Category: PM News

Some farmers’ associations have lauded the Federal Government’s efforts in stabilising food prices since last year but urged increased welfare and a better environment for local farmers.

The associations’ leaders made the call in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lagos.

The Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) Southwest and Lagos State, Mr Femi Oke, praised government efforts but sought stronger policies to boost productivity.

‘Looking at the food sector itself, we can say prices of commodities slightly went down. This was because the present administration was able to take some measures.

‘The import waivers by the President and other measures helped crack down some prices.

‘But apart from the prices going down, we farmers are not too happy, because we cannot sustain the food sector through imports.

‘It will not sustain us in farming, if more importation is being done.

‘The government still needs to take some measures, and the measures should recognise farmers, especially in provision of necessary inputs to all,’ Oke said.

According to him, provision of farm inputs, opening rural roads and creating an enabling environment will enhance productivity and ensure food security across the country.

‘The state governors should align with farmers, particularly heads of farmers’ associations, so they can identify critical routes in bad condition affecting produce transportation.

‘Also, the abandoned farm extension offices should be revived,’ he added.

On his part, Mr Godwin Egbebe, National Publicity Secretary, Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), said achievements of the administration in agriculture carry two sides.

‘Basically, in the food sector prices have gone down. But the assessment is twofold, because not everybody has the purchasing power to buy produce.

‘As a sector, we used to experience egg gluts due to high productivity. Presently, many farmers are out of business because of costly inputs, so gluts no longer occur.

‘When people are out of business, scarcity of food results from reduced cultivation. Though prices are stable, many people cannot afford food,’ Egbebe said.

He explained that price stability was largely government-driven but remains artificial, as farmers still cannot produce as much as expected.

‘Our farmers need to return to farming. We cannot rely on food import waivers.

‘We can say food inflation is coming down, yet many still cannot afford to eat. The government must follow through on its policies.

‘Let people themselves testify to the impact of government policies on food, and not government declaring results when citizens cannot confirm them,’ he added.

Programme Director of the Bureau of African Labour, Human and Democratic Rights (BALHADER), Comrade Uchenna Uzoije says the moribund Southern Star Shipping and its successors- Flour Mills Nigeria Limited, Apapa Bulk Terminal Limited and their subsidiaries are still owing over 305 Nigerian Seamen deducted salaries, over half a century after.

Uchenna made this shocking revelation during a press briefing on Monday 29 September 2025 at the Akporo Community Hall, Ajegunle Apapa, Lagos.

While delivering his speech, entitled: ‘Over Half A Century Unlawful Deduction of Salaries of 305 Seafarers By NAT Scheme of Greece’, the human rights activist said all efforts to obtain justice for the hapless long-suffering ex-workers were yet to be fruitful.

Comrade Uchenna stated that the Bureau had written to the General Secretary of the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), Mr. Steven Cotton, urging his intervention to recover the unlawfully withheld pension contributions deducted from salaries of the 305 Nigerian seamen by Southern Star Shipping Company between 1977 and 1982 under the Greece’s NAT scheme.

The Comrade said, though Southern Star Shipping was moribund, her successor, the Flour Mills of Nigeria, who acquired the assets and liabilities of the company should naturally take responsibilities over the entitlements of the acquired company employees.

Uchenna said: ‘Apapa Bulk Terminal operating berths 1-5 was financed by Flour Mills Limited making them equally culpable. Therefore, the numerous

denial by the Company Secretary of Apapa Bulk Terminal that their company has no business with the 305 Seafarers is totally a false statement aimed at misleading the general public.

‘Southern Star Shipping was incorporated in 1947 by Mr. George S. Cumantaros, with current address as 1370 Avenue, New York. The current President is Mr. John Coumantaros (since 2009) who succeeded his late father. In January 2025, Mr. John Coumantaros’ acquired all minority shareholders of Flours Mills making him the controller of the company.

‘The Apapa Bulk Terminal which operates Berths 1-5 of Lagos Port Complex is 100% owned by Flour Mills Nigeria Limited.

‘Also, the post-August 1978 Presidential Decree in Greece 913/1978 explicitly abolished coverage for thirdcountry nationals, making continued deductions legally unauthorized.

