Category: PM News

By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party on Tuesday said the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has been turned to into joke over its inability to stop inflow of illicit drugs into the country as as result of what he described as ‘corruption and poor regulation’.

Peter Obi said this in a statement his X handle on Tuesday while raising concern about use of courier and delivery services by traffickers to bring illicit drugs into the country.

He noted that the trend has continued to grow despite concerns raised by the NDLEA, a situation he said is a reflection of “how weak our institutions and relevant monitoring systems are,”

The former Anambra governor noted that drug trafficking remains a big danger to society and a serious international offence that cannot be overlooked as it destroys families, fuels crime, and corrodes the conscience of a nation.

“The Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has repeatedly raised concern about this trend, yet it continues to grow, apparently aided by corruption and poor regulation that have turned the enforcement body into a joke. Drug trafficking remains a big danger to society and a serious international offence that cannot be overlooked,” the former presidential candidate said.

He added that Nigeria, a country that is already battling insecurity, large youth unemployment, and hunger cannot afford a drug-normalised culture.

“Nigeria, therefore, needs stronger oversight and must rise above this dangerous decline and rebuild a system where laws are sacred, leaders are accountable, and no one is above justice. Nigeria will only heal when character, truth, and responsibility return to governance.” Peter Obi said in the statement.

Read his full statement below

Raising Drug Concern in our society.

The recent revelation that drug traffickers have infiltrated Nigeria’s courier and delivery services sector is worrisome and another sad reminder of how deep our national decay has become. When criminal networks can now use logistics companies to distribute narcotics across the country, it shows how weak our institutions and relevant monitoring systems are.

The Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has repeatedly raised concern about this trend, yet it continues to grow, apparently aided by corruption and poor regulation that have turned the enforcement body into a joke. Drug trafficking remains a big danger to society and a serious international offence that cannot be overlooked.

It destroys families, fuels crime, and corrodes the conscience of a nation. A country already battling insecurity, large youth unemployment, and hunger cannot afford a drug-normalised culture.

Nigeria, therefore, needs stronger oversight and must rise above this dangerous decline and rebuild a system where laws are sacred, leaders are accountable, and no one is above justice. Nigeria will only heal when character, truth, and responsibility return to governance.

New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

By Muhyideen Jimoh

Danish billionaire and Founder of Bestseller Foundation, Mr Anders Povlsen, has commended President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing reforms, noting that they were creating new and sustainable investment opportunities across Nigeria’s economy.

Povlsen who is Denmark’s richest man said this on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja.

The billionaire who also pledged to invest in Nigeria’s digital economy, entertainment and sports sectors was accompanied by the Danish Ambassador to Nigeria, Jens Hansen, and other senior officials from the Danish Government to the presidential villa.

Povlsen stressed the need for deeper collaboration between both countries in technology, culture, creative economy and youth-driven innovation.

“We would love to invest. We clearly see opportunities. We see the talent. We see the creativity. Some of it we admire in our daily life in Denmark, whether it’s music, whether it’s fashion.

“We’re already talking, as Bosun mentioned, we’re already taking first steps in investing in future Africa and goodwill.

“And we’re supporting the Fashion Week in Lagos this week also. We’re looking forward to join that later.

He said plans are underway to invest more in his football academy in Nigeria, so as to churn out more talents for the national teams.

“So, football is one of them (where we hope to invest more). And I am honored to tell you that our academy have three players in the national team,” he added.

Earlier, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to encouraging investors, particularly those interested in technology and youth development.

“I must just say thank you very much for believing in us. We are a country that is hoping and willing to partner with many people like you, other countries that believe in recognition and placing their value in our youth, and particularly innovation and digital economy.

“Cultural value and sport is one of those aspects of Nigeria that we are trying to nourish. And we will partner with you. I promise that.

The President said his government’s reforms were designed to strengthen Nigeria’s position as Africa’s leading economy and innovation hub.

Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani thanked the Danish mogul for believing in Nigeria, while stressing the need for more partnerships.

“He’s a man that even before turning up for Nigeria, he’s invested significantly in a lot of ventures here, including the Future Africa Early Stage Fund, Aletheia Capital.

“And I think the most exciting, actually, is that he owns a football club in Denmark and a football academy in Shagamu,”

Tijani said that Denmark is deepening partnership with Nigeria in the area of digital economy and investment in the nation’s fiber optic network.

The meeting is part of ongoing efforts to attract foreign investment and expand NigeriaDenmark economic cooperation.

Povlsen’s visit is expected to open new opportunities for trade, technology exchange, and private-sector collaboration between both countries.

(NAN)

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid a glowing tribute to his longtime friend and political ally, Senator Abu Ibrahim, as the former lawmaker marks his 80th birthday.

“Since we first met in the Senate chambers in 1992, our friendship has only grown deeper and stronger,” the President said. “Our political partnership, rooted in shared ideals of justice, good governance, and democratic advancement, has always transcended party lines,” he added.

President Tinubu praised Senator Ibrahim’s steadfast commitment to democracy and nation-building, noting his courage during the struggle against military dictatorship in the early 1990s. He recounted how Senator Ibrahim stood firm alongside pro-democracy lawmakers following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.

