Category: PM News

Sen. Dayo Adeyeye, National Chairman of the South West Agenda for Asiwaju (SWAGA) has said with his outstanding performance in office, President Bola Tinubu will win all 36 states in the 2027 presidential election.

Adeyeye made the assertion on Tuesday in Osogbo at a programme tagged ‘SWAGA 2.0’, organised to mobilise support for Tinubu’s re-election and the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun, Bola Oyebamiji.

‘I am so sure, by the grace of God, that the President will win a second term.

‘He will win in all the 36 states of Nigeria in the 2027 presidential election because he has performed beyond expectations,’ he said.

Adeyeye, who is also the Board Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), said Tinubu had fulfilled promises made by SWAGA ahead of the 2023 general election.

‘When we started SWAGA and told Nigerians about him, we said he would change the face of the country.

‘In education, there has been no strike in tertiary institutions for four years, unlike before.

‘In infrastructure, there is a revolution ongoing, including the construction of concrete roads with a lifespan of up to 100 years, as well as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway,’ he said.

Adeyeye urged the electorate to support the APC governorship candidate in the Aug. 15 election, insisting that Oyebamiji remained the President’s preferred candidate.

In his remarks, Oyebamiji said the APC was focused on governance rather than political confrontation.

Represented by a former member of the Osun House of Assembly, Tunde Olatunji, the candidate said his priority was to win the election and deliver quality governance.

‘I am not interested in fighting anybody. What we have is not a fight but a determination to provide better governance for the people of Osun.

‘If elected, my administration will ensure the state continues on the path of progress,’ he said.

Oyebamiji also pledged to replicate key Federal Government developmental initiatives in Osun within six months if elected.

Also speaking, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Gboyega Oyetola, appealed to residents across the state to participate in the election.

Represented by the Osun State Ambassador of the Renewed Hope Initiative, Mr Sunday Akere, Oyetola urged voters to return the state to the progressive fold.

‘I appeal to residents across the 332 wards and 3,673 polling units in Osun State to come out en masse on Aug. 15 and vote for Oyebamiji,’ he said.

Earlier, the Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, Mrs Hulayat Omidiran, described SWAGA 2.0 as a platform to deepen public engagement, strengthen democratic participation, and ensure that the dividends of governance reach communities.

Also, the Chairman of Media and Publicity of the APC Governorship Campaign Council, Mr Remi Omowaiye, expressed confidence that the party would record a landslide victory, urging voters to turn out massively on election day.

Twelve suspected logistics suppliers and collaborators of ISWAP/JAS terrorists have been arrested by Nigerian troops in separate operations across Borno State.

Operational reports made available on Tuesday in Abuja indicated that troops of 135 Special Forces Battalion, supported by the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and vigilantes, apprehended 10 of the suspects at Kurnari area of Borno State.

The suspects were intercepted while heading to Miringa Market with five cows, two tricycles, nine mobile phones, two waist bags, a knife and ?12,600.

It added that the suspects and recovered items are in military custody for further investigation.

The report also said that in a separate operation, troops of 149 Battalion, supported by hybrid forces and the CJTF, arrested another suspected logistics supplier at Zowo Village in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State

‘Troops recovered 125 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, a mobile phone and other items from the suspect.

‘The suspect reportedly confessed to supplying logistics to terrorists operating along the Binduldul-Kareto axis,’ it said.

The report further revealed that troops of 19 Brigade and the CJTF arrested a suspected terrorist informant in Monguno community of Borno State.

According to the report, preliminary investigation indicates that the suspect supplied logistics and intelligence on troop movements to terrorists operating around the Kekeno-Monguno axis.

It added that troops on patrol at Mallam Fatori recovered an abandoned 60mm mortar bomb and one RPG bomb believed to have been left behind by terrorists.

‘Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel safely secured and recovered the unexploded ordnance,’ it added. (www.nannews.ng)

Health experts have urged adults aged 19 and above to undergo hepatitis screening and receive vaccination, warning that the disease can remain undetected for months while causing serious damage to the liver and other vital organs.