‘The question begging for an answer is why have the owners of Southern Star Shipping, Flour Mills, Apapa Bulk Terminal failed to remit the deducted wages in US dollars to these 305 Seafarers till date?’

Comrade Uchenna added that so far, a total number of 39 Seafarers have died and that 5 of them are critically ill as at the time of the press briefing.

He wondered how Mr. John Cumantaros and his management team were able ‘to sleep at night knowing fully well that their actions have in no small measure brought untold hardship and untimely deaths to these seafarers. The ill treatment of 305 Seafarers is ongoing despite being members of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN).’

He said that the concerned employers seemed to be getting away with the impunity because they were the ones who imposed the union leaders upon MWUN which he regarded as a violation of convention 87.

Testifying at the press briefing was Comrade Monday Young Jack, a Patron of BALHADER, stated that he worked with Southern Star Shipping for many years and that despite all appeals to the successor company to refund his wages deducted under the guise of NAT scheme of Greece, nothing has been done.

He used this medium to plead to well-meaning Nigerians to intervene by appealing to the new Managing Director of the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Mr. Thompson Oludare to have compassion on him about his salaries account and fixed deposit account with Heritage Bank that are already taken over by the NDIC.

‘I visited the NDIC Lagos office a total of 32 times in 2024. They always told me to come today, come tomorrow. BALHADER also wrote the former MD, Mr. Bello Hassan whose office promised to intervene. Up till now, nothing has been heard from them.

‘I served our fatherland for 54 years! Why am I being treated like nobody?’ The old man lamented.

Another member of the group, Comrade James Anoyomoh, clarified the situation concerning whether they were full time employees of Southern Star Shipping or not, as it was a contentious issue in the reply of the Company Secretary of Apapa Bulk terminal.

Comrade James stated that they were all full-time staff most of who, after seamen, worked in other subsidiaries owned by Cumantaros.

Comrade Francis Agbogbo, a member of the Professional Seafarers Association of Nigeria (PSAN), commended the ITF for the steps taken so far at seeing that justice prevails for them. He explained that the ITF recovered over $57 million in unpaid maritime wages in 2023 through its global network of 125 plus inspectors across over 100 ports in over 50 countries, demonstrating concrete enforcement capabilities applicable to pension recovery claims.

He admonished his colleagues not to lose hope that their plight shall end in praise.

The press briefing came to an end as the Labour coalition called for a speedy action from the ITF and other international bodies so as to compel Flour Mills Limited, Apapa Bulk Terminal and their subsidiaries to refund the deducted salaries of all the 305 seafarers.

In attendance at the conference were members of BALHADER executives, representatives of Over5000 Maritime Workers, representatives of PSAN and concerned Nigerians.

Davido’s longtime manager, Asa Asika, has stirred conversations online after sharing lighthearted advice about marriage and football.

In a social media post, Asa revealed how his wife made his night easier by helping him find a link to watch his favourite Champions League match.

He described the gesture as a small but meaningful win, noting that marriage goes beyond romance and thrives on everyday acts of support.

According to him, choosing a partner who understands and complements one’s lifestyle makes a big difference.

‘Marry a woman who doesn’t drag with your love for football,’ he advised.

‘That’s why we all have to marry our best friends,’ one user wrote.

Another added, ‘Having a good wife is a big W.’

In contrast, a fan joked, ‘This is nice, but I’m not getting married anytime soon.’

Media personality and disc jockey, Florence Otedola, popularly known as DJ Cuppy, has joined in the celebration of Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary with an emotional tribute to her homeland.

In an Instagram post on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, Cuppy proudly declared that if given another chance at life, she would still choose to be Nigerian.

‘Èmi ni Omo Naija. My birthplace. My home. My country. Nigeria turns 65 today. Through it all, our people keep pushing, persevering, and finding joy even in the toughest times. God didn’t rush when He made us. He gave us resilience, spirit, and endless energy. In my next life, I’d still choose to be Nigerian,’ she wrote.

The billionaire heiress praised Nigerians for their resilience, strength, and ability to thrive despite numerous challenges. She noted that her national identity is central to her brand and personal values, as it allows her to carry a piece of Nigeria wherever she goes.

