Category: PM News

By Ayorinde Oluokun

A Bureau de Change (BDC) operator identified as Jamilu Abdullahi has narrated how huge cash lodgments were converted to dollars and handed over to one Abba Adaudu, alleged to be a key associate of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Adoza Bello.

The BDC operator revealed this while testifying as prosecution Witness 12 in the trial of the former Kogi governor on an alleged money laundering amounting to 80,246,470,088.88 before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, on Thursday

Bello is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

Abdullahi while being led in evidence by prosecuting counsel, Kemi Pinheiro SAN, told the court that several cash deposits were made on different dates into the account of E-Traders International Limited by one Abba Adaudu.

“Yes, my lord, there are more cash deposit transactions on different days into E-Traders International Limited,” the witness stated when asked to confirm whether such deposits extended beyond previously identified dates.

Referring to Exhibit 33(6), Abdullahi confirmed that there were cash inflows on March 10 and 11, 2022, but clarified discrepancies in the names of depositors appearing on the transaction records.

“My lord, I need to explain that the names indicated in the cash deposits — Abdullahi Jamilu, Jamil Abdullahi, and Jamilu Abdullahi–were used as narration. However, I was not the one who made the cash deposits at the Lokoja branch,” he said.

The witness further identified Abba Adaudu as the depositor in transactions dated October 8 and 11, 2021, maintaining that all dealings were conducted directly with him.

“Abba Adaudu, my lord. In all these transactions, I dealt with Abba Adaudu,” he said.

Abdullahi disclosed that upon receiving the cash lodgment, he converted the naira sums into United States dollars and handed them over to Adaudu.

“I converted them into US dollars and handed them over to Abba Adaudu,” he said.

While examining Exhibit 37, relating to Kunfayakun Global Limited–his company–the witness confirmed receiving 100 million and 400 million on December 15 and 17, 2021 respectively, from a firm identified as Keyless Nature Limited, which he said belonged to Adaudu.

“The transfers were for dollar purchase. Upon receipt, we agreed on the rate, I converted the funds and handed the dollars over to Abba Adaudu,” he explained.

The witness further testified that on February 18, 2022, he received 600 million in six tranches into the account of Ejadams Essence Limited, also allegedly linked to Adaudu, for the purpose of purchasing dollars. Additionally, he confirmed receiving 325 million on February 21, 2022, via RTGS for the same purpose.

According to him, the physical handover of the dollars took place either at his office or that of Adaudu, located in Area 8, Abuja.

“What I can recall is that he always comes to my office to pick up the dollars, my lord,” he said.

Proceedings were, however, briefly stalled following an objection by defence counsel, J. B. Daudu SAN, who argued that the prosecution was attempting to contradict the witness without first declaring him hostile.

“If the witness wants to contradict himself, he should be declared a hostile witness,” Daudu submitted.

In response, Pinheiro maintained that the witness had been consistent in his testimony, noting that his recollection of events spanning several years could not be construed as contradiction.

“The witness was very unequivocal and unambiguous His statement reflects his recollection of transactions that occurred about five years ago,” he argued, citing relevant provisions of the Evidence Act.

After listening to arguments from both parties, Justice Nwite adjourned the matter till April 24, 2026, for ruling on the objection and continuation of trial.

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has charged his colleagues in other states to empower and provide a clear space to work for Chairmen of the State Internal Revenue Service to improve Internally Generated Revenue for development and growth across the country.

He said empowering the State Internal Revenue Service will enhance the confidence of the taxpayers and personnel to do the right thing.

Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the Joint Revenue Board at Lagos House, Marina, to declare open the 159th Meeting of the Board in Lagos.

He said: “I will push my brother governors again for them to understand and appreciate that it is only when they give you (chairmen of the State Internal Revenue Service) what you need to work with that you can get a full benefit of the expertise that you all have.

“They (governors) need to give you clear space to work. They need to give you independence. They need to give you your full tenure to do your work. They need to understand that it is only when they do all of these that the confidence of the taxpayers and subordinates will be enhanced and people will do the right thing.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State is fully aligned with the new national framework, and the State is ready to share whatever it has learned with other states and the Board.

He also expressed his administration’s readiness to undertake mutually beneficial initiatives between the Joint Revenue Board and Lagos State that will strengthen tax from the board.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said his administration has made good use of the generated revenues to deliver dividends of democracy to over 24 million Lagos residents through the THEMES+ developmental agenda.

