Category: PM News

Real estate developer and CEO of Premiumhomes and Property Consultants Limited, Ogbu Jideofor Ikenna, has disclosed how he facilitated the successful acquisition and handover of a luxury five-bedroom duplex in Lekki, Lagos, to Nigerian music star Spyro.

Ikenna made this known on Thursday, saying the high-end property, located in a secure estate in Lekki, was designed to combine luxury, comfort and functionality.

According to him, the contemporary smart home features an open-plan lounge, cinema room, private studio space and automated lighting systems tailored to suit both lifestyle and creative needs.

He added that the property was delivered fully finished and comes with a Governor’s Consent title, underscoring the premium placed on quality and clean documentation.

Ikenna said his reputation for transparency, premium finishing and proper documentation played a key role in attracting Spyro, as well as other celebrities and high-net-worth clients who have worked with him.

Speaking on the transaction, he said, “Our goal is to build homes that match the lifestyle and standards of Nigeria’s most discerning clients. Working with Spyro was seamless because we share the same values — excellence, privacy, and attention to detail.”

The developer noted that the deal, completed in April 2023, further strengthened his standing in Lagos’ luxury real estate market, where he has built a reputation as a trusted developer among celebrities, business executives, elites and diaspora investors.

He said many of his clients are drawn not only by the quality of his developments but also by the discretion, speed and transparency attached to his transactions.

Ikenna also reaffirmed his commitment to expanding upscale residential projects across Lekki and other prime locations in Lagos, with a focus on modern architecture, investment-grade titles and client confidentiality.

He said Premiumhomes and Property Consultants Limited has continued to attract elite buyers through its signature luxury developments, which have earned recognition among notable players in Nigeria’s real estate market.

With the Spyro transaction adding to his growing portfolio, Ikenna said he remains focused on delivering premium homes that meet international standards while serving the evolving demands of luxury property investors.

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Katsina

The Katsina State Executive Council has approved a series of wide-ranging strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening grassroots enterprise development, expanding infrastructure, boosting agricultural productivity, enhancing solid minerals exploration, and reforming key sectors of the state economy.

The approvals were made on Wednesday during the 7th Regular Council Meeting (2026), held at the Red Chamber, General Muhammadu Buhari House, Katsina, and presided over by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda.

Briefing journalists after the Council meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Dr. Bala Salisu Zango, said the decisions reflect the administration’s continued commitment to delivering people-centered governance under the “Building Your Future” Agenda.

The Director-General of KASEDA, Dr. Babangida Ruma, explained that one of the major approvals is the implementation of the Katsina State Enterprises Development Agency Direct Grant Programme targeting 62,000 nano, micro, and small enterprises across the 34 local government areas of the state.

“This programme is designed to provide working capital support to grassroots enterprises in order to strengthen their businesses and improve the socio-economic wellbeing of citizens across the state,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, QS Umar Samaila, said the Council also approved the construction and asphalting of the RahamawaGidan Shehi NamadiInwala Jan GefeRing Road in Katsina metropolis, describing it as a major infrastructure project.

“The project will significantly improve road durability, ensure safer movement of people and goods, and stimulate economic activities within the urban corridor,” he added.

In the agricultural sector, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Lawal Aliyu Shargalle, said the Council approved the procurement of heavy-duty equipment for the rehabilitation, construction, and dredging of irrigation earth dams across the state.

“These machines will strengthen irrigation farming, livestock production, and fisheries development, thereby creating jobs and improving livelihoods across rural communities,” he said.

The Managing Director of KEMCO, Bello Doro, said the Council also approved the procurement of exploration and mining equipment for three sites at Tama, Tandama, and Kankara towns.

“The initiative will enable the Katsina Exploration and Mining Company to boost revenue generation, support economic diversification, and curb illegal mining activities that have contributed to insecurity in mineral-rich areas,” he noted.

The CDP Coordinator, Dr. Kamal, said the Council approved the free transportation and distribution of 2026 rainy season fertilizer across the state’s 361 wards.

“This approval is in line with government’s commitment to a transparent, timely, and farmer-centered distribution system that eliminates intermediaries and ensures subsidized fertilizer reaches genuine farmers directly at the grassroots,” he explained.

The Special Adviser on Qur’anic Education and Out-of-School Children, Dr. Tasiu Dandagoro, disclosed that the Council also considered reforms in the education sector, approving the implementation of recommendations on the reform of Almajiri, Tsangaya, and Islamiyya education into a model Khalwa Tsangaya Qur’anic education system.

