Saskay opens up on struggles in Europe

Former Big Brother Naija housemate, Tsakute Ladi Jonah, popularly known as Saskay, has revealed the challenges she is currently facing as a graduate student in Europe, describing the academic system as a major shift from what she was used to in Nigeria.

In a post shared on her (Twitter) account, Saskay compared the Nigerian education system to that of Europe, saying her academic journey abroad has been mentally tasking due to the drastic differences in teaching and assessment methods.

According to her, Nigerian students are largely trained to memorize and reproduce lecture notes during exams. However, in Europe, the emphasis is on critical thinking, independent research, and applying classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios-an approach she admits she is still learning to adapt to.

She wrote:

‘Schooling in Nigeria made me learn exactly what I was taught and spitting it out in tests/exams.

Schooling in Europe says I need to learn what I’m taught, read more outside of school work and apply that knowledge to real life situations in tests/exams.

It’s a bit of a struggle tbh especially since I’ve never learnt how to do the latter.’

The reality TV star, who is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Global Security and Strategy at the Brussels School of Governance in Belgium, said the transition has been challenging but she remains determined to succeed.

Saskay also revealed that she had waited five years for this opportunity, facing several setbacks and moments of doubt.

She added that she nearly settled for a course she had no passion for before finally securing admission into her dream program.

Tears flow as gospel singer Dare Melody remembers his late wife

Gospel musician Damilare Odunuga, popularly known as Dare Melody, has paid a heartfelt tribute to his late wife, Adedoyin Mary Odunuga, on the first anniversary of her passing, describing her as the heartbeat of their family and declaring that no woman can ever take her place in his life.

The singer posted an emotional message on Instagram, sharing how deeply he and their children still feel her absence.

Alongside her picture, he reflected on the sorrow and emptiness that her death has left behind.

‘One year ago, we bid farewell to my beloved wife, the heartbeat of this family and the love of my life. Your departure left an unfillable void, a stark emptiness where your vibrant spirit once danced,’ he wrote.

Dare Melody went on to express how every day has been a reminder of her love, strength, and the joy she brought into their home.

He added that although time has passed, the pain remains fresh, and their children continue to miss their mother dearly.

‘No woman can ever take your place in my heart. May your soul rest in perfect peace. Myself and our lovely kids miss you terribly,’ he added.

Adedoyin Odunuga died in October 2024 and was laid to rest in Eruwen, Ikorodu, Lagos, in the presence of family, friends, and members of the gospel muic industry.

How to stop Nigerian doctors from leaving the country – NMA

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has advocated for improved welfare for Nigerian doctors to enable them to remain in their home country and contribute more to the nation’s healthcare system.

The NMA said this while asserting that the current welfare package is insufficient and responsible for the mass exodus of doctors from Nigeria on the sidelines of a ‘Fitness Walk’ organised for doctors by its Osun chapter as part of activities lined up for the association’s Physicians Week.

The Chairman of NMA in Osun, Dr Adeniyi Fashanu, told journalists at the event organised in Osogbo that improved welfare will discourage frequent emigration popularly dubbed ‘japa syndrome’ by medical doctors from Nigeria.

He added that an improved welfare for doctors in Nigeria would foster a return of those of them already resident abroad.

Fashanu explained that the Physicians Week is a period to celebrate and appreciate doctors for their service to humanity, which he claimed was not being sufficiently recognised.

‘Doctors save lives, they respond to emergencies and help in the prevention of diseases.

‘They also help in formulating and advising government in making policies that will improve the health care system of the society.

‘However, the welfare of doctors is ‘below bar’ in Nigeria, and this is why we are advocating for improved welfare package for our doctors,’ he said.

In his remarks, Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the UniOsun Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, Dr Babatunde Afolabi, noted that doctors had made several demands on government.

He commended the state government for what it had done and was still doing for doctors in the state, but said that more was required to remedy their shortage in Osun.

‘I want to say that the present government has been very magnanimous to doctors, they have assisted us in a very big way, taking care of our needs.

‘There are still a lot of things that we are lacking as doctors, and we place our demands before the government, in terms of manpower, increasing availability of doctors in the state and at large.

‘This is our country, it is our nation and a nation can only boast of being healthy if its doctors are ‘healthy’, he said

Afolabi said that ideally, the number of doctors in Nigeria was far below the standard of the World Health Organisation, which is why many doctors are being overworked.

‘We have had instances where doctors, after work, collapse with cardiac arrest and die,’ he said

He appealed to government to look towards employment of more doctors, and making their welfare paramount.

Arms peddler on watch list, female accomplice arrested in Delta

The Police Command in Delta has apprehended a suspected arms peddler in the state.

The spokesman of the command, Bright Edafe, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen on Saturday in Warri.

Edafe said that a female suspect was also arrested alongside the suspected hoodlum.

He said that the duo were nabbed on Wednesday by the operatives of the CP- Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) of the command.

Edafe said that the operation followed a credible intelligence from the Force Technical Intelligence Unit (TIU), Abuja.

‘The CP-SAT acting on the intelligence, arrested a female suspect at Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.

