Super Eagles still stranded in Luanda as Benin arrive early in Uyo for 2026 WCQ battle

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are still stranded in Luanda while their opponent Benin Republic arrived in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital on Saturday afternoon ahead of the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

However the stranded Eagles are expected to still arrive in Nigeria in the early hours of Sunday, October 12.

Super Eagles Media Officer, Promise Eforge, revealed on Saturday night that the entire contingent was okay despite the experience.

The Valuejet aircraft conveying the team from South Africa to Nigeria made an emergency landing in Luanda following a crack in the aircraft’s wind shield.

‘We are all fine and all is well with the team. We expect another aircraft at 3 am Nigerian time on Sunday, and we should be in Uyo in the early hours of Sunday. Luanda is about four hours from Nigeria,’ Eforge said.

Our correspondent exclusively learnt that the NFF might consider a shift in date if the team did not arrive on time in Uyo in readiness for the crucial match against Benin billed for Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Gernot Rohr’s Benin Republic remain top of Group C with 17 points from nine matches.

Meanwhile, it has been learnt that NFF might consider a shift in date if the Super Eagles did not arrive on time in Uyo in readiness for the crucial match against Benin billed for Tuesday.

Johnny Drille speaks on artists earnings on streams

Nigerian singer and songwriter John Ighodaro, popularly known as Johnny Drille, has opened up on the earnings of artists from stressing platforms.

While speaking about the struggles of African artists based in the continent, Johnny revealed that artists in the UK even more from streaming platforms than those in Nigeria.

He revealed that the low revenue makes it difficult for artists to depend only on digital platforms.

‘If your 1 million streams are from Nigeria, it’s probably like $300. But the same number from the UK could be around $5,000. It might be tough early on, but if you believe this is your path, just keep pushing. At some point, it will happen for you,’ he stated.

Strategic Security: President Tinubu jets to Rome

President Bola Tinubu left Abuja on Sunday for Rome, Italy, to attend a meeting on counter-terrorism known as the Aqaba Process.

According to presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the Aqaba Process was started in 2015 by King Abdullah II of Jordan. It is jointly led by Jordan and Italy and focuses on tackling security problems in West Africa.

The meeting, which begins on October 14, will bring together presidents, government officials, military and intelligence leaders from Africa, as well as international organisations.

They will discuss how to deal with the spread of terrorism, organised crime, and piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.

Participants will share ideas and work together to find solutions to security challenges across borders.

They will also discuss ways to stop terrorist propaganda and online radicalisation.

President Tinubu will take part in the main sessions and hold private meetings with other leaders to find better ways to improve regional security.

He is accompanied by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency Mohammed Mohammed, and other government officials.

FG Cautions ASUU: Dialogue, not strike is the way forward

The Federal Government on Sunday night warned that it would enforce the no-work-no-pay policy against members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) if the union proceeds with its planned strike.

In a statement signed by Folasade Boriowo, spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Education, the government accused ASUU of failing to cooperate despite multiple efforts to prevent the strike action.

‘The Ministers further stressed that the government has continued to prioritise the welfare of university staff and the stability of the academic calendar under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,’ the statement read.

According to the ministry, dialogue remains the most effective and sustainable approach to resolving disputes, and the government remains open to engagement at all levels to prevent unnecessary disruption in the education sector.

However, the government emphasised that the no-work-no-pay policy remains an existing labour law in Nigeria and will be applied if academic activities are halted.

The statement added that while the government continues to demonstrate goodwill and flexibility, it will not neglect its responsibility to ensure fairness and accountability in the use of public funds.

The Federal Government reassured students, parents, and the general public of its commitment to maintaining industrial harmony in the tertiary education system.

The statement also appealed to all academic unions to embrace dialogue and partnership rather than confrontation, noting that the government’s education reform agenda aims to improve teaching and research conditions, strengthen university governance, and foster innovation and productivity within the academic community.

Meanwhile, ASUU on Sunday declared a total and comprehensive warning strike starting Monday, October 13.