“When the authorities released him and left the rest of us in detention, Abu refused to leave, insisting that we must all be released together,” Tinubu recalled.

The President also commended Senator Ibrahim’s contributions to the growth of democratic institutions and his role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013. He noted that Ibrahim’s advocacy for peace and national unity within the party has been exemplary.

Tinubu further acknowledged the octogenarian’s support during the 2023 presidential election and his continued input in the implementation of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“As a patriot, Abu has lived a life of dedication to public service and the pursuit of a greater Nigeria,” Tinubu stated. “I thank him for his steadfast support and cherished friendship over the years.”

The President concluded by wishing Senator Ibrahim many more years of good health and strength to continue his service to the nation and humanity.

The Naira on Monday appreciated further at the official foreign exchange market, trading at N1,452.79 to the dollar.

Data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) showed the Naira gained N5.16 compared with Friday’s rate of N1,457.95.

This represents a 0.35 per cent appreciation, extending the weeklong positive trend recorded in the previous week.

The Association of Bureau De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON) commended the month-long appreciation of the Naira in both official and parallel markets.

BCON President, Dr Aminu Gwadabe, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that several factors contributed to the gains.

He listed them as Nigeria’s exit from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, increased oil revenue, higher foreign reserves and diaspora remittances.

wadabe congratulated the nation for leaving the FATF grey list, noting that the Naira gained N10.00 against the dollar at the parallel market on Monday.

He said the development had boosted investors’ confidence and attracted more foreign investments into the country.

ccording to him, sustained reforms and information sharing among security agencies helped trace proceeds of crime and facilitated Nigeria’s exit from the list.

He added that the CBN’s success in raising foreign reserves to about 42.26 billion dollars provided a strong buffer for the Naira.

“The sustained stability has reduced speculation. Speculators’ activities have been rendered ineffective in the market,” he said. (NAN)

American RandB superstar Chris Brown has been granted permission to return to the United States on bail after being charged in the United Kingdom over an alleged unprovoked attack on a music producer at a London nightclub.

The 36-year-old singer, alongside his co-defendant, Dallas-based rapper Omololu Akinlolu, appeared before Southwark Crown Court on Monday, where both men denied charges of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm to producer Abraham Diaw.

Brown is also facing charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon, while Akinlolu faces a separate assault charge.

ccording to prosecutors, the incident occurred on February 19, 2023, at the Tape Club in London’s Mayfair district. Brown allegedly struck Diaw multiple times on the head with a tequila bottle, before chasing, kicking, and punching him — all captured on CCTV footage.

The singer was later arrested at the Lowry Hotel in Salford in May after arriving in the UK on a private jet.

During Monday’s hearing, Judge Tony Baumgartner approved a variation of Brown’s bail conditions, allowing him and Akinlolu to return to the United States under what he described as “very stringent” terms.

“You will have to come back to the UK when you are required to do so and surrender to bail in accordance with your obligations,” the judge warned.

Prosecutor Heide Stonecliffe KC clarified that the decision was made under “unusual circumstances” and should not be seen as the defendants being allowed to “return to the US unfettered.”

Brown’s bail conditions reportedly include a Pound 5 million security payment, surrendering his passport, and restrictions on contacting the alleged victim or his co-defendant.

Their trial is scheduled for October 26, 2026, with a case management hearing set for January 28, 2026, Daily Mail reports.

If he breaches his bail terms, the court warned, he could forfeit his security payment.

By Naomi Sharang

The Senate, on Tuesday, confirmed the appointment of former Sokoto Commissioner, Bello Wamakko and five others as commissioners for the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).

The other five confirmed as RMFAC commissioners are Hadizatu Mustapha, Borno; Sen. Marafa Abba, Taraba; Ahmed Hassan, Adamawa; Bob Inafa, Bayelsa and Gboyega Oladele, Osun.

The confirmation followed the presentation and consideration of the report of the Senate Committee on National Planning and Economic Affairs during plenary.

Chairman of the committee, Sen. Yahaya Abdullahi who presented the report said that the committee was confident that the nominees possessed the requisite knowledge.

“We are convinced of their suitability,” he said.

In his remarks, Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau who presided over the plenary said that the appointment of the nominees was a call to serve the nation.(NAN)

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, has emphasised the vast economic potential of Nigeria’s North Central region, describing it as a future hub for the country’s non-oil exports.

kume noted that the region’s rich mineral deposits and strong agricultural base give it a strategic advantage in driving national economic diversification.

He added that with sustained improvements in logistics and transport infrastructure, the North Central zone could play a leading role in boosting Nigeria’s non-oil export sector.

The SGF made the assertion in Jos, Plateau State, while commissioning the Senator George Akume’s 250-seater Conference Centre at the North Central Zonal Office of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Yomi Odunuga, his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity said in a statement.

“With improved logistics infrastructure, this region can become a key driver of Nigeria’s diversification agenda,” he said.

Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, Senator Akume commended the Nigerian Shippers’ Council and the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy for what he described as “a testament to commitment and vision” in strengthening Nigeria’s logistics and maritime system.

“This edifice is not just a building; it is a statement of vision, a testament to commitment, and a reflection of the renewed energy driving Nigeria’s port and logistics system under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the SGF stated.

He noted that across the world, economic progress is built on solid infrastructure, adding that efficient ports, roads, railways, and dry ports are “the arteries through which the lifeblood of commerce flows.”

kume reiterated that the Federal Government, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, is prioritising investment in critical transport and trade infrastructure across all regions of the country — from the coastlines to the hinterlands — to boost connectivity and competitiveness.

“We are building an economy that thrives on connectivity,” he said.

“An economy where a farmer in Benue can ship produce seamlessly to Lagos Port, and an exporter in Jos can access global markets without unnecessary bottlenecks.”

The SGF lauded the Shippers’ Council ably led by its Executive Secretary, Barrister Pius Akuta, for its role as the Port Economic Regulator, promoting fairness, efficiency, and innovation in the maritime sector.

He particularly praised the Council’s effort in bridging the gap between seaports and inland regions through the development of Inland Dry Ports and zonal coordination offices.

ccording to him, the newly commissioned conference centre will serve as a hub for stakeholder engagement, policy dialogue, and capacity building, thereby strengthening Nigeria’s maritime and logistics ecosystem.

The SGF also called for stronger partnerships between government, the private sector, development partners, and host communities to sustain the gains of infrastructure development.

“Government cannot achieve this vision alone,” he stressed. “Let us view infrastructure not merely as government projects, but as national assets that require protection, maintenance, and innovation.”

Femi Fabunmi

The organisers of the popular Nigeria Pitch Awards, Lenders Consults International, have announced plans to introduce an Annual Sports Conference ahead of the 12th edition of the prestigious event.

Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos, the President of the Nigeria Pitch Awards, Dr. Shina Philips, said the new sports conference will be held every year before the main award ceremony.

He explained that the event will feature local and international speakers who will share ideas on how to develop sports in Nigeria.

“Our goal is to use the conference to renew and refocus national attention on sports,” Philips said. “We also want to create opportunities for administrators, investors, and government officials to work together to grow the sports sector.”

He added that the conference would make the Pitch Awards more than just a platform for honouring athletes, but also a major contributor to the overall development of sports across the country.

“The Nigeria Pitch Awards have grown over the years through hard work and commitment from everyone involved since 2012,” Philips said. “We thank the National Sports Commission, the Nigeria Football Federation, our partners, voters, and past winners for their continued support.”

Voting for this year’s awards will start on Wednesday, October 30, and end on November 18, while the award ceremony is scheduled to hold in Lagos on December 22.

Philips, however, noted that the date could be adjusted slightly because the Super Eagles will play their first 2025 AFCON match on December 23.

SIAO Partners, the auditing firm responsible for collating and verifying votes, assured that the process will remain transparent and credible. A representative of the firm, Mr. Oluwadare Ojelade, said:

“This is part of our Corporate Social Responsibility.

We ensure that every winner truly reflects the choice of the voters, and we handle the process with full professionalism.”

Since its start in 2012, the Nigeria Pitch Awards have maintained a strong reputation as one of Nigeria’s most transparent and respected sports recognition platforms.

With the introduction of the annual sports conference, the organisers say they aim to honour excellence, inspire collaboration, and drive sustainable growth in Nigeria’s sports industry.

Hollywood producer Alana Hadid has tied the knot with her partner and Emmy-winning producer Ross Williams in a private backyard wedding.

lana who is the half-sister to famous runway models Gigi Hadid and Bella Hadid tied the knot on the 18th of October.

The happy celebration which took place in Los Angeles was an intimate ceremony at her father, Mohamed Hadid’s home.

While speaking with Vogue, Alana expressed her excitement for the new marital journey, noting that she has waited a long time to settle down.

“We wanted to do it somewhere that meant something to us, so my dad’s house was a natural thought. Then we were trying to figure out what time of year we wanted to get married, and I just think that fall in L.A. is a beautiful time. I’m 42 and waited a long time to get married!,” she stated.

Michael Blackson’s Ex-fiancee Rada Cheang, has responded to the apology rendered by her former partner, after he impregnated his friend.

The media personality on her Instagram page, regarded the apology as pathetic, emphasising that she is not going to give any attention to negativity.

“I don’t normally respond but let’s just agree that was the most pathetic post or apology ever. I’m walking in peace, guided by God’s grace. My energy belongs to my 4-month-old son, not to negativity. People always tell me they are embarrassed for me or it’s getting embarrassing at this pointbut for me, When love runs that deep, you stop seeing the man and start seeing the boy who just wanted to be loved and that’s what breaks you. I didn’t just love, I understood the pain, the innocence, the child in him,” she wrote.

Rada regarded her relationship with Blackson as a circus, adding that she was never his type.

“With that said, i take full accountability for staying in the circus too long. His type was never me because I’m a real woman. This is what happens when you hold a man down 100%,” she added.