This is not the first time DJ Cuppy has expressed deep pride in her roots. During last year’s independence celebration, she described Nigeria as her ‘superpower’ and a ‘piece of hope.’

As the United States battles through a government shutdown, rumours have gone viral that America’s borders are now wide open for illegal immigrants. But Washington has moved quickly to shut down the claims, insisting immigration laws remain intact and border enforcement as strict as ever.

In a statement issued on X, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement stressed that immigration laws and border enforcement remain fully intact despite the shutdown.

‘There is no change to U.S. immigration laws or border enforcement. Rumors that a shutdown will allow illegal immigrants to enter the United States are false,’ the advisory stated.

The ICE clarified that border security remains strict, and anyone attempting to cross without authorization will face the full weight of the law.

The message comes amid rising speculation online that the budget standoff in Washington had created loopholes at U.S. entry points. But authorities insist the shutdown only affects funding to some government operations and has no bearing on immigration enforcement.

Crossing America’s borders without legal clearance, they warned, ‘remains a crime.’

Nollywood actress and politician’s wife, Regina Daniels, has joined in celebrating Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary.

In a video shared on social media, Daniels lightheartedly noted that Nigeria is now ‘older than her husband,’ billionaire businessman and politician Ned Nwoko.

Reflecting on past Independence Day celebrations, the actress recalled fond childhood memories of parades, green-and-white outfits, and children proudly singing the national anthem.

She expressed hope that the tradition of patriotic celebrations remains alive, stressing the importance of instilling national pride in younger generations.

Attempting to sing the country’s old national anthem during the video, Daniels stumbled on some lines, laughing at her mistakes but still emphasizing her love for the patriotic exercise.

‘Nigeria is 65. that’s a big number that’s a big number it’s older than my husband so yeah But you know, guys, I remember those days when it’s independence. Like you see every kid, the street is flooded. Myself, I’m dressed in green. Everyone doing their march pass, singing national anthems. You know, I hope it’s still the same. Like that practice. Like I hope it’s still the same. The joy to celebrate your country. I just hope it’s still the same. The fact that every school would have to go somewhere to sing their national anthem, it’s just, thinking about it now, it’s ridiculously patriotic. I love it. They don’t even sing our national anthem. Nobody should laugh here. Nigerians we hail thee, our own dear native land. Though tribes and tongues may differ, in brotherhood we stand. Nigerians all are proud to serve our sovereign motherland. Our flag shall be a symbol. That truth and justice reigns. In peace and battle honored. And this. In peace and battle honored. And handle. Shit. The next part is to handle. And hand on to a flag to our children without stain. Guys, fu.ck off. But I’ll still post this video because I don’t have enough time to do another one. But I’ll do another video.’

Victor Osimhen was named Man of the Match after helping Galatasaray shock Premier League champions Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League.

His 16th-minute penalty gave the Turkish champions a famous 1-0 victory in Istanbul.

‘Congratulations to the team. It was a very tough game against a strong opponent. Many people didn’t believe we could win, except for the players you see here,’ said the Super Eagles striker.

‘I’ve been away from the team for a while, but for me, this is the biggest club in the world!

‘We achieved a huge victory for Galatasaray and for me personally. The fans were the main reason I came here. Their support pushes me to give my best.

‘I love Galatasaray and the fans.’

The win was an impressive comeback for Galatasaray, who had lost 5-1 to Eintracht Frankfurt in their opening group game last month.

The Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL) has described corruption as Nigeria’s biggest stumbling block to development, even as the nation marked its 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Debo Adeniran, CACOL congratulated Nigerians for their resilience in sustaining democracy and nationhood despite decades of misrule.

However, the group lamented that the country’s story since independence had largely been one of ‘squandered opportunities, stunted growth, and unfulfilled potential.’

‘Since 1960, Nigeria has been blessed with abundant human and material resources, yet cursed by successive governments that have failed to manage them prudently. Corruption has remained the major albatross to our national development,’ Adeniran said.

The organisation pointed to how nations like Singapore, Malaysia, and South Korea, which gained independence around the same period, have become economic powers, while Nigeria remains trapped in underdevelopment due to entrenched corruption.