The call was made on Tuesday July 28, 2026, during commemorations of World Hepatitis Day, as Siha Polyclinic in Tanga launched a week-long campaign offering free hepatitis testing and vaccination to the public.

Speaking at the event, one of the hospital workers, Dr Penina Sikira, said people aged 19 and above are among those most at risk of hepatitis infection because the modes of transmission are similar in many respects to those of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

She said one of the greatest challenges is that infected individuals can live with the virus for more than six months without experiencing symptoms, delaying diagnosis and treatment while increasing the risk of severe complications.

“If treatment is not sought early, the virus continues to attack the liver and may eventually affect other vital organs such as the kidneys. It also weakens the immune system, making patients more vulnerable to other diseases,” she said.

Dr Sikira said hepatitis symptoms may include yellowing of the eyes and urine, pain in the upper abdomen, fever and fatigue, although some patients may show no symptoms at all.

She explained that hepatitis is caused by five types of viruses, namely Hepatitis A, B, C, D and E.

Citing figures from the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Sikira said more than 254 million people worldwide are living with chronic hepatitis B infection, while over 1.1 million new infections are recorded each year.

She said the hospital had decided to mark this year’s World Hepatitis Day by providing free screening and vaccination services to help residents know their health status.

“Anyone diagnosed with hepatitis will begin treatment immediately, while those who test negative will receive a vaccine to protect them against infection. We encourage the public to take advantage of this opportunity,” she said.

Siha Polyclinic Medical Officer in Charge, Dr Kasanga Bashiru, said Tanga remains among the regions with a high burden of hepatitis infections, underscoring the need for greater public awareness and stronger collaboration between communities and healthcare stakeholders.

He said the week-long campaign aims to screen and vaccinate at least 150 people, although the hospital hopes the turnout will exceed that target.

“We have officially launched the testing and vaccination exercise, which will continue for one week. We encourage as many people as possible to participate,” he said.

Pastor Dr Gidion Lukindo said the liver plays a critical role in processing nutrients and removing toxins from the body, warning that diseases affecting the organ can have far-reaching health consequences.

He urged the public to ignore misinformation surrounding hepatitis testing and vaccination, stressing that both services are safe and effective.

“Some people avoid testing because they believe false information. The truth is that early screening allows people to begin treatment promptly or receive a vaccine if they are not infected,” he said.

Tangasisi Ward councillor Bunu Bahero, who participated in the exercise, said he tested negative for hepatitis and was subsequently vaccinated.

He encouraged residents to make use of the free services, saying knowing one’s health status is an important step towards protecting both individuals and their families from hepatitis infection.

“We should not fear getting tested. This is an opportunity to know our health status and receive protection early. I urge everyone to take advantage of these essential services,” he said.

A dispute over the burial of 54-year-old Wambura Mambya has reached court, with the parties involved appearing close to reaching an agreement on who will take responsibility for the funeral arrangements.

Civil Case No. 19355 of 2026, filed by Elizabeth Nyakao, the deceased’s first wife, against John Mambya, was heard on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 before Nyamagana District Court Senior Resident Magistrate Chrescencia Mushi.

The hearing had initially been scheduled to begin at 11am. However, while the first wife’s legal team entered the courtroom, the deceased’s relatives remained outside, saying they were unfamiliar with court procedures and did not know which courtroom to enter.

As a result of the relatives’ absence when the case was called, the court adjourned the matter to July 30, 2026.

Following the adjournment, the relatives met their lawyer and explained that they had missed the hearing because they were unfamiliar with court procedures. They asked to be given an opportunity to present their case, prompting lawyers for both sides to begin negotiations, which were at times tense, in an effort to reach an amicable settlement.

During the discussions, the deceased’s relatives said they were prepared to allow the body to be taken to the first wife before being buried in the family’s village, or alternatively hand it over to her to conduct the burial.