He said: “Lagos, of course, has a stake in getting this right. In 2024, we generated 1.3 trillion in internally generated revenue, a 45 per cent jump on the previous year, and IGR now finances over 60 per cent of our budget. That has not happened by luck. It is the result of years of investment in digital tax systems, expanding our tax net, and building trust with our taxpayers.

“Lagos is your partner in this reform journey. Whatever collaboration that serves the national interest sharing data, aligning systems, coordinating compliance you will find us open and willing.”

Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Joint Revenue Board, Zacch Adedeji, said the theme of the meeting, “From Fragmentation to Coherence: Advancing Sub-National Tax Administration through Harmonisation”, is both relevant and timely.

Adedeji, who was represented by the Executive Secretary of JRB, Mr. Olusegun Adesokan, said Governor Sanwo-Olu’s sustained support for the activities of the Joint Revenue Board underscores the high priority he accords the effective revenue administration and its critical contribution to sustainable development.

He said: “It is not surprising that the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), under the leadership of Mr. Ayodele Subair, remains the leading sub-national revenue authority in Nigeria.

“The remarkable performance of LIRS is rooted in the visionary reforms initiated by His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during his tenure as Executive Governor of Lagos State. Prior to these reforms, whose implementation commenced in 2007, the State’s annual Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) was less than 94 billion. Today, Lagos State generates over 1.7 trillion annually, reflecting sustained commitment to reform and institutional strengthening.

“On a year-on-year basis, Lagos State recorded over 1.7 trillion in IGR in 2025, representing a 39% increase compared to the 1.2 trillion generated in 2024. The Board is highly encouraged by this performance, particularly as these revenues are being effectively deployed to improve the welfare of citizens through critical infrastructure and social investments.

“We commend the dynamic leadership of His Excellency, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for several impactful projects, including the recently commissioned OjotaOpebi 5.04 km Link Bridge, designed to ease traffic congestion across key commercial corridors such as Opebi, Allen, Maryland, and Ojota.

“In the area of food security, the Mid-Level Agro Food Hub in Abijo, situated along the Lekki-Epe Expressway, stands as a significant milestone. The facility features modern storage systems and expansive trading spaces to support agricultural value chains.

“In education, amongst other interventions in this sector, the regeneration of the Tolu Schools Complex in Ajegunle, now comprising 36 public schools with modern facilities, ICT laboratories, and capacity for approximately 20,000 students, is unprecedented and highly commendable.

“In transportation, the ongoing Lagos Rail Mass Transit Project continues to demonstrate the State’s commitment to improving mobility. These achievements clearly demonstrate how strong revenue performance, when effectively managed, translates into tangible development outcomes for citizens.”

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Mr. Ayodele Subair, said the Joint Revenue Board plays a vital role in strengthening Nigeria’s tax administration.

He commended Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to improving LIRS through enhanced infrastructure such as vehicles and laptops, increased funding, and deliberate investment in staff welfare and morale.

“Your leadership in this regard provides a clear model for strengthening revenue administration across states. We assure you, Mr. Governor, that the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, under your guidance, is committed to providing a world-class experience for all delegates. We are confident that this meeting will strengthen the national tax system and further project Lagos State’s leadership in fiscal governance,” he said.

Gov. Umar Bago of Niger has directed six commissioners to oversee additional ministries following the resignation of some cabinet members to contest the 2027 general elections.

The directive is contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Bologi Ibrahim, on Thursday in Minna.

According to the andgtovernor, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Muazu Hamidu Jantabo, will oversee the Ministry of Rural Development.

He added that Alh. Mustapha Ndajiwo, the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, would supervise the Ministry of Special Duties.

Bago further stated that the Commissioner for Investment, Alhaji Aminu Suleman Takuma, had been assigned to oversee the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives.

Similarly, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Jacob Baba Isa, is to supervise the Ministry of Sports Development.

The governor also directed the Commissioner for Technical and Vocational Education, Alhaji Abdullahi Adamu Katcha, to oversee the Ministry of Tertiary Education.

In the same vein, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajiya Hadiza Idris Kuta, will supervise the Ministry of Arts and Culture.

Umaru-Bago urged the commissioners to view the additional responsibilities as an opportunity to enhance service delivery.

He expressed optimism that members of the State Executive Council would continue to work collaboratively to ensure seamless governance.

