degree, which I had planned before joining the show.’

2.Denari – Arinze Ekwenem

Also speaking with Tribune Online after his eviction alongside Tracy, Denari revealed his passion for creativity in all its forms.

According to him, going into acting was the next line of action after the show.

‘For me, anything that revolves around creativity, entertainment, and sports. In entertainment, I plan to drop songs with people I’m sure viewers have already heard me sing on the show. I also want to go into acting; I did a lot of that in the house and enjoyed it. As for sports, I love football and basketball. Anything in that space interests me.’

3.Bright Morgan – Bright Mbata

Following his eviction, Bright Morgan told Tribune Online in an exclusive interview that acting remains at the core of his brand.

‘My brand is built around acting. I want to explore other platforms we have a lot like Netflix and Showmax and I’m ready to put in the hard work. I also plan to attend a film school abroad later,’ Morgan disclosed.

4.Thelma Lawson

Thelma, who was also evicted the same day as Bright Morgan, informed Tribune online how she plans to continue her skincare business and join the entertainment industry.

To her, exploring opportunities in the entertainment industry is a vision she’s very much interested in. ‘I’m back to business. I’m a skincare consultant and retailer, but I’m also looking to explore opportunities in entertainment, beauty, and fashion. Whatever it is, I’m equal to the task.’

5.Joanna – Josephine Iwoh

For Joanna, the end of the BBNaija show is an opportunity to chase her dreams for the fashion industry.

Speaking in an exclusive with Tribune Online after eviction week 8, Joanna said, ‘If my dream isn’t bigger than me, then it’s not dreamable. Beyond being a model and fashion enthusiast, I plan to dive into business because I love to expand and multiply money.’

6.Kuture – Unekwojo Ameh

Kuture was the last of the four housemates who left the house in week 8.

Sharing his plans with Tribune Online, explaining that he was ready to venture into the entertainment and fashion industry but for his pending maritime course.

He said, ‘I’m a funny guy, and I showed that in the house. I see myself as a comic actor in movies. I’m also a fashion designer, but I still have two more years to study my maritime course in shipping management and marine logistics. I plan to enroll in a maritime academy in New Zealand to get my papers right’, He stated.

7. Zita – Elizabeth Oloruntola

Zita was evicted in week 9, but before then and in Ebuka’s Exclusive Interview, Zita revealed that she plans to make her mark in the fashion and beauty space. ‘I plan to launch a Barbie collection of pink dresses only, very intense! Aside from that, I want to go into the beauty space, content-wise, and also walk the runway as a fashion model,’ she shared.

8.Mide – Ayomide Iwasokun

Like Zita, Mide was evicted in week 9 but had a chat earlier with Ebuka where she expressed her readiness to go into acting. According to her, starting a YouTube channel is imminent.

She said ‘I’d never acted before the show, but I got a lot of accolades for it. Acting is something I’m very eager to pursue as a career. I also want to start my YouTube channel where I’ll showcase my wigs and makeup. You all should come watch me do my thing!’

9.Rooboy – Kayode Olatunde

Also in Ebuka’s exclusive Interview, Rooboy expressed excitement about expanding his career.’I want to go into acting, and I’m also planning my own concert, The Rooboy Experience. I’ll continue doing my hype man gigs too’, He said.

Each of these housemates leaves the Big Brother house with more than just fame; they leave with dreams, plans, and the drive to turn their newfound spotlight into a lasting legacy.

10 simple habits that make the workplace less stressful

Stress at work is almost inevitable. Deadlines, meetings, digital overload, and interpersonal friction all contribute. But you don’t have to wait for big reforms. Small, consistent habits can ease pressure, improve mood, and make your work environment healthier for everyone.

In this article, Tribune Online examines ten simple habits that workers and leaders can adopt now.

1. Deep Breathing/Micro-Breaks

Taking short pauses just to breathe deeply, stretch, or look away from the screen helps reset tension and improve focus. Studies show that micro-breaks reduce fatigue and mental strain.

2. Set Clear Boundaries

Define what ‘work time’ means vs. ‘personal time.’ Turn off notifications after hours, and avoid answering emails late at night. Clear boundaries protect mental energy and help avoid burnout. OSHA guidance and other sources emphasise that organizations that foster respect for personal time see less work-related stress.