They also said they had no claim to the deceased’s property and were willing to leave it to the first wife.

The deceased’s second wife did not appear in court. It was claimed that she had left the matter to her relatives to follow the proceedings on her behalf.

Lawyer Demetrius Mtete said disputes of this nature are often resolved through negotiations between the parties.

“Cases like these usually require mutual agreement between the parties to ensure fairness and avoid further conflict,” he said.

The parties later reached a preliminary agreement that the deceased would be buried by his family in accordance with their customs and traditions.

The case is expected to resume at 12 noon on Wednesday for the agreement to be formally presented before the court.

Speaking after the discussions, Ms Nyakao said she was satisfied with the agreement.

“I have forgiven them, and I am satisfied with the agreement we have reached,” she said.

Some of the deceased’s relatives, who requested anonymity, said they had agreed to follow Kurya customs, under which burial is conducted by the deceased’s family.

Mr Mambya, who worked as a fisherman, died on July 21, 2026 at Mwanza Regional Referral Hospital, Sekou Toure.

Lagos State has become the first sub-national government in Nigeria to establish a comprehensive Greenhouse Gas Registry, a move aimed at strengthening climate governance, improving emissions accountability and accelerating the state’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

The Lagos State Greenhouse Gas Registry (LGHGR) was unveiled at the Central Business District, Alausa, Ikeja, at a ceremony attended by the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, members of the State Executive Council, representatives of the Federal Ministry of Environment, development partners, TPHG Technologies, the diplomatic and business communities, academics, civil society organisations and the media.

Describing the initiative as a landmark achievement in the state’s environmental sustainability drive, the General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, said the Registry marks a defining moment in Lagos’ climate action journey and reflects Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to building a resilient, climate-smart and environmentally sustainable economy.

According to Ajayi, the digital platform will enable the state to accurately measure, monitor, report and verify greenhouse gas emissions across key sectors, providing credible data to guide environmental policies and climate interventions.

He said the Registry would strengthen evidence-based decision-making, improve transparency and accountability, support national and international climate reporting obligations, unlock carbon market opportunities and boost investor confidence in Lagos’ environmental initiatives.

Ajayi also commended TPHG Technologies for providing the technical expertise that made the pioneering project possible.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Abayomi described the Registry as a major milestone that positions Lagos at the forefront of climate governance and emissions accountability in both Nigeria and Africa.

He noted that climate change has evolved into a significant public health and governance challenge, stressing that access to reliable emissions data would enable the state to formulate evidence-based policies, attract climate financing, strengthen resilience and accelerate its transition to a low-carbon economy.

Providing insights into the technical framework of the project, the Lead Consultant and Chief Executive Officer of TPHG Technologies, Dr. Mofoluso Fagbeja, explained that the Registry was developed from the greenhouse gas inventory jointly undertaken by LASEPA and TPHG Technologies in 2022, using 2019 as the baseline year for emissions assessment.

He said the platform is designed to close critical emissions data gaps, particularly within the industrial sector, while supporting effective climate policy implementation, emissions management and sustainable development.

Fagbeja also disclosed that the greenhouse gas inventory estimated that poor air quality contributes to about 35,000 premature deaths annually in Lagos, underscoring the urgent need for stronger emissions control measures and cleaner environmental practices.

In a goodwill message, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, represented by the Federal Controller of Environment in Lagos, Mrs. Adenaike Olunimpe Oludunni, commended Lagos State for pioneering the initiative, describing it as a significant contribution to Nigeria’s climate commitments.

He said the Registry aligns with the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement and supports the Federal Government’s Energy Transition Plan, while reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to deeper collaboration with Lagos State on climate governance and environmental sustainability.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of Swanlux Global Investment Limited, represented by Mrs. Victoria Awe, said the company’s support for the Registry reflects its commitment to responsible corporate citizenship and environmental sustainability.