“The approved recommendations include the establishment of four pilot Khalwa Qur’anic model schools–one in each senatorial zone and one female school in Katsina metropolis–as part of ongoing efforts to modernize and reform the Almajiri education system in the state,” he stated.

The approvals, according to the government, reaffirm Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s commitment to inclusive development, economic empowerment, infrastructure expansion, and human capital development under the “Building Your Future” Agenda.

By Amen Gajira

The Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) has revealed that four operatives of the organization and a student were killed in an attack by gunmen on hunters’ office in Gidan Waya community in Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna.

The Command’s Intelligence Officer Kaduna Mr Gaji Ampot said the deceased were personnel of Gidan Waya Command.

He said three others were injured in the attack that took place on Wednesday night.

Ampot said those killed include four operatives of NFSS and a student who was in the office to resolve an issue.

According to him, the gunmen stormed the office from two opposite directions at about 8 p.m. and opened fire on the personnel while they were carrying out official duties.

“One of the gunmen arrived on a motorcycle from one direction, while others approached on foot from the opposite side and began shooting.

“All but one of the victims were our men. The fifth person killed was a student who was in our office to resolve an issue,” he said.

He added that the injured victims had been taken to a hospital for treatment.

A local resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, suggested that the NFSS personnel may have been targeted due to their efforts in curbing banditry in the area.

At the scene, bloodstains were visible as residents gathered in small groups, discussing the incident.

Gidan Waya and environs had been a hotbed of attacks, until a period of relative calm and peace in recent times.

(NAN)

Former England midfielder Paul Merson has said Arsenal still have a big chance to go six points ahead of Manchester City in the Premier League title race.

At the moment, Manchester City sit at the top of the table after a hard-fought 1-0 win over Burnley on Wednesday night. However, the gap between both teams is very small. City are only ahead of Arsenal because they have scored more goals, as both clubs have the same number of points and the same goal difference. This shows how tight and competitive the title race has become.

Arsenal can return to the top of the table if they win their next match against Newcastle United this weekend. After that, they will also play Fulham in another important fixture. These two matches could play a key role in deciding who wins the league.

Meanwhile, Manchester City will not play immediately. Their next league game is against Everton, which gives Arsenal the chance to play twice before City return to action.

Merson explained that City going top “from nowhere” should worry Arsenal, because Pep Guardiola’s team are known for finishing the season strongly. He stressed that Arsenal must take advantage of their schedule and win both matches. According to him, if Arsenal win those games, they could open up a six-point lead and put serious pressure on City.

He also warned that dropping points in either game could give Manchester City the upper hand again.

For Arsenal, it is now a crucial moment in the season, and their performances in the next few matches could decide whether they lift the Premier League trophy or fall short.

By Ayorinde Oluokun

A Bureau de Change (BDC) operator identified as Jamilu Abdullahi has narrated how huge cash lodgments were converted to dollars and handed over to one Abba Adaudu, alleged to be a key associate of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Adoza Bello.

The BDC operator revealed this while testifying as prosecution Witness 12 in the trial of the former Kogi governor on an alleged money laundering amounting to 80,246,470,088.88 before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, on Thursday

Bello is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

Abdullahi while being led in evidence by prosecuting counsel, Kemi Pinheiro SAN, told the court that several cash deposits were made on different dates into the account of E-Traders International Limited by one Abba Adaudu.

“Yes, my lord, there are more cash deposit transactions on different days into E-Traders International Limited,” the witness stated when asked to confirm whether such deposits extended beyond previously identified dates.

Referring to Exhibit 33(6), Abdullahi confirmed that there were cash inflows on March 10 and 11, 2022, but clarified discrepancies in the names of depositors appearing on the transaction records.

“My lord, I need to explain that the names indicated in the cash deposits — Abdullahi Jamilu, Jamil Abdullahi, and Jamilu Abdullahi–were used as narration. However, I was not the one who made the cash deposits at the Lokoja branch,” he said.

The witness further identified Abba Adaudu as the depositor in transactions dated October 8 and 11, 2021, maintaining that all dealings were conducted directly with him.

“Abba Adaudu, my lord. In all these transactions, I dealt with Abba Adaudu,” he said.