The union’s demands include the conclusion of the renegotiated 2009 FGN-ASUU agreement, payment of withheld three and a half months’ salaries, sustainable and revitalised funding for public universities, and an end to the alleged victimisation of lecturers at Lagos State University (LASU), Prince Abubakar Audu University, and the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO).

Other demands include payment of outstanding 25-35% salary arrears, settlement of promotion arrears spanning over four years, and release of withheld third-party deductions such as cooperative contributions and union check-off dues.

Primate Ayodele unveils vehicle subsidy scheme, to sell foreign-used cars for N1m on Sunday

The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, is set to host another edition of Vehicle Subsidy, which will involve selling foreign-used cars that are worth nothing less than N8million for N1million.

This is in commemoration of his church’s youth anniversary week, which will end on Sunday, 12th of October, 2025.

The cleric was captured in a video test-driving the vehicles, confirming that they are in a perfect state for those who would be lucky enough to benefit from the initiative.

According to information provided by the church management, the subsidy will only be available for youths who are members of the church.

It was also noted that an earlier edition, some months back, was opened for every member of the church.

Speaking with Primate Ayodele on the reason behind the initiative, the prophet stated that it is a means to empower the youths of the church and, largely, the nation.

He stated that due to the economic condition of the country, it will be difficult for an average Nigerian youth to afford a vehicle, even if it’s for business purposes, hence his decision to empower them.

He called on the federal government to create empowerment programmes for the youth in order to secure a better future for the country.

‘Buying foreign used cars in Nigeria has become difficult for the youths of the nation. Prices keep going up daily, and even youths who would like to use cars for ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt can’t afford to own one because of the cost.

‘I love to see youths progress, and it is always painful to me when I think about how much youths struggle to rise in this country. We condemn those involved in illegitimate businesses, but what are we doing to support those with legitimate businesses? This is my own quota to the betterment of the lives of youths in Nigeria; this goes beyond our church, but the nation at large.

‘I also want to use this opportunity to call on the Nigerian government to come up with empowerment programmes that will support the progress of our youths. They are the future of our nation, let’s support them to secure a better future for our nation, Nigeria’

’You are evil,’- Portable fires at fourth baby mama

Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola also known as Portable has called our his fourth baby mama, Ashabi, accusing her of attempting to chase his wife away.

Portable, in a leaked conversation with the actress, stated that Ashabi only came into his life because of his accomplishments.

He added that he has been molested and disrespected by her, claiming that no one would know her without him

‘You didn’t suffer with me. You only came into my life because of my glory. I made you. Without my name who knows you before now?. You molested and disrespected me in public. You are evil. Any woman I want to call my wife must respect me, but you are driving me crazy. I’m always happy whenever people talk about my wife, Bawaji. She’s also happy about it. You are the mistake I made in my life.Among all my baby mamas, you are the one chasing people away including Queen Dami. When she came to apologise, you and your friends spoiled it. You are a useless human being,’ he stated.

Portable went on to lament about his relationship with Ashabi, revealing that he cannot see himself falling in love with her.

‘Why do you want to chase all women away from me? It was God who didn’t let my wife, Bewaji leave my house. You told her that I had girlfriends. You poor girl and actress, What have you ever bought for your parents? You’re wasting your time I can’t love you. Leave my life. You this ingrate. Who knows you? before I come into your life and raise you up,’ he added.

”In Okpebholo we trust”: APC leaders pass vote of confidence in Edo governor

Leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area have passed a vote of confidence in the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo.

The party leaders commended the governor’s leadership, stating that it has put Edo State on a path of progress and prosperity, while also inspiring trust and optimism among the citizens.

This declaration was made in a communiqué read by a former member of the House of Representatives, Ehiozuwa Agbonyima, following a meeting of APC stakeholders held at his residence in Ikpoba-Okha on Saturday.

The communiqué highlighted several developmental initiatives introduced under Governor Okpebholo’s administration, including the construction of a flyover bridge and multiple road infrastructure projects, as evidence of his commitment to improving the lives of Edo residents.

It further praised what it described as the governor’s ‘relentless efforts’ to enhance critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and the economy-particularly in the area of job creation.

‘These initiatives have not only improved living conditions but have also fostered a sense of unity and empowerment among the people,’ the communiqué noted.