She noted that innovation, technology and credible environmental data remain critical tools for tackling climate change, strengthening accountability and promoting sustainable economic growth.

The Lagos State Greenhouse Gas Registry is expected to provide a robust digital platform for measuring, reporting and verifying greenhouse gas emissions, while supporting climate policy implementation, improving air quality management, attracting green investments and reinforcing Lagos’ position as Nigeria’s leading sub-national government on climate action.

Former National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), Halima Shehu, has denied allegations that she diverted ?44 billion, insisting that neither she nor any member of her family benefited from funds meant for the agency’s social intervention programmes.

Speaking on Arise Television on Monday, Shehu said she uncovered serious financial irregularities shortly after assuming office and reported them to the appropriate authorities before she was suspended in December 2023.

According to her, she raised concerns with the then Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, after discovering weak financial controls within the agency. She alleged that funds were transferred without her approval, while some programme managers appointed by the minister operated outside NSIPA’s established administrative framework.

‘There were movements of funds that I neither approved nor authorised,’ Shehu said, alleging that the transactions were carried out without her knowledge or consent.

She further disclosed that she petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), accusing some officials of breaching due process in the management of the agency’s finances.

Shehu said her decision to report the alleged irregularities was followed by her suspension barely 10 weeks later, arguing that she was punished instead of being protected as a whistleblower.

Rejecting allegations that she diverted ?44 billion, the former NSIPA boss maintained that investigators did not trace any public funds to her personal accounts or those of her relatives and associates.

‘I never transferred ?44 billion to any personal account. The EFCC never recovered a kobo from my account, my family’s account or any friend’s account,’ she said.

She explained that the transactions under investigation involved payments to licensed service providers and financial institutions responsible for disbursing government social intervention funds to beneficiaries, not transfers to private accounts.

Shehu said she fully cooperated with investigators, submitting documents and other evidence to support her position throughout the probe.

Calling on President Bola Tinubu to ensure transparency, she urged the Federal Government to make public the findings of investigations into NSIPA, saying the truth would clear her name.

‘My integrity is my greatest asset. I may have made administrative mistakes, but I am not corrupt, and I did not divert funds meant for poor and vulnerable Nigerians,’ she stated.

Following her impactful performance at the memorable Lighthouse Praise concert in Greater Manchester, UK-based Nigerian gospel singer and songwriter Ibinye Mordi has officially released her highly anticipated debut album. Titled ‘Bigger’, the project was officially made available worldwide on all digital platforms on July 3rd, 2026.

It marks a monumental milestone for the upcoming artist, solidifying her growing reputation as a deeply sincere voice in modern gospel music. Clocking in at exactly 56 minutes and 19 seconds, the 11-track body of work is a beautifully structured collection of faith, resilience, and praise.

The Heart Behind the Anthem: ‘Bigger’

The anchor of the entire album is its titular track, ‘Bigger’, a song that was birthed from a place of deep intimacy and vulnerability. Ibinye Mordi reveals that the inspiration behind the song came from a personal encounter she had during a very difficult season of her life. Instead of succumbing to the weight of her trials, she found solace in a divine reminder of God’s supremacy. The lyrics of the title track serve as a direct, encouraging message to the listener: regardless of how massive and overwhelming life’s issues may seem, God is infinitely bigger.

Musically, the song builds from a tender, reflective verse into a powerful, anthemic chorus. It allows Ibinye Mordi’s rich, soulful vocals to soar, making it an instant standout that promises to be a staple in corporate worship and personal playlists alike.

A Sonic Journey: A Safe and Subtle Critique

As a cohesive body of work, Bigger successfully avoids the common pitfall of debut albums trying to do ‘too much.’ Instead, it acts as a balanced showcase of Ibinye Mordi’s versatility as a worship leader. The album transitions effortlessly between high-energy, vibrant praise tracks that celebrate victory, and deep, atmospheric melodies designed for quiet reflection.