The governor had earlier directed all political appointees seeking elective positions to resign. Six out of the 30 commissioners subsequently resigned to pursue elective offices ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a groundbreaking fusion of fitness, music, and community spirit, Shight Running Club has made history by staging Nigeria’s first-ever silent disco run, setting a bold new benchmark for experiential wellness events across the country.

On April 19, 2026, over 90 participants laced up for a vibrant 6-kilometre night run through Lagos’ upscale Ikoyi district. Each runner moved in synchronized rhythm, wireless headphones streaming the same high-energy playlist, transforming the city streets into a pulsating silent party on the move.

The run kicked off at Oh La La Cafe, weaving a scenic route around Bourdillon that turned heads and captured imaginations. But beneath the electric atmosphere lay meticulous planning: organizers prioritized safety and coordination at every turn.

Club captains were strategically stationed along the route to guide runners and maintain flow, while a dedicated first aid team stood ready for any eventuality. Officials from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) actively managed traffic from both front and rear, ensuring a seamless and secure experience for all.

The event drew power from leading brands Red Bull and Oraimo, who amplified the energy through dynamic activations and giveaways. Participants tackled interactive challenges throughout the run, with standout performers taking home coveted Oraimo gadgets, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already unforgettable night.

But this was more than just a run. The silent disco concept introduced a fresh cultural dimension to Lagos’ burgeoning fitness scene, merging nightlife energy with health-conscious activity in a way the city had never seen. For many participants, it represented a paradigm shift: communal exercise reimagined as immersive, social, and uniquely engaging.

As Shight Running Club continues to push boundaries, this milestone event signals a new era for running communities, not just in Lagos, but across Nigeria. With its triumphant debut, the silent disco run is poised to become a recurring highlight on the city’s social and sporting calendar, inspiring a movement where wellness meets wonder, and where the only thing louder than the music is the collective sound of heavy breathing.

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday, officially launched the Energize Commercialisation Now (ECoN) initiative in Kano on Thursday.

The initiative marked a major step in the Federal Government’s drive to transform research and innovation into economic growth.

The launch, held under the theme: “From Innovation to Industry: Energizing Commercialisation,” signaled a strategic push to bridge the gap between ideas generated in research institutions and their practical application in industry.

Speaking at the event, Senator Oluremi Tinubu described Nigeria as a country rich in creativity and innovation.

She noted that many ideas developed in universities, innovation hubs and other Citadels of Higher Learnings, fail to reach the marketplace due to systemic challenges.

According to her, the ECoN initiative aimed to address the gaps created by surmountable challenges, while creating enabling environment that supports talent, nurtures innovation, and facilitates the transition of ideas into viable enterprises.

The First Lady maintained that the programme aligned with the agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritizes industrialisation, digitalization, and economic diversification.

She further stated that the initiative would promote job creation, boost productivity, and contribute to Nigeria’s long-term goal of achieving a one trillion-dollar economy.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu emphasized inclusivity in the innovation ecosystem, calling for greater participation of women and youth in the nation’s economic development.

According to her, broad-based involvement would strengthen families, enhance national security, and drive sustainable development.

While declaring the programme open, she said the initiative would begin in the North-West and expand across all geopolitical zones across the country.

Speaking at the event, Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, described the launch as historic, noting that Kano’s selection as host state reflected confidence in the state’s capacity to lead innovation-driven development in northern Nigeria.

Governor Yusuf further stated that the initiative would help bridge the gap between research outputs and market application, enabling the transformation of academic ideas into commercial products and scalable enterprises.

He added that the programme aligned with the Federal Government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, which focuses on industrial growth, youth empowerment, and economic productivity.

Governor Yusuf also highlighted the ongoing efforts by his administration to strengthen science, technology, and innovation, including investments in digital infrastructure and technical education.

He said the state is positioning itself as a hub for innovation-led industrialisation in the northern region.

Governor Yusuf also commended Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her contributions to Kano State development, including donations to education, support for vulnerable groups, and empowerment programmes for women, farmers, and persons with disabilities.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr Kingsley Tochukwu, in his address, said the ECoN initiative was designed to convert Nigeria’s research outputs into economic value.

He described it as a “national commercialisation architecture” aimed at moving innovation from concept to capital and from prototype to prosperity.

He noted that the initiative would include technical sessions, investor-ready presentations, and “deal rooms” where innovators can engage directly with investors.

According to him, a digital platform is also being developed to connect researchers with industry players and provide ongoing technical and legal support.