Abdullahi disclosed that upon receiving the cash lodgment, he converted the naira sums into United States dollars and handed them over to Adaudu.

“I converted them into US dollars and handed them over to Abba Adaudu,” he said.

While examining Exhibit 37, relating to Kunfayakun Global Limited–his company–the witness confirmed receiving 100 million and 400 million on December 15 and 17, 2021 respectively, from a firm identified as Keyless Nature Limited, which he said belonged to Adaudu.

“The transfers were for dollar purchase. Upon receipt, we agreed on the rate, I converted the funds and handed the dollars over to Abba Adaudu,” he explained.

The witness further testified that on February 18, 2022, he received 600 million in six tranches into the account of Ejadams Essence Limited, also allegedly linked to Adaudu, for the purpose of purchasing dollars. Additionally, he confirmed receiving 325 million on February 21, 2022, via RTGS for the same purpose.

According to him, the physical handover of the dollars took place either at his office or that of Adaudu, located in Area 8, Abuja.

“What I can recall is that he always comes to my office to pick up the dollars, my lord,” he said.

Proceedings were, however, briefly stalled following an objection by defence counsel, J. B. Daudu SAN, who argued that the prosecution was attempting to contradict the witness without first declaring him hostile.

“If the witness wants to contradict himself, he should be declared a hostile witness,” Daudu submitted.

In response, Pinheiro maintained that the witness had been consistent in his testimony, noting that his recollection of events spanning several years could not be construed as contradiction.

“The witness was very unequivocal and unambiguous His statement reflects his recollection of transactions that occurred about five years ago,” he argued, citing relevant provisions of the Evidence Act.

After listening to arguments from both parties, Justice Nwite adjourned the matter till April 24, 2026, for ruling on the objection and continuation of trial.

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has charged his colleagues in other states to empower and provide a clear space to work for Chairmen of the State Internal Revenue Service to improve Internally Generated Revenue for development and growth across the country.

He said empowering the State Internal Revenue Service will enhance the confidence of the taxpayers and personnel to do the right thing.

Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the Joint Revenue Board at Lagos House, Marina, to declare open the 159th Meeting of the Board in Lagos.

He said: “I will push my brother governors again for them to understand and appreciate that it is only when they give you (chairmen of the State Internal Revenue Service) what you need to work with that you can get a full benefit of the expertise that you all have.

“They (governors) need to give you clear space to work. They need to give you independence. They need to give you your full tenure to do your work. They need to understand that it is only when they do all of these that the confidence of the taxpayers and subordinates will be enhanced and people will do the right thing.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State is fully aligned with the new national framework, and the State is ready to share whatever it has learned with other states and the Board.

He also expressed his administration’s readiness to undertake mutually beneficial initiatives between the Joint Revenue Board and Lagos State that will strengthen tax from the board.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said his administration has made good use of the generated revenues to deliver dividends of democracy to over 24 million Lagos residents through the THEMES+ developmental agenda.

He said: “Lagos, of course, has a stake in getting this right. In 2024, we generated 1.3 trillion in internally generated revenue, a 45 per cent jump on the previous year, and IGR now finances over 60 per cent of our budget. That has not happened by luck. It is the result of years of investment in digital tax systems, expanding our tax net, and building trust with our taxpayers.

“Lagos is your partner in this reform journey. Whatever collaboration that serves the national interest sharing data, aligning systems, coordinating compliance you will find us open and willing.”

Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Joint Revenue Board, Zacch Adedeji, said the theme of the meeting, “From Fragmentation to Coherence: Advancing Sub-National Tax Administration through Harmonisation”, is both relevant and timely.

Adedeji, who was represented by the Executive Secretary of JRB, Mr. Olusegun Adesokan, said Governor Sanwo-Olu’s sustained support for the activities of the Joint Revenue Board underscores the high priority he accords the effective revenue administration and its critical contribution to sustainable development.

He said: “It is not surprising that the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), under the leadership of Mr. Ayodele Subair, remains the leading sub-national revenue authority in Nigeria.

“The remarkable performance of LIRS is rooted in the visionary reforms initiated by His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during his tenure as Executive Governor of Lagos State. Prior to these reforms, whose implementation commenced in 2007, the State’s annual Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) was less than 94 billion. Today, Lagos State generates over 1.7 trillion annually, reflecting sustained commitment to reform and institutional strengthening.