If there is any safe critique to offer, it is that the album demands an attentive, unhurried listen to truly appreciate its depth. It is not an album of quick, repetitive radio jingles; it is an intentional, thematic journey. Each song builds upon the last, requiring the listener to fully immerse themselves in the 56-minute experience to capture the full scope of the message.

The 11-Track Blueprint of Hope

While every song on the album contributes to the overarching theme of faith, the tracklist highlights Ibinye Mordi’s ability to speak to various human experiences:

? Track 1: Nobody Like You – A beautiful opening declaration of worship that sets a reverent tone for the rest of the album.

? Track 2: Bigger – The powerful title track and the heartbeat of the entire musical project.

? Track 3: It’s Gonna Happen – A prophetic anthem of expectation, encouraging listeners to hold on to God’s promises.

? Track 4: Redeemed – A celebratory track focused on the freedom, grace, and identity found in Christ.

? Track 5: Follow You – A sweet song of total surrender, charting a personal commitment to the divine path.

? Track 6: Na Only You – Infusing local flavor, this track brings an authentic, heartwarming Afro-gospel vibe to the record.

? Track 7: All Because of Jesus – A track centered entirely on gratitude, tracing every blessing back to the cross.

? Track 8: I Give It to You – A quiet, deeply moving prayer of release, letting go of worries and handing them to God.

? Track 9: Ihurumnanya – A beautiful cultural expression of love and adoration, showcasing her rich heritage.

? Track 10: Follow Me Dey Go – A vibrant, high-energy praise track guaranteed to get congregations moving in joyful celebration.

? Track 11: Hold My Hand (Covid Song of Hope) – A timely, comforting closing ballad written as a beacon of hope to heal minds after global uncertainty.

A Gift of Peace to the World

Ultimately, Bigger is more than just an album; it is a healing tool. ‘I believe that these sounds will speak to everyone in their various situations,’ Ibinye Mordi shared, reflecting on the release. ‘My prayer is that it provides peace, hope, and the faith needed to keep going.’

The album is currently available for worldwide streaming and download. Listeners can access the full project across all major digital networks, including Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, YouTube, Deezer, and Tidal.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed that 37.5 per cent of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) available for collection in Osun State have already been collected by eligible voters ahead of the state’s governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Osun State, Oluwatoyin Babalola, disclosed this during the Osun Citizens’ Town Hall Meeting held in Osogbo, the state capital.

The meeting brought together stakeholders, community leaders, civil society organisations and members of the public to discuss preparations for the upcoming election.

According to Babalola, a total of 192,702 PVCs have been collected so far, representing 37.5 per cent of the cards currently available for distribution. He described the turnout as encouraging but stressed that many registered voters are yet to collect their cards.

The REC appealed to all eligible voters who have not picked up their PVCs to take advantage of the ongoing collection exercise before the deadline. He noted that the Permanent Voter Card remains the only valid document that allows registered voters to participate in the election, adding that those without their PVCs will not be able to cast their votes on election day.

Babalola explained that the PVC distribution exercise began on July 22 across the state’s 332 Registration Areas and is expected to continue until July 28. After that phase, the exercise will move to all INEC Local Government Area offices across Osun State, where collection will continue from July 29 until August 7.

He added that the distribution exercise is being conducted daily, including Saturdays and Sundays, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., to give voters enough time and opportunity to collect their cards.

The ongoing exercise covers individuals who registered during the recent Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), those who transferred their voter registration to another location, applicants who requested replacement of lost or damaged PVCs, and voters who updated or corrected their personal information.

Babalola also stated that uncollected PVCs from previous registration exercises have been made available to their rightful owners during the current distribution period. He encouraged those who did not collect their cards in the past to visit the designated collection centres before the exercise ends.

He urged political parties, civil society groups, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders to continue educating residents on the importance of collecting their PVCs and participating peacefully in the electoral process.