3. Prioritise Meaningful Tasks

Tackle tasks that give you a sense of progress or purpose first. Knowing that your work matters improves well-being. Research on meaningful work in SMEs shows that when employees believe their work is meaningful, their mental health improves.

4. Improve Social Connections

Friendly, respectful relationships with colleagues matter more than many think. When interactions are trusting, positive, and collaborative, they enhance well-being; when not, they can harm health and reduce motivation.

5. Practice Mindfulness or Meditation

Even a few minutes a day of mindfulness, paying attention to breathing, being present, helps reduce anxiety and overthinking. Harvard Health recommends both formal and informal mindfulness practices.

6. Stay Organised: Plan and Prioritise

Use to-do lists, set realistic daily goals, and break large projects into smaller steps. Rushing or trying to do everything at once is a major stress trigger. The American Heart Association and others advise planning so you don’t constantly have to rush.

7. Maintain Healthy Sleep and Self-Care

Work stress often worsens when rest is neglected. Good sleep, proper nutrition, exercise, and avoiding excessive caffeine late in the day all help. Self-care is not a luxury; it’s foundational.

8. Express Gratitude

Taking moments to acknowledge what went well, thanking colleagues, and celebrating wins (even small ones) builds a positive atmosphere. Gratitude also improves resilience and mood.

9. Learn to Say ‘No’/Delegate

Not every request needs to be accepted. Overcommitment is a frequent cause of stress. Delegating tasks when possible, or pushing back (politely and with reason), helps prevent being overwhelmed.

10. Encourage Feedback and Open Communication

A culture where people can raise concerns, ask for help, or suggest improvements without fear of judgment helps reduce tension and uncertainty. Leaders who practise this see higher engagement.

My husband accused me falsely, threw me out -Wife

A business woman, Halima Damina, has dragged her husband, Jacob, before a customary Court in Jikwoyi, Eederal Capital Territory (FCT) accusing him of throwing her out of their matrimonial home.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), she said this in a divorce petition she filed against him in the court.

‘Some time ago, I visited my ex-boy friend’s mother and people lied to my husband that it was my ex-boy friend that I visited.

‘When my husband came back home, he threw me and my belongings out of the house.

‘I tried to explain things to him but he would not listen.

She told the court that their relatives intervened and tried to reconcile them all to no avail.

‘It is on these grounds that I seek divorce, ‘she said.

The respondent was present in court but denied the allegations.

The judge, Thelma Baba, advised the couple to seek reconciliation and adjourned the case.

NCCSALW partners govs, security agencies to curtail small arms proliferation

The National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), under the Office of the National Security Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, is collaborating with the Taraba State Government in order to curtail the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons in the country.

The disclosure was made over the weekend during a courtesy visit to Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, by the North-East Zonal Director, NCCSALW, Maj:-Gen. Abubakar Adamu (Rtd).

He said that the collaboration with governors would go a long way in curtailing the menace of the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) in the country.

The Zonal Director stated that, ‘We are here to sensitize and educate the people on the dangers of the use of illicit SALW and also to speak with our stakeholders, particularly all the arms bearing units on how we can collaborate to stop the proliferation of these arms in our communities.

‘We came here to fashion out and tell the stakeholders our strategies on how to stop the proliferation of SALW as well as how to stop people from manufacturing or fabricating them’.

The Zonal Director further explained that the Centre was working in collaboration with all stakeholders in the country to mop up all SALW for onward destruction.

According to him, the Centre has been mandated by the Federal Government to prosecute any individual involved in the proliferation of illicit weapons in the country and is therefore seeking for more support and collaboration from all stakeholders in the country.

While highlighting the negative impact of the proliferation of illicit SALW on peaceful coexistence in the nation and its socio-economic activities, he pledged the Centre’s continuous cooperation with all stakeholders especially in intelligence sharing which he said, was paramount in preventing the proliferation of these weapons.

While responding, Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, appreciated the Zonal Director for the visit and assured him of the State Government’s full cooperation in discharging his official duties.

Represented by the Speaker, Taraba state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. John Kizito Bonzena, the Governor emphasized the importance of collaboration in maintaining peace and security in the country and pledged the government’s commitment to working closely with the Centre.

The visit marked a significant step in strengthening the relationship between the Taraba State Government and the NCCSALW with both parties committed to promoting peace, security and development in the region.