“On a year-on-year basis, Lagos State recorded over 1.7 trillion in IGR in 2025, representing a 39% increase compared to the 1.2 trillion generated in 2024. The Board is highly encouraged by this performance, particularly as these revenues are being effectively deployed to improve the welfare of citizens through critical infrastructure and social investments.

“We commend the dynamic leadership of His Excellency, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for several impactful projects, including the recently commissioned OjotaOpebi 5.04 km Link Bridge, designed to ease traffic congestion across key commercial corridors such as Opebi, Allen, Maryland, and Ojota.

“In the area of food security, the Mid-Level Agro Food Hub in Abijo, situated along the Lekki-Epe Expressway, stands as a significant milestone. The facility features modern storage systems and expansive trading spaces to support agricultural value chains.

“In education, amongst other interventions in this sector, the regeneration of the Tolu Schools Complex in Ajegunle, now comprising 36 public schools with modern facilities, ICT laboratories, and capacity for approximately 20,000 students, is unprecedented and highly commendable.

“In transportation, the ongoing Lagos Rail Mass Transit Project continues to demonstrate the State’s commitment to improving mobility. These achievements clearly demonstrate how strong revenue performance, when effectively managed, translates into tangible development outcomes for citizens.”

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Mr. Ayodele Subair, said the Joint Revenue Board plays a vital role in strengthening Nigeria’s tax administration.

He commended Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to improving LIRS through enhanced infrastructure such as vehicles and laptops, increased funding, and deliberate investment in staff welfare and morale.

“Your leadership in this regard provides a clear model for strengthening revenue administration across states. We assure you, Mr. Governor, that the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, under your guidance, is committed to providing a world-class experience for all delegates. We are confident that this meeting will strengthen the national tax system and further project Lagos State’s leadership in fiscal governance,” he said.

Gov. Umar Bago of Niger has directed six commissioners to oversee additional ministries following the resignation of some cabinet members to contest the 2027 general elections.

The directive is contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Bologi Ibrahim, on Thursday in Minna.

According to the andgtovernor, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Muazu Hamidu Jantabo, will oversee the Ministry of Rural Development.

He added that Alh. Mustapha Ndajiwo, the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, would supervise the Ministry of Special Duties.

Bago further stated that the Commissioner for Investment, Alhaji Aminu Suleman Takuma, had been assigned to oversee the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives.

Similarly, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Jacob Baba Isa, is to supervise the Ministry of Sports Development.

The governor also directed the Commissioner for Technical and Vocational Education, Alhaji Abdullahi Adamu Katcha, to oversee the Ministry of Tertiary Education.

In the same vein, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajiya Hadiza Idris Kuta, will supervise the Ministry of Arts and Culture.

Umaru-Bago urged the commissioners to view the additional responsibilities as an opportunity to enhance service delivery.

He expressed optimism that members of the State Executive Council would continue to work collaboratively to ensure seamless governance.

The governor had earlier directed all political appointees seeking elective positions to resign. Six out of the 30 commissioners subsequently resigned to pursue elective offices ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a groundbreaking fusion of fitness, music, and community spirit, Shight Running Club has made history by staging Nigeria’s first-ever silent disco run, setting a bold new benchmark for experiential wellness events across the country.

On April 19, 2026, over 90 participants laced up for a vibrant 6-kilometre night run through Lagos’ upscale Ikoyi district. Each runner moved in synchronized rhythm, wireless headphones streaming the same high-energy playlist, transforming the city streets into a pulsating silent party on the move.

The run kicked off at Oh La La Cafe, weaving a scenic route around Bourdillon that turned heads and captured imaginations. But beneath the electric atmosphere lay meticulous planning: organizers prioritized safety and coordination at every turn.

Club captains were strategically stationed along the route to guide runners and maintain flow, while a dedicated first aid team stood ready for any eventuality. Officials from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) actively managed traffic from both front and rear, ensuring a seamless and secure experience for all.

The event drew power from leading brands Red Bull and Oraimo, who amplified the energy through dynamic activations and giveaways. Participants tackled interactive challenges throughout the run, with standout performers taking home coveted Oraimo gadgets, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already unforgettable night.

But this was more than just a run. The silent disco concept introduced a fresh cultural dimension to Lagos’ burgeoning fitness scene, merging nightlife energy with health-conscious activity in a way the city had never seen. For many participants, it represented a paradigm shift: communal exercise reimagined as immersive, social, and uniquely engaging.