The minister added that the programme has already recorded early progress, attracting over 1,000 innovation entries and securing initial investment commitments.

He said the initiative would be deployed across all regions, fostering collaboration among states and creating a networked national innovation ecosystem capable of driving economic transformation and global competitiveness.

Despite Italy’s failure to qualify, having lost a penalty shootout to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the qualifying playoff, Zampolli, a close associate of US President Donald Trump, called for Italy’s inclusion, citing their pedigree as four-time World Cup winners.

US special envoy Paolo Zampolli has suggested that Italy should replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup, according to a report by the Financial Times.

Despite Italy’s failure to qualify, having lost a penalty shootout to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the qualifying playoff, Zampolli, a close associate of US President Donald Trump, called for Italy’s inclusion, citing their pedigree as four-time World Cup winners.

Zampolli expressed his support for the idea, telling the Financial Times, “It would be a dream to see the Azzurri in a US-hosted tournament.” He confirmed that he had discussed this idea with both Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

“I confirm I have suggested to Trump and (FIFA President Gianni) Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I’m an Italian native With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion,” Zampolli told the FT.

The suggestion appears to be part of efforts to mend relations between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who previously criticized Trump’s stance on the Iran war.

This development follows rising tensions surrounding Iran’s participation in the World Cup, with its involvement in the tournament increasingly in doubt due to ongoing conflicts with the US and Israel.

FIFA has yet to make an official response to Zampolli’s proposal.

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

A 23-year-old man identified as Kabiru Adamu has been sentenced to eight years imprisonment for smuggling cannabis sativa, concealed inside a loaf of bread into a court premises.

Kabir Adamu was apprehended on 14 January 2026 after officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service at the Kano High Court discovered a quantity of cannabis sativa, concealed inside a loaf of bread in his custody.

He had intended to give the bread for a defendant known locally as “Wizzy,” who was undergoing trial in the court.

The suspect and the exhibit were immediately transferred to the Kano Strategic Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.

Following diligent investigation and prosecution by NDLEA operatives, Kabir Adamu was convicted on 22 April 2026 and sentenced by Hon. Justice SM Shuaibu of the Federal High Court, Court One, Kano, to eight years’ imprisonment without the option of a fine.

NDLEA commended the Federal High Court, sitting in Kano, for the conviction of Kabir Adamu.

Kano Commander of NDLEA, DY Lawal, said, “the conviction demonstrates the commitment and collaboration of law enforcement and judicial authorities in combating substance abuse and drug-related crime.

“These decisive ruling underscores our collective resolve to deny criminal elements any opportunity to undermine public safety and institutional order.

“It will serve as a firm deterrent to those who attempt to smuggle illegal substances into court premises, correctional facilities, or any other vulnerable environment,” Lawal said.

Commander Lawal expressed appreciation for the support and leadership of the NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa, whose renewed drive for a drug-free Nigeria continues to strengthen agency operations across the federation.

The NDLEA Commander urged the public to remain vigilant and to continue supporting law enforcement by reporting drug-related activities as part of the ongoing effort to achieve a drug-free Nigeria.

Nigerian content creator Eneja Divine Chukwumaijem has continued to make waves in the digital entertainment space, emerging as one of the country’s standout TikTok personalities in 2026 after a journey shaped by resilience, creativity, and personal reinvention.

The Nsukka, Enugu State-born creator, who was born on November 20, 1998, did not begin his journey with dreams of social media fame. He initially considered a career in civil engineering before later studying agricultural economics, but life took a dramatic turn after personal setbacks, including the loss of his father.

Confronted with financial uncertainty and emotional struggles, Eneja turned to social media in 2021, launching what would become a life-changing content creation journey on TikTok.

His big break came in 2022 when one of his videos went viral, drawing massive attention online and pushing him into the spotlight. The viral moment proved to be a turning point, opening doors and establishing him as a rising force in Nigeria’s growing creator economy.

Riding on that momentum, Eneja intensified his efforts, expanded his online presence and began securing collaborations with major brands and high-profile personalities, including Nigerian music star Davido.

His growing influence has also seen him partner with international brands, further cementing his place among Nigeria’s emerging digital stars.

Speaking on how it all began, Eneja admitted his rise into content creation happened almost by accident.

“I felt like if I wanted to cope in life, I needed to put effort into social media,” he said.