Similarly, the Centre paid a courtesy visit to the Commander, 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brig:- Gen. Kinsley Uwa for more collaboration and synergy in the state.

The Zonal Director explained that the visit was part of a sensitisation tour to introduce the mandate of the Centre, which is focused on curbing the proliferation of SALW across the North East.

He also assured the NCCSALW’s readiness to collaborate with security formations through intelligence sharing, sensitization campaigns, and community engagements as part of broader efforts to combat illicit arms.

In his response, Brig:-Gen. Kingsley Uwa stated that the proliferation of SALW fuels violence, undermines peace, and hinders development.

He said ‘Addressing it therefore requires collective effort from all and sundry, not only from the Armed Forces and security agencies, but also from government institutions, communities, civil society and indeed every citizen.

‘I therefore, assure the Centre of the 6 Brigade’s readiness to collaborate closely with you in intelligence sharing, sensitization campaigns, and community engagement.

‘On our part, we pledge continued support and partnership with the Centre through synergy, vigilance, and sustainable collaboration. We will curb the menace of SALW and strengthen the pillars of peace and stability in our country’.

Other stakeholders visited in the State by the Centre for collaboration included the Commissioner of Police, Betty Isokpan Otimenyin and the Office of the Department of State Services (DSS) who also pledged to support the centre to ensure a safer Nigeria where everybody could sleep with their eyes closed.

Preserve culture, traditions for national identity’s sake – Elebuibon urges govt

A renowned cultural advocate and Ifa Priest, Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon, has charged the government at various levels to ensure the preservation of culture and traditions for the sake of national identity.

Speaking with newsmen at the maiden Ifayemi Elebuibon Annual Symposium, held at Ogbeyonu Hall, Osogbo, the traditionalist said venerating ancestors is a critical part of culture which must not be allowed to go into extinction.

He noted that one of the ways of preserving people’s identity is to ensure that culture and traditions survive colonialism, stressing that the government should allow free practice of traditional religion.

‘One of the reasons we are at this symposium is to elicit the importance of veneration and worship of ancestors. We all agreed that our ancestors must always be remembered if we are to progress as a people.

‘Yoruba language and traditions are subsumed in our culture, hence, whatever religion one practices, Yoruba culture should always reflect in our ways, such as the clothes we wear, food we eat and our ways of life.

‘The government can influence the growth of culture through education and if that happens, the people will benefit more through economic growth and development,’ he said.

Also speaking, Komolafe Wande, who delivered a paper at the symposium, stressed the importance of tradition and culture to the survival of the Yoruba race.

‘We can preserve our culture by making sure that our language continue to thrive, our traditional names are not abandoned and our mode of dressing should be sustained. Government should ensure that our language and tradition is taken as a subject in schools,’ he said.

A participant, Ogundeji Elebuibon, said the symposium was not just to honour Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon but also to provide a platform to discuss issues relevant to the growth of traditional religion in Yorubaland.

The Secretary of Isese Assembly, the group that organised the event, Ifagbenusola Popoola, said the symposium was put together to celebrate the contributions of Elebuibon to the growth of traditional religion and Yoruba culture.

DELCOM 2025: Gov Oborevwori declares 6th edition open October 8

The 6th edition of the Delta State Strategic Communication Workshop (DELCOM 2025) is to be declared open in Asaba on Monday by the State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori.

The workshop, which is expected to attract top government officials and academia, will highlight the importance of strategic communication in governance, enhancing effective media engagements by leveraging artificial intelligence and digital tools, and various techniques to project government policies and programmes in line with the Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, the statement added.

A statement on Saturday by the State Coordinator of DELCOM and Director-General, Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Barr (Dr) Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, said Governor Oborevwori will deliver a keynote address that would resonate with the workshop theme, ‘Strategic Communication in the Digital Age: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Effective Leadership.’

According to the Bureau Chief, DELCOM 2025, in partnership with the Chartered Institute of Information and Strategy Management (CIISM), is designed to equip media appointees, notable social media influencers, professional bloggers and media partners with the necessary skills to project the policies, programmes and achievements of the State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, and his administration, leveraging digital tools for effective and result-oriented media engagements.

Dr Oghenesivbe further disclosed that the President of the Chartered Institute of Information and Strategy Management (CIISM), Ambassador (Dr) Mrs Temile Uduogho Oritseweyinmi, will on Day 3 of the workshop induct some participants as members and fellows of the Institute, while certificates of participation duly signed by the Secretary to the Delta State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, will be presented to the trainers and all DELCOM 2025 participants.