As Shight Running Club continues to push boundaries, this milestone event signals a new era for running communities, not just in Lagos, but across Nigeria. With its triumphant debut, the silent disco run is poised to become a recurring highlight on the city’s social and sporting calendar, inspiring a movement where wellness meets wonder, and where the only thing louder than the music is the collective sound of heavy breathing.

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday, officially launched the Energize Commercialisation Now (ECoN) initiative in Kano on Thursday.

The initiative marked a major step in the Federal Government’s drive to transform research and innovation into economic growth.

The launch, held under the theme: “From Innovation to Industry: Energizing Commercialisation,” signaled a strategic push to bridge the gap between ideas generated in research institutions and their practical application in industry.

Speaking at the event, Senator Oluremi Tinubu described Nigeria as a country rich in creativity and innovation.

She noted that many ideas developed in universities, innovation hubs and other Citadels of Higher Learnings, fail to reach the marketplace due to systemic challenges.

According to her, the ECoN initiative aimed to address the gaps created by surmountable challenges, while creating enabling environment that supports talent, nurtures innovation, and facilitates the transition of ideas into viable enterprises.

The First Lady maintained that the programme aligned with the agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritizes industrialisation, digitalization, and economic diversification.

She further stated that the initiative would promote job creation, boost productivity, and contribute to Nigeria’s long-term goal of achieving a one trillion-dollar economy.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu emphasized inclusivity in the innovation ecosystem, calling for greater participation of women and youth in the nation’s economic development.

According to her, broad-based involvement would strengthen families, enhance national security, and drive sustainable development.

While declaring the programme open, she said the initiative would begin in the North-West and expand across all geopolitical zones across the country.

Speaking at the event, Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, described the launch as historic, noting that Kano’s selection as host state reflected confidence in the state’s capacity to lead innovation-driven development in northern Nigeria.

Governor Yusuf further stated that the initiative would help bridge the gap between research outputs and market application, enabling the transformation of academic ideas into commercial products and scalable enterprises.

He added that the programme aligned with the Federal Government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, which focuses on industrial growth, youth empowerment, and economic productivity.

Governor Yusuf also highlighted the ongoing efforts by his administration to strengthen science, technology, and innovation, including investments in digital infrastructure and technical education.

He said the state is positioning itself as a hub for innovation-led industrialisation in the northern region.

Governor Yusuf also commended Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her contributions to Kano State development, including donations to education, support for vulnerable groups, and empowerment programmes for women, farmers, and persons with disabilities.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr Kingsley Tochukwu, in his address, said the ECoN initiative was designed to convert Nigeria’s research outputs into economic value.

He described it as a “national commercialisation architecture” aimed at moving innovation from concept to capital and from prototype to prosperity.

He noted that the initiative would include technical sessions, investor-ready presentations, and “deal rooms” where innovators can engage directly with investors.

According to him, a digital platform is also being developed to connect researchers with industry players and provide ongoing technical and legal support.

The minister added that the programme has already recorded early progress, attracting over 1,000 innovation entries and securing initial investment commitments.

He said the initiative would be deployed across all regions, fostering collaboration among states and creating a networked national innovation ecosystem capable of driving economic transformation and global competitiveness.

Despite Italy’s failure to qualify, having lost a penalty shootout to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the qualifying playoff, Zampolli, a close associate of US President Donald Trump, called for Italy’s inclusion, citing their pedigree as four-time World Cup winners.

US special envoy Paolo Zampolli has suggested that Italy should replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup, according to a report by the Financial Times.

Despite Italy’s failure to qualify, having lost a penalty shootout to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the qualifying playoff, Zampolli, a close associate of US President Donald Trump, called for Italy’s inclusion, citing their pedigree as four-time World Cup winners.

Zampolli expressed his support for the idea, telling the Financial Times, “It would be a dream to see the Azzurri in a US-hosted tournament.” He confirmed that he had discussed this idea with both Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

“I confirm I have suggested to Trump and (FIFA President Gianni) Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I’m an Italian native With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion,” Zampolli told the FT.

The suggestion appears to be part of efforts to mend relations between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who previously criticized Trump’s stance on the Iran war.

This development follows rising tensions surrounding Iran’s participation in the World Cup, with its involvement in the tournament increasingly in doubt due to ongoing conflicts with the US and Israel.

FIFA has yet to make an official response to Zampolli’s proposal.