‘Upon search, a sum of N555,000, suspected to be proceeds from illicit transaction was discovered in her bag.

‘Her apprehension provided a crucial lead that set off a well-coordinated follow-up operation,’ he said.

Edafe said that the police team, thereafter, stormed Niger-Cat neighborhood, Ekpan in Uvwie LGA to arrest the suspected arms peddler.

The command’s spokesman said that preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect was a key supplier of weapons to bandit groups in Northern Nigeria.

He added that the suspect had been on the command’s watch list over alleged role in several high-profile kidnapping and armed-robbery operations.

‘The suspect is also linked to the kidnap and murder of one Ogheneovo Onemu (female), who was abducted on May 17, 2024 at Ajaokuta Community, Ughelli North LGA.

The victim was later killed despite the payment of a ?4,000,000 ransom,’ he said.

Edafe said that 115 rounds of 7.63mm AK-47 live ammunition, 220 rounds of SMG rifle ammunition and 32 live cartridges concealed inside a bag were recovered in the custody of the suspect.

Ooni, Alaafin reunite in Lagos, seal historic Yoruba Unity Pact

In a landmark move to strengthen peace and solidarity across Yorubaland, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, met in Lagos on Friday, reaffirming their shared commitment to unity, cultural preservation, and mutual respect among the Yoruba people.

The historic meeting, held at the Eko Hotel Signature Building, was convened by the Odole Oodua of The Source, Sir Dr. Kessington Adebutu, as part of his birthday celebration.

In a joint communiqué issued after the session, both monarchs announced the establishment of a Joint Council for Yoruba Unity, a body dedicated to promoting peacebuilding, cultural preservation, and socioeconomic advancement throughout Yorubaland.

The communiqué described the meeting as a defining moment in Yoruba history, emphasizing that the strength of the Yoruba nation lies in unity and collective progress.

‘Today marks a defining moment in our shared history. We are committed to promoting harmony among Yoruba sons and daughters and upholding the sacred values of mutual respect and brotherhood bequeathed to us by our forebears,’ the communiqué stated.

The gathering, attended by eminent Yoruba leaders, traditional rulers, and cultural custodians, focused on fostering inter-kingdom cooperation and encouraging other monarchs to emulate the spirit of reconciliation demonstrated by the Ooni and Alaafin.

In their closing prayers, both royal fathers jointly sought divine guidance, peace, and prosperity for Yorubaland, Nigeria, and the African continent. The event ended with an exchange of royal blessings and goodwill between the two revered thrones.

Sir Adebutu expressed delight at witnessing the renewed unity between the monarchs, describing it as ‘a milestone that will strengthen peace and progress among the Yoruba people.’

The communiqué was jointly signed by Ooni Adeyeye Ogunwusi and Alaafin Abimbola Owoade, and witnessed by Sir Dr. Kessington Adebutu. It was issued by Aare Dr. Kola Oyefeso, Secretary of the Communiqué Drafting Committee.

Sooyah Bistro opens second Ibadan Branch, eyes Bodija, Abuja for expansion

Sooyah Bistro, Nigeria’s popular modern suya brand, has deepened its presence in Ibadan with the opening of its second outlet on Saturday, 25th October 2025.

The new branch, located at the Richie Rich Building, opposite Bollads Event Centre, Akala Express, becomes the 11th branch in the brand’s fast-growing network.

Speaking at the grand opening, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Olamidun Ogundoyin, reflected on the brand’s humble beginnings and steady rise.

‘I started Sooyah Bistro in 2018 as a side hustle in Lagos with just ?20,000 worth of stock and a Suya Mallam. The original idea was to spread the joy of Nigerian food and reimagine how we eat suya. We have since grown organically-no bank loans, no investors, just pure passion and the incredible support of our customers,’ she said.

With the Akala Express branch now open, Sooyah Bistro operates two outlets in Ibadan, the first being on Ring Road, while nine others are located across Lagos.

The company, which employs over 120 staff, is already planning a third Ibadan outlet in Bodija and a major expansion into Abuja and other Nigerian cities.

Describing the brand as ‘Suya wey get master’s degree,’ Ogundoyin explained that Sooyah Bistro’s mission is to celebrate Nigerian culture through food innovation.

The restaurant offers creative menu options such as suya burgers, suya shawarma, suya rice bowls, and other fusion delicacies.

Her advice to young Nigerians was equally inspiring. ‘Start small. Be passionate. Be dedicated. I began with just ?20,000 and no formal funding, and today we’re celebrating our 11th branch. Your passion is more valuable than money,’ she added.

Guests at the event enjoyed an energetic mix of food, music, and entertainment as the brand reaffirmed its status as a proudly indigenous enterprise redefining Nigerian street food with world-class quality and customer experience.

Ned Nwoko speaks on taking another wife

Senator Ned Nwoko has dismissed rumours claiming he has taken another wife, following the circulation of a viral video showing him with a young woman.

In a statement shared on his official Instagram page, the Delta North senator described the reports as ‘false’ and ‘mischievous.’