‘Seasoned communication scholar and Head of the Department of Mass Communication at Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, Professor Joyce Ogwezi, is the Chief Trainer, to be assisted by Professor Presley Obukoadata of Delta State University, Abraka, and Artificial Intelligence/ICT expert, Dr Monday Ashibogwu, a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

‘DELCOM 2025 is partnering with the Chartered Institute of Information and Strategy Management (CIISM). The Institute’s Council Chairman and President, Ambassador (Dr) Mrs Temile Uduogho Oritseweyinmi, will be assisted by the Council Secretary/CIISM Registrar, Dr Adelanke Oyintoke, to induct new members and fellows of the Institute,’ Oghenesivbe said.

Winners Emerge across Nigeria in the 2025 Infinix Summer Sales Promo

Leading smartphone brand Infinix Nigeria has once again proven its commitment to Nigerians, as over 15 winners emerge from the summer sales promo across Nigeria.

The summer sales promo, which ran from August to September 6, 2025, offered customers lots of benefits, including massive discounts, instant gifts, a chance to win household appliances like washing machines, refrigerators, gas cookers, and the ultimate grand prize of a fully loaded solar system worth ?2.9 million in a nationwide raffle draw. In addition, Infinix hosted live sales events across its social media platforms, where exclusive discount codes were made available to participants, providing them with added savings on flagship devices such as the HOT 60 Pro and HOT 60 Pro+.

Beyond the discounts, Infinix ensured that customers went home with instant gifts like the Infinix Smart Watch, Infinix Xe33 Earbud and Infinix-branded gift items on purchases of the NOTE 50 series, HOT 60 Pro, HOT 60 Pro+, SMART 10, HOT 60i, and other models. In the end, the promo recorded winners from multiple regions in Nigeria, ensuring that customers nationwide felt the impact. From Lagos to Abuja, Ibadan to Kano, Kaduna to Onitsha, and Port Harcourt.

Reflecting on the success of the promo, Oluwayemisi Ode, Integrated Marketing Communications and PR Manager at Infinix Nigeria, said: ”The Summer Sales Promo was designed to show appreciation for our customers nationwide, and the response was overwhelming. We are excited to keep delivering value in innovative ways, creating shared experiences, rewarding loyalty, and building stronger connections with our customers’.

The promo encouraged Nigerians to shop smart, save big, and enjoy exclusive gifts across both physical stores and online platforms. It was more than just a sales promo, but a nationwide experience that blended entertainment, shopping, and community.

For more information and exciting news, follow @infinixnigeria on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok.

Bauchi agency condemns self-immolation incident at Tafawa Balewa’s residencec

The Bauchi State Orphans and Vulnerable Children Agency (BASOVCA) has condemned in strong terms the self-immolation incident involving a woman who set herself ablaze at the late Prime Minister’s residence in Bauchi.

In a press release on Friday, signed by the Chairperson of BASOVCA, Hajiya Yelwa Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, the agency expressed deep sadness over the tragic development.

Hajiya Yelwa, who doubles as Chairperson of BASOVCA, described the act as unfortunate and extended her deepest condolences to the family of the deceased.

She noted that the incident ‘is a stark reminder of the need for increased mental health support and the resuscitation of religious education amongst the populace to understand the spiritual consequences of suicide in the hereafter.’

The agency further clarified: ‘We want to categorically state that the deceased woman had no connection whatsoever with Hajiya Yelwa Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Chairperson of BASOVCA, or the agency, as there is no record of such a name in the list of the agency’s orphans and vulnerable interventions.’

According to BASOVCA, ‘The woman’s actions were her own and did not reflect the values or mission of BASOVCA.’

It added: ‘Therefore, the thoughts and prayers of the agency are with the family of the deceased during this difficult time. We urge everyone to prioritise their mental health and seek help when needed.’

The agency also commended the swift response of the Bauchi State Police Command and their efforts to investigate the incident, expressing hope for a thorough probe that will shed light on the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

‘In conclusion, BASOVCA remains resolute in its mission of supporting vulnerable children and families in Bauchi State. We will continue to work tirelessly to make a positive impact in our communities, local governments, and the state at large,’ it stressed.