The REC reassured the people of Osun State that INEC remains fully committed to conducting a free, fair, credible, transparent and inclusive governorship election.

He said the commission is working hard to ensure all eligible voters have the opportunity to exercise their democratic rights without intimidation or unnecessary obstacles.

The Osun State governorship election is scheduled to hold on August 15, 2026, with political parties intensifying campaigns as the state prepares to elect its next governor.

INEC has continued to call on voters to collect their PVCs early and avoid waiting until the final days of the distribution exercise.

The Presidency has dismissed Peter Obi’s reference to employing northern cooks and an aide-de-camp as evidence that he can unite Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Engagement, Fredrick Nwabufo, said Obi failed to present a clear strategy for national unity during his latest interview.

Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, had pledged to unite the country if elected president in 2027.

Nwabufo, however, described Obi’s reference to northerners who worked with him as a ‘tired refrain’ that did not explain how he would unite Nigeria.

‘Obi’s claim: He claimed he would unite Nigeria, but failed to explain how beyond the tired refrain of his cooks and ADC being northerners,’ he said.

The presidential aide also accused Obi and his supporters of worsening divisions in the country.

‘His utterances, actions, and those of his followers have but deepened the chasm,’ Nwabufo said.

He argued that national unity could only be achieved through inclusive governance, economic integration and equitable citizenship.

‘Essentially, the balancing forces of national cohesion are governance and the economy,’ he said.

‘We cannot discuss national unity in isolation from the levers of leadership and the material benefits of governance.’

Nwabufo said strengthening national unity required the delivery of public resources to citizens regardless of their religion, ethnicity or social standing.

He also accused Obi of lacking a plan, policy platform and understanding of governance.

‘Peter Obi’s interview shows him again to be vacant of deep thought, understanding of governance, and taken up by syrupy rhetoric,’ he said.

‘He still has no plan, no alternative, and no policy plank, beyond a mouthful of sentimental nothings.’

Nwabufo claimed the Tinubu administration had promoted national cohesion by ensuring that the six geopolitical zones benefited equally from government programmes, initiatives and projects.

He also cited the appointment of young professionals from different backgrounds as evidence of inclusive governance under Tinubu.

‘For the first time in the evolution of Nigeria, young people are superintending strategic sectors of government,’ he said.

Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa, the South-South Coordinator of APC Renewed Hope Ambassadors (RHA) said said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office at a time when his service to the country was ‘really needed’.

Okowa stated this on Sunday in Asaba when the national leadership of Working People United (WPU) paid him a courtesy visit.

The APC chieftain added that given the template Tinubu was applying in administering the country, the President deserved a second term to complete the process.

He listed state police, deregulation of the electricity generation sub-sector and subsidy removal among the reforms introduced by the administration.

Okowa also said NELFUND was among the critical reforms being implemented by President Tinubu to revamp Nigeria’s stuttering economy.

The former Delta governor noted that 1.6 million tertiary institution students have benefited from NELFUND since its activation by the Tinubu administration.

According to him, many students who initially dismissed NELFUND as a scam had enrolled in the scheme and were benefiting from it.

He urged Nigerians still doubting the programme’s credibility and sincerity to take advantage of the loan scheme.

‘I urge the citizens of the country to support Tinubu’s reform programmes, which are beginning to positively address some fundamental socio-economic and political issues,’ Okowa said.

He expressed optimism that Nigerians would soon appreciate the pragmatic efforts of the Tinubu-led administration to refocus the country.

Okowa urged WPU members to rally support for the government ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Earlier, Williams Akporeha, National Coordinator of WPU, said the group visited Asaba to inform Okowa of its objectives and inaugurate its Delta chapter.

Akporeha said WPU comprised public and private-sector workers, self-employed persons and artisans across different cadres.

He assured Okowa of the group’s support for his senatorial ambition, as well as the electoral victories of Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori and President Tinubu.

The high point of the session was the conferment of the patron ship of WPU on Okowa.