‘A video recently brought to my attention shows a young woman who visited with her team under the Peace Ambassadors initiative, led by Ambassador Dr. Adejo Sule, and it is now being circulated online with false claims attempting to affiliate me with her,’ Nwoko said. ‘It is unfortunate what social media has become, a space where moments are easily twisted for clout and misinformation.’

He explained that the meeting was purely official and that the photos taken during the visit were being misinterpreted.

‘During the visit, photographs were taken with members of the delegation, as is customary whenever I receive guests,’ he said. ‘It is therefore mischievous and malicious for anyone to exploit such gestures to fabricate false narratives.’

Nwoko also clarified that he has no personal relationship with the woman in question and warned those spreading the rumour to stop or face legal action.

‘I strongly caution individuals, groups, or media outlets spreading this fabricated story to desist immediately,’ he warned. ‘Any further propagation of this false narrative will attract appropriate legal action. The Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 remains in full force and applies to anyone involved in the deliberate spread of falsehood or defamation in cyberspace.’

The clarification comes amid social media speculation about the lawmaker’s marriage to actress Regina Daniels, with some users suggesting he had secretly married another woman.

Gombe Security Commissioner, Orderly killed in tragic road crash

The Gombe State Government has announced the death of its Commissioner for Internal Security, retired Col. Abdullahi Bello, following a fatal road accident.

The announcement was made by Gov. Inuwa Yahaya through Ismaila Uba-Misilli, Director-General of Press Affairs, Gombe Government House.

The commissioner and his police orderly, Sergeant Adamu Husaini, lost their lives on Friday along the Malam Sidi-Gombe road.

Governor Yahaya said the late commissioner was returning from Maiduguri, Borno State, where he had attended the North East Regional Consultation on the Development of a National Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) programme.

‘We received the heart-breaking news with profound sadness. The late commissioner was a disciplined officer and dedicated public servant,’ the governor said.

He added that Bello brought his wealth of military experience, leadership, and patriotism into service for Gombe State, playing a vital role in consolidating the peace and security for which the state is renowned.

‘Bello will be remembered as a pillar of discipline, courage, and selfless service. He carried out his duties with unmatched diligence and a deep sense of responsibility. His demise is a monumental loss not only to his family and our government but to Gombe State and Nigeria at large.’

The governor recalled the commissioner’s significant contributions in the State Executive Council, particularly in shaping policies on internal security, inter-agency collaboration, and community safety.

‘On behalf of the government and people of Gombe State, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, his associates, and the Balanga Local Government community. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannat Firdaus.’

Gov. Yahaya also expressed sympathy for the family of the late police orderly, Husaini, describing both men as patriots who died in active service to the state and nation, and prayed for the speedy recovery of the commissioner’s driver, who sustained injuries in the crash.

NEMA receives 150 stranded Nigerians back from Niger

The Kano Operations Office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) successfully received 150 Nigerian returnees from Agadez, Niger Republic on Thursday.

The return of the stranded Nigerians was done in partnership with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) and supported by the International Organization for Migration (IOM),

According to NEMA, The returnees arrived safely at Aminu Kano International Airport at approximately 5:20 a.m., where officials from the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) conducted biometric registration and proper documentation to ensure accurate records and facilitate smooth reintegration.

The agency said following registration, the returnees were transported to Bizare Hotel Luxury Apartments for accommodation and profiling scheduled.

The returnees comprised 88 adult male, 32 adult female, 14 male children, and 16 female children, reflecting a broad demographic mix of citizens returning under the Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) initiative.

‘In line with the Federal Government’s commitment to a safe, dignified, and humane return, the returnees were provided with immediate humanitarian assistance, including food and potable water to meet nutritional needs, medical care and ambulance services for health concerns, luggage handling and logistical support to ease transit, and overall coordination to ensure a smooth reception process.

‘The successful operation was the result of collaborative efforts by NEMA, IOM, NCFRMI, and other stakeholders, ensuring that the exercise was efficient, well-coordinated, and centred on the dignity and welfare of all returnees,’ NEMA said.

Sammie opens up on depression after BBNaija

Former Big Brother Naija housemate, Samuel Jacob, popularly known as Sammie, has made a heartbreaking revelation about his life after exiting the reality TV show, disclosing that he battled severe depression and financial instability despite the glitz and fame associated with the BBNaija platform.

In an emotional video shared on Instagram, Sammie disclosed that he often cried alone in his Lekki apartment as he struggled to cope with the harsh realities of life.

‘A year after the show, I lost count of how many times I felt depressed. I would sit alone in my house in Lekki and just cry. A grown man like me with beards, crying and asking God why. Some days I’d thank Him, other days I’d just break down,’ he said.

According to Sammie, fans assumed he was financially successful after BBNaija, but the reality was different. He explained that the cost of maintaining his public image was mentally draining, especially when his earnings were inconsistent.

‘There was barely money coming in, but I still had a life to maintain. It messed with my head,’ he added.

The reality star said leaving university to join BBNaija disrupted his life plans and left him struggling to find stable income even after the show ended.

Sammie also spoke about the emotional toll of watching his peers succeed while he felt stuck.

‘You’d see young guys pulling up in their G-Wagons while I will now chop my indomie, wear my fine shirt-nobody will know what I’m going through.’