CACOL listed the fallout of corruption as insecurity, poverty, infrastructural decay, unemployment, and an economy in perpetual crisis.

It cited a string of scandals ranging from fuel subsidy fraud to pension scams, arms procurement diversions, and the looting of COVID-19 palliatives as evidence of systemic rot.

The group called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight, demanding stronger independence for the EFCC, ICPC, and the judiciary, as well as the prosecution of corrupt officials without political bias.

It also urged that recovered loot be channelled into education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation.

‘True independence is not just about lowering the colonial flag. It is about liberating citizens from oppression, deprivation, and corruption,’ Adeniran stressed.

CACOL added that Nigerians themselves must take responsibility by demanding accountability from leaders and refusing to glorify looters.

‘Nigeria at 65 must not continue to crawl when others are running. If we confront corruption with seriousness, our nation can still rise to greatness,’ the statement read.

The Yoruba traditional institution, once upheld as the custodian of tradition and moral compass of society, is facing a new kind of storm, not from rival kingdoms but from the era of ‘ring lights’ and social media ‘clout chase’.

The recent rift between the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, has shifted what was once sacred royal discussion into hot topics for online in-laws and netizens.

In an Instagram video on Tuesday, Oluwo claimed that the Ooni conspired to ‘set him up’ through his estranged Canadian wife, Chanel Chin, whom he divorced in 2019.

According to him, the marriage was orchestrated as a plot to end his reign and even his life. He further claimed that the Ooni accommodated and lodged her in hotels after their separation.

What once would have been resolved within palace walls is now broadcast through smartphones, ring lights, and livestreams, leaving social media users as the new jury in matters of royal dignity.

Since ascending the Iwo throne, Oba Akanbi has been outspoken critic of the Ooni’s authority.

In 2018, he accused Ooni’s bodyguards of humiliating him during a public event in Port Harcourt, an incident the Ooni’s palace firmly denied. Later, he controversially argued that an Iwo prince could become Ooni, citing ancestral ties to Oduduwa.

In 2020, he was suspended for six months by the Osun State Council of Obas after a public altercation with another monarch. He dismissed the suspension as void but eventually accepted it.

More recently, in September, the Oluwo declared that Ile-Ife is not the origin of the Yoruba race. ‘Ife has no Yoruba culture,’ he said in a Facebook broadcast, adding that Iwo holds the ‘real history of the race.’

This statement stirred a response from Ife, with Ooni’s spokesperson, Moses Olafare, stating that ‘no reasonable person will react to Oluwo’s comments.’

The Onikoyi of Ikoyi-Ekiti, Oba Akinwande Ogundana, warned that Oluwo’s frequent derogatory remarks could undermine the sanctity of revered stools. ‘The Oluwo should be called to order,’ he urged.

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke also cautioned monarchs against ‘acts capable of creating discord,’ stressing their roles as custodians of peace.

‘We cannot afford a situation where royal fathers are seen openly fighting one another,’ he said in a statement.

Once upon a time, kings settled disputes in palaces; today, they settle them on Instagram. What happened to the sacred thrones? If kings are fighting online like influencers, who then settles disputes in society?

Tragedy struck in Bauchi as police confirmed the death of a 24-year-old woman, Fatima Salihu Mohamed,m days after she was declared missing.

The Bauchi State Police Command said Fatima was last seen on September 24 when she left home to buy groceries at Birshin Fulani but never returned. Her father, Salihu Mohammed Chimo, 62, lodged a missing person report the following day at the ‘E’ Divisional Police Headquarters.

Police spokesperson, CSP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, said detectives and surveillance experts were deployed to trace her whereabouts.

A breakthrough came when the village head of Birshin Fulani relayed a report from one Bashar Adamu, who discovered a decomposing body on his father’s maize farm near the Federal Polytechnic Staff Quarters. Detectives led by CSP Yahaya Yunusa later confirmed the corpse to be that of the missing Fatima.

She was found with her shopping bags and groceries by her side. Her body was taken to the Federal Polytechnic clinic, where a medical practitioner confirmed her death before it was released to her family for burial.

Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has ordered a homicide team to investigate the case thoroughly.

According to Wakil, the commissioner assured that the inquiry will be evidence-driven to ensure justice is served.