It concluded with a message of solidarity: ‘As you continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities before you, please be assured that you have our unwavering support.’

Tacha completes 24-hour Guinness World Record attempt with 145 makeovers

Reality TV star and entrepreneur, Natacha Akide, popularly known as Tacha, has completed her 24-hour Guinness World Record attempt for the most makeovers done in a single day, clocking a total of 145 transformations.

The marathon, which began on Saturday and ended around 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, all under the watchful eyes of fans, celebrities, and Guinness officials.

She transformed faces of 145 models in total, each a stroke in her 24-hour beauty marathon.

The participants included influencers and celebrities such as Mitchy, Venita Akpofure, and content duo Wanni and Handi. They represented a mix of body types and skin tones.

Each transformation was carefully documented with professional photographs and short runway showcases as part of the Tacha Beauty Festival, which doubled as the stage for her record attempt.

The event was graced by Reality TV personalities, entertainers, and beauty enthusiasts. Among them were Alex Unusual, Toke Makinwa, Dabota Lawson, Soma Anyama, Slimcase, Ice Prince, Egungun of Lagos.

Tacha, who rose to fame after featuring in Big Brother Naija Season 4, said the record attempt was more than a personal milestone. It was, in her words, ‘a celebration of creativity, consistency, and the strength of Nigerian women in the global beauty space.’

She now awaits official confirmation from Guinness World Records, which will review her submission before declaring her an official record holder.

EFCC grills two travellers over undeclared $6,180, £53,415 at Lagos Airport

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into two travellers, Mamud Nasidi and Yahaya Nasidi, who were arrested for allegedly failing to declare $6,180 and £53,415 found in their possession at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos.

According to a statement by the Commission, operatives of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) intercepted the suspects during a routine security check on Saturday, October 11, 2025, shortly after they arrived in Nigeria from Dubai via Addis Ababa and were preparing to board a connecting flight to Abuja.

The EFCC said upon interception, both men were reportedly questioned about the foreign currencies they carried but failed to make the mandatory declaration as required under Nigerian law.

He said they were subsequently handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS), which later transferred them to the EFCC’s Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, located on Okotie Eboh Street, Ikoyi, for further investigation and possible prosecution.

According to the commission, in addition to the undeclared funds, three mobile phones were recovered from the suspects.

The EFCC confirmed that the items and the accused persons were received by CSE Margaret Lamai on behalf of the acting Zonal Director, Assistant Commander of the EFCC (ACE I) Ahmed Ghali.

The Commission stated that the suspects are currently being interrogated to determine the source and purpose of the funds, as well as possible links to money laundering or other financial crimes.

The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing financial transparency at Nigeria’s entry and exit points, stressing that all travellers are required by law to declare any cash or negotiable instruments exceeding $10,000 or its equivalent upon arrival or departure.

Investigations are ongoing, and the suspects will be charged to court as soon as findings are concluded.

Brothers in crime? Police arrest two siblings over alleged robbery

Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested two brothers in connection with an alleged robbery during a raid on a mechanic workshop in Ore, the administrative headquarters of Odigbo Local Government Area.

The suspects, identified as Monday Akinmusere and Oluwaseun Akinmusere, were apprehended over the weekend following intelligence gathered by the Divisional Police Office in Ore.

Their arrest was confirmed in a statement issued on Sunday by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, in Akure.

According to Ayanlade, a locally fabricated pistol and one live cartridge were recovered from the suspects during a thorough search of the premises.

‘Acting on credible intelligence from a reliable source, on Saturday, 11 October 2025, at approximately 5:15 p.m., the Divisional Police Officer in Ore led his team in a raid on a mechanic workshop located off Okitipupa Road, Ore,’ the statement read.

‘During the operation, two suspects – Monday Akinmusere and Oluwaseun Akinmusere, both male residents of Ore – were arrested. A comprehensive search of the workshop led to the recovery of a locally-made pistol and one live cartridge.’

Ayanlade further stated that the suspects are currently in police custody while investigations are ongoing to trace the origin of the firearm and determine any possible connections with other criminal elements in the area.