The creator has also credited figures such as Davido and Blossom Ozurumba for helping shape his mindset, particularly in areas of independence, generosity and personal branding.

Beyond viral fame, Eneja says he is focused on building a lasting career in an industry often driven by trends and short-lived attention.

Rather than chasing quick numbers, he says quality remains central to his creative process.

That attention to detail, coupled with consistency, has helped define his growing reputation among fans and industry observers.

As TikTok continues to produce a new generation of mainstream stars, Eneja’s rise from personal struggles to digital fame has become one of the more inspiring stories in Nigeria’s entertainment landscape.

By Ayorinde Oluokun

Oyo Police Command has confirmed one person dead and another missing as a result of invasion of a wild elephant in Innayin community of the state.

The Command’s spokesperson Olayinka Ayanlade confirmed this in a statement issued on Thursday.

According to the statement, incident that occurred in the afternoon of Thursday, 23rd April 2026.

Ayanlade said police operatives, local vigilantes and hunters, swiftly mobilized to the scene upon receiving distress call on the activities of the wild elephant.

He added that on arrival at the scene, the lifeless body of a 45-year-old man identified as Ibrahim Tijani was discovered in a nearby bush with injuries consistent with an animal attack.

“His remains have been evacuated to the General Hospital, Iwere-Ile, for necessary medical examination and preservation,” said the police spokesperson.

Ayanlade added that another individual, identified as Alhaji Muhammadu Bingin was reported missing after an encounter with the same animal.

He added that intensive efforts are currently underway to locate him.

The Oyo Police Command however assured residents of Innayin and adjoining communities that the situation is being closely managed, and all necessary measures are being taken to prevent further harm.

The Command advised members of the public to avoid the affected area and report any sighting of the animal to security agencies promptly.

It added that efforts are ongoing to secure the community while emphasizing the importance of handling such incidents with due regard to wildlife conservation laws.

In line with this, the Command said relevant authorities, including the National Park Service Nigeria, are being engaged to provide expert guidance on safely managing the situation.

Ayanlade quoted Oyo Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga as reassuring the public of the Command’s commitment to safety while urging calm over the situation.

“We understand the concerns this incident has generated within the community. Our officers are fully on ground working with relevant stakeholders to secure the area and prevent further casualties. We appeal to residents to remain calm, avoid the affected locations, and continue to cooperate with the police and other authorities as we work to bring the situation under control in a safe and professional manner,” Ayanlade quoted the police commissioner as saying.

President Bola Tinubu has welcomed Nigeria’s impressive 91.45 per cent aviation safety rating from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

The ICAO is a United Nations agency that coordinates the principles and techniques of international air navigation. It fosters the planning and development of international air transport to ensure safe and orderly growth.

Through the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP), ICAO assesses countries to ensure they manage safety risks effectively, ensuring that no country is left behind and directly influencing international confidence in that nation’s airspace.

Nigeria, as an ICAO member state, is obligated to comply with applicable international standards and to establish and implement these safety-critical oversight elements. Since the inception of the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme in 1999, Nigeria has undergone four USOAP safety audits conducted by ICAO auditors, with results measured through Effective Implementation (E.I.) scores.

During a recent debriefing by the ICAO audit team at the Abuja headquarters of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the lead auditor announced that Nigeria had recorded an impressive 91.45% Effective Implementation (EI) score the highest ever for Nigeria.

The regional average of West Africa is 61.1%, and the global average is 70.4%. Nigeria is thus well positioned above the regional and global ratings, which, in turn, significantly boost investor confidence and strengthen international aviation credibility.

Upon the assumption of office, President Tinubu redefined the priority areas of his administration to include enhancing infrastructure and transportation as enablers of growth, and to establish the air transport sector as a major driver for economic prosperity by building a safe, secured and efficient aviation industry focused on making Nigeria a hub that meets international standards and best practices beyond even the African continent.

To align with this priority area, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, outlined a five-point agenda to grow the Nigerian aviation value chain.

Importantly, the first point on that agenda is to ensure strict compliance with safety regulations and the continuous upward movement of Nigeria’s ICAO rating.

The President commended the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development for the feat, stating that the rating affirms the nation’s aviation safety standards and makes it a more attractive destination for investment in aviation infrastructure, maintenance facilities, and airline operations.

President Tinubu urged the Ministry not to relent but to review and implement every recommendation that the ICAO auditors made during this mission to ensure that Nigeria not only maintains, but goes even further on the rating.